48 32 1900 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9f37b434770e753a3760faa1830d598c.PDF 0a0b381c43af056e52af7f054a3222a6 PDF Text Text •• OfFKIAl ORGAN OF THI SEAFARERS IMTERNATtONAL UNION • ATlAWnC GUIF. LAKES AND INUNP WATERS MSTRIG • AFL-CIO Volume 55, Number If A?.' ' In 67-30 Vote, Senate Beats Back Attack On Seamen's Wages c/jyi.TT-ir" CO Sim y)»-«73 •-< -HaQ CO ID 21 CO Vi ^momcr 0-ir-'-H I -s. Seafarer Thomas Correll steadies the pilot lad­ der aboard the ITB New York for a Cuban refugee found adrift in the Caribbean, The SIUcrewed vessel recently performed two rescues, which are described in a story on page 28. . coir ^ D n CD 1-NJ r»s: CO (TO 3*0 O T|j> - -o Sim • .•••: -Mr..-;-' • • -. ^ • Page 3 Lends a Helping Hand • J: O v^j>r) Pag :• :>;;A November 1993 AFL-nO FigMs To Nix NAFTA . •V Amtrak Disaster Points Up Noed For Tighter iniand Safety Regs J i: i. Page 2 Victims of Vietnam Biast Memoriaiized A monument honoring the seven merchant mariners whb died when a mine struck their vessel as it carried rnilitary cargo on the Saigon River is unveiled by Henry Disley (left), president of the SlU-affiliated Marine Fireman's Union. He is joined by Baton Rouge Victory sunlwors BR Toll Alston (center) and AS Milton Hendrick. The monument, located on San Francisco's waterfront, is the first of its kind to honor mariners who lost their lives during the Southeast Asia conflict. Story on page 6. The North American Export Grain Association, the big advocate for foreign shippirig, refuses to admit ties to multinational interests. Story on page 5. . •/•fwK '-i- ^ ' • M>, �2 HOyEMRERim SEi^ARERS LOG President's Report AnrinkObi^ Spol^Ms Heed For Touaha'Maud SaMf Itegs Who Is Looking ^ After the Taxpayers? 7-"-'••• t3i?7 • ': ; N; 'MlifedfSi'.' • AP/Wide World Photos Amtrak's Sunset L/m/fed derailed approximately eight minutes after one of the tugboat MVMauvilla's barges slammed into the Big Bayou Canot Bridae near Mobile. Ala., killing 47 people. see story below.) SIU National Director o Governmental Relations Terry Continued on page 25 Documented Seamen Train Derailment on Bridge Are Safer Tied to the Strike of a Tow Workers, Study Shows On October 12, repre­ given before the subcommittee as sentatives from the National well as from various news reports The contrasting difference in Transportation Safety Board, the since the time of the crash. Na­ the total number of accidents due United States Coast Guard, tional Transportation Safety to human error between U.S.-flag Federal Railroad Administration, Board (NTSB) officials are cur­ deep sea ships or Great Lakes ves­ Amtrak, Seafarers Intemational rently investigating all aspects o sels or tugs and towboats con­ Union and-American Waterways the Amtrak derailment and results What's Really Behind firms the need to have all Operators, testified before theSub­ of the investigation will be an­ crewmembers meet basic require­ The Rhetoric? committee on Coast Guard and nounced to the public in early ments of the United States Coast In the House of Representatives yet another farm-state legislator Navigation concerning the events 1994. the government agency Guard, has found another way to take a shot at the nation's maritime policy. The MV Mauvilla, owned by surrounding the September 22 He says something like this: Just move funding for the transport of crash of Amtrak's passenger Warrior & Gulf Navigation Com­ responsible for marine safety. Data cited in a recent article in food aid cargoes from the Department of Agriculture to the Depart­ train—the Sunset Limited. The pany of Chickasaw, Ala., and its ment of Transportation or the Department of Defense. By law, govern­ disaster also prompted the subcom­ six barges, loaded with coke, coal the Mobile Press Register reveals ment-donated food cargo is purchased and shipped with Department mittee to c^ on the officials to and woodchips, were headed up that more than four times per of Agriculture monies. address safety regulations of the the Mobile River, bound for Tus­ day—1,600 times a year—^barges This scheme is just another way the giant agricultural interests inland tug and barge iiidustry. caloosa, Ala., in heavy fog. With are involved in an accident. There were 11,586 accidents involving hope to increase their subsidy from the U.S. government. The huge The description below is Continued on page 25 tank and freight barges between commodity traders believe that if the Department of Agriculture were gathered from the testimonies 1983 and 1989 and statistics show relieved of the transportation costs, it ultimately would result in a big­ that 2,418 bridges were struck by ger subsidy for the agriculture groups. commercial marine vessels be­ This is not the real issue anyway. In any case it is the American tween 1981 and 1990. taxpayer who is footing the bill. That is what is the most galling about this attempt to try and make another government agency pick up the These astounding figures tab for the movement of Department of Agriculture cargo. The giant demonstrate that the safety of agricultural corporations act like the Department of Agriculture each and every person who works monies are their own personal cash, reserved for them alone. There ap­ on a tug or tow is at stake, as is the pears to be no sense that this is a government agency sustained by all safety of those who live in coastal The United States Maritime dustry," the coalition said in an communities and who use the the American people in the national interest. Insofar as maintaining an American farm sector or an American merchant marine is concerned, Coalition has urged President October letter sent to all con­ water or related bridges. Clinton and every member of gressmen and to other elected of­ it has consistently been the policy of the United States that having a The SIU has studied data con­ vital agricultural sector and a strong shipping capability are in the na­ Congress to support a bill ficials. The bill "is the result of tained in the Coast Guard's designed to revitalize the U.S.- many months of work, delibera­ database on casualties and marine tional interest. That being the case, whatever sacrifices America flag merchant fleet. makes in order to support domestic farming and U.S. shipping are tion and compromise. Immediate accidents (CASMAIN) in an ef­ H.R. 2151, the Maritime and positive action is necessary fort to determine the safety record paid for by American taxpayers overall. The government monies that Security and Competitiveness because if a program is not put in of the inland maritime industry. support these programs should hardly be considered the personal ac­ Act of 1993, scheduled for a floor place soon, many vessels will The union found that within the counts of giant grain companies, many of which are foreign-owned. Finally, what is particularly ludicrous about the entire effort by vote in the House during the first leave the American flag forever." inland field, human error is more the agricultural commodity dealers to sack the nation's cargo week of November,"will result in The coalition, which formed in likely to account for an accident preference laws is that these groups are direct beneficiaries of U.S. cost savings to the U.S. Govern­ September, represents citizen than in either the Great Lakes or government subsidies that amount to some $70 billion a year. By ment, substantial deregulation to groups and all parts of the deep sea areas. comparison, government subsidies to the American merchant marine improve intemational competi­ maritime industiy in the U.S. It While the Mobile Press tiveness of vessels operating includes patriotic groups; Register examined tank and do not even show up on the screen. under the U.S. flag, and a strong, reight-barge accidents, the CAS­ more efficient maritime inContinued on page 9 MAIN data studied by the SIU Who Stands To Gain? bcused on tugs and tows which What aU of us must bear in mind is that the battle over American are becoming equally dangerous maritime pblicy is a battle about money and profits. The billion-dollar Volume 55. Number 11 November 1993 1 o operate on the nation's increas­ giant grain dealing companies and their spokesmen in Congress do ingly crowded waterways. not have as their main goal changing the wages of American seamen The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published In the period from the late or restracturing the budgets of several U.S. government agencies. monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, 1970s through mid-1991, of the (And I want to make it clear that I am saying "world's giant grain Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO- 5201 accidents recorded by the U.Sdealers" because in no way do American family farmers benefit from Springs. Md. 20746. Telephone (301) Coast Guard involving tugs and the maneuvers of these international commodity dealers.) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince tows, the leading cause was at­ This fight is a fight about money—money that the multi-billion Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing tributed to human factors by 58 dollar agribusiness and agricultural commodity dealers believe should offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the )ercent. In contrast, on Great be in their pockets. On the other side, it is a matter of the nation's in­ Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs, Md. ^akes vessels, human factors ac­ terest and its absolute need to have a shipping capability, maintained zU74o. counted for 36 percent of the ac­ for virtually peanuts in the scope of the overall U.S. government / Communications Departmeitt Director and Editor Jes­ cidents; similarly on deep sea budget, that stands ready to serve both in times of peace and war. sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Asswiate vessels human factors resulted in This is what should be borne in mind when you hear all the false Editors,/ordon Biscardo and Cortina Christensen; As­ 31 percent of the accidents. On claims of the spokesmen of the world grain dealers. Remember who sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill is behind the words and who stands to gain. Brower. Continued on page 25 U.S.-Flag CoaliSon Urges CongresSf President to Back Maritime Program t'•; f-'- Last month in a debate in Congress a farm-state senator attacked American merchant seamen as being overpaid. He alleged that American seamen are making a fortune from tax­ payer monies. The senator, who has long been an opponent of U.S. shipping, would have been far more can­ did and honest in his argument if he had gotten right down and said, "I don't want to see U.S.flag ships and cargo preference and the Jones Act because there are more profits for the giant grain dealers and their foreign ships with a U.S. fleet and those laws being around." This statement Michael Sacco would more accurately reflect the farm-state senator's ultimate aim. It seems as if the senator were really serious about the misuse of tax funds, he would not level his guns at the American seaman who is simply an American citizen, skilled in his or her craft, who is paid a decent wage reflecting the civilized and developed nation from which he comes. Instead the farm-state senator would be leveling his guns at the giant grain traders who, according to recent articles in TTie New York Times, are raking in billions of dollars of taxpayer monies under the guise of helping increase the level of exports of American farm products. The New York Times articles (October 10, 11, 12) point out that family farmers are not benefitting from all the export subsidies. It is the giant grain companies, many of them foreign-owned, which are getting rich off taxpayer dollars. The articles further point out.that the huge agriculture groups engage in some very shady practices in the process of wheeling and dealing with the Department of Agriculture and the Agency for International Development. So billions of tax­ payer dollars are lost in schemes that border on the illegal. This seems like an area that a farm-state senator should examine very closely. With family farmers throughout the nation taking a beat­ ing it bears investigation why the very programs that are supposed to help the American farm and rural communities are actually enriching only a very select group of multi-billion dollar international com­ modity companies. Citing the recent Amtrak dis­ aster which stemmed from an ac­ cident involving a tug/tow, the SIU, elected officials and various government agencies stressed the need for improved safety regula­ tions governing navigation on the nation's inland waterways. They made their case at an October 12 hearing before the House Sub­ committee on Coast Guard and Navigation, following the Sep­ tember 22 -derailment of Amtrak's Sunset Limited. The passenger train went off track and plunged into the water after a barge pushed by a tugboat, called the MV Mauvilla, rammed into an Alabama bridge causing the tracks to shift over three feet out of place. The shift ih rail alignment resulted in the derail­ ment that caused the worst train disaster in Amtrak's history and claimed the lives of 47 people. (For a more detailed account of the derailment of the Sunset Limited \ '•y �•r C. • ' NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Looking for Cheap Labor — Go NAFTA AFL-tM Fi^hs To Mx NAFTA Organized labor continues to of proclamation by the prime lead the battle against the minister had not been taken. proposed North American Free Chretien, who will become the Trade Agreement (NAFTA)— new prime minister, said duririg potentially devastating pact the campaign that he wanted to which Congress is scheduled to renogotiate portions Of NAFTA vote on later this month. in order to protect Canadian The AFL-CIO, the national workers and jobs. The Clinton ad­ federation of trade unions, recent­ ministration reportedly is con­ ly began a multi-media campaign sidering imposing trade focusing on key congressional restrictions on Canadian wheat districts throughout the country exported to the U.S. if Chretien and warning that NAFTA would demands new talks.) cost hundreds of thousands of Citing NAFTA's Dangers U.S. jobs. This campaign is Labor has plenty of company designed to counter the efforts of in its opposition to Ae agreement, NAFTA proponents (U.S. multi­ which, would encourage busi­ national corporations and the nesses to take advantage of Mexican government) who have Mexico's cheap labor and lax en­ spent $50 million in advertising and lobbying to push for the vironmental laws. Elected offi­ YES YOU CAN flawed trade deal oiiginally cials, economists and some negotiated by the Bush ad­ business leaders have joined trade unionists in stating that they are ministration. where labor costs average in favor of genuinely fair trade And you rould save over The House of Representatives under $1 an hour, including $15,000 a yeat per worker; is expected to vote on NAFTA, but are against NAFTA because it benefits. Far; far less than in if yoti had an offshore pro­ the Far East And Utss thait duction plant here. which would eliminate tariffs is a severely flawed proposal CBI, Central America and So if you want to see how (and the billions of dollars in which would hurt working even less than the rest of well you or your plant man­ Mexico agers can live here wliile . revenue which they account for) families in all three countries The employee turnover making your company more between the U.S., Mexico and directly affected by it. rate is less than 5% a yeac competitive in world mar­ We're only •ItiO miles and "We can and must do better kets. call for a fiee video Canada, sometime before 90 minutes by air from the tour of the State of Yucatan than this NAFTA," House Thanksgiving. A close vote is ex­ U.S. at 70S-295-I793. Majority Leader Richard pected. When the US. is too expensive and the Far East too hx, (At press time, Canada's im­ Gephardt (D-Mo.) told delegates "%s You Can In lUcatan." mediate position on NAFTA was in October at the AFL-CIO con­ Cknvrnment of the State of Yucatan. Mexico. Department of Industrial and Commeicial Deivlopment unclear due to the decisive vic­ vention in San Francisco. Gephardt pointed out that during Advertisements like these which ran in national business journals tories in late October of Jean the 1980s, real wages of Mexican Chretien and other members of demonstrate that passage of NAFTA will mean a loss of job to that country's Liberal Party in workers dropped by 30 percent— American workers. ^ederal elections. Previously, even though their productivity Canada's Parliament had ap- rose by 35 percent. "If Mexican wages CM't come jroved NAFTA; but the fin^ step YUCmN up, there won't be any money in the hands of Mexican workers to buy the products that we hope freer trade would allow them to buy," he added. "If Mexican wages do not go up, the compul­ sion of our companies to go there to get the benefit of that very lowwage labor will be overwhelm­ ing." Senator Harris Wofford (DPa.) recently told an audience of union members in Pittsburgh that NAFTA "is not fair to American workers, families or com­ munities. Free trade? Yes. Ex­ panded trade? Yes. But fair trade it has to be, and NAFTA does not add up to fair trade." The costs of an enacted NAFTA would be felt in both the short and long term, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Thomas Donahue recently told the Senate Labor Committee. Donahue said Continued on page 4 MTD Tackles Trade Pact The Maritime Trades Department (MTD) joined with the AFL-CIO in urging Con­ gress to reject the North American Free Trade Agree­ ment (NAFTA). Delegates to the MTD's biennial convention also called for maritime revitalization legislation and national health care reform. Coverage of the convention can be found on pages 13-16. Senate Repels Attack On Seamen's Wages Explosion Aboard OMI Charger Cargo Preference Foes Try New Tactic Kills Seafarer, 2 in Riding Crew H e?: ^ By a margin of 67 to 30, the his col­ leagues. "He Senate turned back another effort Officials from the U.S. Coast works ap­ Guard and the National Transpor­ by farm-belt legislators to attack proximately tation Safety Board (NTSB) are the U.S.-flag merchant marine. The latest strike was in the six months a continuing their investigation of a year. That is severe explosion which took place form of an amendment, offered his pay, six October 9 aboard the OMI Charger by longtime cargo preference foe months, near the Houston Ship Channel. Senator Charles Grassley (Rabout lowa) which would have limited The blast, apparently sparked $35,000, by a welding torch, resulted in the Sen. Inouye the pay level received by mem­ $40,000 a deaths of three crewmembers, in­ bers of the merchant marine when transporting materiel for the U.S. year; not $44,O0O a month." cluding 56-year-old SIU member armed forces, to the Fiscal Year Rejects Argument Milton "Willie" Williams (see 1994 Defense Department ap­ When one of Grassley's allies. epapate story). Keith Kelly and propriations bill. Senator Hank Brown (R-Colo.), lo^f Boutwell, two members of The Senate moved to table the described cargo preference as an International Marine Services, legislation, a procedural step that "looting the taxpayer to pay for a nc. riding crew, also died from effectively killed the amendment, program that does not work," In­ the explosion, which took place after a spirited debate on the floor ouye noted all nations have cargo around 8 p.m. near one of the of the chamber on October 21. world's busiest waterways. preference laws. Grassley stated the reason he The Charger's other 27 crewEvery country with a fleet has was submitting the amendment a cargo preference law," he said members were rescued almost was because he found it "incon­ in response. "If you want to buy immediately by a passing oil rig ceivable that a U.S.-flag cook oil from Saudi Arabia, can we supply boat. Most of the crewcosts more than the captain of a send our ships there? No way. members were treated at Galves­ U.S. Navy ship." You put it on a Saudi Arabian ton hospitals and released. Only Senator Daniel Inouye (D- vesse . Do we send our ships to one, another member of the riding Hawaii) countered Grassley by pick up Toyotas and Hondas and crew, remained hospitalized for noting if clothing and housing al­ Acuras? The Japanese send their more than one night, due to lowances, meals and health care ships over. That is their law." second-degree bums to his face. are considered, the annual com­ Fifteen other boats, including Mikulski Sounds Support pensation for a private goes from several SlU-crewed tugs, arrived In introducing the amend­ a base salary of $9,777 to $15,621 near the Charger shortly after the and for a lieutenant from $18,727 ment, Grassley also called into explosion and tried to contain the question the patriotism of U.S. to $34,000. fire, which blazed for more than "The real master's pay is not merchant mariners, stating "some five hours. The explosion repor­ $44,000 (as Grassley claimed). seafarers would not serve during tedly was felt as far as four miles His base pay according to the the Persian Gulf war." "I believe that when it comes away. A far less severe blast took Maritime Administration is place about one hour after the first $3,350 per month," Inouye told Continued on page 6 explosion. No time frame has been set for investigators to announce the of­ ficial cause of the accident, a Coast Guard spokesiman recently told the Seafarers LOG. How­ ever, officials have acknow­ ledged that Kelly and Boutwell were welding in one of the tanker's below-deck cargo holds at the time of the initial explosion. Officials initially were conContinued on page 6 SIU Victim of Blast Mourned by Union Seafarers mourned the death of fellow SIU member Milton "Willie" Williams and two riding crewmembers who perished in a massive explosion aboard the OMI Charger last month near the Houston Ship Channel. Brother Williams, 56, was sailing as a QMED/pumpman at the time of the accident. He reportedly died from internal in­ juries after being struck by a ladder which was propelled by the force of the explosion. A funeral was held at Com­ munity Funeral Chapels in Beaumont, Texas, and Brother Williams was buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery, also in Beaumont. SIU President Michael Sacco, in behalf of all union members, officials and staff, ex­ tended sincere condolences to Milton "Willie" Williams Brother Williams' widow, Pat, and their six children. "This was a tragic, tragic incident. It's hard to find words to adequately ex­ press our deep sense of loss and Continued on page 6 IML: "tv.' ; �4 NOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG BaWe Heats Up to Defeat NAFTA for the consequences to workers ment" under the maquiladora pro­ Continuedfrom page 3 gram brought no gains for and their communities." that, in addition to transferring as Mexican workers. Like NAFTA, Similarly, economists many as half-a-million U.S. jobs Timothy Koechlin and Mahrene the maquiladora program does to south of the border, NAFTA not allow for enforcement of such Larudee have concluded that would lead to lost tariff revenues basic worker rights as the right to NAFTA would lead to a crippling "estimated to cost $2.5 billion loss of investment in the U.S. bargain collectively, the right to over the first five years of the strike and the right to freely as­ "NAFTA's net effect by the year agreement." The cleanup of the sociate. "It didn't take into ac­ 2000 [would be] a diversion of environmental destruction in count that wages in Mexico are investment from the United Mexico would cost at least $20 States to Mexico of as much as ndt set by negotiation, but are set billion more, he said. $53 billion, a decline in U.S. by government boards that vir­ The views of many employment of up to 500,000 tually dictate what the wages will economists were summed up by jobs and a cumulative loss in U.S. be," Gephardt said. David Ranney, director of the wage income of as much As a result, Mexican ma­ as $320 Center for Urban Economic billion," they wrote. quiladora plants—at which many Development at the University of workers earn as little as 50 cents Mexicans Also Lose Illinois, who has spent the past an hour—have doubled in the Speaking at the convention, two years studying the impact of past 10 years as U.S. companies transnational corporations on Gephardt cautioned that it is not relocate their factories to posi­ employment in Chicago and the only American workers who tions along the U.S.-Mexican rest of Illinois, as well as policy stand to suffer from an enacted border. Thousands of Mexican implications of that impact. In a NAFTA. While U.S. jobs would maquiladora workers live in letter to the Chicago Tribune, be lost, and wages for remaining nearby slums, in housing made Ranney said, "NAFTA is not real­ U.S. jobs inevitably would be from scrap wood and cardboard, ly a 'free trade' agreement at all. driven downward, Mexico's with no electricity or running It gives supranational corpora­ workers also should be wary of water. tions a blank check to move their the agreement. As proof, he noted that the NAFTA would mean more of operations wherever and i when­ ever they please, without regard one-way free trade arrange­ the same, Gephardt warned. Save American JobsTell Congress 'No' to NAFTA Seafarers and their, families are urged to contact their repre­ sentatives and senators in Washington to vote against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Later this month, the House of Representatives is expected to cast its first vote on the trade pact which would open the door for American companies to move their factories and plants to the low wages and poor occupational health and environmental standards found in Mexico. Big business and the Mexican government have been waging a rf 1 campaign : nnnnracc •/-« naSS NAFTA. well-financed to persuade Congress to pi Their television advertisements have claimed the United States would gain jobs if the treaty was approved. However, national business trade magazines have carried ads like those seen on page 3 that tell American businesses to uproot their factories and plants and move south of the border to take ad­ vantage of the poorer working conditions in Mexico. Passage of NAFTA would mean the loss of hundreds of thousands of American jobs. The way to keep this from happening is for all Americans to contact their representatives and senators. Members of the House of Representatives can be reached by writing; The Honorable (name of representative) United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 To send a letter to a senator, write: The Honorable (name of senator) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 , f;.: . V ,. y Pro-Worker Course Set By AFL-CIO Delegates I--., Delegates to the AFL-CIO convention heard about worker concems from (left to right) President Bill Clinton, House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt, Rep. William Clay and Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Trade unionists get their point across during an anti-NAFTA rally in San Francisco held last month. Unions Press 'Work Tax' Suit <-:'•>* . •'*, • " Pretrial activities are continu­ ing in a lawsuit filed by the SIU, four other maritime labor unions and five individual mariners against the U.S. Coast Guard and the secretary of transportation to stop collecting fees on merchant marine documents (z-cards) and marine licenses. Last month, lawyers for the unions and mariners, known as the plaintiffs, filed what is known as a motion for summary judg­ ment in a federal court in Washington. The government's response is due early this month, then the maritime side will have one more opportunity for rebut­ tal. (The government previously filed its motion for summary judgment in late August.) Summary judgment is a proce­ dure used when all facts in a case Can be gathered on paper and wit­ nesses are not needed to testify in a trial in order for the judge to make a decision. A lawsuit chal­ lenging an administrative regula­ tion, such as the work tax, usually is resolved this way. Federal Judge Oberdorfer may issue final ruling as soon as early next year, although it may take longer. The suit originally was filed on Tax Day, April 15, in the U.S. District Court for the District of gress can pass a tax and the legis­ Columbia. It claims that the lative body cannot transfer that charging of fees for z-cards is un­ authority to another branch of the constitutional and amounts to a government: "The Coast Guard's "work tax," because mariners are license and document fees should unable to work without docu­ be set aside because they seek to ments. Moreover, the plaintiffs recover from individual merchant charge that the fees were calcu­ seamen and boatmen regulatory lated incorrectly by the federal costs that should be bome by the agency. public at large. Indeed, the licens­ The other unions joining the ing and documenting program Seafarers in the lawsuit are the has historically and expressly National Maritime Union/Dis­ been recognized as being in the trict 4; District No. 1-Pacific public interest. Charging in­ Coast District Marine Engineers dividual mariners for these benefits Beneficial Association; the amounts, as a constitutional matter, American Maritime Officers, to imposing an impermissible District 2 MEBA; and the Inter­ agency-initiated tax on them," national Organization of Masters, says the unions' court filing. Mates & Pilots. The Sailors' The user fee originated in the Union of the Pacific and the 1990 Omnibus Budget Recon­ Marine Firemen's Union, both af­ ciliation Act. filiated with the Seafarers, also The reason for removing the have joined in the fight. century-old ban on collecting fees Anthony Primeaux, William on merchant documents was to H. Mulcahy, John Paul Hoskins, raise money to reduce the nation's James C. Oliver and Perry O. budget deficiL which further indi­ Lawrence are the individual mariners who are plaintiffs cates the measure is a tax. against the Coast Guard and The fees, which the Depart­ Transportation Secretary ment pf Transportation began Federico Pena. collecting in April, range from In their motion for summary $35 for a duplicate z-card, license judgment, the unions and or certificate of registry to $272 mariners argue that only Con­ for an upper level license. 7-V / Delegates to the 20th Biennial than this NAFTA," Gephardt told AFL-CIO Convention renewed the delegates. He noted the treaty their call for the defeat of the did not take into account the fact North American Free Trade that wages in Mexico are set by Agreement (NAFTA) despite as­ government boards and not surances from President Bill through negotiations with Clinton that "I would never workers and management. knowingly do anything to cost an "If Mexican wages can't come American a job." up, there won't be any money in Trade unionists attending the the hands of Mexican workers to four-day meeting, held October buy products that we hope freer 4-7 in San Francisco, also trade would allow them to buy," pledged to fight for health care Gephardt added. reform, striker replacement legis­ To show White House support lation, maritime revitalization with labor. Labor Secretary Robert and a variety of other issues that Reich announced the Clinton affect the working people of administration's support for striker America and their families. replacement legislation. "What In addressing the meeting on its gotxi is the right to strike if a com­ opening day, Clinton said, "The pany can gut it by hiring replace­ most important thing to me today is ment workers?" Reich asked. "It that you know that this administra­ makes a mockery of a system pf tion shares your values and your collective bargaining. We have hopes and your dreams and the in­ got to plug that loophole." terests of your children." As a sponsor of striker replace­ ment legislation in the House, Help for Health Care Representative William Clay (DThe president called on labor Mo.) told the convention, "The to help pass comprehensive pendulum has swung so far in health care reform. He said he favor of business that labor laws wants the American people to are not protecting the rights of have "health care access whether workers to organize. The bedrock they're working or unemployed, whether they work for a little of collective bargaining is and al­ ways will be the right to strike." business or a big one." He noted passage of health Support U.S.-Flag Fleet care reform is a crucial step In approving the report of the needed to prepare America for the AFL-CIO executive council, challenges of the next century. delegates announced their sup­ While acknowledging labor's port for revitalization of the U.S.difference with him on NAFTA, flag merchant fleet. The report Clinton said he supports the treaty noted a variety of initiatives are because it will lead to better trade needed, including adoption of a for America in the future. federal program to enhance vessel . The president's argument for operating capabilities in interna­ NAFTA was rejected by several tional commerce and development speakers including House Majority of a national cargo policy to effi­ Le^r Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.). ciently move both government and "We can and must do better conunercial cargoes. / / / I �1993 SEAFARERS LQf^ Giant ffini/fi Lobby Balks At Revealhig For^gn Ties 5 (l^wnr The organization which serves as the chief propagandist for foreign-flag oriented grain interests is loath to divulge the foreign ownership of many of its member companies and their ties to foreign-flag shipping. The North American Export Grain As­ change between Rep. Helen Delich Bentley and sociation (NAEGA), headed by Steven A. Mr. McCoy below.) McCoy, is comprised of some 40 cor­ The evidence indicates that NAEGA, which McCoy describes as "simply a trade association," has members with links to powerful trading houses of Japan, France, Italy, Australia, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Canada. NAEGA's groups are often among the largest, most powerful corpora­ tions of those nations. The interests and holdings of these companies include hundreds of foreign-flag ships, most of them operating under runaway flags. The use of runaway flags allows shipowners to register their vessels with a nation that operates a ship registry as a cash generation measure. These Disclosed by Other Sources nations, in exchange for selling the use of their flag Despite information on NAEGA's foreign ties on the stem of a vessel, offer shipowners little or being available through a few public sources, no regulation in the area of manning requirements. NAEGA's spokesman will not name names, even Continued on page 7 when pressed by a member of Congress. (See ex­ porate groups, of which close to half are ultimately owned by foreign parent companies. Many of these corporate giants have shipping subsidiaries or af­ filiated companies with shipping interests—^the vast majority of such under foreign-flag. These facts however are not publicly stated by the organization itself. This information is gleaned from government filings of the organization and material available in business publications. (See box on page 7.) Pattern of Abuse, Corruption By Giant Agri Groups Uncovorod Food Exporters Reap Benefits of Cozy Relations With Agriculture Pep't and Development Agency The billions of U.S. taxpayer dollars spent every year to make American food commodities competitive with foreign-grown Slic^cur wheat, com and other products have fattened the coffers of a few giant corporations and have done Reaps Profit, little to increase the export of U.S. agricultural products. The New u to Help ;i AbtaaPhgueProi MONDAY ExportM ofAgTKuhuml FmducitiJ-^ York Times revealed in a series df OCTOBER 11 three articles by two reporters 1993 SUNDAY who conducted an extensive in­ OCTOBER 10 vestigation into the dealings of 1993 the Department of Agriculture. The $40 billion spent to in­ crease American agricultural ex­ Billions of taxpayer dollars spent on subsidies to up exports of ports "has instead enriched American food products are ineffective and, in many cases, misused. small group of multinational cor­ The New York Times reported in a series of three articles. porations while doing little to ex­ Agriculture refused to adopt such pand the American share of the year, while pushing for increases a ban. The New York Times in the $70 billion plus per year world's agricultural markets, reporters discovered. said the authors of the articles, U.S. government subsidy to Gov't Looks the Other Way which appeared on October 10, agriculture. The reporters found that a No Holds Barred 11 and 12. revolving door relationship with The New York Times articles Written by Dean Baquet and Diana B. Henriques, the articles detail a number of cases in which officials of the USDA, the Agen­ document how much of the profit giant agriculture interests have cy for Intemational Development amassed by the giant grain inter­ engaged in illegal and unethical (AID), the arm of the U.S. State ests has come from circumvent­ transactions involving U.S. Department which coordinates ing regulations, unethical moves govemment food aid programs. aid to developing nations, and and, in some cases, illegal ac­ The abuses range from using U.S. giant agribusiness groups government funds to bribe fostered abuses. tivities. foreign officials to spending tax­ The articles cited the case of payer monies to establish the USDA general counsel who in Enemies of Shipping The huge agribusiness groups profitable distribution monopo­ 1988 argued against barring com­ panies caught in infractions relat­ and govemment agencies named lies. ing to department programs from 'The Agriculture Department in the article are among the lead­ ing opponents of U.S. shipping continues to give billions of dol­ future participation in the laws. (See article on the North lars of business to politically agency's contracts. That same of­ American Export Grain Associa­ powerful agricultural companies ficial left govemment and today that have been caught rigging represents large exporters of tion above.) bids, fixing prices and defrauding agricultural products, said the Traditionally, these interests, Govemment programs," the ar­ reporters. while advocating the purchase A memorandum from a and use of U.S.-produced agricul­ ticle states. Department of Agriculture offi­ The reporters also found that tural products for govemment aid programs, have opposed the use the U.S. Department of Agricul­ cial to the govemment's Office of of American-flag vessels to ture (USDA) was loath to dis­ Management and Budget ob­ deliver the donated cargoes. The cipline or prosecute the violators. tained by the newspaper said his giant agribusiness lobby attacks While other govemment agencies agency did not want to adopt such the govemment monies used to prohibit contracts with com- a strict requirement because contract U.S. ships, funds that lanies that have broken U.S. laws Continued on page 7 generally amount to millions a or regulations, the Department of . 1- I Grain's McCoy Evades Congressional Queries The mouthpiece of the giant grain exporters, Steven A. McCoy, who attacks cargo preference iaws and U.S.-flag shipping generaiiy, has consistently refused to reveal the true make-up of his organization, euphemistically known as the North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA). While several members of Congress have attempted to discern the somewhat foreign character of NAEGA's membership and their ties to foreign-flag shipping, McCoy has engaged in evasive tactics. Here is an excerpt of an appearance by McCoy before the Congress. It should be noted that as of October 28 the requests for information made to McCoy last June had not been answered, according to congressional staff. Before the Subcommittee on Merchant Marine June 23,1993. Mrs. Heien Delich Bentiey (R-Md.). ... Mr. McCoy, at the agriculture appropriations hearing last week you stated you represented a little as­ sociation. It is my understanding that NAEGA, has about 40 members, inciuding all of the biggest multinational grain houses and some of the biggest companies in the world. The largest grain houses are owned by some of the richest peopie around the worid. Do any of the companies beionging to your organization have foreign parent companies? Mr. McCoy. Ali of the companies that are members of NAEGA by the by-laws of NAEGA are required to be U.S. incorporated companies. Mrs. Bentley. That is not what I asked. I asked you whether they have foreign parent companies. IcCoy. Yes. Some of the companies have affiiiations with foreign Mr. Mc companies. Mrs. Bentiey. Ail of them? Mr. McCoy. No not all of them. Mrs. Bentley. 50 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent? Mr. I^Coy. It yyouid be difficult to say. Mrs. Bentley. itle\ Come on, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. Weil, it is difficult to say. I would say that some do, some don't, and it depends on how you defined it. Mrs. Bentiey. What countries are involved in the foreign parent com­ panies? Mr. McCoy. Weil, a multinational company typically might include within its organizationMrs. Bentley. I asked—are they Japan, Switzerland, Italy and Canada? Mr. McCoy. I beg your pardon? Mrs. Bentley. Are they Japan, Switzerland, Italy and Canada? Mr. McCoy. There is a possibility of connections in those countries. Mrs. Bentley. Do those foreign interests benefit from foreign aid paid for by American taxpayers? Mr. McCoy. No, not at ali. Mrs. Bentley. They don't from the grain subsidies they receive? Mr. McCoy, No. Mrs. Bentiey. They do not benefit? Mr. McCoy. No. Mrs. Bentiey. Mr. McCoy, think of what you are saying. j.Thefc Mr. McCoy. I am saying exactly wh&t I just said. No. The foreign interests don't benefit. The beneficiary, if there is any beneficiary as far as a grain company is concerned, would be a U.S. incorporated affiliate. Mrs. Bentiey. Controlled andowned by the foreign parent company, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. I am sorry. It is irrelevant who would control or own a company. Mrs. Bentley. Come on, Mr. McCoy, let's not play Tiddley Winks. Is NAEGA required to register as a lobbyist for foreign companies under the Foreign Agent Registration Act? Mr. McCoy. No, we are not. Mrs. Bentiey. But you have ail these multinational companies. Mr. McCoy. As I say, the compariies who are a member of NAEGA are members by virtue of their U.S. incorporated status. Mrs. Bentiey. Do any of your members own foreign flag vessels? Mr. McCoy. I don't know. Mrs. Bentiey. Come on, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. I am sorry. I don't know. I don't know. I would assume that some would but frankly it has never been an issue that Ihave been intensely interested in. Mrs. Bentley. I would like an answer for that and I would like a specific answer for that, the numbers and who. Mr. McCoy, i would be happy to do my best to provide that. Mrs. Bentiey. And with that, some! of the foreign aid that is paid for the cargo carried on these vessels means that your association companies also benefit from the American taxpayers' dollar. Mr. McCoy. I will do the best I can to provide any information you request. •'.f •f. ••i.i •. >•' - ••• 'W �6 ROVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarer Among Casualties in Houston Channoi ExpiTOion Continued from page 3 cemed about a possible fuel spill (the Charger's holds were empty, but its own bunker supply was 365,000 gallons). However, the vessel's fuel was transferred to a barge without incident, thereby ending the threat of pollution. The 660-foot ship was re­ floated near the channel several days after the accident. Owned by OMI Corp. of New York, the Charger was at anchor when the explosion took place. Accident Remembered Bosun Eugene Beverly had just taken a seat in the crew mess hall when he heard a noise which seemed a thousand times louder than thunder. He felt the ship con­ tort as if it had been twisted in the hands of a giant. "It was a terrible explosion. You had to be there to understand just how serious it was," said Beverly, 59, who was not injured. "My first thought was that there would be a chain reaction of ex­ plosions, because I knew we weren't gas-free." The officers and crewmembers reacted quickly, and within a few minutes the survivors gathered on the stern. ABs Chuck Collins and Jimmie Scheck car­ ried Williams there; Beverly and others knew that two other men had been working in the tank and could not possibly have survived. "Considering the situation, I was very proud of how the men conducted themselves," the bosun said. "They were very or­ derly. Keep in mind, this was a hell of an experience." Rescue Boat Waiting The Charger quickly sank in about 40 feet of water, which ac­ tually facilitated the rescue. "Right after the explosion, we took about a 25-degree list to port," Beverly recalled."Once we hit bot­ tom, the stem was almost even with the water,so we practically stepped off the ship right onto the crew boat (the Tim McCalt)." He added that, although he and the other crewmembers are trying to put the incident behind them, "To be honest, I don't think you ever completely forget something like this." The Coast Guard's Marine Safety Office in Galveston and the NTSB, an independent federal agency, concluded a joint hearing on the accident last month but will issue separate reports once the in­ vestigation is over. According to published reports, this incident marked one of more than two dozen empty-tank ex­ plosions worldwide in the past seven years—accidents which AP Photo/Rick Bowmer The 660-foot gasoline tanker OM! Charger\\es with a giant hole in its side as a result of an explosion and fire that occurred October 9 near the mouth of the Houston Ship Channel close to Galveston, Texas. The cause of the blast, which killed three crewmembers, is under investigation. have resulted in 30 fatalities. The Charger had been in a shipyard for one month prior to the accident and was preparing to take on a cargo of gas in Texas City. The SIU members who were on board during the accident were Beverly, Williams, Collins, Scheck, ABs Daniel Hebior, Clemente Rocha and Kevin Hamilton, Pumpman Jack Singletary, OMUs Eldridge Smith, Daniel Campbell and Andy Lopez, GUDE Darryl Brown, Chief Steward Neville Johnson, Chief Cook Ambrosio Fachini and SA Arthur Reeves. Union Mourns Loss of QMEO Killed in OMI Charger Blast In 1975, the chief engineer of the SS Shenandoah summed up sympathy," Sacco stated. "We Brother Williams' work habits in will miss Willie, and we share his a letter of recommendation which read in part: "Williams was able family's grief." to work cooperatively with 'A Good Union Member' several different mates and en­ Brother Williams "was a good gineers. His attitude is very good. guy, very well-liked and very He is the type of man needed professional. He knew his job," aboard ships I would recom­ said SIU Port Agent Jim McGee. mend him for the engine depart­ "I knew Willie for many years. ment of any ship and would He always made an effort to teach be happy to have him in the young guys. He was a good always my department again." union member." SIU officials and members Brother Williams graduated from the port of Houston ex­ who said, "The use of the from the Lundeberg School in American-flag ship actually 1969, after serving a four-year tended the union's heartfelt sad­ saves the Defense Department stint in the Marine Corps. A na­ ness to Brother Williams' family money because the alternative tive of the U.S. Virgin Islands, he immediately after the accident would be for the Defense Depart­ first sailed as a wiper aboard the and throughout the following weeks. Father Sinclair Oubre, a ment to establish its own fleet to Sea-Land Galveston'm 1969. Catholic priest who also sails as cany this cargo." He later sailed aboard an AB, gave a prayer service for Senator Dianne Feinstein (ID- Isthmian Lines ships, and in 1974 Calif.) emphasized the economic he upgraded to QMED at the Lun­ Brother Williams at the October membership meeting in Houston. and military importance of the deberg School. He also conducted a mass in U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "The Bosun Eugene Beverly, who merchant marine, in peacetime, sailed with Williams off and on memoiy of Brother Williams on plays an important role in the since the mid-1970s, was aboard October 20. economies of coastal states such as the Charger when the explosion Additional condolences may Califomia and has far-reaching im­ took place. "I don't believe you be sent to Pat Williams and Fami­ pacts on states that produce the could find a better shipmate" than ly, c/o Seafarers International cargo carried by these fleets," she Williams, said Beverly. "He was Union, 1221 Pierce St., Houston, said. TX 77002. a fine person." Continued from page 3 Senators Defeat Attack on Wages Continued from page 3 to transporting supplies and other materiel that that should go under an American flag, staffed by American seamen who are not only cost-effective but have an ethic of patriotism," Senator Bar­ bara Mikulski (D-Md.) responded. The senator quoted the head of the U.S. Transportation Com­ mand, which oversees the move­ ment of equipment within the military, during the Persian Gulf conflict as saying unlike foreign vessels no American ship was delayed for the lack of a crew. ii sP:;";!:-. Si.'v-••• V-' Recalling a recent Senate debate, she said, "If American people are reluctant to put their troops under a foreign com­ mander, why would they want to put their materiel and supplies under a foreign-flag ship?" John Breaux (D-La.), the chairman of the Senate Merchant Marine Subcommittee, pointed out Grassley's "amendment would do away with the cargo preference program for military cargo. Adding that cargo preference laws and the presence of the U.S.flag merchant fleet saves the Defense Department money was Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-Md.), Lost Vietnam Mariners Honorecl By San Francisco Monument Years of struggle against veterans' groups and bureaucratic red tape came to an end last month when a concrete monument honoring seven merchant mariners—including five mem­ bers of the SIUNA-affiliated Marine Firemen's Union (MFU)—who lost their lives in Vietnam was unveiled on the San Francisco waterfront., The ceremony on October 3 was the culmination of seven years of work by the MFU and Califomia state Senator Milton Marks to have these Americans honored with the others who died during the war in southeast Asia. The seven—Chief Electrician Raymond G. Barrett, Second Electrician Earl T. Erickson, Oiler James W. McBride, Wiper Timothy A. Riordan Jr., FiremanAVatertender Robert J. Rowe, First Assistant Engineer John A. Bishop and Second Assistarit Engineer Charles B. Rummel—were killed aboard the Baton Rouge Victory when the ship struck a mine as it was sailing in the Long Tao channel of the Saigon River on August 23,1966. "This caps a longtime effort to honor the crew of the Baton Rouge Victory," stated Henry "Whitey" Disley, president of the MFU. "We were opposed by memorial and veterans affairs commissions who claimed they shouldn't be included in their monuments because they weren't members of the armed forces. But they gave the ultimate sacrifice and we , are here to honor ^d remember them." Disley, who spearheaded the campaign for the monument, described during the ceremony the problems the union and its sup­ porters overcame to honor the mariners. He noted original plans called for the seven names to be added to the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C. but that was turned down because the mariners were not part of the armed forces. The same reasoning was used when an attempt to add the names to the Califomia inemorial was refused. When a separate memorial plaque for the state monument was suggested, Califomia Gover­ nor George Deukmejian vetoed it. Then after the present design was submitted for a location on the state capital lawn, the monu­ ment was declared oversized and plans should be resubmitted. Instead, the San Francisco Port Commission approved the monu­ ment and offered a location on the Embarcadaro that overlooks San Francisco Bay. "Here with great pride through the efforts of the unions and their allies, people can pause and read of a sacrifice by merchant mariners," said James Herman, president of the port commission and past president of the Intemational Longshoremen's and Warehousemen's Union. "It is sad and tragic we had to engage in such a struggle to honor those who went down to the sea on the Baton Rouge Victory," Herman added. "Their loyalty to country was second to none." Jack Henning, executive secretary-treasurer of the Califor­ nia Labor Federation, said no greater tribute could be paid to the memory of the seven than "the Henry "Whitey" Disley (left) joins former Baton Rouge Victory crew­ members Bedroom Steward Toll Alston (center) and AB Milton Hendrick in unveiling the monument to seven merchant mariners who died on the ship in Vietnam. restoration of the U.S.-flag mer­ chant marine. There is no proof war will never visit us again. We must build our merchant marine not only for defense, but also for restoration of our economy." The concrete monument stands four feet high and eight feet wide. It features a bronze relief portrait of the vessel on the right and a description of the sink­ ing of the ship with the seven victims' names on the left. The base is inscribed with the words, "American merchant seamen who made the supreme sacrifice." More than 100 people attended the ceremony including former Baton Rouge Victory crewmem­ bers and family members of those who died in the explosion. Others participating in the un­ veiling included Rear Admiral Thomas J. Patterson, Monsignor John P. Heaney, Captain Frank Johnson of MarAd and Sen. Marks. : r-— �•V -V'.. ••f;. • : -v: '-y-m- NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG AnH U.S.-Flag Ship Gim^ I^M-Lphietl on Awtetan Ties lax safety standards and very favorable tax treat­ ment. Among the world's most popular runaway registers are Panama, Liberia, Vanuatu and Norway among others. (While Norway at one time was a traditional maritime nation, operating national-flag vessels crewed by Norwegian seamen and account­ able to Norway, Ae nation now operates a so-callec second register which lifts the requirements as­ sociated with a national flag register and offers runaway-flag like benefits for shipowners.) Runaway-flag ships, which by their very nature are running away from the higher standards and taxes of traditional maritime nations, have a track record of exploiting, abusing, even enslaving crewmembers, a history of avoiding legal authorities of Who's for Subsidies? any nation, particularly to escape from safety prac­ NAEGA advocates using American taxpayer tices, inspections and other practices which add to money to support bargain basement runaway ship­ the cost of an operation. ping, attacking the American shipping industry, In addition to having a runaway-flag com­ ponent, many NAEGA members operate in the which competes with fleets of other nations sub­ billions of dollars of revenue a year category. And sidized by their governments directly and indirectly a good share of the NAEGA members are trading and with fleets subsidized in a round-about-manner houses, not farmers or farm groups, but traders of by allowing them no ties to any nation through the device of runaway flags. commodities, including oil, metals, and other Ironically, NAEGA does not believe what is products. good for the goose is good for the gander. The organ Congress is Still Waiting for the giant export grain lobby does not advocate As it stands now, two House subcommittees are using U.S. government monies to purchase the awaiting information from NAEGA on its foreign cheaper wheat and com available on the world ties. The requests for this data were made in hear­ market—the very low cost wheat and com on ings on June 17 by a member of the House Foreign which is based the rationale for subsidizing Agriculture and Hunger Subcommittee and on June American grain and food product exports. 23 by a member of the House Subcommittee on The grain group instead stands fully behind Merchant Marine. govemment subsidies for exported agricultural In questioning by representatives at these hear­ products. Much of this is done through a subsidy ings, McCoy feigned lack of knowledge in regard process known as the Export Enhancement Pro­ to the area of foreign ownership and foreign ship gram (EE?) which provides the difference to ex­ links and said he would provide the information. porting companies of the higher cost U.S. product Inquiries made to the staff of each panel revealed and the foreign-produced product selling at a lower that as of October 28, no such material from rate on the world market. NAEGA had been received by either subcommit­ According to press reports, NAEGA members tee. NAEGA is largely known on Capitol Hill and in have profited mightily from the EEF program. federal agencies for its attempts to eliminate the law Since its inception in 1985 up to the end of 1991, of the nation which states that 75 percent of U.S. NAEGA member Cargill, Inc. received $800 mil­ government food aid cargoes must be carried on lion in EE? bonuses, NAEGA member Continental Grain took in $702 million. NAEGA's FrenchU.S.-flag vessels. owned Louis Dreyfus Corp. has received some NAEGA, in addition to working to abolish the $590 million and two Fermzzi companies collected law, known as cargo preference, continually seeks close to $320 million. Holland's Bunge, also a exemptions of the ship-American policy for various NAEGA member, was awarded $132 million, grain cargoes destined for recipient nations. At one among others. time or another, NAEGA has sought cargo preference exemptions for cargoes going to Poland, "We maintain the Export Enhancement Pro­ the Soviet Union, most recently Russia, among gram as a means to maintain our competitiveness others. vis-a-vis the European Community and conse­ Good for Grain Sellers quently so long as [European Community] sub­ Without the requirement to ship on American sidies exist, so too also will our subsidies," said vessels, McCoy believes more grain can be sold, an VIcCoy. NYT: Export Food Aid Abused Continued from page 5 USDA's relationships on food aid contracts "are, by their nature, very close, and usually coopera­ tive, as opposed to 'arms-length' procurement-type relationships." Farmers Not Benefitting companies profited. Four cor­ porations received nearly $1.4 billion, or more than 60 percent, of the $2.3 billion in subsidies dispensed through the Export En­ hancement program, the most generous program, in its first four years," stated the articles. The Export Enhancement Program (EEP) provides a subsidy to the seller of the grain or other product that amounts to the difference be­ tween the U.S. price and the world price. The agricultural export programs of the U^|ed States now favor big corpor^ons, many of which are foreign owned. The New York Times found. "[T]here is little propf that farmers Reprints Available benefit[t]ed from the buildup in A political scientist inter­ export assistance," noted the viewed by The New York Times articles' authors. journalists, Robert,Paarlberg of "[T]here is evidence that big Wellesley College and the Har­ -7' • ./• ^ ^ Foreign Ties of NAEGA Member Groups A partial list follows of the ultimate foreign ownership offhe NAEGA member companies as well as the flag-state of the vessels operated or controlled by NAEGA member companies, their parents and related subsidiaries. It is likely that this list is by no means complete as large commercial interests such as the ones named here generally try to keep information such as this out of the public eye. act that would further increase the massive subsidy of taxpayer monies going to agricultural interests NAEGA Members, (now at more than $70 billion per year). Directors, Officers Responding to an inquiry from Congressman Wayne Allard (R-Colo.) at the June 17 House Bunge Corporation Foreign Agriculture and Hunger Subcommittee Mitsui Grain Corp. hearing, McCoy stated why, from his perspective, foreign shipping is a "more suitable" alternative to U.S.-flag ships. "In general, the foreign vessel would be more suitable because it would be cheaper, and so there­ fore the customer (a foreign country) could maxi­ mize his opportunity to import grain, if that is his purpose," McCoy said. He added, "[The customer] Con Agra Grain Corp. can buy more grain if he pays less on transporta­ Cargill, Inc. tion." Continental Grain, Inc. . Continued from page 5 / V"- Nation of Ultimate Ownership/Control Flag States Of Ships The Netherlands Y Japan Japariy Panama Vanuatu Hong Kong Liberia Singapore Myanmar (Burma) Cyprus Marshall Islands . V Liberia Mexico Antigua & Barbuda Panama Cyprus India Liberia ' ~ r' ' Archer Daniels Midland Co. Ireland J. Aron & Company Louis Dreyfus Corporation France Tradigrain, Inc. Switzerland France Philippines Liberia Hong Kong The Andersons Central States Enterprises Elders Grain, Inc. Australia |v Alliance Grain, Inc. Central Soya Company, Inc. Italy Feruzzi USA, Inc. Italy " Interstate Grain Corp. • Italy Bahamas Cyprus Panama Italgrani USA, Inc. Italy Maple Leaf Mills Inc. Canada Mitsubishi International Corp. Japan Japan Panama Philippines • / Liberia Pasternak Baum & Co., Inc. James Richardson & Sons, Ltd Canada SGS Control Services, Inc. Switzerland Tidewater Grain Company Marubeni America Corporation Japan Oriac International Canada Richco Grain Ltd Switzerland Panama . Cayman Islands Liberia Japan Liberia Panama Singapore Nonvay (1) Greece United Kingdom Spantrade, Inc. Toymenka (America) Inc. Japan Woodhouse Corporation United Kingdom C. Itoh & Co. (America) Inc. Japan Zen^Noh Unico American Corp. Japan vard Center for International Af­ Alabama State Docks fairs, noted that the export sub­ Gamac Grain Company sidies were ineffective. "In the Alfred C. Toepfer European (2) case of wheat, for example, the- International Inc. government could provide a I sranicorp, Inc. France greater benefit to wheat farmers Union Equity Coop. Exchange at lower cost to the taxpayers if it ^ort of Corpus Christi simply purchased the surplus wheat and burned it," Paarlberg told the paper. Reprints of these articles, printed with permission of The New York Times, are available from the Seafarers LOG office. Anyone interested in obtaining a copy should address a request to the Seafarers LOG-, 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. 7 Singapore (1) Ships fly the flag of Norway but are registered with the nation's second registry, a device which allows the shipowner flag-of-convenience-like terms with the label of a traditional mar[fime nation. (2) Toepfer is a amalgam of cooperatives in Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, France and the United states. Source; NAEGA's membership, directors and officers are reported on NAEGA's An­ nual Report for Foreign and Domestic Corporations, filed with the Govemment of the District of Columbia. Foreign ownership data is collected from business peri­ odicals, newspaper reports and business directories. Ties to ships operated under foreign registries is compiled from directories, articles in periodicals from around the world and govemment filings. •f.M • �8 MOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERSLOG a-,' -^fS' A The Caribbean Responder l)egins boom-laying operations during a recent drill off St. Croix. m-0 :' Releasing the lines on the Borinquen is AB Jorge L. Borges. I# n AB Jose Guevara fights rain as he prepares to toss lines onto the Borinquen. Lending a hand as the Crowley tug ties up is Engineer Carlos Rodriguez. " J.-. To be prepared in the event an oil spill ever occurs, SIIJ crewmembers aboard Crowley tug­ boats are practicing containment procedures with fellow Seafarers on board the CanT^ftean Responder. ... Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz joined the crew of the tug Borinquen in a drill off St. Croix in September. "The session went very well," Ruiz told the Seafarers LOG. "The crews worked very well with each other and all learned from the experience." The Caribbean Responder, one of 16 Marine Spill Response Corporation vessels located along the U.S. coastline as well as Hawaii and St. Croix, served as the lead vessel in the prac­ tice—the same position it would hold in a real accident. The Crowley tugs, along with the Hess I Marine's Limetree Bay, crewed by members of | the SIU of Puerto Rico, assisted in laying booms and capturing the imaginary oil. The tug Dorac/o assists the Caribbean Responder Ruiz noted such drills will take place on a during the oil spill drill. reguiar basis to keep Seafarers up-to-date on containment techniques. SlU-crewed tugboats work with the Caribbean Responder to stretch containment booms. LEI^: Standing by on the BorinlA quen to take a line from a Responder assist boat are (left to right) AB Jorge Borges, AB Jose Guevara and Engineer Carlos Rodriguez. RIGHT: Capt. Hector A Ayala (white shirt) 3^-- - aligns the Dorado as Engineer Alfredo Gon­ zalez (left), OS Angel Sanchez and AB Felix Guilar stand by. ' The crew of the CaribbeanResponderincludes (from left, seated) Oiler Marc Aloisio, Asst. Eng. Gary M. Stetson, Cook Richard Griffith, (standing) AB Elizabeth A. Mark, Taking part m the drill Mate Bruce Fizell, Mate Mark C. Patterson and Captain o"]. James Clifford. Heading for the Dorado galley is Cook Carmelo Feliciano. Capt. Manuel Quinones handles Borin­ quen papery/ork. Monitoring from the Bor/nquenbridge is Mate Kevin Foss. Borinquen crewmembers grab a quick cup of soup prepared by Cook Jose Nunez. �. vv.' • •a;?'-; •'. •••" NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 9 A National Health Problem IB Precautionary Memures to Be InsBtuted by SIU til ifl^ In order to protect the safety and health of union members and their families, the Seafarers Inter­ national Union—Atlantic.Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District and the Seafarers Welfare Plan are instituting a new program to tackle what is becoming a nation­ al health problem—the reemergence of tuberculosis (TB). The Seafarers program, which will begin in January 1994, is designed to accumulate data in order to research effects on Seafarers of the now more prevelant disease. The program will also, through a painless skin test, identify if Seafarers have been exposed to TB. The goal of the Seafarers program is to protect its members from the dis­ ease by testing for the unlikely event of some exposure to TB germs. We are basically beginning this TB control program to deter­ mine if tuberculosis is a problem for Seafarers and if so to imple­ ment a program to diagnose and control the disease," Dr. Kenneth Miller, director of the Seafarers Welfare Plan medical depart­ ment, told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. reported tuberculosis in the ease, such as clothing, bedding, the size of a pencil eraser or big­ United States than would have toilet seats, showers, glasses, ger appears on the arm where the occurred had the incidence of TB eating materials or any other tuberculin was placed. This continued declining a^ it did items they have touched. means that the person may have through 1985. Most people who breathe in been exposed and may require TB had largely been the bacteria do not become in­ treatment to avoid getting the full eliminated in the U.S. due to im­ fected when exposed to TB. Of disease at a later time. This provements in living conditions those who do, most do not and effective dmg care. Where it develop the active disease but the preventive treatment takes at least had once been the leading cause germs can lie dormant in the cells six months to a year to kill all the of death in the U.S., after 1900TB lining the lungs where the body tuberculosis germs. A person may The Disease Returns steadily declined as a terminal ill­ may store them. The body's im­ continue to have TB bacteria in Tuberculosis, inactive for a ness and fewer and fewer cases mune system traps the bacteria his or her body unless eliminated number of years in the United were reported. with special germ fighters. From with the proper medication. States, is on the rise once again. this point on, a lifelong balance Importance for Seafarers Reasons for Return Since 1985, the number of between the infection and the "Because Seafarers live in There are many reasons for reported cases of TB has in­ human body's defense against the close quarters and deal with the this change according to the Na­ creased. The Centers for Disease infection continues. An in­ Control and Prevention (CDC), a tional Institute of Allergy and In­ dividual who has dormant TB same people day in and day out for many months at a time, the federal agency involved in re­ fectious Diseases (NIAID), bacteria in his or her lungs is not SIU determined that this TB re­ federal health agency involved in search for the control and preven­ contagious. Only those with ac­ tion of diseases, has estimated the research and development of tive TB who remain untreated are search and control program is necessary. In 1995, we will ex­ that from 1985 through 1991 guidelines for treatment of infec­ capable of infecting others. amine the information collected tious diseases. there were 39,000 mpre cases of and determine if tuberculosis is of importance of Test Causes cited by the agency for significant concern for TB's revival include the emer­ "TB screening is necessary to Seafarers," noted Dr. Miller. gence of drag-resistant strains of determine if an individual has The program will require that the organism causing the disease, been exposed to the tuberculosis increased immigration to the U.S. germ. Only ten percent of those Seafarers participate in the of people from countries with a exposed will become infected screening program at the time of high incidence of the disease, and with the full blown disease while their annual medical examina­ The Clinton administration last month unveiled a program in­ transmission among persons in in most other cases the germs tion. The TB screening will con­ tended to assist U.S. shipyards in converting from defense to com­ crowded living environments. remain dormant in the cells. If we sist of a simple questionnaire mercial work. It includes a plan to seek elimination of shipyard Researchers also state that the find out that a person has been (which will include such questions subsidies worldwide. current resurgence of the disease exposed, it is very treatable with The program would provide for $3 billion in ship construction can be attributed to the growth of existing antibiotics and may as age, place of birth and places of through loan guarantees, and a five-year conversion program to fund poverty and homelessness and an prevent any chance of active travel, as well as family and per­ research and development projects in domestic shipyards. In addi­ increase in numbers of peole con­ tuberculosis developing," ex­ sonal history of tuberculosis) and the painless TB skin test. tion, federal agencies would eliminate unnecessary regulations and gregating in one dweUing, such as plained Dr. Miller. would enhance export promotion and marketing. SIU Takes the Lead prisons, shelters and nursing Miller noted it is important to The White House report, entitled "Strengthening America's homes. The SIU medical department understand that TB germs are not Shipyards: A Plan for Competing in the Intemational Market," cites is moving rapidly to deal with any transmitted through casual con­ What is Tuberculosis? statistics from the Maritime Administration (MarAd) that estimate potential threat the member­ TB is a disease spread by tact. A person must be in close ship through to 7,300 to 9,900 large, ocean-going ships will be built for the intema­ precautionary tional commercial market between 1992 and 2001, with most of the germs called tubercle bacilli (a contact for a long period of time measures such as the skin test, work taking place after 1996. "The administration's five-part plan is species of rod-shaped bacteria) with an infected individual to be­ early detection and treatment as intended to assist efforts already underway within the industry to that can float in the air. The germs come affected by the germ. He well as the collection of data to compete internationally^" the report says. "It is a transitional pro­ are spread if a person infected stressed that even in this case, better analyze any trends or cir­ gram, consistent with federal assistance to other industries seelang with TB of the lungs coughs or only 10 percent will go on to cumstances relating to Seafarers sneezes into the air. The TB bac­ develop active tuberculosis. to convert from defense to civilian markets." and the disease. The report was completed and approved by the president in teria are so tiny that they dry out "It is very important for To Determine Infection response to part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 1993. and float on air currents for long Seafarers to participate in the TB A painless skin test on the arm Legislation for the actions called for in the report will be submitted periods in an enclosed space. is the only way to tell if a person control screening program so that to the appropriate committees of Cohgress. According to the American las been exposed to the germs we can determine if tuberculosis Following are titles and summaries of each part of the plan: Lung Association, a private associated with tuberculosis. A is a significant problem for bur Ensuring Fair International Competition. The U.S. govemment health organization that provides small needle is used to put a test­ membership. In doing so, we can has drafted and submitted a comprehensive proposal to end foreign general information to the public be active in identifying and con­ shipbuilding subsidies, effective January 1,1995, to the Organization on issues of respiratoiy health, ing material, called tuberculin, trolling TB exposure before for Economic and Cooperative Development. "Subsidies provided tuberculosis is predominantly an under the skin. In 48-72 hours, the serious infections develop," by foreign governments to their shipbuilding industries, which artifi­ airbome disease. TB germs are test on the forearm is examined to Miller concluded. cially lower prices, must be ended so that there is a tmly level playing not likely to be transmitted determine if there is a reaction to Future issues of the Seafarers field on which to compete," states the report. LOG will continue to report on through personal items belonging the disease. (Since the Reagan administration eliminated funding for the con- to those individuals with the dis­ The test is positive if a bump the Seafarers TB program. stmction differential subsidy [CDS] in 1981, fewer than a dozen ocean-going, commercial ships vessels have been built in U.S. yards. CDS underwrote the difference between the price of U.S.-built and foreign-built ships. When the differential rose, so did the average subsidy.) Improving Competitiveness. The Department of Defense, through its Advanced Research Projects Agency, will share the costs Continued from page 2 Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), bureaucratic reasons wish to dis­ of industry-initiated research and development projects by matching chairman of the committee, has pose of the American merchant funds from the industry for such work. indicated the committee will offer marine and rely entirely on Eliminating Unnecessary Government Regulation. All govem­ citizens' organizations; shipping an amendment when H.R. 2151 is foreign-flag companies, vessels, ment agencies will review and revise or eliminate any regulations companies active in ocean-going. on the floor. The amendment will ai)d mariners. Daily our industry that "impose unnecessary burdens on the shipbuilding industry." The Great Lakes and domestic com­ include "an overall 10-year is bombarded with contradictory report lists as "major activities" the standardization of international merce; maritimii^ unions repre­ authorization level, which we ex­ messages from Administration construction standards by the U.S. Coast Guard, acquisition reform senting seamen and boatmen; and pect to be in line with the sources. . . . Opponents of the within the Department of Defense, and updating Occupational Safety shipyards. Concemed about ef­ administration's views," Studds U.S.-flag fleet within the Ad­ forts by others to open domestic and Health Administration standards. recently told the Journal of Com­ ministration have been permitted Financing Ship Sales Through title XI Loan Guarantees. Title commerce to foreign interests, merce. to propose the termination of XI currently provides U.S. buyers of ships built in U.S. yards with the coalition is seeking a U.S. U.S.-flag preference for govem­ Meanwhile, in the wake of at­ loan guarantees. The program calls for continuation of those guaran­ maritime policy consistent with tacks on domestic shipping laws, ment cargoes and to demand that tees, plus extending similar coverage to foreign buyers, in order to the interests of the nation. and in the absence to date of a support for a new program for one Unanimous Support encourage foreign carriers to build in U.S. yards. maritime policy proposal from segment of the industry be paid (Under Title XI, U.S. buyers of American-built vessels may obtain H.R. 2151, reported unani­ the White House, the United for by terminating a totally unre­ guarantees for long-term loans at fixed rates, for as much as 75 mously to the full House by the States Maritime Coalition has lated program that largely percent of the loan amount.) Merchant Marine and Fisheries urged President Clinton to reaf­ benefits another segment of the Assisting Intemational Marketing. The report indicates that ex­ Committee, would provide U.S.- firm his commitment to the con­ U.S. fleet. Either proposal would isting organizations such as the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service, flag vessel owners annual pay­ tinued existence of a strong, lead, without question, to the American embassy personnel and MarAd will be used to assist U.S. ments of $2.1 million per year, competitive maritime industry in destmction of the fleet and the shipyards in their intemational marketing efforts and "to facilitate per vessel during a 10-year period the U.S. United States maritime industry." cooperative arrangements and alliances between U.S. and foreign for ships enrolled in a maritime A recent letter from the coali­ The coalition's letter con­ security fleet. The bill also calls tion to the president read in part: cludes, "We strongly urge that the yards." The report's annex notes that several independent sources agree for other payments to assist "Yoqr commitment is being cburse you have chosen— that demand for new vessels in the '90s will result mostly from the American shipyards in competing deliberately undercut by Ad­ reforming, revitalizing, and need to replace existing vessels, rather than from increased trade in commercial markets with ministration officials who for rebuilding the U.S. fleet—be foreign yards. volume. philosophical, budgetary and corhmunicated clearly." /• White House Announces II.S. Shipyard Support •i: Congress, President Urged to Back Legislation for Maritime Revitaiization • \ -'^ ••I''; »'• • M;: .-T " �10 NOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Luedtke and Zenith Seafarers Ratify New Three-Year Accord SWMS.. Great Lakes Seafarers who sail aboard Luedtke Engineering and Zenith Dredge vessels recent­ ly ratified a new three-year con­ tract with the companies. The new pacts, which took ef­ fect September 20, include yearly wage increases throughout the life of the contract as well as expanded medical benefit coverage. The agreement also maintains all benefits achieved in previous collective bargain­ ing agreements. Seafarers ratified the new con­ tract by casting votes on their ves­ sels and at various job sites throughout the Great Lakes region. The SlU-crewed vessels are responsible for dredge and marine construction work along the lakes. A total of six negotiating ses­ spring and summer. sions were held in Frankfort, Luedtke Engineering is based Mich., Erie, Pa., Green Bay, Wis. in Frankfort and Zenith Dredge is and Algonac, Mich, during the from Duluth, Minn. Discussing the new SIU contract for licensed personnal aboard the Alton Belle Casino are (left to right) Captain John Mosele, First Mate Dave Wendle, Captain Ralph Hawkins, Relief Mate Carl Hinner Jr. and Relief Captain Jerry Wendle. A Luedtke Engineeering dredge sails along the Cuyahoga River. QMED Greg Eastwood Goes Country While some crewmembers may read books or write letters during their off-duty time aboard ship, a New Jersey Seafarer has found a special way to express his feelings when he is away from family and friends. QMED Greg Eastwood passes these in-be­ tween times by writing lyrics to later accompany music. "About half of my music is written while I am aboard a ship. There are many ways to pass the time while at sea, arid there is also a lot of time to think. Different people do different things, but I happen to write my thoughts down and put them into songs," the 36-year old mariner told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. Switches from Rock to Country Eastwood began singing rock-and-roll ap­ proximately 14 years ago, but in the late '80s he decided it was not the musical route he wanted to take. "I couldn't find a place in rock-and-roll so I switched to country. It comes more naturally for me, and in the past few years I have found that people agree," he said. After serving several years in the U.S. Navy and briefly working as a roofing and siding sub­ contractor, he joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Philadelphia and continued to advance his musical ambitions while at sea and on shore. "I already had my merchant mariner docu­ ment, so I thought I'd look into getting Work on a ship. Fortunately it came through. I love the travel and the great opportunities offered by the SIU to advance and educate myself. The things that I have learned because of the union will always benefit me," said Eastwood. QMED Greg Eastwood has performed for trainees and upgraders at Piney Point as well as for fellow crewmembers while at sea. . ' • . •/. In 1991 he upgraded to oiler at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., and in 1992 he returned for the QMED course. While advancing his skills, he performed for the trainees in the school's auditorium. "It is a great place, and they all really seemed to like my music," the QMED recalled. By Popular Request On all of the ships Eastwood has sailed, he has become a popular fixture of music and fellow­ ship. Many times crewmembers have asked him to play; some have even provided suggestions for new songs. He has written songs about sailing and the sea, but most of his music is created from heart-felt emotions. "I don't just sit down and write a song; I must be experiencing some type of an emotion and go on my very individual feelings. Singing is a type of therapy for me where something inside needs to get out and be heard. For me that voice comes out in my music," he said. More and more people began to tell Eastwood that he had legitimate talent as a singer and musician. "I thought that maybe it was time I put something together. I had people tell me I was good, but they were just ordinary people like my friends and family. I wanted to see if others in the general public thought so," he said. "I must say that my crewmembers at sea did inspire me to reach higher. They really enjoyed my music while on the ship," Eastwood added. He decided to make a demonstration tape and send it out to people in the music industry begin­ ning with local radio stations. He noted he is making connections, and a small radio station (WNJC 1360 AM) near his Turnersville, N.J. home currently plays a few of his songs. "I also sent a tape to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville record company in New Orleans and told him I was a sailor in the SIU. Hopefully I will hear something soon. I figured if I ship out, I will be able to see how the response goes," Eastwood noted. He also said he met some people at a bluegrass festival this summer who are send­ ing his tape to Sony Records. Inspired by the Seafaring Life The words of Eastwood's songs speak of saying goodbye and feelings of loneliness. One of his songs in particular, "Another Goodbye" recalls the heartfelt feelings the Seafarer ex­ periences as he says goodbye to his children before signing on a ship. "Time at sea inspired me to begin writing, and there is something sad about a lot of my songs. I guess it comes from having so much time to think about my three young boys who I am so far away from while at sea," Eastwood noted. He recently signed off the OMI Willamette after a three-month voyage to Odessa, Ukraine. "Writing and singing is a labor of love for me, and I will always have my guitar and singing as a way to vent my feelings, even if I never get any further in the big music industry," he concluded. Eastwood said he plans to continue writing while at sea and recording while on shore. •. . •' Alton Belle Officers Ammnre Contract Officers aboard theA/ton Belle by the Seafarers. They approved 11 Riverboat Casino in Alton, III. a contract later in the year after [lave approved a three-year con­ forming a bargaining committee tract that provides wage increases, which negotiated the pact. The original Alton Belle, which improved working conditions and was designed to look like an oldbetter vacation benefits. The new pact covers the cap­ fashioned Mississippi paddlewheel tains, mates and chief engineers riverboat, was taken out of service who, earlier in the year, organized when the Alton Belle 11 arrived in themselves and elected to be rep­ town in June of this year. resented by the Seafarers. The Alton Belle II docks at the Representatives for the union SlU-crewed A/ton Landing, a twoand the company held four deck barge featuring the Piasa negotiating sessions in Alton and House restaurant, buffet and bar for Detroit. Delegates to the talks passengers to use before and after from the newly organized officers cruises. It also includes a snackbar, included Captain Ralph Haw­ cocktail lounge, gift shops and kins and Chief Engineer Jack guest services. Norris. The riverboat cruise takes 90 The SIU already represents minutes as the vessel sails six other crewmembers aboard the miles up the Mississippi River riverboat casino. Deckhands, along the Illinois shoreline, then food and beverage service returns to Alton, which is located employees, galley workers, ticket 20 miles north of St. Louis. salespeople, reservationists, Th& Alton Belle His fitted with housekeepers, cashiers and main­ 650 slot machines, including tenance workers organized in video poker and video keno, 29 1991 when the Alton Belle went blackjack tables, four craps into service. Those members of tables, two roulette wheels and the crew chose to be represented one Big Six wheel. G&H Pact Endorsed SIU boatmen sailing aboard G&H tugboats along the Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico have overwhelmingly approved a new three-year contract with the com­ pany. Effective October I, the agree­ ment covers improvements in pension benefits as well as ex­ panded health coverage. The boatmen also will receive a wage increase each of the three years covered by the contract. Outpatient medical care, which is available to spouses and dependants of Seafarers who crew the G&H tugboats, has been greatly expanded by the new ac­ cord. A total of 28 G&H company tugs that work the Houston, Gal­ veston, Freeport and Corpus Christi areas are covered by the new pact. Representatives for the SIU and the Texas-based company held 10 negotiating sessions in both Houston and Galveston beginning late this summer. Delegates to the talks included Captain Rob Arthur, Chief En­ gineer D. Dorsett, and AB Ray Keith representing the Houston, Galveston and Freeport crew­ members and Captain Randy Yeager representing Corpus Christi members. Voting by SIU members took place aboard vessels in Houston, Galveston and Freeport and on a dock in Corpus Christi. The SlU-crewed tugboats do general harbor work and assist various types of tankers, containerships, general cargo and freightships into or out of ports in the Texas Gulf area. The Juno is one of the SlU-crewed G&H tugs covered by the new three-year agreement. . \ I I •r I • I Li �••-M: mmmER ma SEAFARERS L06 11 Assessing Industry Needs, inland Greup Plans Ceurses Representatives from inland your eyes. The smoke is non-toxic mitting some of the required companies last month met with and non-irritating, but it allows us paperwork. Alioto also reminded SIU officials at the Paul Hall Cen­ to practice emergency response the officials that the school's ter for Maritime Training and under realistic conditions." trainee program is available to in­ Education in Piney Point, Md. for Cummings also mentioned, as land members. an in-depth discussion of the an example of the school's ability Director of Vocational Educa­ industry's training needs, as well and willingness to work with tion Jim Shaffer discussed and dis­ as a review of the curriculum SlU-contracted companies, the tributed information on Coast available for Seafarers sailing on training provided for employees Guard regulations, a report on tugs and tows. The meeting was aboard the Delta Queen and the revisions to the Standards of Train­ part of an ongoing effort that Mississippi Queen, two passenger ing, Certification and Watchkeepbegan last year to fine-tune the riverboats operated by the Delta ing Convention of the United Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg As part of an ongoing effort to ensure Inland members' training needs CJueen Steamboat Co. Several Nations International Maritime Or­ met, company officials confer with representatives of the SIU and School curriculum for inland are times each year, Cummings and ganization (which eventually will the Paul Hall Center. boatmen. Instructor John Smith conduct effect training requirem^ts in die The group, which included a Familiarization; General Plant hazmat programs exceed the new firefighting and first aid courses U.S.), outlines of the school's oil representative from the U.S. Maintenance; Diesel Engine requirements set forth by DOT. while the vessels are sailing. spill and hazmat courses, a sample Coast Guard, also touched on the Maintenance; Electrical Main­ (See page 28 of the October 1993 "letter of service" required from 'Invaluable Training' state of the maritime industry in tenance; Hydraulics; Welding; issue of the Seafarers LOG for companies prior to members' taking general and the formation of the and Able Bodied Seaman/ details about the new rule.) "It's invaluable," said David Coast Guaid exams and more. United States Maritime Coali­ Tankerman. Also available are a Instructor Byran Cummings Kish, a vice president of the com­ Additionally, the group tion, a diverse organization which variety of hazardous materials discussed existing and plann^ pany. "The fact that our people reviewed the minutes of the In­ is countering efforts to allow (hazmat) classes, from an 8-hour safety courses. He explained the train with the equipment they land Advisory Board Subcom­ foreign interests to enter the familiarization course to a 48- use of state-of-the-art training would use in an emergency is a mittee meeting from last March. hour "Incident Conimahdef equipment such as a smoke bonus." domestic shipping trades. Companies represented at the The inland group also was ad­ meeting include Maritrans, Ex­ "We have some battles ahead, course which teaches a student machine "that would fill up this but we are very optimistic," SIU how to coordinate all aspects of a (conference) room in about two dressed by Director of Admis­ press Marine, Delta Queen, Great Executive Vice President Joseph hazardous materials cleanup. minutes, to the point where you sions Dan Alioto, who reviewed Lakes Towing, Marine Towing Stan Latka of Express Marine, wouldn't be able to see your hand admissions procedures, including and Transportation, Moran Ser­ Sacco said in opening the October 20 meeting."We are looking to the Inc. was one of several repre­ even if you held it six inches from Coast Guard deadlines for sub­ vice Corp. and Allied Towing. future, and we will continue to pro­ sentatives who conveyed their vide top-notch training for our satisfaction with the special cour­ members, whether they sail inland, ses conducted at the Paul Hall deep sea or on the Great Lakes." Center. "It has really worked out During the past year, the Lun­ well, and we appreciate deberg School has provided spe­ everyone's help," he said. cial courses for hundreds of Everyone at the school has been inland members who are terrific, and our employees Six Seafarers who sail aboarc Seafarers while at the same time Qne of Glover's classmates, employed by the companies rep­ benefit from the training." Maritrans tugboats in the accommodating their work George Davis, earned his "Whenever we have a training Philadelphia area recently schedules. resented at the recent meeting. tankerman's endorsement earlier Such courses are designed with need, the school is very respon­ upgraded to an able-bodied seaman "It was very beneficial,"stated this year after completing another careful consideration of each sive and they get the job done in (AB) rating by completing a spe­ specially designed course at the company's unique needs and of very little time," added John cial course at the Paul Hall Center Frank Glover, 26. 'The rules-of- Paul Hall Center. 'To be honest, I the-road section was outstanding. Burns of Maritrans, Inc. "This has members' work schedules. for Maritime Training and Educa­ I know I'll be in the wheelhouse, was a little hesitant about coming While emphasizing that jrovided our employees with a tion in Piney Point, Md. so I have to understand the here the first time. But after I saw flexibility, instractors presented )roader skill base, which only can The three-week course in­ (navigation) signals and defini­ how things are done here, I really outlines of the courses available help them and us down the road." cluded classroom and hands-on tions and recognize the shapes of looked forward to coming back," to the inland industry. They said the 48-year-old Davis. New Hazmat Reg training in deck seamanship, different boats." answered questions and ex­ Bill Eglinton, director of cargo handling, navigation, An SIU member for the past 10 changed ideas with the company Glover joined the SIU tworepresentatives in attendance quality assurance at the Paul Hall lifeboat operations, firefighting and-a-half years ago, when he years, Davis sails aboard the tug regarding scheduling, class size Center, reviewed a new Depart­ and other emergency procedures, first began working for Maritrans. Roanoke. He described the train­ ment of Transportation (DOT) plus the study of various U.S. The AB course marked his first ing available at the Lundeberg and content and more. regulation which affects training Coast Guard regulations. All courses include plenty of time studying at the Seafarers School as "interesting and very requirements for individuals in­ hands-on training. Those avail­ The course, taught by Jim Harry Lundeberg School of thorough. It's one thing to read able include Limited License I, II volved in hazmat transportation. Brown, was designed to meet the Seamanship, and he was not dis­ rules on your own, but in these and III; Engine Room He said the Lundeberg School's training needs of Maritrans appointed. "I would recommend classes you get so much more to anybody who enters this in­ detail. The practical training is dustry, you need to come here," great, too." Joining Davis and Glover in said Glover, who works aboard the tug Voyager II. "I had heard completing the course were Rod­ good things about the school, and ney Bennett, Lonnie Merrell, it was even better than I expected. Michael Morrissey and Jeffrey Seafarers who sail aboard work 20 or so piers assisting the without traveling around the "One of the things 1 really like Swain. Moran Towing tugboats on the vessels. "It makes for quite a busy Maryland, Delaware and Virginia Maritrans operates 35 tugs and Delaware River put in many hard day," said Jim Malone, an SIU peninsula. The tugs occasionally is they teach you what you need 45 barges, as well as several oil to know now, but they also teach hours towing, shifting and dock­ representative from the port of do shifting work in the Baltimore you things that will harbor as well. help you later terminals, on the Eastern ing vessels safely into the port of Philadelphia, who also supplied The union represents the in your career. This school has a Seaboard and in the Gulf of the pictures accompanying this Philadelphia. mates and deckhands who sail lot to offer." Mexico. The SlU-crewed tugs are respon­ article. aboard the five tugs out of the port Although most of the SIUsible for general harbor work and use their 1800 to 3700 horsepower en­ crewed Moran tugs are assigned of Philadelphia. They are the tug­ Expressly for Express Marine gines to bring tankers, container- to and stay in the Delaware River, boats Carolyn, Reedy Point, Cape ships, general cargo and fmit vessels some are^alled upon to assist ves- May, Hawkins Point and Grace in and out of their individual piers. sels to the Chesapeake and Moran. The machinists who wofk Due to the many various car­ Delaware Canal where the ships in the Moran shop on shore are goes coming into port, the tugs can sail to the Chesapeake harbor also SIU members. Tk'aining Deemed 'Beneficial' By Hiaritrans SIU Boatmen •rMyi • y.U--y- Shifting and Docking Vessels Create Busy Schedule for SlU-Crewed Tugs V •• . . /• After assisting a contalnership to Preparing the Grace Aforan for a SIU Machinist Bill Burow is its pier. Deckhand Louis Reves day on the Delaware River is responsible for performing repairs tidSuptheReeofyPo/nf. Deckhand Joe Chupka. aboard the Moran tugs. '• t %y Seafarers from Express Marine who completed a special shiphandling course at the Lundeberg School on August 27 are (from left) Gil Pruitt, Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Mack Keech and James Pruitt. Express Marine, based in Pennsauken, N.J., operates five tugs and barges that move coal up and down the East Coast. vA»ii.sjiwJS ' Jy- yyi /•. y kkf. •• �12 mV£MB£R 1993 XAFARBtSUIG Navy's Grocery Store Home Afters^B Years in PaciflG ^•r:'. ,7'.- Mi.i ->.••• Members of the SIU's Government Services Division returned the USNS Spica to its home port of Oakland, Calif, for the supply ship's first trip to the continental United States in eight years. The docking was marked with a ceremony involving Military Sealift Command offi­ cials, union representatives and the families of crewmemhers. The Spica, which among its many details provided stores to U.S. Navy vessels during Opera­ tion Desert Shield/Desert Stom, was recognized in a pierside ceremony for its efforts in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf as well as along the East African coast. Taking part in the welcoming celebration were Roy "Buck" Mercer, SIU vice president for government services, and Vince Coss, a union representative. The Government Services Division represents un­ licensed crewmemhers aboard the Spica and the other vessels in the Military Sealift CommandPacific Heet (MSCPAC). Joined Fleet in 1981 The supply ship became part of MSCPAC in 1981. The vessel was designed to be a floating grocery store thatresupplies other ships while they are at sea. Since oining the fleets the Spica has earned a reputation of "doing a good job and being on time for all assignments," according to Cap­ tain Leroy Gill Jr., the ship's original master. The ship and its crew received praise from the chairman of the House Armed Services Commit­ tee. Captain L.M. Pivonka, MSCPAC commander,read a let­ ter from U.S. Representative Ron Dellums (D-Calif.), whose dis­ trict includes the Oakland Naval Supply Station: "It's my pleasure to say 'Well done' to the captain and crew of the USNS Spica. "Its legacy in the Pacific Fleet has led to the Navy's decision to turn additional military supply ships over to the Military Sealift Command," Dellums added. "USNS Spica has proven you can have an effective defense at less Meeting with some of the famiiy memtters and MSCPAC emptpyees who cost to the government." to Oakland, Calif, are (center left) SIU Representative Vince Coss and (center right) SIU Vice President Government Services Roy "Buck" Mercer. Thanked for Support Captain Dan O'Brien, who and see in person many of the serves as the Spied's master, paid people who have given Spica tribute to all who had been in-' their total support the past several volved in the Spica's successful years," O'Brien noted. deployment, "The ship has al­ The vessel remained in Oak­ ways had an outstanding crew, it's always received great support land for less than a week before from MSCPAC headquarters and sailing to a commercial San the families the crew leaves be­ Diego shipyard where it is under­ hind have always given the ship going an overhaul. The supply ship is expected to return to active their utmost support. "It's nice to return to Oakland duty early in 1994. William Handelsman Dies at 75, Former MSTU Organlilng Official William D. Handelsman, a former official with the forerun­ ner of the SIU's Government Services Division, passed away August 27. He was 75 years old. hers by not hindering the free flow of information. The drive paid off in 1964 when an agreement—the first in­ volving the MSTS in the Pacific— was reached. It covered two Honolulu-based missile ships, the Longview and Sunnyvale, as well as four large passenger ships. The pact also enabled the union to bargain for the men who are civil service employees on most issues other than wages. "In his organizing efforts, Handelsman left no stone Un­ turned. He was truly a legend in his own time," SIU Vice Presi­ dent Government Services Roy The USNS Spica, crowed by members of the SIU's Government "Buck" Mercer told a reporter Services Division, passes the Oakland-Bay Bridge on its first trip home in eight years. from the Seafarers LOG. U.S. Combat Supply Ship Mars Begins New Life William D. Handelsman When the USNS Mars sailed into Guam in September, the supply ship carried notonly a new name but also a new look. The ship had sailed out of the Western Pacific last year as" the USS Mars. It carried a military crew of 440 sailors. In February, the vessel was turned over to the Military Sealift CommandPacific Fleet (MSCPAC) and it underwent a four-month overhaul in a commercial San Diego shipyard. When the ship was ready to sail again, it carried a much smaller crew—137 civil service mariners whose unlicensed mem­ bers are represented by the SIU's Government Services Division Brother Handelsman joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in 1937 and sailed through World War 11 as a member of die steward department. He even­ tually became director of or­ The USNS Mars prepares to sail on its first voyage as a civilian-crewed supply vessel. ganizing for the Military Sea Transport Union (MSTU) of the operating forces at sea with Pacific for the next two years. It and 37 Navy personnel. Seafarers Intemational Union of Yet, only the name and crew refrigerated stores, dry will operate out of Guam. North America (SIUNA), now size changed. Its mission provisions, technical spare parts, The Military Sea Transport known as the Government Ser­ remained the same: provide general stores, fleet freight and Service—the predecessor of the vices Division. He retired in 1967. mail. When the Mars ^t sail with Military Sealift Command In 1962, Handelsman began an MSCPAC, it carried a supply load (MSC)—began operating in 1949 organizing effort by the MSTU to of 43,000 separate line items. as the single ocean transporta­ represent the unlicensed personnel The Mars is the first of several tion manager for the Defense for the Military Sea Transport Ser­ Navy combat stores ships that Department. vice of the Pacific, now known as will be turned over to MSCPAC In the early 1970s, the Navy the Military Sealift Commandduring the next few years. A study started turning over older NavyPacific Fleet (MSCPAC). conducted by the Center for crewed fleet oilers to MSC. The efforts to organize were a Naval Analysis in 1990 compared Presently, the command operates direct result of the signing of a Navy costs against civilian man­ new and old fleet oilers, supply 1962 executive order by Presi­ ning costs of selected auxiliary ships, fleet tugs, cable and mis­ dent John F. Kennedy. The law ships and showed potential sile-tracking vessels, hospital set forth a managerial-labor rela­ savings of $10 million annually ships, dry cargo vessels and an tions program between the when MSCPAC operated vessels ammunition ship. Approximately civilian crews on the non-com­ like the Mar^. Soon to be part of 120 vessels compose the MSC batant military ships and the the MSCPAC fleet will be the fleet of which 25 are in the Pacific Navy officers on board. The in­ USS San Jose and USS Niagara Fleet and crewed by the SIU^s tent of the order was for Navy Government Services Division management to cooperate with Capt. L.M. Pivonka, commander of MSCPAC, addresses the crew of Falls. The USNS Mars is scheduled members. MSC ships are as­ labor unions who were trying to the USNS Mars—including members of the SIU's Government Ser­ to be deployed in the Western signed ^ound the world. organize the civilian crewmem­ vices Division—before the vessel sailed for Guam. �Nmnai»BER1993 ••, .' ', ;i SEAFAWISLOB 13 •;' .? • . Delegates representing 42 trade unions and 28 port councils from the U.S. and Canada fill the meeting hail for the 20th Biennial Maritime Trades Department Convention. lUW Laum^ws Grassroots Effort to Kem U.S. Fleet Keep the American flag flying on the high seas was a theme of the biennial convention of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD), held last month in San Francisco. Delegates to the two-day meeting took home with them in­ formation on a grassroots effort to pass U.S.-flag merchant marine revitalization legislation offered in the U.S. House of Repre­ sentatives. The packages con­ tained a briefing on the bills before Congress, ideas for writin letters to the White House anid Capitol Hill and a fact sheet on both maritime industry review commissions, one recommended by Vice President A1 Gore's Na tional Performance Review (NPR) and the other being con sidered in legislation offered by Senator Ernest Hollings (D-S.C. and Representative William Lipinski (D-Ill.). Convention Supports Clinton Health Reform Delegates to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) Biennial Convention were reminded that the 50-year fight for health care reform has just started with the introduction of a legislative package to Con­ gress by the Clinton administra­ tion. "There is no doubt that this is one of those rare and wonderful moments when someone carrying our message, the message 1^" •,•31^1 that we've Coming from 42 trade unions and 28 port councils that make up the MTD, the delegates listened to speeches from elected officials as well as representatives of the maritime industry and organized labor calling on the Clinton ad­ ministration and Congress to work with the U.S.-flag fleet. Fronts for Foreigners After pointing out that Mexico has hired 70 different American public relations, attorney and consulting firms to advance the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) through Congress, MTD President Michael Sacco told the conven­ tion, "We in maritime know these San Francisco Mayor Frank Jordan tells delegates to the MTD con­ firms only too well. These firms vention that economies of cities like his depend greatly on the jobs front for foreign interests, and in and senrices that are provided by the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. our case, foreign shipping inter­ ests which are drooling over U.S. registries 20 of their vessels. of the leaked material and only maritime trades. Then, an advance copy of called for a commission to review "These are foreign companies that cannot wait to replace U.S. Gore's NPR feport on maritime the government's policy toward ships with foreign-owned, was leaked to the media in the merchant marine with limited foreign-operated, foreign-built August. The document, loaded participation from those directly and foreign-crewed vessels, most with references and quotes from involved in the industry. Members of Congress ad­ of them to be operated under foreign-flag interests, called for the elimination of cargo dressing the convention stressed runaway-flag registers," Sacco preference, the Jones Act and their support for the U.S.-flag added. merchant fleet and their willing­ other legislation which affects the In May, Representative Gerry ness to fight for it. U.S.-flag fleet. Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of "For over 200 years, America Congressional Support the House Merchant Marine and has been a maritime nation," Rep­ Fisheries Committee, introduced The leaked report led to resentative David Bonior (Da series of bills designed to revi­ Hollings' and Lipinski's legisla­ the third ranking talize the U.S.-flag merchant tion calling for a commission to Mich.), Democrat in the House, told the fleet. However, two of the look into the need of the U.S.-flag convention. "If we abandon that nation's largest carriers, Sea- fleet as it pertains to national great tradition now to save a few Land and American President security. But when the NPR was Lines, announced in June their released in September, its Continued on page 16 intention to transfer to foreign maritime section contained none during a joint session of Congress on September 22. In the weeks that followed, the First Lady ap­ peared before various committees in both the House of Repre­ sentatives and the Senate. On Oc­ tober 27, the White House offeree the actual legislation for the pro­ gram to Congress. As outlined before Congress, the plan would provide insurance for all Americans, require all employers to provide health in­ surance for their employees, es­ tablish and enforce through federal or state government cost l ll*' P'oned, often limits on private sector health in­ alone, has surance premiums as well as doc­ suddenly got­ tor and hospital fee limits, ten center prohibit health insurance firms stage and cer­ from refusing to insure an ap­ Gerald Shea tainly wowed plicant because of the all the individual's health condition and politicians in simplify paperwork. "The package that the presi­ Congress," said Gerald Shea, who as head of the AFL-CIO dent has put forward is really Employee Benefits Depahment is comprehenspearheading organized labor's sive one. efforts to pass such legislation. Shea told the Shea told the delegates, com­ convention. posed of members and officials "This is not a from 42 trade unions and 28 port bare bones councils, that he had been work­ package, it's ing regularly with Hillary Rod­ not a basic ham Clinton, the First Lady, and package, it's Jack Otero her staff as she presented the not a mini­ administration's plans to con- mum pack­ ressional panels. "Certainly age, it's not a safety net kind of when you look back to the post- arrangement; this is a comprehen­ World War II period to Harry sive package of benefits." Truman's days, the vast majority Strong Opposition of Americans believed that na­ The delegates were reminded tional health reform was pos­ that despite the fact polls show a sible," Shea said. "But no one majority of Americans favor since Harry Truman has had the adoption of a national health care conviction and the sincerity and policy, opposition to it will be the drive to get this done that Bill strong in Congress. Clinton does." Tom Donahue, AFL-CIO Commitment Is Strong secretary-treasurer, pointed out That conviction was reiterated that groups claiming to represent ay Jack Otero, a former AFL-CIO vice president who now serves as small business already are stating an undersecretary at the Depart­ their interests will be hurt by the ment of Labor in the Clinton ad­ Clinton package. But, he said, ministration. "We believe that we those who say they stand for small must provide proper health care business really do not. As MTD Vice President Willie Zenga listens, MTD or all Americans," Otero said. ^resident Michael Sacco urges delegates to defeat President Clinton presented Continued on page 16 he North American Free Trade Agreement. the outline of his health care plan 9 ' . ^• r; MTD SpaUights NAFTA's Many Flaws, Congressmen Nolo Dangers of Pact •" • 'T' , . • ' •! L V • If enacted, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) would destroy U.S. jobs and wages, erode the American standard of living and lead to further exploitation of Mexican workers. Those were some of the points about NAFTA voiced last month by officials representing the 42 unions of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), as well as by several congressmen who spoke at the MTD's biennial convention in San Francisco. Delegates to the convention passed a resolution calling on the Clinton administration to abandon NAFTA, a so-called free trade deal originally negotiated by the Bush administration. Congress is scheduled to cast its first vote on NAFTA on November 17. The SIU and the entire labor movement vigorously oppose NAFTA because its enactment would mean job losses for hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens. NAFTA also would open the door for abuse of workers' rights and severe damage to the environment. Organized labor is not alone. Reports on television and in newspapers indicate that opposi­ tion to the trade deal is growing as citizens b^ome increasingly aware of NAFTA's details. This is in spite of the fact that pro-NAFTA forces have •i' i:. K. % Continued on page 16 .• J'jf- • / /• 7.I �• ..-•. •VK-> 7 i'-'• --r :'-: - • '; > / 7 ;v • . ' •; i -i' ,-• ,7 ;;; 7'': •7--'':• , •rV--:'y -,;J.*-|-;---»'*^!'-"j^.-ii:.'.-^ii- / 14 H0¥EMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG ROEEMRERIOOS SEAFARERS LOG 15 P-v-'' Robert Baynes, Plumbers Asst. to President - -M .- 77'i-^7 .' V;.. epresenting 42 trade unions and 28 R port councils, delegates to the 1993 Maritime Trades Department biennial 'v'-' Louie Bravo, Laborers Vice President convention gathered in San Francisco last month to take action on issues affecting union workers and their families. Delegates during the two-day meeting called for the defeat of the North American Free Trade Agreement, revitalization of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, passage by Congress of legislation to reform health care and to end permanent replacement of striking workers, support for striking coal miners and much more. Speakers at the event included Robert B. McMillen, president of Totem Ocean Trailer Express; U.S. Representatives David Bonior CDMich.), Neil Abercrombie CDHawaii), Elizabeth Purse CD-Ore.) and Tom Lantos CD-Calif.); Labor Undersecretary Jack Otero and representatives from the AFL-CIO, including Secretary-Treasurer Tom Donahue, Legislative Director Robert McGlotten, Employee Benefits Director Gerald Shea and Political Director Richard Walsh, Pictured on these two pages are some of the delegates, speakers and observers who took part in the MTD convention proceedings. Inhn l^allw PracirTant anH Ed Panarello, Jack Caffey, SlU Vice Pres., and! New York MTD Sec.-Treas Ed Cleary, N.Y. AFL-CIO Pres. ' Jerome Joseph, AMO Exec. Vice Pres. Martin Byrne, Ironworkers Assistant to President Jim Norwood, Laborers Sec.-Treas., and Sigurd Lucassen, Carpenters President George McCartney, SlU Vice Pres.^ and H. "Whitey" Disley, MFU President Gunnar Lundeberg, SUP President, and Roy "Buck" Mercer, SlU Vice Pres. George Becker, Steelworkers Vice Pres. I arm riamnootf Car> Rnmnn C^ra\(^w\n7. Rto\/A PrlnAV IIIW Natl Dimntnr AHH Douglas Couttee, UFCW Intl. Vice Pres. Ruben Wheatly, Vice Pres.; Benny Holland, Gen. Vice Pres. and John Baker, Vice Pres., ILA Timothy Brown, President; James Hopkins, Sec.Treas. and Paul Nielsen West Coast V.P., MM&P Traac Gordon Ward, District 1-PCD MEBA Pres. Vera Catalli, Distillery Workers Sec.-Treas. and Guy DeVito. GCIU Sec.-Treas. Dominic Martell, Plasterers President Michel Desjardins, SlU of Canada Sec.-Treas. Ande Abbott, Boilermakers Director Fran Poltier, Paperworkers Vice President William Lucy, AFSCME Sec.-Treas. . , .•;S •. Frank Pecquex, MTD Exec. Sec.-Treas. Ed Modney, Frank Martino, SlU Asst. Sec.-Treas. (Ret.) ICWU President John O'Gara, Gen. Vice Pres., and Joseph Cordery, Gilbert Shepherd, Organizing Dir., and Jimmy Herbert Schiffman, Intl. Vice Pres., HERE Intl. Vice Pres., Glass Molders Rankin, Intl. Vice Pres., Glass Molders James Hatfield, President, and Frank Carter, Sec.-Treas., Glass Molders Willie Baker, UFCW Political Director Charles Marciante, New Jersey AFL-CIO Pres. Robert McKay, AMO Sec.-Treas. Robert Scardelletti, TCU President ./ • s*wi,, Richard Cordtz, SEIU Sec.-Treas, John Bowers, ILA President Ed House, IAM Vice Pres. George Kourpias, IA^^ President Angus "Red" Campbell, SlU Vice Pres. (Ret.) and Angelo Russo, ICWU (Ret.) Joseph Sacco, SlU Exec. Vice Pres. Tom Gleason, Counsel, and Richard Hughes, Gen. Vice Pres., ILA Earl Simpson and Maury Sjoquist, Pres. Canadian Merchant Serv. Guild Bonnie Riley and Frances Brown, MTD Administrative Staff Tom Kelly, Vice Pres., and ^ Michael McKay, President, AMO i£ ,(• • - ,7 :/// '71 \ • • :• :• •; I' '7; V, . • '/7; .-i.' ' * !• Dean Corgey, SlU Vice President • • •: ' A. �• L- 16 HOREMRER1993 SOFARERSLOG MTD Calls for All-Oiit Effort to Back Floet carry its own goods and its own will open up their domestic trades through resolutions to- defeat people in peacetime and in war," if we do, I am not at all surprised," NAFTA as it stahds before Con­ he continued. "Of course they gress, work with the administra­ dollars in the short term, we're Lantos stated. As a mem­ will. U.S. operators would gain tion to pass a national health care going to hurt this nation for ber of both the right to sail from Antwerp to policy and support striker re­ decades to come. We can't afford placement legislation that would the House Ghent in Bel­ that. do away with companies' hiring Merchant gium or Bar­ "We've got to keep our mer­ scabs while the regular workers Marine and celona to Alchant marine strong," Bonior conduct a legal strike. in Fisheries geciras added. "This is a national security Committee Spain. issue." and the Representative Elizabeth "For that, Hons we would Furse (D-Ore.) said, "I am astonished at the people in this Rep. Abercromble Armed Ser- sacrifice jobs vices Com­ in country who the mittee, Representative Neil Hawaii, Rep. Bonior think that international Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) noted, Alaska, trade can "What we want to do is redefine Puerto Rico and Great Lakes grow or na- national security to mean that the trade? The answer is no!" Continued from page 13 have health care," McGlotten t i o n a 1 economic security of the people stated. "And I'm saying that's "The National Federation of Urge Administration's Help defense can of the United States is the primary something that we shouldn't do, In calling on the Clinton ad­ Independent Businessmen is very and that's something that we can­ be strong foundation for our national without the security. And in order to do that, ministration and Congress to busy on this one and they will not do, and certainly you can Bep. Furse. means to we must have a vibrant merchant develop a U.S.-flag merchant continue to be," Donahue noted. make sure that we will not do it "They con­ fleet revitalization program, the — transport marine." MTD delegates urged dirough a tinue to bleed by giving your support (to the goods or military supplies on our Questions Sincerity own ships. I insist thk [fellow about small health care policy)." Joining the call that America resolution that such a package in­ members of Congress] under­ needs a strong U.S.-flag merchant clude a program that would en­ business and Congressional Advocates vessel operating stand that our first line of defense marine and the laws to keep it so hance how they're capabilities essential for the is our maritime industry." going to be was Robert Delegates also heard words of maintenance of the AmericanB. McMillen, hurt by this, support for the program from Sealift and Security flag vessels in international com­ as they claim members of Congress. The chairman of the House In­ president and merce. chief execu­ they're hurt ternational Security Subcommit­ Tom Donahue "I will be in the trenches with tive officer of by every tee, Representative Tom Lantos The delegates sought the ad­ the president and with Hillary other piece of (D-Calif.), asked, "Can you for­ Totem Ocean ministration to keep maritime out get about our sealift capability at Trailer Ex­ of NAFTA and the international governmental legislation that's (Clinton) as we deal with the press. a time when from Bosnia to trade talks taking place for the designed to make things a little phony arguments and the shabby He noted excuses of the people who have Somalia to General Agreement on Tariffs better for people." the Jones Act, RoberLMcMillen only squeezed this system of Cambodia and Trade, adopt a national cargo He continued that factories a 1920 law — health care delivery in seeing to it there is turpolicy to efficiently move both and shops with hundreds of which specifies that only U.S.that every single American— b u 1e n ce government and commercial built, U.S.-crewed and U.S.- freight, fully enforce existing employees cannot claim to be man, woman and child—as a mat­ today in more registered vessels can carry cargo cargo preference laws and issue smdl businesses. "If we're talk­ ter of birth right will have quality, than two between two domestic ports, "is an executive order proclaiming ing about the hairdresser, if we're decent medical care," Repre­ dozen places similar to cabotage laws which the White House's support as an talking about the dry cleaner, sentative Tom Lantos (D-Cdif.) on this exist in virtually every maritime essential ingredient in maritime that's a small businessman," told the convention. planet? nation in the world," McMillen policy and clarify the Gambling Donahue stated. "There is Rep. Lantos advised the delegates. no great na­ Ship Act to give potential Defines Small Business Foiidw Hawaii's Example tion that No Other maritime country in operators of U.S.-flag cruise ves­ If we're talking about someRepresentative Neil doesn't have an industrial base, the world has comparable off­ sels the assurances needed to in­ )ody with 300 employees, that's Abercrombie and there is no great nation that shore or inland water trades. vest in U.S.-flag corporations. doesn't have its own capacity to When I am told other countries Delegates also pledged not a small businessman. That's a (D-Hawaii)' )ig business. Two hundred, a said opposi- , lundred, those are big businesses tion to a na­ with huge payrolls. So, we ought tional health to strip that away, and in the care policy course of the health care debate I can be over­ Abercrombie also explained standards yet," Donahue con­ Continued from page 13 hink we can get a benefit of come by folpoured tens of millions of dollars that Arnerica's current trade tinued. "History tells us that [U.S. trying to make people understand lowing into public-relations and advertis­ surplus with Mexico is mislead­ business] has gone down and ex­ a little more about what is small Hawaii's ex­ Bob McGlotten ing campaigns in favor of the ing. He argued that when pro- ploited Mexican workers, defiled business." ample. He NAFTA forces point to that the environment and done it all to pact. Continuing with the theme said trade "NAFTA supporters are con-, surplus as a reason to follow the advantage of the American through with the trade pact, corporation." that others want trade unionists unionists led the way in support­ veniently ignoring the simple "What they are talking about are MTD President Michael through their contracts to con- ing legislation that gave the truths because they know that if components for maquiladoras Sacco described NAFTA as "a inue paying high health care Aloha State employer-mandated the public knows all the facts, the that will be shipped back to us, get-rich-quick scheme for those rates to cover the costs of those health care coverage in 1974. agreement will crash," House rather than consumer goods for at the top. NAFTA hands over without was Robert McGlotten, Majority Whip David Bonior (D'We've had it for 20 years," America's industrial and AFL-CIO legislative director. Mich.) told the MTD delegates. Mexican people. the congressman announced. In other words, the surplus is manufacturing Jobs to Mexico. It "Mexico has lax environmental There are a number of And we've had it because we in capital goods, not consumer drives down the American stand­ laws, no health and safety laws, a people who are still looking for lad a labor organization that un­ goods. The U.S. is shipping ard of living for the majority of coiruptJudicial system, a minimum us to pay the freight for machinery south to expand the derstood the welfare of our own people who live and work in the wage of 58 cents an hour . . . Just everybody else who doesn't people is what is at stake here." capacity of Mexico's low-wage United States." beckoning American companies to factories to produce consumer move south of the border." goods for sale back in the U.S. Dangers of Runaways Exposed Bonior and others pointed out that Mexico has spared no ex­ Side Agreements Fail pense in hiring lobbyists to sell During last year's presidential NAFTA in the U.S. "They tell us election, Clinton vowed not to NAFTA would help Mexican support NAFTA until it included workers buy our products. Ask side agreements protecting yourself, how are they supposed workers' rights and the environ­ to buy American cars when a ment. week's wages barely will allow His administration negotiated them to buy a set of spark plugs," such agreements, which were said Bonior. "NAFTA is nothing presented recently by U.S. Trade more than a Job-stealing, work- Representative Mickey Kantor. exploiting, community-destroy­ But the side deals "don't im­ ing agreement, and we are going prove the agreement a bit," stated to defeat it!" AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Misleading Trade Surplus Thomas Donahue at the MTD Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D- convention. "It's not good for us, Hawaii) warned thatenactment of and it's not good for Mexicans. "We're being told that if only NAFTA would bring immediate harm to the U.S. cities near we have more American invest­ MTD delegates passed a resolution pointing out that the absence of a strong U.S. fleet would result Mexico's border. "Los Angeles, ment in Mexico, it will raise their in increased marine traffic in U.S. waters of runaway-flag ships. Here, they watch a video on the lack Long Beach and San Diego will living standards. Well, it hasn't of safety procedures aboard runaway-flag vessels worldwide. done a thing to raise their living be a wasteland," he said. Continued from page 13 Labor Support Given For Health Reform Congressmen Warn of NAFTA Dangers �• • ^ 'i SEAFARERS UK imEMBER 1993 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A QassB Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port 18 57 57 3 14 New York 18 29 29 8 22 8 5 12 0 Philadelphia 4 2 6 1 1 2 3 20 5 2 11 1 Baltimore 3 17 3 5 0 35 5 20 13 1 Norfolk 18 2 12 11 5 3 25 22 20 18 15 10 3 Mobile 1 39 43 16 2 19 8 21 New Orleans 22 3 29 46 9 51 5: 3 11 23 6 Jacksonville 21 29 59 0 8 49 10 12 ^.17. San Francisco 32 22 34 34 15 0 17 11 Wilmington 20 21 36 9 45 0 7 21 13 23 27 8 Seattle 6 9 11 4 3 6 0 6 6 5 Puerto Rico 26 14 11 2 2 8 5 Honolulu 8 14 ' 3 51 15 35 1-2 - : 6 30 Houston 41 7 27 BII 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 St Louis 11 0 1 0 1 Piney Point •'TIP 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Algonac 132 465 390 66 18 193 58 172 226 283 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 5 43 46 9 14 New York • Qjsm. 25 •; ,t 4 3 : 7 0 . : 0 3 4 1 Philadelphia • a-l'' 16 ^IP2,: , 12 4 7 1 o 2/1' .1paltimore .••:\9::P;,I 16 8 9 3 5 4 • ' 12 5 13 4 Norfolk 17 2 14 3 0 7 11 1 11 8 Mobile 22 12 28 0 3 6 17 8 15 New Orleans 12 4 ¥1; 44 26 r-i 3" 13 2 11 24 -P'P"2'3' • Jacksonville 16 - • 5 39 28 1 • 10 4 4 16 San Francisco 20 11 :--vl:3:; 15 WM:'' 0 .9 C..P,6.: 4 18 Wilmington 15 23 2 24 1 5 10 12 1 16 17 Seattle 3 8 1 3 1 3 5 4 1 5 Puerto Rico 11 8 21 4 8 2 1 3 11 5 Honolulu ^.••' 3 •• 28 24 1 :IP512 17 13 Hpiistoh 21 •p3'\i:pi 0 . 0 0 0 1 1 St Loiiis •• 0 2 17 2:^¥i-:.. 0 0 0 0 0 Piney Point ' -IP,. •|.vlOP:i 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Algonac 326 74 248 37 19 111 106 43 190 Totals 159 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 29 22 0 ...PPITS-^^'. • 4 12 New York 4 •:::;-P 0 -..Pll 0 1 1 1 Philadelphia 0 0 4 1 •:.3'-p 0 2 0 Baltimore 0 18 12 3 2 4 5 1 9 6 Norfolk 3 12 10 2 1 2 6 1 4 3 Mobile 16 2 15 2 0 3 8 1 8 New Orleans 7 •1,-1 ,• 16 2 18 1 0 4 2 Jacksonville 10 • 6P 2 21 72 11 0 , 9 25 2 16 San Francisco 38 ,, 1 19 0 13 . 2 7 : 0 Wilmington 13 13 3 41 4 3 10 3 6 19 Seattle 0 6 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 5 Puerto Rico 27 34 22 36 10 18 8 16 18 15 Honolulu 1 13 19 3 0 16 1 9 16 Houston 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 . iMn 1 St Louis :-p-po-" 1 13 4 0 : 1 2 , 0 4 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 46 204 268 79 15 54 114 28 108 152 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 37 89 0 . . 21 25 9 11 41 12 New York 5 7 2 0 2 • 0 1 3 3 2 Philadelphia 0 8 3 0 0 3 0 0 6 2 Baltimore 13 38 8 0 14 4 2 6 18 4 Norfolk 0 30 3 0 0 14 1 . 0 10 2 Mobile 17 40 16 0 6 10 4 6 18 New Orleans 9 11 37 3 0 1 4 •••- 5 5 18 5 Jacksonville 24 51 22 0 0 6 8 5 26 San Francisco 10 12 32 11 0 0 11 • ,4 • 4 18 3 WUmington 8 36 12 0 0 11 7 3 27 9 Seattle 10 15 10 0 0 2 . 2 0 5 3 Puerto Rico 164 86 10 0 67 41 6 95 55 7 Honolulu 7 26 3 0 6 1 3 5 19 3 Houston 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 St. Louis 2 41 1 0 1 17 1 1 33 2 Piney Point 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 Algonac 536 312 125 0 81 169 52 144 300 73 Totals Totals All 564 1,031 1,531 182 133 527 444 273 610 881 • • •'% • lOtai Kegisicrcu UlCOlia UIC uutm/wi ...W.. .... J—O— .. w j ri . .U •• 'Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at th9 port at the end of last month. A total of I486 jobs were shipped on SIUH»ntracted dc^p sea vessels. Of toe 1.286jobs sh'PlM. Jobs or about 34 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were fdled by B airi C semon^ people. From September^ to October 15,1993, a total of 182 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Since the tnp relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 19,676 jobs have been shipped. December1993 & January 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Wa^rs Piney Point Monday: December 6; Tuesday, January 4 New York Tuesday: December 7, January 4 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 8, January 5 Baltimore Thursday: December 9, January 6 Norfolk. Thursday: December 9, January 6 Jacksonville Thursday: December 9, January 6 Algonac Friday: December 10, January 7 Houston IP Monday: December 13, January 10 New Orleans ' Tuesday: December 14, January 11 pl| Mobile Wednesday: December 15, January 12 • San Francisco Thursday: December 16, January 13 Wilmington Monday: December 20; Tuesday, January 18* * changed by Martin LudterlQng BirAday holiday Seattle Friday: December 24, January 21 San Juan P. , Thursday: December 9, January 6 PP St.Louls Friday: December 17, January 14 Honoluiu Friday: December 17, January 14 Duluth Wednesday: December 15, January 12 Jersey City Wednesday: December 22, January 19 New Bedford Tuesday: December 21, January 18 Each ports met^g starts at 10:3Ciajn. Personals FORMER SHIPMATES OF VAN E. WARFIELD Following a number of heart attacks. Van E. Warfield, who sailed as bosun from 1946 to 1957, is pretty much home-bound. He mis­ ses his sailing days and would like to hear from some of his old seafaring buddies. Van E. Warfield can be reached at 4902 Anntana Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21206. .-.I ••|;P • P., 3" 'ipP Notices UPCOMING REUNION PLANNED >OR CBI VETERANS Veterans who served in China, Burma and India (CBI) in World War II are invited to a reunion, September 3-8, 1994 in Baltimore, Md. This 47th annual reunion is being or­ ganized by the China-Burma-India Veterans Association, which has more than 7,000 mem­ bers. All CBI veterans are asked to send their name, address and phone number to Homer C. Cooper, 145 Pendleton Drive, Athens, OA 30606 to receive information about the reunion. Be sure to include the name of the CBI unit and locations served overseas. Those unable to attend the Baltimore reunion are asked to contact the association in order to receive information about future national and local programs. ' J.- i 17 • /:• ' I - f T: . '••••- ' "• - \ S" •fP' • •' ^ .t.r? . fiSti �18 HOVEUBER1993 XAFAWtSUK Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—^Lakes NF—Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 33 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 15 b STEWARD DEPARimNT 0 8 1 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 George McCartney Vice President West Go 'oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Iihland Waters Dean Coreey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 15 4 0 27 7 b 7 0 19 Totals All Departments 0 72 21 0 56 17 0 68 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. .• i 14 26 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters • '•. legion SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Totals All Departments TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla^ C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C PECKhEPARt^ Atlantic Coast 0 0 6 Gulf Coast 10 0 16 Lakes & Inland Waters, 23 0 West Coast 0 2 21 Totals 0 41 37 Region •i.;7 • . , lb#"'.. Atlantic Coast 1 Gulf Coast 2 0 1 Lakes & Inland Waters jteLU .•••7:7a 14 West Coast 0 0 6 Totals 17 0 1 Region .V- J-;. Atlantic Coast 0 0 Gulf Coast 0 1 7 774 ,, Lakes & Inland Waters t' 0 ...... 0 ^ West Coast 0 -0 Totals 5 1 9 63 1 3 0 0 40 1 0 8 15 12 34 100 0 58 4 116 0 66 93 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 6 0 0 . •2 0 0 0 9 0 0 30 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 2 0 ^ • 7 1 0 4 1 0 3 8 11 47 128 0 74 134 2 0 1 3 0 27 0 70 97 '"""'b"""" 1 7;;i,„o.::7 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 2 1 2 0 7 0 5 12 7 111 : ^7 :()••• ''m- * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. ^re You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active 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 welfare checks and bulletins or notices—your correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel 9604 S 4 Ct Philadelphia,'PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 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^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Imingh CA 90744 Wilmington, (310) 549-4000 / /• / TOTAL SHIPPED Ail Groups QassCL Class L Class NP ; HOME ADDRESS that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to up­ date 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 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 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (PLEASE PRINT) November 1993 I Name. Address I Social Security No. Book No. I Phone No. Active SlU Pensioner Other This will be my permanent address for aii officiai union maiiings. This address shouid remailin in the union fiie uniess otherwise changed by me personaiiy. •' • • ' /'•'i 'f\ (Signed). 7 'I. r/ �NO¥EMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 19 To Our New Pensioners Thanks for a Job Well Done ranks of SIU pensioners Brother Enrique upgraded fre­ increased by two Seafarers last quently at Piney Point. He month. Brother Enrique Gil retired to Meath, Ireland. ended a 24-year career on the ANGELO deep seas while Recertified ROMERO, Bosun Angelo Romero retired 67, joined to shore after sailing the world's the SIU in waterways for 36 years. Brief 1957 in the biographical sketches of port of brothers Gil and Romero fol­ New York. low. A native of Puerto Rico, he completed the DEEP SEA bosun recertificatioh course at ENRIQUE GIL, 66, joined the the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Seafarers in 1969 in the port of School of Seamanship in 1983. New York. Bom in the Philip­ Brother Romero resides in pines, he sailed as a bosun. Brooklyn, N.Y. The Crew^s Pride Evident Aboard Pres. Jackson Ready to serve another crewmember i,s Chief Cook Steven Sun Scrambling eggs for breakfast is Chief Steward Mohamed Sani. Galley Gang Provides *Toucli of Home' On Board LNG Virgo When sailing halfway around the world, anything that can be SA Paul Russell handles the dish­ done to make Seafarers feel at washing chores on the LNG Virgo. home is appreciated. That is the goal of the steward department on board the LNG Virgo. Led by Steward/Baker Zein Ackman, the galley gang tries to make every meal special for fel­ low crewniembers. "They do a great job on here," Bosun Jack Rhodes told SIU Representative Sal Aquia, who provided the Seafarers LOG with the photographs from the ship. "Through their cooking, they provide a touch of home while we are aboard ship." Catching lunch before returning to his Ackman praised his fellow deck chores is AB Harry Massa. steward department members— Chief Cook Henry Daniels and Steward Assistants Vem Andrews, Paul Russell and Wil­ liam Smalley—for all their hard work. "We do our best to take care of the crew and answer their requests however we can," noted the steward. Among the special touches provided by the galley gang are holiday cookouts, birthday cakes and fresh seafood whenever pos­ sible. "The food on board was fantastic," noted Aquia. The LNG Virgo carries li­ quified natural gas from refineries in Indonesia to ports in Japan. The vessel is operated by Energy Transportation Corpora- Part of the crew that brought the President Jackson out of the shipyard in 1988 is Assistant Cook George Whiting, who said he likes to return to the vessel whenever he can. 1?/^:/' y^i.|r'- V0g>.-v When Assistant Cook George Whiting first climbed the yS.wrt^fr?m^^ s^'yard^n'" 988^^^ I Jackson trom the snipyara m i y»», ne Knew me snip wouia | I r:>>!''''^''-V>TT'. be special, but he did not realize how special. "The first ship1 was on had six people to a room, six lockers for our gear, two sinks and a common bathroom for all of us to share," recalled the galley gang member who began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards 25 years ago. "This ship was something else." The President Jackson, the newest U.S.-flag vessel in the American President Lines (AFL) fleet, features separate quarters for all crewmembers, a gymnasium with a variety of workout equipment, a swimming pool and a large library of videotapes and books. A tour of the vessel reveals the Presi­ dent Jackson is spotless from the engineroom to the galley to the bridge. "Everyone takes pride in her, from the captain on down," Whiting told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "1 try to catch a job on her whenever possible." Seafarers crew the containership's steward department while unlicensed members of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific man the deck department, and the Marine Firemen's Union provides engine department personnel. The President Jackson sails every 35 days from the port of Oakland, \^alll. Calif, lU to Yokohama Kobe, Japan; VjaKianU, I UKUllallla and anu ivuuc, japau, Kaohsiung, Rosario prepares to ^ delicious meal. SA Bill Smalley relaxes in the Bosun Jack Rhodes (right) has nothing but crew oraise for for CS anri his hi.s crew. rrew crew lounoe lounge between between meals. meals. praise CS Zein Zein Ar^kman Ackman and ' 1 >• '' •. .'I'. •' m Taiwan; and Hong Kong before returning to San Pedro, Calif. soup and sandwich makes a tasty and filling lunch for and Oakland. I AB Mike Presser. \ mm QMED Randy McKinzie checks out the menu board while in the galley. J x:,- "i • y..'' '.si -•i-.rTT t; �V- 20 N0VEMSER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Crew Agrees: Altair Has Camaraderie, Teamwork Bosun Larry Ambrous says total support from the union, and the best part alwut being aboard I plan to be a member for a long the [/SNS Altair is working with time," said the 33-year-old an outstanding crew. "Honestly, former boiler technician, who you couldn't hand-pick a better also is from Norfolk. Langley agrees with Ambrous ROS (Reduced Operational about morale aboard the Altair, Status) crew than the one we have which is operated by Bay here," Ambrous recently told a Tankers. "We're like a family on reporter from the Seafarers LOG. this ship. Everyone gets along, "They are all excellent people and and the food is fantastic!" good workers, and they always The camaraderie extends be­ want to do a good job." Ambrous is a native of Nor­ tween both the officers and the folk, Va., where the Altair has unlicensed personnel, says AB been in port for the past several Gary Kypke. "The whole time Wiper Ricky Langley says he is months. The bosun, who joined I've worked on this ship, everyone planning to upgrade his skills. the SIU in 1967, notes that he and has worked together well." several other Seafarers from the Chief Electrician Pete Stein Norfolk area have enjoyed work­ echoed those sentiments when he ing so close to home this year said, "I think we have terrific aboard the 50,0(X)-ton fast sealift people here, people who are hard­ vessel. working and easy to work with. However, earlier this year the And I have to commend (Chief Altair ventured quite far from the Cook) Keith Mayer and Virginia port. Manned by a full (Steward/Baker) Emilio Cor­ crew, the vessel provided logistical dova, who really put out great support during Operation Restore food." Hope in Mogadishu, Somalia. Another of the Norfolk area While Ambrous has been a residents. Deck Engineer member of the SIU for many Michael Phillips, has served years. Wiper Ricky Langley is aboard the ship-for several Bosun Larry Ambrous has been a more of a newcomer, having months. "I like the crew, I like my Seafarer since 1967. joined three years ago. But it did work and I enjoy being so close to not take long for the union to home," he stated. from a high-speed containership make a good impression on Mayer also voiced satisfaction into a naval vessel. The conver­ Langley, who signed on the A/totr widi life aboard the Altair, but sion included changing the last April. "I feel I have received added that he plans to upgrade stowage for 35-foot containers to soon at the SIU's Paul Hall Cen­ multi-deck vehicle stowage with ter for Maritime Training and access ramps amidship on both Education in Piney Point, Md. "I sides. upgraded to chief cook last year, and I'm getting ready to go back." The Altair was built 20 years ago. Taken over by the U.S. Navy in 1981, the vessel was converted Chief Cook Keith Mayer prepares lunch for the crew. The USNS Altair, a fast sealift ship, is based in Norfolk, Va. Chief Electrician Pete Stein, Bosun Larry Ambrous, Patrolman David "Scrap Iron" Jones and Deck Engineer Michael Phillips meet in the galley of the USNS Altair. There's plenty to do on deck for Signing a patrolman's report Is AB Gary Kypke. Chief Electrician Pete Stein. Painting on on the deck of the USNS Altair \s AB Philip Perry. Seafarer Boats Sweep Contest of New Bedford Fleet Blessing ••-It '•t-J'if r-A.. 4 'If SlU-crewed fishing boats won first, second and third places in the annual "Best-Dressed Ves­ sel Contest," which is one of the events at the annual seafood fes­ tival at the New Bedford, Mass. State Pier. Winning the first prize of $500 was the FV Cowboy, owned and captained by Firminio V. Pereira; second place (and $250) went to the Praia Da Torreira, w;hose captain and owner is Manuel Marquinhos; while the Luso American I, captained and owned by Jose Fanguelro, garnered $175 for third-place honors. Each crew also was awarded a plaque. SIU Port Agent Henri Fran­ cois said the August festival fea­ tured beautiful weather and a good turnout. It was broadcast live by a local radio station as it is considered a celebration of the fishing industry and its impor­ tance to New Bedford. The family-oriented event featured eight local bands and other entertainers, children's rides. fireworks, demonstrations by two Coast Guard cutters, vendors selling memorabilia, speeches from local dignitaries, and of course plenty of fresh seafood, as well as other cuisine. (The fish and scallops served at the festival were offloaded each morning.) The best-dressed vessel con­ test was followed by blessings from three local clergymen. Celebrates Industry The contest is a kind of waterborne parade for which crews spruce up their boats and crea­ tively decorate them. In all, hundreds of Seafarers and th^ir families from the New Bedford area took part in the three-day festival, which was highlighted by the 24th annual Also participating in the Blessing of the Fleet was the SlU-crewed The SlU-crewed Cowboy won first place in the "Best-Dressed Blessing of the Fleet. Portugal, one of more than a dozen SIU boats at the event. Vessel Contest," part of the three-day festival in New Bedford. . /: �NOVEMBER 1993 9EAFARERSL0G Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shiptmard minutes as possible. On occasion, tmrmu^ of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract departmen. Those Issues lequlring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. GREEN ISLAND{Waterman Steam ship), July 10—Chairman S. Reed, Secretary J. Reid, Educational Direc­ tor J. Laratta. Chairman posted notice from headquarters regarding contract extension. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into additional group term life in­ surance coverage. Crew noted problems with slop chest inventory, company draws and replacement of mattresses. Discussion held on newspaper reports concerning in­ crease of pirate activity in waters near Singapore. M SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), July 25—Chairman Jose Ross, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Engine Delegate W.B. McCants. Secretary asked contracts department to look into pension improvements and benefit increases for members. job well done. Crew reported TV and radio antenna need repair. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 29—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary F. Washington Sr., Educational Director Gerald Cooper, Deck Delegate Kenneth Moore. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to upgrade at Piney Point and clean rooms and refrigerators before signing off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers LOGs received on board ship. Crew reported deck in mess hall and serving area needs repair, and steward department reported refrigerator in mess hall needs repair. Chairman reminded crewmembers to walk cautiously on decks during slippery conditions. Bosun gave vote of Aanks to entire crew for job well done. LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), August 22—Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaDirector W. Fey, Deck Delegate Land Service), July 25—Chairman Bohhy Branham, Engine Delegate Charles Herrera, Secretary G. Wesley Wise, Steward Delegate Thomas, Educational Director E.L. Marty Buck. Chairman explained Ford. Secretary reported good trip. functions of new VCR to crewmem­ Educational director reconunended bers and reminded them to use care­ members pay attention to upgrading fully. He announced Executive Vice schedules at Lundeberg School and President Joseph Sacco and SIU Rep­ current union business. Deck delegate resentative Sal Aquia will meet ship announced beefs will be discussed in Japan to discuss and answer ques­ with boarding patrolman. Steward tions concerning new contract. Educa­ delegate reported good trip without tional director urged members to beefs or disputed OT. No beefs or dis­ upgrade at Lundeberg School. No puted OT reported by engine brofs or disputed OT reported. Cap­ delegate. Next port: Oakland, Calif. tain attended union meeting upon re­ quest of bosun to discuss ETC issues SEA-LAND MARINER (Sea-Land with crewmembers. Chairman Service), July 17—Secretary Mark reminded crew to keep noise down. Scardino, Educational Director Gene Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Speckman, Deck Delegate Arnold gang for job well done and baking of Lopez. Secretary reported on SIU fresh pastries. President Michael Sacco's visit to LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), August Seattle to discuss contract extension and negotiations. Educational director 31—Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational urged members to donate to SPAD Director W. Fey, Deck Delegate and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Bohhy Branham, Engine Delegate Treasurer stated $120 in ship's movie Wesley Wise, Steward Delegate fund and announced movies are pur­ Marty Buck. Chairman reported chased every tour. Engine delegate smooth sailing this tour with crew reported beef. No beefs or disputed looking forward to Executive Vice OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Electrician asked crewPresident Joseph Sacco's visit No members not to leave exit doors beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ open. Crew asked contracts depart­ man reminded crewmembers to keep noise down in crew lounge and not to ment for additional information regarding contract negotiations. Next smoke in crew mess hall during meal hours. port: Rotterdam. Jp-. Delegate Larry Conklin. Chairman announced possible visit from SIU of­ ficial to discuss new contract. Secretary said all members awaiting news concerning contract and en­ couraged eligible crewmembers to upgrade at Piney Point No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Seafarers LOGs distributed. Chairman and crew dis­ cussed excellent meals being prepared by steward department and gave galley gang special note of thanks. Crew asked additional items be stored in slop chest for extra long trips. Next port: Nagoya, Japan.^ keep tidy at all times. Next port: Jack­ sonville, Fla. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), August 31— Chairman M. Zepeda, Secretary M. Flores, Educational Director J. Czonan. Secretary advised new mem­ bers to upgrade sldlls at Paul Hall Center. Crew expressed get well wishes to Chief Cook O. Espinoza who signed off in Port Arthur, Texas. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point to improve skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for update on contract negotiations. Crew reported apprecia- QQCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land Service), August 15—Chairman John Bertolino, Secretary Edward Collins, Educational Director Harry Messick, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Peter Hausmann, Steward Delegate Felix Camacho. Chairman announced payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. He reported crew waiting for more news concern­ ing new Contract. Secretary advised members to upgrade skills at Lun­ deberg School. Treasurer announced $70 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Boston. 21 fund used to repair antenna. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for additional in­ formation regarding new contract. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for great food and job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION(SeaLand Service), August 29—Chair­ man Joseph Mele, Secretary E. Vazquez, Educational Director D. Beeman, Steward Delegate Alonzo Belcher. Chairman reported every­ thing running smoothly. Secretary reported smooth sailing and announced he is going on vacation. Educational director stressed importance of upgrade S-L Explorer Crew Stays Up-to-Date OMI DYNACHEM(Om), August 15—Chairman Larry Kunc, Secretary Steven Wagner, Education al Director Derrick Bums, Deck Delegate Juan Castillo, Engine Delegate Adrian Davis, Steward Delegate P.R. Mena. Chairman dis­ cussed new policy regarding facial hair and remind^ crewmembers beards are not allowed. Chairman announced payoff at first port in California. He reported crewmembers waiting for con­ tract news. Treasurer reported $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to look into increased dental benefits. Chairman announced tour will include two docks in Los Angeles, three in San Francisco and two in Washington. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department and reported smooth sailing in all departments. Next port: Los Angeles. Catching up on all the latest union news during a recent shipboard meeting aboard the Sea-Land Explorer in the port of Long Beach, Calif, are (from left) AS George Fries, Patrolman Robert Scrivens, Bosun Jack Edwards, AB G. Milabo Jr. and AB Anthony Sabatini. tion for good meals by steward department, and chairman reminded members to keep mess hall and crew lounge clean since vessel is crewmembers' home while at sea. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), August 1— Chaiman T. J. Olvany, Secretary G.C. Bamman, Educational Director R.P. Curly, Deck Delegate Robert Pachew, Engine Delegate C. Allen, Steward Delegate A. Aggazzali. Chairman suggested new contract should read "he or she" when desig­ nating SIU members. He announced payoff date. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman noted two-month contract extension. Crew asked contracts department to look into increase in pension and medical benefits. Crew reported ice machine not working. Next port: Baytown, Texas. OMI MISSOURI(Vulcan Carriers), August 15^—Chairman Cesar Gutier­ rez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate Randolf BoUins, Engine Delegate Grant Shuinan, Steward Delegate Ahdul Aziz. Chairman an­ nounced next port in US. Gulf. Treasurer reported $60 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT rqrorted. Crew asked contracts department to look into increased dental and optical benefits. ing at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), August 22— Chairman Lee Selico, Secretary P. Schulz Secretary encouraged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reported various new movies aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND PATO/Or (Sea-Land Service), August 14—Chairman R. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Educa­ tional Director J. Hagner, Deck Delegate Mark Lance, Engine Delegate Leonardo Papa. Chairman asked crewmembers to write their OMI WILLAMETTE (OMI), August congressional representatives to ex­ 1—Chairman K.P. Amat, Secretary press concern regarding Sea-Land's K.D. Jones, Educational Director J. sail under and APL's efforts to Badgett. Chairman announced foreign flag. Educational director an­ payoff in Beaumont, Texas and RALEIGH BA Y (Sea-Land Service), nounced Piney Point classes posted reported patrolman will come aboard August 22—Chairman David Mur­ on crew deck and advised crewmem­ and update crew on new contract. ray, Secretary Edward Porter, bers to take advantage of Lundeberg Secretary urged members to donate to Steward Delegate Johny Bolton. No School to further knowledge and in­ SPAD and upgrade skills at Paul Hall beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew crease job security. No beefs or dis­ Center. No beefs or disputed OT requested new tape rewinder for crew puted OT reported. Chairman said t/LTfl4/lt4X(Sealift Inc.), July 18— LNG LEG (ETC), August 27— reported. Crew thanked galley gang lounge and gave vote of thanks to vessel had received mail concerning Chairman R. Van Brunt, Secretary for job well done and requested new Chairman Robert Schwarz, contract extension and Sea-Land steward department for job well Joseph Birke, Deck Delegate James Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Educa­ mattresses. filing for foreign flag posted on bul­ done. Rollman, Engine Delegate Eddie tional Director Mark Glinka, Engine letin board. Chairman noted crew has Major, Steward Delegate Malcolm Delegate I.E. Salomons, Steward OVERSEAS ALICE (Maritime SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steam­ kept ship very clean and neat and Holmes. Chairman announced infor­ Delegate Amy Ripple. Chairman an­ Overseas), August 14—Chairman remind^ crewmembers to leave ship), August 8—Chairman Bobby mation concerning next tour not yet nounced Executive Vice President fames Jawers, Secretary Paul Stuh- Riddick, Secretary C, Rooks. Crew room keys in room if signing off. available. Disputed OT reported by .(oseph Sacco and SIU Representative defleld. Educational Director WJ. Next port: Oakland, Calif. asked contracts department for up­ engine delegate. No beefs or disputed Sal Aquia will board vessel in letty. Chairman announced twodate on contract negotiations. Crew OT reported by deck or steward SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land Simeji, Japan on August 29. He month contract extension. Secretary new washing machine. No delegates. Crew asked contracts reported new three-year contract will reminded crewmembers to have clean requesteddisputed Service), August 1—Chairman Car­ OT reported. Next beefs or department to look into shipping be explained at that time and asked mine Bova, Secretary T.Smith, linen in rooms for replacements. port: New Orleans. rules for working in cargo holds. crewmembers to write questions Educational Director H.C. Chancey, Educational director urged members Crew requested new chairs and VCR down that they would like answered. Deck Delegate W. Dillon, Engine to upgrade skills at Piney Point as SEA-LAND CRUSADER (Seafor crew lounge and thanked galley Delegate Ed Trester, Steward often as possible. Deck delegate Secretary read minutes of last meet­ ^d Service), August 25—Chair­ gang for job well done. Next port: Delegate Elsa Matter. Chairman an­ ing. Educational director stressed im­ reported disputed OT. No beefs or man A. Hernandez, Secretary N. New Orleans. nounced payoff in Charleston, S.C. disputed OT reported by engine or portance of upgrading at Paul Hall Andrews, Educational Director Bersteward delegates. Center. He reminded members of neo Oswald, Steward Delegate Ben- Secretary reported minutes to last FRANCES HAMMER (OCCI), meeting posted on bulletin board. necessity of upgrading skills. amjn Corpus. No beefs or disputed August 29—Chairman J. Konetes, Educational director urged members Treasurer stated $1,000 in ship's fund OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime OT reported. Crew requested comOverseas), August 22—Chairman Secretary J. Price, Educational Direc­ and $40 in SIU communications to upgrade skills at Lundeberg )any provide more stores for Uchard Bradford, Secretary James tor T. Jacohsen. Chairman an­ School. No beefs or disputed OT fund. No beefs or disputed OT voyages. Next port: San Juan. I jladney. Educational Director P. nounced new refrigerators received reported. Chairman reminded crew to reported. Chairman advised crew­ 'agan. Steward Delegate James for crewmembers' rooms. He keep recreation room clean and take members to keep recreation room SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaWadsworth. Chairman encouraged reported transportation time to ship trash to level three. Crew requested clean and respect shipmates by keepLand Service), August 15—Chair­ crewmembers to read company con­ now. being paid by company. He said two new lounge chairs and rug for ng noise down on deck. Crew gave man A. Trikoglou, Secretary J. tract upon boarding ship. Secretary the next port is Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. vote of thanks to steward department crew lounge. Chairman reported Colls, Educational Director Sam reminded crew to rewind videotapes Secretary requested all garbage be recreation room to be sprayed when for cookouts and delicious food. before retuming to library. Education­ ^egron. Deck Delegate E.Ortega, separated in properly marked cans. ship docks in Houston. Engine Delegate J. Guaris, Steward al director urged members to attend Pumpman reminded crewmembers to LNG LIBRA (ETC), August 8— Delegate A. Colon. Chairman an­ SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land Lundeberg School for upgrading. No Chairman Monte Pereira, Secretary keep benzene tests and passports up nounced payoff and reported water Service), August 23—Chairman R. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Dana Cunningham, Educational to date. Treasurer reported in cooler machine broken. Secretary reported Seafarers LOGs received. Director John Wong, Deck Delegate ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT Chairman reminded crewmembers to asked cooperation from crew to keep . Bellinger, Engine Delegate reported. Crew noted Seafarers LOGs Continued on page 22 decks clean. Treasurer said ship's ean rooms before signing off and received. Crew thanked galley gang for Thomas Neuwiiler, Steward •) t , I r ' I . I .• A: �22 NOyEHIIBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Ships Digest in Guam. Steward department reported shortage of stores during voyage. SEAUFT ATLANTIC (IMC), August 22—Chairman Carlos McGonagle, Secretaty-Julio Loureiro, Secretary J.Savoie, Deck Roman, Deck Delegate E. Udan, En­ Delegate Doug Lawton, Engine gine Delegate Leon Fountain, Delegate A. Jones, Steward Delegate Steward Delegate Lito Acosta. Chair­ Neville Monteith. Chairman en­ man reminded crewmembers to use couraged crew to continue to keep safety on deck and separate plastics lounge and crew mess areas clean. in next port. He discussed importance Crew sent condolences to OS Har­ of SPAD for job security and en­ vey Ramos and his family for the couraged members to upgrade at Paul passing of his father, SIU member Hall Center. Education^ director Daniel Garcia, who was sailing urged members to upgrade skills at aboard the Liberty Spirit. Secretary Piney Point and donate to SPAD. No reported captain notified company of beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew stores needed on vessel. No beefs or gave special vote of tha^ to Recer­ disputed OT reported. Crew gave tified Steward Roman and Chief Cook vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ Acosta for good diiuier on Paul Hall's cellent job. Next port: Norfolk, Va. birthday. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALIFT MEDITERRANEAN SEA-LAND SP/ff/r (Sea-Land Ser­ (IMC), August 8—Chairman vice), August 29—Chairman Richard Houghton, Secretary B. Howard Gibbs, Secretary L. Mesger, Educational Director H, Mc­ Leionek, Educational Director Brian Allister, Engine Delegate Robert Connell, Deck Delegate Romeo Maurer, Steward Delegate Micbael Lugtu, Engine Delegate Ramon Pooler Educational director Lirag, Steward Delegate Joe Tuck­ reminded members to upgrade skills er. Educational director advised all at Piney Point. Deck delegate members to upgrade at Lundeberg reported clothing allowance not being School. Treasurer reported $410 in paid by company. No beefs or dis­ ship's fiind. No beefs or disputed OT puted OT reported. Crew reported reported. Crew asked contracts chairs and tiles in crew mess need ' department for updated contract repair. Chairman announced video news. Next port: Oakland, Calif. library locked after 5 p.m. Crew re­ quested first aid kits. SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land Service), August 18—Chairman ULTRASEA (Sealift Inc.), August Joseph Artis, Secretary Ralph 20—Chairman A. Noble, Engine Alexander, Educationd Director R. Delegate Raymond Cuccia, Steward Clock, Deck Delegate Don Rico, En­ Delegate Joseph Patrick. Chairman gine Delegate Welton Weaver, announced payoff and thanked crew Steward Delegate William Wples. for job well done. Galley gang given Chairman aimounced van service vote of appreciation for great bar­ while in port. No beefs or disputed becue. No beefs or disputed OT OT reported. Crew discussed keeping reported. Chairman reported crew slop chest going. Chairman requested dryer to be repaired in New Orleans. crewmembers separate plastic from GUAYAMA (Puerto Rico Marine), trash and keep ashtrays empty in September 14—Chairman G. Kidd, crew lounge area. Crew gave vote of Secretary R. Evans, Educational thanks to steward department for Director Scott Speedy. Crew good food and keeping ship clean. reported Seafarers LOGs received in Next port: Tacoma, Wash. San Juan with information concern­ SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Laad ing new contract. No beefs or dis­ Service), August 11—Chairman MJ. puted OT reported. Chairman Willis, Secretary J.L. Johnson, reminded crew doors should be lock­ Educational Director M.Sabin, Deck ed in all ports. Crew gave vote of Delegate George Vukmir, Engine thanks to steward department for fine Delegate R. Swanson. Chairman job and keeping crew well fed. reported everything running smooth­ TB GROTON (Sheridan Transporta­ ly. Educational director urged mem­ tion), September 1—Chairman Neil bers to attend Lundeberg School Hatthey, Secretary Marvin upgrading courses. Treasurer reported $355 in movie fund. No Jeloatch, Educational Director A. b^fs or disputed OT reported. Crew Alexakis, Deck Delegate Brian gave galley gang round of applause Fountain, Steward Delegate for fine service. Crew ipport^ Michael Hammock. Chairman an­ socializing with crewmembers from nounced payoff and thanked crew­ Sealift Arctic while at Seaman's Club members for nice voyage. He also Continued from page 21 It's Union Time urged members to read Seafarers LOG to keep updated on union news and to donate to SPAD. Secretary ex­ tended vote of thanks to crewmem­ bers for keeping mess room clean. Educational director advised mem­ bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to Steward Deloatch and Chief Cook Hammock for always serving deli­ cious freshly baked pastries and cookies. Next port: Stapleton, N.Y. LNG LIBRA (ETC), September 5— Chairman Monte Pereara, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director John Wong, Engine Delegate Thomas Neuwiller, Steward Delegate Laurence Conklin. Chairman reported magazines now being delivered on time, and cap­ tain agreed to open slop chest twice during long trips south. He an­ nounced Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco will board vessel in Himeji, Japan to discuss new con­ tract. Secretary asked members sign­ ing off to leave rooms neat and ready for replacements. Educational direc­ tor reminded members to take time to upgrade at Paul Hall Center while ashore. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported crew lounge furniture needs to be replaced. Crew discussed purchase of new books. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good work. NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico Marine), September 6—Chairman WJ. Card, Secretary R. Fagan, Educational Director Charles Gal­ lagher, Deck Delegate J. Passapera, Engine Delegate J. Williams Jr., Steward Delegate Gary Lackey. Chairman reported all operations run­ ning smoothly. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported good trip with vote of thanks to Chief Cook Lackey for good meals. OMI CHARGER (OMl), September 6—chairman E.R. Beverly, Secretary Neville Johnson, Educa­ tional Director Milton Israel. Chair­ man announced ship headed for dry dock in Mobile, Ala. with payoff upon arrival. He reported ship will be in shipyard for 20 to 30 days. Secretary reminded crewmembers to strip bunk, empty all trash cans and leave room clean for next occupant. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HOPE/? (Vulcan Carriers), Septem­ ber 5—Chairman James Blanchard, Secretary E. Harris, Educational Director T.L. Thompson, Deck Delegate Spencer Lyle, Engine Delegate Sergio Pasilong, Steward Delegate Ronald Jones. Chairman announced ship scheduled for layup in Port Arthur, Texas. He thanked crewmembers for job well done. Secretary encouraged members to take advantage of Lundeberg School. Educational director urged members to think safety first. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into quick medical claim payments and increased vessel manning. Crew requested they be allowed to stay on ship while in shipyard. They gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done, and chairman thanked en­ tire crew for being good shipmates and getting along well. Crew re­ quested new chairs and couch for crew lounge. Crew also requested new chairs for crew njess. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land Service), September 5—Chairman Paul Lewis, Secretary Felipe Orlanda. Chairman reported on his call to headquarters concerning new contract He was informed that new pact in­ cludes no reduction in crew and an in­ crease in wages. Tifeasurer reported $60 in movie fund. Deck delegate rqxxted disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT rqiorted by engine or steward delegates. Next port Norfolk, Va. Crewmembers attend a union meetina on board the Overseas New ipman (3. Orleans. They are drom left, front row) AB P. Giorgilli, Pumpnr Daley, (back row) DEU F. Auguilar, Steward D. Brown and SA M. Guity. ./.• ' V A •7' SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), September 16—Chair­ man Garry Walker, Secretary J. Wright, Educational Director Mar­ vin Wells, Deck Delegate Jusuf Djuned, Engine Delegate Moses Shaibi, Steward Delegate William Bryley. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done and asked contracts department for clarification on sec­ tions of new agreement. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), September 5—Chair­ man Jose Rodriguez, Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Ronald Smith, Deck Delegate Pedro Tor­ res, Engine Delegate Abby Aragones, Steward Delegate J.R. Salazar. Chairman reported crew waiting for details on new contract from SIU headquarters. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for Labor Day meal. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), September 12—Chair­ man N. Sala, Secretary Jose Colls, Educational Director A. Negrdn, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega, En­ gine Delegate J. Guaris, Steward Delegate A. Colon. Chairman an­ nounced patrolman boarding vessel at next port for payoff and contract results. Secretary reported 10 Cuban refugees rescued off coast of Florida were taken by crew to San Juan where immigration officers took them into custody. He reported they were well fed by Chief Steward Colls, Chief Cook Dimas Rodriguez and GSU Colon. Crewmembers reported they also supplied refugees with dry clothing. No beefs or dismted OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced ship begining 21-day round trips starting this voyage upon leav­ ing Elizabeth, N.J. Crew gave vote of. thanks to galley gang for good job. Chief Steward Colls supplied Seafarers LOG with photos of Cuban rescue. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), September 12—Chair­ man Jack Kingsley, Secretary W. Burdette, Educational Director C. Dunn, Deck Delegate G. Fries, Enpne lielegate D.M. Parker, Steward Delegate J.James. Chairman an­ nounced he received word of new threeyear contract He reported new agreement itKludes three percent raise the first year thrai four percent the second and diird years on base pay. He reported contract is yet to be ra^ed. No jeefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Secfarers LOGs received. Next xxt Long Beach, Calif. Dansalan, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate David Bland, Steward Delegate Johnnie McCree. Chaiman announced addi­ tional contract extension to Septem­ ber 14 and encouraged members to One Big Texan During a union meeting on the Overseas New Orleans, OS Dana "Willy" May discusses the need for larger survival suits with Recertified Bosun Sonny Pinkham. Brother May checks in at 6 feet 10 inches> 270 pounds. donate to SPAD. He reminded crew­ members to keep quarters, crew lounge and laundry room clean. Educational director advised mem­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $225 in ship's fund and $120 in movie fund. He also noted five new movies pur­ chased. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Bosun thanked steward department for great cookout. He reminded engineroom members to clean up before coming to mess hall to eat. He gave vote of thanks to entire crew. Crew observed moment of silence in memory of the late SIU president, Paul Hall. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), September 16—Chairman M. Willis, Secretary F. Sison, Educa­ tional Director M. Sahin. Chairman reported no more news concerning contract. Treasurer announced $355 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested fan in galley, and chief engineer requested smaller refrigerator for crew lounge. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. Next port Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea-Land Service), September 5—Chairman T. Murphy, Secretary L. Lightfoot, Educational Director B. Landis, Deck Delegate M.Sorenson, Engine Delegate R.Surrick, Steward Delegate A. Hasan. Chairman an­ nounced port agent to meet vessel upon arrival in port on September 12. He noted Captain Saivelle com­ mended crew after inspection of en­ tire ship. Educational director thanked deck department for pointing out safety hazards. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Seattle Port Agent Bob Hall to meet vessel upon arrival for vote on new contract Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND FREEDOM(Sea-Land Service), September 6—Chairman Ivan Bradley, Secretary J. Cbaney, education Delegate A. Horn, Engine Delegate Chris Compton, Steward Delegate Kenneth Lee. Chairman reported crew received July issues of eafarers LOG in Hong Kong and August issue in Egypt. He discussed newspaper article concerning Seaand's application to re-flag vessels, klucation director advised crewmemIjers to use safety belt when stripping gangway on departures. Treasurer reported $100 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. En­ SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman gine delegate said a barbecue grill Steamship), Septembers—Chairman will be built on vessel. Apjelo Urit, Secretary L. Gamble, SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea Land Educational Director D. Peterson, Service), September 1 l—Chairman R. Deck Delegate Glen Rogers, Engine Santos, Secretary J.S, Smith, Educa­ Delegate John Langley, Steward tional Director J.L. Rogers, Engine Delegate Antonio Prizmik. Chair­ Delegate Paul Whalen. Chairman man amiounced payoff in Belfast, urged members to upgrade skiUs at Maine and departure date for Scotland, Paul Hall Center. Beefs reported by Denmark, Spain and St. Thomas. deck, engine and steward delegates. Crew report^ looking forward to trip. 4o disputed OT reported. Crew asked Educational director urged all mem­ for improvements in night lunch and bers to up^de at Piney Point No cold drinks in port Crew also re­ beefs or disputed OT reported. quested fresh milk in Japan. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to keep crew lounge clean. Crew gave SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land vote of thanks to deck and engine Service), Septembers—Chairman departments for job well done and .«tbar Reck, Secretary G.M. Bron- steward department for good food. son. Educational Director Juanito Next port: Kirkcaldy, Scotland. �' ' •; . • Y' NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, BIN 13-1953878, for the year ended December31,1992. 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 Trust. Plan expenses were $881,035. These expenses included $159,680 in administrative expenses and $721,355 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 568 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 $17,565,141 as of December 31,1992 compared to $17,097,845 as of January 1,1992. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $467,296. This increase included unredized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had a total income of $1,348,331, including employer contributions of $259,041, employee contributions of $111,379, gain of $14,447 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $963,464, 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 TOADDITtONAL 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. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Service provider and Trustee information. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone, who is the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or $.10 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 and accompanying notes of the plan, 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 aimual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure, Room N5507, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION In accordance with Department of Labor regulations, the net realized gain of $14,447 as shown above, is computed on the "market-to-market basis"—^the difference between the sale price and market value of an asset as of January 1, 1992; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sale price. Included in the net appreciation (depreciation) in fair value of investments of ($76,030) as shown in the financial statements is $948,386 of net realized gain which is the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the assets. LOG-A-RHYTHM Of Ships and Men (American) by David Glover Who says there are no more dinosaurs left? I'm telling you that is not true. Not tyrannosaurs or triceratops, But U.S.-ftag ships and their crew. The American Merchant Marine is a trade Of which you may not have heard. Since it's vital to our great nation's defense. This ignorance is quite absurd. The merchant seaman conjures up visions Of an ignorant ward of the courts; An unkempt, uncouth and drunken lout Whose sole interest is bedroom sports! In truth the American sailor today Is highly trained, competent, smart. Trade is vital to the economy's health. Of which shipping plays a large part. A sailor must always be ready to fix Any problems like breakdowns and more. He cannot expect to receive any help Or assistance from people ashore. A professional doing his job, he's aware Of the danger to life, should he fail. He does this despite his image at home "What a choice — go to sea or to jail." Imagine the state of our deficit if Our sailors quit going to sea. Our exports would stop, our country become No longer the "Land of the Free." Desert Storm could not have succeeded without Our courageous Merchant Marine. For foreign-flag ships and seamen refused To carry our goods to the scene! Now American sailors are losing their jobs To flags of convenience unfurled. And U.S.-ftag ships — those brave dinosaurs Will become extinct 'round the world. (David Glover sails as a second mate aboard the SS LNG Virgo, an Energy Transportation Corpora­ tion vessel whose crew is composed of members of the SIU and District 1^MEBA.) 23 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No constitution of the SIU Atlantic, monies are to be paid to anyone in any Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ official capacity in the SIU unless an trict makes specific provision for official union receipt is given for safeguarding the membership's same. Under no circpmstandes money and union finances. The should any member pay any money constitution requires a detailed for any reason unless he is given such audit by certified public account­ receipt In the event anyone attempts ants every year, which is to be sub­ to require any such payment be made mitted to the membership by the without supplying a receipt, or if a secretaiy-tneasurer. A yearly fmance member is required to make a pay­ committee of rank-and-file mem­ ment and is givrai an official receipt, bers, elected by the membership, but feels that he or she should not each year examines the finances of have been required to make such pay­ the union and reports fully their find­ ment, this should imm^ately be ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. bers of this committee may make CONSTITUTIONAL dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. mendations and separate findings. Copies of the SIU constitution are TRUST FUNDS. All trust av^able in all union halls. All mem­ funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, bers should obtain copies of this conLakes and Inland Waters District stitution so as to familiarize are administered in accordance themselves with its contents. Any with the provisions of various trust time a member feels any other mem­ fund agreements. All these agree­ ber or officer is attempting to deprive ments specify that the trustees in him or her of any constitutional right charge of these funds shall equally or obligation by any methods, such as consist of unipn and management dealing with charges, trials, etc., as representatives and their alternates. well as all othar details, the member All expenditures and disburse­ so affected should immediately ments of trust funds are made only notify headquarters. upon approval by a majority of the EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ tnistees. All trust fund financial bers are guaranteed equal rights in records are available at the head­ employment and as members of the quarters of the various trust funds. SIU. Ibese rights are clearly set SHIPPING RIGHTS. A forth in the SIU constitution and in member's shipping rights and the contracts which the union has seniority are protected exclusively negotiated with the employers. by contracts between the union and Consequently, no member may be the employers. Members should get discriminated against because of to know their shipping rights. race, creed, color, seX, national or Copies of these contracts are posted geographic origin. If any member and available in all union halls. If feels that he or she is denied the members believe there have been equal rights to which he or she is violations of their shipping or entitled, the member should notify seniority rights as contained in the union headquarters. contracts between the union and the SEAFARERS POLITICAL employers, they should notify the ACTIVITY DONATION — Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate tified mail, return receipt requested. segregated fund. Its proceeds are The proper address for this is: used to further its objects and pur­ Augustin Tellez, Chairman poses including, but not limited to, Seafarers Appeals Board frrthering the political, social and 5201 Auth Way economic interests of maritime Camp Springs, MD 20746 workers, the preservation and fur­ Full copies of contracts as referred thering of the American merchant to are av^able to members at all marine with improved employment times, either by writing directly to the opportunities for seamen and boat­ union or to Ae Seafarers Appeals men and the advancement of trade Board. union concepts. In connection with CONTRACTS. Copies of aU such objects, SPAD supports and SIU contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates halls. These contracts specify the for elective office. All contribu­ wages and conditions undo- which an tions are voluntary. No contribu­ SIU member works and lives aboard tion may be solicited or received a ship or boat. Members should know because of force, job discrimina­ their contract tights, as well as then- tion, financial reprisal, or threat of obligations, such as filing for over­ such conduct, or as a condition of time (OT) on the proper sheets and in membership in the union or of the proper manner. If, at any time, a employment. If a contribution is member believes that an SIU patrol­ made by reason of the above im­ man or other union official fails to proper conduct, the member should protect their contractual rights notify the Seafarers International properly, he or she should contact the Union or SPAD by certified mail nearest SIU port agent within 30 days of the contribution EDITORIAL POLICY — for investigation and appropriate THE SEAFARERS LOG. The action and refund, if involuntary. Seafarers LOG traditionally has A member should support SPAD refrained fixrm publishing any ar­ to protect and further his or her ticle serving the political purposes economic, political and social in­ of any individual in the union, of­ terests, and American trade union ficer or member. It also has concepts. refrained from publishing articles If at any time a member feels deemed harmful to the union or its that any of the above rights have collective membership. This estab­ been violated, or that he or she has lished policy has been reaffirmed been denied the constitutional right by membership action at the Sep­ of access to union records or infor­ tember 1960 meetings in all con­ mation, the member should imme­ stitutional ports. The diately notify SIU President responsibility for Seafarers LOG Michael Sacco at headquarters by policy is vested in an editorial certified mail, return receipt re­ board which consists of the ex­ quested. The address is: ecutive board of the union. The Michael Sacco, President executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union from among its ranks,, one in­ 5201 Auth Way dividual to carry out this respon­ Camp Springs, MD 20746. sibility. "-.i �24 MOVEMBER1993 XAFJUtERSLOB '•w . Final Departures DEEP SEA NICHOLAS BECK Pensioner Nicholas Beck, 73, passed away August 28. Bom in Ger­ many, he joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. He sailed as a bosun. Brother Beck upgraded at the Lundebeig School in Hney Point, Md. in 1981. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Beck retired in January 1982. JUAN BERNARD Juan Bernard, 70, died September 15. A Puerto Rico native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1964 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Bernard's last ship was the SS Maui, a Matson vessel. FRANK BRAZELL Pensioner Frank Brazell, 70, passed away Septem­ ber 7. Bom in Georgia, he joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Brazell sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1976. Brother Brazell served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1941. He began receiving his pension in November 1979. JOSEPH CAISON Pensioner Joseph Caison, 66, died September 20. A native of Shallott, N.C., he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Caison sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1962. Brother Caison retired in Febmary 1986. HENZEKIAH DONOVAN Pensioner Henzekiah Donovan, 86, passed away September 24. A British West Indies native, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Donovan sailed as a cook/baker. He began receiving his pension in September 1969. LUTHER GADSON Pensioner Luther Gadson, 68, died September 28. Bom in Round, SC., he joined the union in 1947 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Gadson sailed in the stew­ ard department He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Gadson retired in Febmary 1981. ROBERT MCCAULEY Robert McCauley, 59, passed away August 22. A native of Teaneck, N.J., he joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Baltimore. Brother McCauley sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1955. REIDAR NIELSEN Pensioner Reidar Niel­ sen, 72, died August 27. A Norway na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Nielsen sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He began receiving his pen­ sion in August 1986. JERI PATTERSON Jeri Patterson, 63, passed away July 27. She joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in her native Los Angeles before that union merged with the AGLIWD. JOHN PROCTOR Pensioner John Proctor, 85, died August 10. An Oklahoma native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1950 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Proctor retired in July 1970. Port Arthur, Texas. Before retiring. Boatman McDonald sailed as a chief engineer. He retired in 1969. ELIAS WATSON Elias Watson, 72, passed away August 16. Bom in New York, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in San Francisco before that union merged with the AGLIWD. INLAND CHARLES BEDELL Pensioner Charles Bedell, 68, passed away August 2. He joined the union in 1943 in his native New York. Boatman Bedell sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. Boatman Bedell retired in May 1987. JESSE MCDONALD Pensioner Jesse Mc­ Donald, 88, passed away April 8. Bom in Jackson, Ala., he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of HENRY GRIGGS Henry Griggs, 66, died September 20. Bom in Tampa, Fla., he joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Griggs sailed in the steward department., He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. LOUIS WILLIS JR. Louis Willis Jr., 35, died September 1. A native of Orange, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Hous­ ton. Brother Willis sailed as a tankerman. He last worked aboard Higman Towing vessels. ATLANTIC FISHERMAN SEBASUANOSERIO Pensioner Sebastiano Serio, 87, died September 28. A native of Milwaukee, Wis., he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Brother Serio retired in March 1973. GREAT LAKES CHESTER PATTON Chester Patton, 65, died July 14. A na­ tive of Bed­ ford, Ind., he joined the union in 1957 in the port of Detroit. Brother Patton sailed most recently as a conveyorman. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1980. Brother Patton served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1953; GEORGE PELLMAN George Pellman, 55, passed away August 28. Bom in Mil­ waukee, Wis., he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Chicago. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Pellman served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953. FRANK ROBERTSON Pensioner Frank Robertson, 88, passed away August 26. Bom in Scotland, he joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Robertson sailed as a cook/baker. He began receiving his pension in October 1975. ERNESTO RUIZ Pensioner Emesto Ruiz, 72, died Sep­ tember 26. A native of Puer­ to Rico, he joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Ruiz sailed in the steward department. He retired in June 1985. WALKER WILSON Pensioner Walker Wil­ son, 67, passed away September 24. Bom in Alabama, he joined the union in 1944 in the port of Slorfolk, Va. Brother Wilson sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Brother Wilson began receiving his pension in June 1985. RICHARD WORLEY Pensioner Richard Worley, 59, died September 18. A native of Pensacola, Fla., he joined the SIU in Mobile, Ala. in 1958. Brother Worley sailed as a firemanwatertender and AB. He retired in April 1978. it& I.. I'ni A S Seafarers Seholarships: A Beaeon of Opportunity The Seafarers Scholarship Program is accepting applications for the 1994 school year. Five months may seem like a long time from now. Winter will have come and gone and the new year will be well on its way. But five months is really not all that much time when it comes to completing a scholarship ap­ plication for one of seven awards that will be given to three Seafarers and four dependents of SIU members. Completing the application form, itself, is not very diifficult. What will take more time, how­ ever, is gathering all the other necessary paperwork. This in­ cludes an autobiographical state­ ment, photograph, certified copy of birth certificate, high school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, col­ lege transcripts, letters of refer­ ence and SAT or ACT results. Schools often are very slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants must be sure to submit their requests to those institutions as soon as possible. Applicants also should sign up for the ACT or SAT exam and start thinking about who to ask to write letters of recommendation for them. Once all the paperwork has been completed and the applica­ tion form is fill^ out, the entire package should be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15,1993. With costs of college educa­ tion rising each year, the SIU scholarship is one SIU benefit that can help members and their families realize their educational dreams. Of the seven scholarships that will be awaraded in 1994, three are reserved for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for a four-year scholarship to a col­ lege or university, and two $6,000 two-year scholarships for study at a vocational school or community college). The other four scholar­ ships will be awarded to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 stipend for study at a four-year college or university. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependents are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. To receive a booklet, fill out the coupon below and mail it to the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. I please send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet ' • which contains eligibility information, procedures for applyI ing and the application form. I Name, Book Number I Address. City, State, Zip Code. Telephone Number. This application is for: CD Self CD Dependent Mail this completedform to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs. MD 20746. ./ / / y : / •/ •u 11/93 �NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 25 Case Made fiw Stmnger hilai^ Regs Continued from page 2 Turner urged the congressional panel to enact legislation to en­ sure the safety of inland water­ ways. The SIU supports a bill, known as H.R. 1915, which would require a Coast Guard-is­ sued merchant mariner document for all men and women sailing aboard inland vessels of more than five gross tons. Similar legis­ lation passed the House last year, but Congress adjourned before the Senate could complete action on the measure. "For the last two years, the SIU has insisted that a potential for catastrophe exists on the nation's inland waterways. No longer is this prophetic; the Sun­ set Limited has made it all too real," noted Turner. Closing the Loophole The SIU presses Congress to pass legislation requiring the Coast Guard to issue merchant marine documents to boatmen, a move that would insure the safety of crewmembers and coastal communities. There is a loophole in current law that exempts a vast majority of individuals working on inland water vessels from holding Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner documents—no matter what the tonnage of the boat. Presently, crewmembers sail­ ing on inland towing and harbor towing vessels as well as ocean and harbor tugs of less than 100 gross tons—which is the vast majority of tugs and tows, many having engines with horsepower in the tens of thousands, some pulling more than 50 barges at a time—are not required to hold merchant mariner documents. Merchant mariner documents encourage safety practices on the part of seamen because if he or she is found in violation of federal law the document can immedi­ ately be revoked by the Coast Guard. In addition, Ae applicant must meet minimum criteria before obtaining a merchant mariner document. "Unlike seamen in the deep sea sector, crews employed on tugs, tows, barges, and offshore supply vessels on the inland waterways are not required to hold mariner documents as a basis for employment," Turner told the subcommittee. "If these individuals were in­ deed required by statute to obtain these documents, the Coast Guard would have the authority to revoke or suspend the documents for cause, thereby precluding unfit mariners from employment in this or any other commercial maritime sector," he noted. "Without Some form of fun­ damental entry-level document there is no " ay the Coast Guarc canprevf i the reemployment o undocumented workers who cause accidents. It is that simple. Turner added. In relation to the Sunset Limited crash, only two of the four crewmembers aboard the towboat that allegedly causec the derailment of the passenger train, had a merchant mariner document issued by the Coast Guard. Congress Takes Action "Although all four crewmem­ bers are charged with navigating responsibilities and must work together as a team, the captain and pilot are the only members of the crew who are required to hole Coast Guard licenses. Neither deckhand was documented, nor are they required to be. As result, their work habits and per­ sonal history are not subject to the same scrutiny by the Coast Guard as those mariners who are required to hold documents or licenses as a basis for employ­ ment," the legislative director pointed out to the congressmen In his testimony, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral James Card told the subcommitt^ that, other than the radar and a radio, the MV Mauvilla carried no chart, com- Study Finds Seamen with Documents Not Likeiy to Be Cause of Accidents Continued from page 2 ^ • y'. pass or other navigational tools. The Coast Guard official noted that such equipment is not required either by die law or Coast Guard regulations. Towboats are required only to have a VHF radio, a whistle, bell and position light "It seems to me that whistles and bells aren't going to do it, said the chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Navigation, Billy Tauzin (D-La.). SIU National Director of Immediately following the Governmental Relations, Terry hearing, Tauzin drew up legisla­ Turner urged the Subcommittee tion to ensure that all towing ves­ on Coast Guard and Navigation to sels are equipped with the proper require merchant mariner navigational tools. On October documentation for all seamen 14, he introduced H.R. 3282, The sailing on the inland waterways. Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act of 1993. Federico Pena, ordered an intense TTie legislation requires that and complete review of Coast all towing vessels which operate Guard regulation and oversight of on inland waterways have marine the inland marine transportation charts, navigational publications, system to be completed by a compass, a radar and a December. fathometer. TTie bill will also en­ The Coast Guard will review sure that licensed towboat the adequacy and effectiveness of operators can demonstrate manning requirements for proficiency using these tools. operators of uninspected towing Joining Tauzin in support of vessels; the history of incidents H.R. 3282, the chairman of the involving operators of House Merchant Marine and uninspected towing vessels; and, Fisheries Committee, Repre­ the adequacy of the requirements sentative Gerry Studds (D- for reporting of marine casualties Mass.), stated that further and hazardous conditions involv­ legislative action must be taken to ing vessels and the adequacy of ensure complete inland waterway the penalties for failure to report safety. such accidents. There are more "We must leara from the hor­ than 5,000 tugs and towboats in ror that occurred in Mobile," he the U.S.-flag fleet and close to said. "It is incomprehensible that 3,300 of those operate on the anyone operating any vessel of nation's rivers and lakes, which any size would not have a chart on make up 25,777 miles of board or be unable to differentiate navigable rivers. between the radar images of a H.R. 1915, as introduced by barge and a bridge. We must take Rep. Gerry Studds early this fall a good hard look at navigational as well as H.R. 3282, introduced procedures on our increasingly by Rep. Tauzin have been crowded inland waters and at presented to the subcommittee manning and licensing require­ and await mark-up. ments on inland towboats. We Once approved by the subcom­ must close all loopholes and fill mittee it goes on to the full House aU the gaps we find." Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, who after delibera­ DOT to Do a Study As a result of the tragic derail­ tion will send the legislation to ment of the Sunset Limited, the House for debate and vote. If Secretary of Transportation passed, it goes to the Senate. dividuals on these vessels are Guard, "human factors" include documepted and thus will have some of the following categories Great Lakes and deep sea vessels been subjected to a record check bypass of available safety the most likely cause of an acci­ of the National Driver Register, devices, inattention to duty, in­ dent was problems related to the which releases information re­ toxication—alcohol/drugs, cal­ vessels. In the graph below, lated to any driving offense per­ culated risk, carelessness, error in tugs/tows include all such vessels taining to alcohol. The applicant judgement, lack of knowledge, less than 300 gross tons. Lakes is also subject to a Federal Bureau lack of training, lack of ex­ ships are those vessels over of Investigation (FBI) check and perience, operator error, fatigue, 10,000 gross tons, self-propelled, review of criminal records as well stress, physical impairment, which have been involved in an as verification of U.S. citizenship psychological impairment, accident on one of the five Great or evidence from INS of lawful failure to comply with rules or Lakes. Finally, ocean-going ves­ entry and permanent residence in regulations, inadequate super­ sels are all selfr propel led vessels the country. In addition, the vision, failure to follow the rules over 14,999 gross tons and which mariner must take an oath to ad­ of the road. are one of the following types of here to all applicable federal The Coast Guard's data vessels: Container, Rbll-on/Roll- laws; provide proof of employ­ reveals that the most likely reason off, LASH, Ore-Bulk-Oil, liquid ment in the industry or evidence for an accident involving a deep or dry bulker, or oil, gas or chemi­ of military service; renew docu­ sea ship or Great Lakes vessel is Continued from page 2 cal tankers. ment every five years and com­ a problem with the vessel itself. The primary distinction be­ pletion 60-90 days of seatime. To As defined by the agency, "vessel visibility severely limited, the tween the seamen employed obtain an advanced rating, a problems" are those factors re­ pilot began looking for a tie-off aboard tugs and towboats in the seaman must pass a Coast Guard lated to the material or equipment on the east side of the river. By inland sector and those working examination indicating proficien­ of the ship or boat that cause lugging the east side of the aboard vessels on the Great Lakes cy and knowledge. trouble, but which are not related Mobile River, the pilot uninten­ and oceans, is the great majority The Coast Guard's data base to improper maintenance. Ex­ tionally entered the Big Bayou of crewmembers on marine indicates that human factors are amples are inadequate equip­ Canot, where barge traffic is equipment in the rivers and lakes the primary cause of accidents in­ ment; inadequate stability; prohibited. are not documented by the United volving tugs and tows. Converse­ inadequate horsepower; failed On the radar screen, the pilot States Coast Guard. ly, on deep sea. ships and Great materials, such as electrical, saw an object extending across die Crewmembers aboard deep Lakes vessels, the human factor mechanical and structural items. waterway and mistakenly thought The percentage of accidents the object was a tied-up tug and sea and Great Lakes ships are sub­ only accounted for roughly one caused by forces of nature was third of all accidents ject to rigorous alcohol and drug similar among all three classifica­ ow. The Mauvilla headed toward As defined by the Coast testing procedures. All in­ tions of vessels. "Environmental the object intending to ask permis­ Factors" are considered by the sion to tie-up alongside. Coast Guard to be adverse The deckhand who was LEADING CAUSES OF MARINE ACCIDENTS weather conditions, adverse cur­ scheduled to be on watch was in BY VESSEL TYPE FROM LATE 1970s THROUGH MID-1991 rent or sea conditions, debris, suc- the galley below when the tow U.S. FLAG INLAND TUGmiWS, GREAT LAKES & OCEAN-GOING VESSELS tion bank, ice, submerged struck the bridge causing a sec­ m HUMAN FACTORS objects, unmaintained channels, tion of the railroad bridge to be PERCENTAGE VESSEL PROBLEMS among others. OFTOTAL cnocked 41 inches out of align­ •1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS The SIU concluded that the ment. The shift left a bridge girder ACCIDENTS 5o<^ FOR THE evidence proves that seamen in the path of the oncoming train THREE 40% with merchant mariner docu­ and a spokesperson for the Na­ LEADING ments have a better safety tional Transportation Safety CAUSES ^ record and are less susceptible Joard reported that it was this 20% to injury and death than men and women working aboard tugs that caused Amtrak's Sunset and tows who do not meet the Limited to plunge into the bayou. The question of how much LAKE VESSELS OCEAN VESSELS standards the Coast Guard re­ TUGfrOW time elapsed from the slamming quires of all mariners. Investigation Continues Of Amtrak Deraiiment m '4'"'" of the bridge to the derailment is still under investigation. Safety board officials have said that the train wreck occurred about eight minutes after the bridge was rammed. The towboat pilot told the authorities that he thought that he was still in the Mobile River, when in reality he was lost in the fog in the Big Bayou Canot. The reported position was one mile from the actual accident. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Ad­ miral James Card testified that had the operator known how to use his radar aboard the tugboat MV Mauvilla, he would not have mistaken a railroad bridge for a barge and headed for it in the nonnavigable waterway. The committee was also told that, other than the radar and a radio, the towboat carried no chart, compass or other naviga­ tional tools. The Coast Guard of­ ficial noted that such equipment is not required either by the law or Coast Guard regulations. Towboats are required only to have a VHF radio, a whistle, bell and position light. ..'tr 'V~. . A'; .'.H • �26 SEAFARERS LOG MOVEMRER1993 •'' i-'V'-1 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Trainee LlfeboatClass515—Graduatingfromtraineelifeboatcte^515are(fromleft.kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor). Ricardo Ribeiro. Marcus Nicholas. Lionel! Royer. Enc Airline. lOrk Bryan, (second row) Jayson Agana. Trent Williams. Raymond Negron, Malachy Mu vey. Austm Garginer. Gregory Thomas, (third row) William Keith Crawford. Anthony Crummell, Marvin Johnson^ John Douglas Flangan. Anthony McDanniel and David Pedigo Jr. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the advanced firefighting course are Bruce Perry. (from left, kneeling) Sidney Skinner. Daniel Vich. LeRoy Isaacson. Richard Tankersley. B Stephen Bishop, (standing) Byran Cummings (instructor). Sue Corliss. Jason Myers. Daniel Hughes. Sam Johnson. Douglas Jones. Paula Woodside. Olgierd Becker. Darrell Peterson, John McGonagle. George Taylor Jr.. Robert Corbett. John O'Connell. Paul Van Hollebeke. Michael Stravers. (third row) Richard Ziegler and Allen Shaw Hydraulics—Completing the hydraulics course on August 19 are (from left, kneeling) Robert Gaglioti. John Parkhurst. Sellers Brooks, (second row) Steven Hoskins. John Penrose. Kelly Davis. Larry Phil^t and Bill Foley (instructor). Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the Septemtier 8 liteboat class are (from left, kneeling) Kenneth Getter. Jamie Watson. (second row) Omar Muhammad, George Vitello.Saundra Leonard. John Bayard III. Casey Taylor (instructor), (third row) Denis Picciuolo. Scott sweeney, Carl Parker. Carolyn MerrifiekJ. Paul Guzman and Bassirou jg. Diesel Engine—Receiving certification in diesel engine tech­ nology are (from left, kneeling) Keeper Brown. John Nelson. Beckett Young HI. (second row) John Wiegman (instructor). Paul Patterson. Michael Martykan. Richard Mollis and Lawrence Rose. Not shown are William Smith and Jorge Bonnelli. Sealift-Crane Maintenance—Graduating from the September 8 sealift-crane maintenance class are (from left, kneeling) Dale Kirsch Jr.. James Duffy. Kevin Upgraders Lifeboat—Ben Cusic (left) instructed Young, (second row) Michael Struve. Jack Green. Daniel Rick Gray and Jason Collins, members of the upgraders Brady and Jeff Swanson (instructor). lifeboat class that graduated August 23. Shiphandling—^Working their way up the deck department ratings are (from left) Jake Karaczynski (in­ structor). Allen Shaw. Mary Watson and Gregg Carlson. >*.' ' /-l •• • •"< ...jr,;- •••' . �SSWUfERS UW 27 imEmEiims mrrugiaiw LOIMIEBEfffi SGMML ^^-1994 imnUUHHG COURSE Sf^EDlHI nKdadalf-In Bosun Recertificatioii Steward Re<»rtlfiation - .. . ^ is the course schedule for fnr classes r^lasses heginning beeinninc between Decemb the following SJ^SHfrrS change to reflect the n^s of the membership, the industry and-in times of conllict-the nation s security. Completioh Check-In Date Date Course _ January 31 March 11 ^^^S^^uaetheOSSpmPrevenaonandConuU^ ' -• SIdphandling Radar Certification . Cd^tial Navigation .^iSiniis UiirdMate Bohrse Oil SpiU Prevention and Containment tjyii^ifdinan • , Basic^^dvanced Fire Fighting Inland Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Operations & Maihtenance Limited License, Part 1 Limited License,Part 2 Limited License, Part 3 QMED-Any Rating Fireman/Watertender and Oiler Diesel Engine Technology Rtfrigeration Maint. & Operations Welding PumproomMaintu&Openi^ Marine Electrical Maintena^ Refrig. Cdntitiners-Adi^ceti Basic Electronics Marine Electronic Technician I Marine Electronic Technician U Check-In Date Completion Date February 14 March 14 February 18 March 18 December 6 January 3 January 17 January 31 January 25 March 15 January 17 December 17 January 14 January 28 February 11 February 4 March 25 January 22 January 3 February 21 March 21 January 17 April 11 :January 31 April 25 February 14 May 9 f li-:; i {<i Deep Sea Member• CnmpletionDate, January 3 January 3 May 9 February 21 January 1 Ma«*di21 January 3 March 28 May 2 February M May 2 Januarys Fdl»ruary2 March 1 March 25 February 11 June 17 Mardil8 February 11 April29 January 28:) Aprtt22 June 10 April22 June lO January 31 February 28 March 31 Virfff* Erfiicatftwi S^iBdiriB , ' •' . 1 I " ^ English as a Second Language (E5L) Developmental Stupes . , January 28, March 18 Aprill5 January 28 April 22 February 11 May6 February 25 May 20 12 weeks - open-ended adi^ion 6 weeks - open-ended adn^ion 6 weeks - open-ended admission January 10 January 17 Mareh7 'Mm March 14 MarchJl MatdiZS JanuarylO March4 time tounion book indicating :ard listing urn «ceiv«l SHOT^B (Street) (State) Check-In (Madle) (Fusi) Address (Qly) Compietion^te ga-^SStaottCABE) -DateofBhth (Ust) c^^v.ln The foUowing courses ^Ei^Simaaoil. Sohool.net.sccoutecttheadm.ss.ousoffl.^toe,^^^ UPGRADING APPLICATION Name. May 2 MOarch 7 agimllMnMnwComw jMuary28 March 25 January 14 February 18 March 11 February 11 May 6 Januaiy 17 March 14 January 10 February 14 March 7 January 3 March 28 April 19 March 28 January 31 ^ VESSEL _ Telephone _X(Area Code) (Zip Code) MemberO DISCHAKGE _ Inland Wa.® MemberD PacBc Lakes DATE. ^Mowing./—.no,ytt.don, be processed. Social Security SIGNATURE. Book#__ — I am interested in the f?U°wi^ ^our8e{s)checkedbelowormdicaled here if not listed Department Seniority acnwjiiij ^ nv« • No Home Port. U.S. Citizen; LJ i—' EndotsementCs) or Liceose(s) now held • Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DNO to. If yes, which program: from Last grade of school completed ^ ^ Have you attended any SHLSS upgradrng courses. • Ves ,fyes.course(s)taken^^----^^ If yes, course(s) taken Have you taken any SHLSS Sealitt pe DNO DNO ! If yes, how many weeks have you com^^^ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guar i • Yes •No' FirefightingiDYes UN Date available for training Primary language spoken [jYes • No DhCK AB/Sealift 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel • Towboat OperatorInland • Olestial Navigation • Simulator Course • • • • • — ENOINE • FOWT • QMED-Any Rating • Variable S^UC^e Speed DC Drive Systems (MarineElectromcs) • Marine Bectiical Maintenance • PumpipomMMntenanceft Operation • Refrigeration Systems Maintenance &Operation • Diesel Engine Technology • AssistantEngjnew/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor • RcftigeratedContainers Advanced Maintenance • Electro-HydrauUcSystems Q Automation • Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician • • • • • p • ALL DEPARTMENT • Welding • Lifeboatman (must taken wifli another course) • oa Spill Prevention & Containment • Basic/Advanced * Fire Fighting • Sealift " ADULTEDUCATION DEPARTMENT • Adult Basic Education (ABE) • High School Equivalency Program (GED) • Developmental Studies (DVS) • English as a Second Language (ESL) • ABE/ESL Lifeboat . Preparation STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility Cook and Baker " COLLEGE PROGRAM ChiefCook • Associate in Alts Degree Chief Steward Towboat Inland Inland Cook Towboat COOK . th^iMter only ITyooprewitorigliial receiptsand «i«ariliny ..i- �SEAEUCERS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT A copy of the Summary Annual Report for.the Great Lakes fug and Dredge Plan is printed on page 23. November 1993 Volume 55, Number 11 'iiii: Crewmembers of the ITB New York must have experienced deja vu during a recent trip from Hous­ ton to the U.S. Virgin Islands. ! The SlU-contracted vessel ex­ ecuted two rescues in four days, both involving Cuban refugees, AB Robert Seaman reported in a letter to \hc Seafarers LOG. On September 24, the New York picked up four men about 45 miles northeast of Havana. They had been drifting in a 14-foot plastic rowboat, without food and with lit­ tle drinking water left. The Cubans had no life jackets, and their only navigational tool was a pocket compass. Bosun Mario Romero and Cap­ tain Cyrus Brewster, who both speak Spanish, learned from the refugees that they had started with five men in the boat. "But they only got about two miles out and one of them jumped into the water and started back for shore," wrote Seaman, who also provided the photos accompanying this story. The crew of the New York retrieved the Cubans without inci­ dent. Steward Richard Hicks and Four men adrift In a 14-foot plastic rowboat are picked up by thecrew ot the ItB New York. Chief Cook Gregory Johnson gave the men food and beverages.Two of the Cubans did not have shirts, so Seaman and Chief Engineer Olivette gave them T-shirts. "Let's just say the food went fast," Seaman said. "After four days, you can im­ agine how hungry they were." He added, "The whole crew of , the New York helped out in one way or another. This was an all-hands operation." The Coast Guard cutter Padre picked up the Cubans a little while later. They were taken to Key West, Fla. where they had preliminary in­ terviews with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). The men then were turned over to a local, volunteer organization called the Transit Center for Cuban Refugees. They will have a full hearing with the INS at a later date. Here We Go Again Three crewmembers prepare the ladder so that a U.S. border patrol boat can pick up the survivors of the second rescue. From left are Pumpman Richard Natoll, DEU Thomas Correll and Bosun Mario Romero. The New York had made it to the Mona Passage, off the coast of the Dominican Republic, by the morn­ ing of September 27. That is when AB Ronald Paradise sighted a small boat occupied by two Cubans (one male, one female). Two Cubans take tfie line that I pulls their small craft alongside i the ITB New York. 'if * • _-!:i •• -- Crewmembers of the integrated tug-barge shot a line to the small crrft, then pulled the boat alongside the New York and secured it. Again the refugees were brought aboard without complications. They were fed by the steward department, then took showers and borrowed some clean clothing while their gar­ ments were washed. "They said they bought the boat from a Cuban soldier and they were lucky to get away," Seaman reported. "They had left with four tanks of gas, and they were almost out." A U.S. border patrol boat picked up the dno, and the New York again resumed its voyage. It was not clear how or why the two Cubans wound up in the Mona Passage. These incidents "delayed our trip, but it's always good to help those in need," concluded Seaman. "In both cases, the Cubans might have been in trouble if we hadn't seen them." SIU members aboard the New York during these events were Bosun Romero, ABs Seaman, Paradise and Gary Nagel, QMED Richard Natoli and DEU Thomas Correli. fr ml: The first four Cubans to be rescued are flanked by Bosun Mario Romero (left) and AB Robert Seaman, who provided the LOG with the photos accompanying this article. Tl Bosun Mario Romero talks to the duo, now safely aboard the In- || tegrated tug-barge. I Help Locate This Missing Chiid The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Jake Wayne Brabson. » ^ "A Jake Wayne Brabson •.P>. . Missing from New Castle, Pa. since June 21, 1989, when he was two years old, Jake Brabson was abducted by his non-custodial mother, Debra Lee Brabson (alias Debra Johns). A felony warrent has been issued in her name. At the time of his abduc­ tion, the blonde-haired, blueeyed boy was 3 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 40 pounds Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Je^ke Wayne Brabson should tact the National Cenfc/r fo^ Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the Pennsyl­ vania State Police at (412) 658-1671. liil: � 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. 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Title A name given to the resource November 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES AMTRAK DIASTER SPOTLIGHTS NEED FOR TOUGHER INALND SAFETY REGS TRAIN DERAILMENT ON BRIDGE TIED TO THE STROKE OF A TOW U.S.-FLAG COALITION URGES CONGRESS, PRESIDENT TO BACK MARITIME PROGRAM DOCUMENTED SEAMEN ARE BETTER WORKERS, STUDY SHOWS AFL-CIO FIGHTS TO NIX NAFTA SENATE REPELS ATTACK ON SEAMEN’S WAGES EXPLOSION ABOARD OMI CHARGER KILLS SEAFARER, 2 IN RIDING CREW SIU VICTIM OF BLAST MOURNED BY UNION UNIONS PRESS ‘WORK TAX’ SUIT PRO-WORKER COURSE SET BY AFL-CIO DELEGATES GIANT GRAIN LOBBY BALKS AT REVEALING FOREIGN TIES PATTERN OF ABUSE, CORRUPTION BY GIANT AGRI GROUPS UNCOVERED LOST VIETNAM MARINERS HONORED BY SAN FRANCISCO MONUMENT ANTI U.S.-FLAG SHIP GROUP TIGHT-LIPPED ON FOREIGN TIES NYT: EXPORT FOOD AID ABUSED SEAFARERS PRACTICE SPILL CONTAINMENT TB PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES TO BE INSTITUTED BY SIU WHITE HOUSE ANNOUNCES U.S. SHIPYARD SUPPORT CONGRESS, PRESIDENT URGED TO BACK LEGISLATION FOR MARITIME REVITALIZATION LUEDTKE AND ZENITH SEAFAERS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR ACCORD G&H PACT ENDORSED ALTON BELLE OFFICERS APPROVE CONTRACT ASSESSING INDUSTRY NEEDS, INLAND GROUP PLANS COURSES TRAINING DEEMED ‘BENEFICIAL’ BY MARITRANS SIU BOATMEN SHIFTING AND DOCKING VESSELS CREATE BUSY SCHEDULE FOR SIU-CREWED TUGS NAVY’S GROCERY STORE HOME AFTER 8 YEARS IN PACIFIC WILLIAM HANDELSMAN DIES AT 75, FORMER MSTU ORGANIZING OFFICIAL U.S. COMBAT SUPPLY SHIP MARS BEGINS NEW LIFE MTD LAUNCHES GRASSROOTS EFFORT TO KEEP U.S. FLEET CONVENTION SUPPORTS CLINTON HEALTH REFORM MTD SPOTLIGHTS NAFTA’S MANY FLAWS, CONGRESSMEN NOTE DANGERS OF PACT UNIONISTS TAKE ACTION 1993 MTD CONVENTION CREW’S PRIDE EVIDENT ABOARD PRES. JACSKSON GALLEY GANG PROVIDES ‘TOUCH OF HOME’ ON BOARD LNG VIRGO CREW AGREES: ALTAIR HAS CAMARADERIE, TEAMWORK SEAFARERS BOATS SWEEP CONTEST OF NEW BEDFORD FLEET BLESSING INVESTIGATION CONTINUES OF AMTRAK DERAILMENT ITB NEW YORK RESCUES CUBAN REFUGEES 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 11/01/1993 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. 55, No. 11 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/3fc7108c058904e91d1da1ca0bc324b3.PDF 1e7e1df5fc259b9a21c10d40508b8f14 PDF Text Text Clinton Commits to U.S. Ship Program In '95 Pages OFFtClAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATiONAL UNIOK • ATUNTIC GULF, iAKES AND INUND WATERS DiSTRia • AFKIO Volume 56, Number 11 November 1994 3 oat/j^-r* OOT>0.0 I-I HC3 c/) oi,-.r— a-< 2:.Tii/)>-<?o -lOCJ C/1C32</) ui -H;30 t/> '* >>J monis: om>'0 - 'k k. • • ii'•:. L.ik't^.. 1. t.,j Once again, U.S.-flag privately owned vessels responded to the nation's call to move military equipment and supplies to key trouble spots—Haiti and Kuwait, Here, trucks are rolled onto one of the many ships Involved. Pages 3,8. . •••••-'•-.•.-•-.ir �2 NOlfEMRER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report JUtA ami Keystone Si^ Pact In Strike Preceding Deal, SIU Aided Picketing Missed by a Hair; It's Not Over Yet Last month the Senate ended its session without passing the maritime bill the House had enacted back in August. The bill, which would have earmarked $1 billion for 56 ships over 10 years, got caught in the line of fire as senators maneuvered for positions they thought would appeal to voters. In this process, certain Republicans tried to prevent any bill that would have been a credit to the White House from passing. They used tac­ tics that ate up the clock, keeping several bills, including the legislation on a new maritime program, from being submitted to a full Senate debate and vote. Michael Sacco The irony of the situation is that the maritime bill enjoyed wide support among both Democratic and Republican senators. It had enough support to become law—in Congress and ultimately with President Clinton's sig­ nature. But the senators who were trying to move the bill ran out of time, and just by a hair, the legislation missed becoming the law of the land. That is why we have every reason to go forward. There is great support from members of Congress. The president has committed his administration to the goal of passing a program to revitalize U.S. shipping. And the iiidustry is battle-seasoned. We know the extent to which U.S.-flag shipping's enemies will go. (Remember that in late September, some farm-state senators relied on a rarely-used rule to block a committee from acting on the maritime bill.) Most importantly. Seafarers, their families, retired SIU mem­ bers and friends of the industry everywhere proved that U.S. shipping is an industry that concerns American voters. The thousands of communications to senators from these in­ dividuals drove home the point that Americans want a strong U.S.-flag shipping capability in times of war and national emer­ gency, as well as a fleet capable of ensuring a U.S. presence in the carriage of American imports and exports. The letters and phone calls that were received by senators indicated that a strong maritime industry provides employment and economic security to hundreds of thousands of Americans. The letter writing and phone calling of Seafarers and other Americans who support a U.S.-flag fleet was a wonderful exer­ cise in smart trade unionism. It demonstrated that SIU members and retirees understand the relationship between politics and the health of our industry. I am proud that so many of you took the time to be involved in the process. You proved ready for the task of urging support for the American merchant marine in 1994, and I know the union can count on you to continue to deliver the message to your elected officials in 1995. Volume 56. Number 11 November 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor­ ges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; As­ sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Gloucester Honors WWII Seamen The city of Gloucester, Mass. recently dedicated a memorial to local merchant mariners who sailed during World War II. The memorial (pictured above) consists of a marble marker in front of an anchor from an unknown WWII merchant ship with the inscrip­ tion: "With thanks from the people of Gloucester to our sons who served as merchant mariners, 1941-1945." i'S.'iaWJsiTR arras The pact between the ARA and Keystone en­ After a six-week strike, the American Radio Association (ARA) announced on October 31 that sures a wage increase, guaranteed overtime and job a settlement had been reached with Keystone Ship­ security. ping Co. of Philadelphia. Leading up to the signing of the 6-year collective bargaining agreement between the ARA and Keys­ tone was a series of job actions by the radio operators. The ARA members were often joined by other maritime trade unionists in these events in a show of waterfront solidarity. SIU members in the Seattle area helped ARA members walk picket lines, and another Seafarer used his privately owned recreational craft as a picket boat at a grain dock in Tacoma, Wash. Ad­ ditionally, SlU-crewed tugs in Wilmington, Calif, refused to move a Keystone ship. In Tacoma, Seafarer Jim Fox, an AB, joined others manning picket boats which established positions between the Keystone-operated Chestnut Hill and the pier. "I was,more than happy to volun­ teer my boat," said Fox, 29. "Like the saying goes: 'An injury to one is an injury to all.' "Police and fire boats showed up and threatened to tow our boats. We had a lot of picketers on the beach, too, and I think we got our point across." "The SIU and many other maritime unions have been very supportive and we sincerely thank them," said ARA Secretary-Treasurer Bemie Stoller. QMED Chris Snow (center) and Chief Steward Knowing we have so much backing from the labor Manny Basas (right) join ARA member Rick Levancommunity helped us continue this fight for good- dowski in a picket against Keystone Shipping in Seattle. faith negotiations and a fair contract." Seafarers Back Israeli Brothers Members of the Seafarers In­ below inflation^ a ploy aimed at temational Union set up an infor­ forcing officers to quit, thereby mational picket line at die dock in opening the doors to the recruit­ Baltimore last month in support ment of cheaper, foreign labor. Zim Israel Navigation Co. is of the Israeli Sea Officers Union ISOU), which held a 12-hour one of the largest shipping com­ work action on the Zim-Miami to panies in the world, with the Is­ make the company aware of the raeli govenment and Israel ISOU's struggle to keep Israeli Corporation (owned by a multi­ seamen on Zim ships and to millionaire) as its major secure a fair contract. Some of shareholders. Zim's financial the ISOU members have been report shows a large profit from working without a contract for last year and the Israeli govern­ wo years—since December ment is planning to sell some of 1992—and believe the company its holdings in die company, in­ wants to eliminate the union al- dicating that Zini shares may well ogether. wind up on the New York Stock All officers on board the con- Exchange. ainer ship, owned by Zim Israel The ISOU seamen have Navigation Co., refrained from pledged to continue their fight for assisting in loading or unloading a fair contract. The Israeli ship he vessel from noon to midnight, officers also are working to keep including working the hatches Israeli seamen and the Israeli flag and other equipment necessary on Zim's fleet of ships. br cargo operations. "We have told our officers not ;o do anything that has to do with cargo work," said Capt. Efraim Marcovitz, who represents masters and chief engineers in the sraeli Sea Officers Union, in a statement to the press during the ob action. While conducting the infor­ mational picket at the entrance to he terminal where the ZintMlami was docked. Seafarers AB Sean Flaherty, who formerly passed out leaflets explaining The chalk-written note on the Zlm- sailed with the SIU of Canada some of the problems the officers Mlaml's sailing board says It all— before joining the SIU to sail deep sea, lends his support to the picket. are experiencing. "We can under­ V/L ON STRIKE. stand their cause for concern," said Bill Scott, a 25-year-old Sltf member who first shipped out on an SIU vessel during the Persian Crulf War. "They don't want their ships to go foreign flag, and we are here to support them in their ight for fairness." QMED Frank Coburn, an SIU member since 1986, said Solidarity, unity, that's what this is all about." 'Zim Lines is completely neglecting their duty to come to terms with us," said Capt. Mar­ covitz. "We see ourselves in a itter dispute that gets deeper and deeper by the day." Marcovitz lYalklng an informational picket line in support of the Israeli Sea claims the company has offered Officers Union are (from left) AB Ralph Broadway, SIU official Sal the officers pay increases far Aqula, AB Paul LaTorre and AB Gregory Peters. t : & �M0yEMBER1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Maritime Bill Stymied in Senate Clinton to Back U.S. Ship Biii in '95 After the Senate failed to act on a lO-year, $1 biljion dollar shipping bill last month before Congress adjourned, President Bill Clinton announced that the administration would work to ensure passage of maritime legislation in the upcoming year. Congress "must act to ensure that a fleet of U.S.-flag merchant ships, crewed by skilled American seafarers, stands ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs," the president said in a statement released October 19. "The ad­ ministration looks forward to working with the next Congress to enact legislation that achieves these important goals," con­ cluded the statement. It appears the maritime pro­ gram bill was a victim of stalling tactics by Republican senators A ft^r f-VlA CiSrkOl-A r^^t- ...U^ A1 1 _ _a 1 /» .« who in the last weeks of the ses­ move.) sion of the 103rd Congress sought The Republicans also worked to prevent the president from to prevent votes on bills backed achi V i.ig any kind of legislative by the administration that would victoiy. have reformed the way toxic waste dumps are cleaned and esCaught in the Crossfire tablished new mechanisms for From the outset. Republicans administering public lands in the began a campaign to obstruct West. legislation from being passed. With the Senate embroiled in One tactic, the filibuster, was non-productive fights over these often used by the Republicans. In matters and with many senators the last three weeks of the Senate anxious to return home to begin session. Senator Charles E. campaigning in earnest for the Grassley (R-Iowa) filibustered a November 8 elections, the Senate bill designed to reform the way in adjourned on October 8. which elections for public federal The House had adjourned the office are financed, a program day before and thus the 103rd that had been part of Clinton's Congress was effectively out of reform agenda. (A filibuster business. The new Congress, the prevents a bill from being con­ 104th, will take office in January. sidered by allowing senators to Facing that group of legislators make long speeches on any sub­ will be a re-introduced maritime ject. To break a filibuster, 60 program bill. senators must vote in favor of the (There will be a brief session Seafarers Hailed for Haiti Role Seamen Report Smooth Operations, Close Cooperation with U.S. Military SIU members last month were praised by the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) and by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for their roles in delivering Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ves­ sels ahead of schedule during the September break-out of the ships to support United States military operations in Haiti. Seafarers crewed eight of the 14 RRF ships which were ac­ tivated, and all were delivered ahead of their prescribed activa­ tion times. i . Seafarers also played a role in recent operations in the Persian Gulf See page 8. At press time, 11 of the vessels had returned from Haiti to the U.S. and had gone back to reduced operating status. Three others, including the Seafarerscrewed auxiliary crane ship Comhusker State, remained ac­ tive in the impoverished island nation, where thousands of U.S. troops still are stationed. 'Outstanding Performance' In a letter to SIU President Michael Sacco, Maritime Ad­ ministrator Albert J. Herberger commended Seafarers for their "extraordinary and dedicated effort in crewing the RRF ships that were activated for Operations Maintain Democracy/Uphold Democracy in Haiti. . . . These ships could not have achieved this outstanding level of performance without the expeditious and professional response that came from our volun­ teer U.S. civilian mariners." Herberger also noted that all of the ships were made fully opera­ tional far ahead of schedule. Besides the Comhusker State, SIU members also crewed the barge carrier Cape Mohican and the roll-on/roll-off ships Cape Lobos, Cape Taylor, Cape Texas, Cape Island, Cape Intrepid and Cape Inscription after the Depart­ ment of Defense activated them. The RRF is a fleet of ap­ proximately 1(X) tankers, dry cargo Statement by President Clinton •vi' The American maritime industry plays an important role in our nation's economy and security. Under Secretary Pena's leadership, we have made significant progress implementing a program that enhances the competitiveness of Ainerican shipyards in the international commercial market. But our work is not comp ete. Congress still must act to ensure a maritime presence in the United States' vast intemational trade. It must act to ensure that a fleet of U.S.-flag merchant ships, crewed by skilled American seafarers stands ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs. The administration looks forward to working with the next Congress to enact legislation that achieves these important goals, October 19,1994 The White House for the 103rd Congress after elec­ tion day, but it will be limited to a vote on the trade treaty known as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, or GATT.) Rule Ruse Added to Delay The maritime bill which was left unattended to by the Senate called for a $1 billion maritime program that would provide sup­ port for a U.S.-flag liner fleet and aid American shipyards over a ten year period. Funding for the pro­ gram would have been raised through the imposition of a ton­ nage duty levied on all vessels calling on U.S. ports. In the closing days of the Senate, momentum was increas­ ing to pass the maritime bill, which had been enacted by the House on August 2 by a vote of 294 to 122. In an effort to prevent the Senate from debating or voting on the legislation, three farm state senators used a par­ liamentary giimnick to delay the bill's progress. The technicality invoked by Senators Larry Pressler (R-S.D.), Grassley and Hank Brown (RColo.) prevented the bill from being reported out of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, when that panel met on Septem­ ber 23. The rarely used Senate Rule 26 raised by Pressler, Grassley and Brown states that committee meetings can only be held within a specific number of hours after the legislative body has been in recess unless all the senators on a committee agree that the panel can meet. Since the Senate was still in session on the day the com­ mittee was meeting, due to the filibuster by Grassley on cam­ paign financing, Pressler insisted Continued on page 6 Pro-Maritime Caniiiiiates Assisted by SiU Members Seafarers are walking precincts, posting signs, handing out leaflets and manning phone banks for candidates who support a strong U.S. shipping capability in anticipation of the November 8 The SlU-crewed Cape Intrepid leaves Beaumont, Texas for Haiti, general election. pushed by a Seafarer-crewed tugboat operated by Sabine Towing. Up for election are all 435 House seats and 35 of 100 Senate positions and a slew of state and local offices. Congressmen and senators who have worked hard for pas­ sage of a maritime program are up for re-election. Also, a number of candidates are seeking office for the first time who have pledged to back U.S. shipping. Seafarers have been cam­ paigning actively for these cham­ pions of both the U.S. merchant marine and the workers who earn Posting a sign outside the New their livelihoods on U.S. ships. Bedford, Mass. union hall is SIU Patrolman Eugenic de Sousa. . Volunteer Activity Deck department crewmembers aboard the Cape Texas in Mobile get that roll-on/roll-off vessel ready to sail to Haiti. They are, from left, ABs James Hardy, Howard Blanks and Jose Maisonet. ships and specialty vessels kept in layup by MarAd and operated by U.S.-flag shipping companies. The RRF activation began on September 8, as the U.S. prepared to launch an invasion against the Haitian military forces which in .t • .• 1991 violently overthrew democratically elected president Jean-Bertrand Aristide. But after some eleventh-hour negotiating between Haitian Continued on page 8 In addition to volunteering for various campaign tasks. Seafarers and their families are making plans to vote. Those who will be aboard ship on election day have made arrangements to vote by absentee ballot. Seafarers also have been voluntarily contributing to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD) fund. SPAD funds are presented by the Seafarers to candidates who favor programs to ensure a vigorous U.S.-flag fleet of ocean-going. Great L^es and domestic water­ way vessels. Among the efforts of Seafarers are rallies for pro-maritime can­ didates. The SIU and the Michigan Maritime Trades Port ; • A' Council held a campaign rally at the Algonac union hall in which over200 pledged their support for gubernatorial candidate Howard Wolpe. Also, in Norfolk, Va. Seafarers showed support by handing out leaflets for Senate candidate Chuck Robb in front of the Berkley Avenue entrance to Norshipco shipyard. Seafarers together with the Maritime Port Council of South Florida rallied in support of Hugh Rodham, Democratic candidate for U.S. senator and brother of First Lady Hillary Rodham Clin­ ton. In New Bedford, Mass., union Continued on page 6 ' -1: �4 ' • • '»• .' •'. SEAFARERS LOG Senate Fails to Vetie On inland Safety Bill MOVEMRER1994 NMU, SIU Presidents Receive AOTOS Awards Host of Maritime Measures Left Unpassed; Issues Will Be Raised in Next Congress The Senate failed to act on comprehensive piece of maritime legislation which included steps to increase safety in the inland shipping sector. Enacted by the House of Rep resentatives, the bill also ap proved a budget for the U.S Coast Guard, streamlined Coast Guard regulations affecting U.S. flag shipping operations, created incentives for an American-flag cruise ship fleet and extender veterans benefits to World War I seamen who had previously been ruled ineligible, among other items. To Be Re-Introduced In reality, to obtain a Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner document, an individual must prove that they are drug-free and either a citizen or a foreigner who has lawful residence in the United States. The individual also must undergo a criminal record check with the FBI and a check of the National Driver Register for relevant information on alcohol abuse. Should a seaman be found to be a danger to himself or his shipmates or a threat to safe navigation, the Coast Guard can revoke the document. Threat of Senate Inaction to the Senate the evening of the 7th. On the Senate side, the bill was never considered. In the final hours of the Senate session, the only legislation being consideret were bills that could be brought to the floor without an objection by any senator. Last Minute Hold Louis Parlse (left), president of District 4-NMU/MEBA, and SIU president Michael Sacco were jointly honored by the United Seamen's Service at the Admiral of the Ocean Seas Award ceremony last month. After accepting the award presented by Congresswoman Helen Delich Bentley (R-Md.), Parise noted that the two unions enjoy "open lines of communication" that has benefitted members of both organizations. Sacco called on all maritime unionists to work for passage of a U.S. shipping promo­ tional bill in the next session of Congress. Sources on Capitol Hill indi­ cate that a senator hostile to American shipping objected to the comprehensive maritime bill being considered on the Senate floor. Such an action would have held up the bill and prevented it from being debated and voted on by the full Senate. Additionally, many bills that if passed would have been a credit The General Accounting Of­ to the Clinton administration fice issued a report last month to were being held up by Republican the chairman of the Senate Sub­ senators. This too may have con­ committee on Oversight of tributed to the lack of action by Government Management charg­ the Senate on the package of ing that lax administration by the maritime measures. Military Sealift Command (MSG) After it was apparent that the of its operating contract for nine Senate would not take up the bill, sealift tankers resulted in poorly SIU Executive Vice President maintained and unsafe ships. After receiving the GAO Joseph Sacco stated that inland safety and other promotional report. Senator Carl Levin (Dprograms for the American-flag Mich.), chairman of that subcom­ fleet would be high on the union's mittee, held an October 12 legislative agenda for the upcom­ hearing on the agency's findings. The sealift tankers have been ing year. "We intend to work operated by International Marine closely with all pro-maritime, (IMC) since May 1990 Carriers pro-safety elected officials to see under a five-year MSG contract. that an inland safety bill is Preliminary examination of passed." Rep. Tauzin argued that issu­ As a result of the bill not being ing documents to inland boatmen passed by the Senate, all elements would lead to increased "paper­ of the package of shipping-re­ work and bureaucracy" being im­ lated measures will have to be posed on the industry. He said at re-introduced in the next session least five senators opposed the of Congress, the 104th, which provision and thus if the House will begin in late January 1995. passed the bill with the document In the last days before the requirement, it would not be House adjourned on October 7 raised in the Senate. and the Senate adjourned on Oc­ In order for the legislative tober 8, the House attempted to package to achieve the unani­ spur the Senate into action on the mous support of the House, Conmaritime measures by passing a gressmaii Gerry E. Studds bill similar to the first com­ (D-Mass.), chairman of the Mer­ prehensive maritime package it chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ had enacted on September 22 in mittee, reluctantly agreed to the form of the Coast Guard having the mariner documenta­ Authorization Act of 1994 (H.R. tion provision removed from the 4422). That bill had languished in bill. The other issue concerning the Senate. offshore supply vessels also was dropped. Documents Not Included The bill then passed the House The new last-minute bill of the unanimously and was forwarded House, entitled Oceans Act of 1994 (H.R. 4852), was brought by the House Committee on Mer­ chant Marine and Fisheries to the floor of the House on the last day of its session, October 7. Beginning December 6, the reduce the number of RRF ships It was presented under a pro­ cedure which allows for a pack­ J.S. Maritime Administration available within five days of a age of legislation to receive [MarAd) will eliminate 16 ves­ mobilization notice to 32 from the unanimous consent in the House sels from the Ready Reserve current 57—calling into question and then be forwarded to the brce (RRF) and reduce 29 others America's papacity to quickly respond to a crisis. Overall, the Senate where it could be taken up to 30-day readiness status. The changes were announced RI^ will shrink from 105 ships to by the full Senate without first being submitted to lengthy com­ after the Senate Commerce Com­ 89. Additionally, none of the 32 mittee hearings and other proce­ mittee approved only $150 milion of a $250 million budget vessels to be maintained at maxi­ dures. Before this legislation was request from the administration mum readiness is a breakbulk adopted by unanimous consent by For maintaining the RRF. MarAd ship. the House, objections were raised ast year received $298 million Added to NDRF by two congressmen concerning or the reserve fleet. RRF vessels are used in times Ten breakbulk vessels and six two specific provisions. Con­ gressman W.J. "Billy" Tauzin (D- of surge shipping, such as the Per- tankers will be placed in the Na­ La.) opposed the requirement Aat sian Gulf War or the recent tional Defense Reserve Fleet inland boatmen hold merchant developments in Haiti. The ships (NDRF), an unmaintained, inac­ mariner documents, and another in the reserve fleet are owned by tive fleet whose 300-plus vessels member of the House questioned the government and operated by are anchored at ports in Texas, Virginia and on the West Coast. the definition of offshore supply jrivate shipping companies. Of the 29 ships being reduced For several reasons, the reor­ vessels in part of the bill. ganization is expected to have a to 30-day readiness, 27 are breakAdvances Safety minimal effect on the number of bulk vessels. Moreover, 12 vessels will be The requirement that inland shipboard jobs held by U.S. mer­ boatmen hold Coast Guard-is­ chant mariners. The 29 ships that kept at 10-day readiness and 16 sued documents, a measure will lose their maintenance con­ will be maintained at 20-day strongly backed by the SIU which tracts and shift to 30-day readi­ status. The budget shortfall leaves believes that such a provision en­ ness status had been maintained hances the safety of dl crewmem- ay reduced operating status unmet the recommendations of a bers as well as promoting safe ROS) crews. Additionally, under Department of Defense study on navigation, was opposed by an le RRF restructuring, 30 roll- U.S. sealift capability—called for association representing certain on/roll-off vessels (each with a by Congress in 1991—which tugboat companies. The crew of at least 10) will be main­ concluded that the RRF should be American Waterways Curators tained in the highest state of expanded. That study was or­ dered after most of the RRF ships had opposed the requirement, readiness. However, the cuts reportedly did not meet their activation claiming it was a clandestine ef­ fort to increase union member­ will eliminate hundreds of deadlines during the Persian Gulf shipyard jobs, and they also will War. ship among boatmen. RRF Drops to 89 Ships Impact on Shipboard Jobs Is Minimal I • • GAO Raports on Sealitt Tankers; Ikiion isPr^ikigA Response the report issued by the GAO, an investigative adjunct of the U.S. Congress, indicates a number of unsubstantiated statements con­ cerning crewmembers on the sealift tankers. The SIU is in the process of interviewing Seafarers who cur­ rently sail or have sailed on sealift tankers in preparation of a state­ ment refuting the GAO's allega­ tions about the seamen who work aboard these ships. The SIU's report will be sub­ mitted to the Government Over­ sight Subcommittee. Full details on the SIU's response to the GAO report will be forthcoming in the December issue of the Seafarers LOG. SiU-Crewed RRF Ships Vessel AMERICAN OSPREY CAPE WASHINGTON CAPE WRATH GOPHER STATE POTOMAC DIAMOND STATE CAPE INSCRIPTION CAPE INTREPID CAPE ISABEL CAPE ISLAND CAPE LAMBERT CAPELOBOS CAPE RACE CAPE RAY CAPE RISE CAPE TAYLOR CAPE TRINITY CAPE TEXAS COMET METEOR CAPE FAREWELL CAPE FLATTERY CAPE JACOB CAPEJOHNSON CAPE MAY CAPE MOHICAN CORNHUSKER STATE FUCKERTAIL STATE GEM STATE GRAND CANYON STATE CAPEBOVER CAPE BRETON CAPE FEAR CAPE FLORIDA CAPE GIBSON CAPE GIRARDEAU CAPEJOHN CAPEJUBY CAPE MENDOCINO CHESAPEAKE DIAMOND STATE EQUALITY STATE GREEN MOUNTAIN STATE KEYSTONESTATE MT. WASHINGTON PETERSBURG Type Tanker/OPDS RO/RO RO/RO T-ACS Tanker/OPDS RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO LASH LASH Breakbulk Breakbulk Seabee Seabee T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS Breakbulk Breakbulk LASH LASH Breakbulk Breakbulk Breakbulk Breakbulk Seabee Tanker/OPDS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS Tanker/OPDS Tanker/OPDS Readiness Prepo Prepo Prepo Prepo Prepo ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day Operator Bay Ship AMSEA AMSEA lOM Bay Ship lOM APL APL APL APL AMSEA AMSEA' IMC IMC IMC Apex Apex Apex APL APL IMC IMC AMSEA AMSEA OMI OMI lOM lOM lOM IMC APL APL IMC IMC APL APL AMSEA AMSEA OMI Bay Ship lOM lOM IMC IMC Bay Ship Bay Ship RO/RO = Roll-on/Roll-off ship T-ACS = Auxiliary crane ship LASH = Barge-carrying ship Seabee = Barge-carrying ship Prepo = Prepositionea under military control ROS-4 = Reduced Operating Status with a four-day activation schedule. �HOymBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Houston Flood Hits Seafarers • :• • W -r • • AP Photo by Pat Sullivan The effectiveness of oil booms is evident in this photo, taken in the San Jacinto River, upstream from the Houston Ship Channel in Houston. SlU-crewed oil response vessels and scores of other boats worked to keep the oil slick, which was broken by rushing floodwaters, from reaching Galveston Bay. if Electrician Jimmy Rogers has experienced four floods in five years, but this one was the worst, he said The photo above shows the water level almost reaching the apartment he set up above his garage (foreground) and the top of the main house off to the right. The flooding and pipeline ex­ tional Guard personnel also were of 1989, '90 and '92. "This one plosions which hammered areas called in to deliver clean water came up real fast and went down around Houston last month in­ and to prevent looting of real fast, but it was the worst" sait volved SIU members on several evacuated homes and stores. Rogers, a 36-year SIU member fronts: AP Photo by DavidJ. Phillip In all, the flooding causec who lives near Cold Spring • The homes of at least a dozen damage in 48 counties covering Texas, approximately 75 miles The oil spills on the river were due to at least five pipelines that ruptured. The pipelines were churned up by raging flood waters, then Seafarers sustained varying more than 250miles. from Houston. struck by debris. degrees of damage from the "I had 6 feet, 8 inches of water Rogers' Fourth Flood flooding. in my house This is the fourth • Seafarers aboard the oil-spill At press time, Houston Port time in five years, and a lot of cleanup vessels Texas Responder Agent Jim McGee and SIU Rep­ people aren't coming back. and Gulf Coast Responder spent resentative Don Anderson They're fed up." three days assisting in the spill reported that they still were in the Rogers had signed off a Searecovery efforts following major process of contacting active and Land ship in the port of Long pipeline ruptures on the San retired members in the area, in Beach, Cdif. and had driven most Towering flames rose above The flood waters in southeast Jacinto River (see separate story order to surmise whose residen­ of the way home when he saw Texas finally had begun receding the river, and in some places the ces are damaged and if anyone roads being closed. "I stopped at last month when another disaster fire burned for four days. on this page). • Although SlU-contracted needs assistance. "We checked a motel and watched TV and real­ struck the area. The pipelines, which ranged in towing companies reported no in­ on the pensioners first," said ized there was no way for me to On October 20, an estimated diameter from 36 to 40 inches, juries or vessel damage, publish­ Anderson. "Some of them live in get home. I finally went about 200 200,000 gallons of gasoline, apparently were excavated by ed reports estimate that the elevated areas that weren't miles out of my way, but even­ diesel fuel and crude oil were racing flood waters, then were closure of the Houston Ship damaged by the flood, but they tually I got home. I couldn't go spilled into the San Jacinto River, punctured when those waters Channel cost vessel owners mil­ were basically stuck there. I took inside the house for a few days, 17 miles east of downtown Hous­ slammed debris into them. lions of dollars. SlU-contracted a bass boat around and checked but I had set up an apartment ton, when three pipelines rup­ Swift Cleanup Higman Towing lost nearly on about 15 people. But it's an above my garage, and I just stay tured in a fiery explosion. ongoing process." (The SIU hall $1W,(X)0 while the channel was Both SlU-crewed responder The SlU-crewed Texas there when it flooids." closed, a company spokesman said. in Houston was not damaged.) Responder and Gulf Coast vessels assisted with cleanup ef­ He said that the respective Heavy rains began in Responder, vessels specifically forts in a closed section of the Costly Delay homes of QMED Floyd Acord southeast Texas on October 14 Between the flooding and the designed and equipped to react to Houston Ship Channel, where and lasted for four days. Accord­ and Recertified Steward Royce pipeline explosion, the 50-mile hazardous materids spills, were they worked in tandem. More than 1,000 people were ing to newspaper reports, at least Bozeman sustained major Houston Ship Channel—one of part of a virtual flotilla of cleanup 19 people, including a two- damage. The first floor of Cook the world's busiest waterways craft which quickly contained involved in the overall cleanup. "The beach cleanup is still month-old baby, died in flood-re­ Pat Caldwell's house was was closed for six days. Twenty- much of the spillage after it had flooded, and Caldwell also lost a going on and will be for a while, created a 20-mile slick. lated incidents. one ships were stuck in the port of Roughly 80,000 gallons were but Ae major parts on the water More than 12,000 people were car and a truck to the surging Houston; many more were out­ recovered, while an even greater were done witWn the first couple driven from their homes in an ap- waters. OMU Greg Brandani's side the channel, waiting to get in. amount burned itself off the water of days," said Conway. "There proximately 50-mile radius "We had several units nearby or evaporated. townhouse sustained some firstwere so many (cleanup) entities around Houston. Dozens of Red when the [explosion] happened: floor damage, as did the home of More than 100 people suffered out there at once, altogether we Cross shelters were opened in the Bosun Richard six barges and three boats," said minor injuries in the blast, but deployed over 30,000 feet of region, and five Federal Emer­ retired Mark Flynn of the operations there were no reported deaths. booms." Wardlaw. gency Management Agency department of Higman Towing. Several waterfront homes were For Electrician Jimmy The Texas Responder and the (FEMA) disaster assistance We had four days that those tows engulfed by fire, but all of the Gulf Coast Responder (which is Rogers, this flood was nothing centers were opened to handle claims from flood victims. Na­ new—^but it was worse than those were unable to do anything, at a residents already had left due to based in Lake Charles, La.) each cost of roughly $90,000. But the flooding. is equipped two deck cranes, two there was no personal injury or Seafarer Mike Conway, the stem-launched, 32-foot support vessel damage." mate aboard the Texas boats (which were used to help A spokesman for G&H Responder, which is based in tow booms during last month's Towing of Galveston said none of nearby Galveston, Texas, said cleanup), a stem-mounted skim­ the company's 28 tugs were that the reaction to the spill and mer and other gear including operating in the Houston area ire was both fast and efficient. booms, transfer pumps and protec­ during the rains or when the ex­ 'From the minute this thing tive clothing. Each can hold 4,000 plosion took place, "but we were [jroke, equipment and people ap­ barrels of recovered oil. "We worked (cleanup) for more affected by the flooding peared from every direction," he basically three days," added Con­ when the channel reopened. We said. "A lot of what we tried to way. "Now we just have to clean )ick up was burned gasoline or were real busy then." the hulls and the skimmer equip­ Other modes of travel also )umed oil, and that's not easy. ment." were affected by the flooding. An Some of it was mixed with grass, The Texas Responder and Gulf estimated 76 roads in 26 counties tires, trees, pieces of houses .... Coast Responder are part of a 16iVhen you get that junk hitting were closed, and a railroad bridge ship fleet operated by Dyn your booms, it's quite interesting. normally used by Amtrak's Sun­ Marine in behalf of the Marine "But with our boat crews, set Limited was knocked out by a Spill Response Corporation, a everything went smooth and all drifting houseboat. not-for-profit group created by the equipment worked fine." By early November, the flood According to newspaper major oil companies following waters were gone from the vast reports, fire officials described the passage of the Oil Pollution majority of the affected areas. the blaze as a flash fire—a quick- Act of 1990 (CPA '90). But it's going to be a while striking and extremely hot fire Crewmembers working jefore things get back to normal enerated by the large volume of aboard the vessels voted in Sep­ Standing In the entrance of his Houston home, Jimmy Rogers, with tember 1993 to join the SIU. his camera pointed across the hall, finds himself in waist-deep water. | in this area," concluded Rogers. gasoline floating on the water. Responder Boats Assist in San Jacinto Oii Spiii •• •/rry- " * �6 NOVEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers AM M Races of Pro-MariOme Candidates Continued from page 3 officials have distributed and posted signs throughout the city for Senator Edward Kennedy (D) who is up for re-election. In the port of Mobile, Ala., Seafarers recently participated in a phone bank which involved calling the homes of union mem­ bers residing in Southwest Alabama, asking them to support a number of candidates for local and state offices. The SIU's legislative depart­ ment tracks the voting records of elected officials on matters of special interest to Seafarers and the shipping industry. The union's support of candidates is based on their commitment to promoting cargo for U.S.-flag vessels and developing an American-flag revitalization pro­ gram. Showing support for pro-maritime Virginia candidates are (from ieft) AB Dan Hughes, QMED Robert Katterheindrich, AB Kenny Smith, QMED Kevin Quinlan and retired Recertified Bosun Bill Dawson. UNION SUPPOBtS -yr- r\ij jj. n Campaigning for Democratic candidate Hugh Rodham for U.S. senator in South Florida are, from left, AB Regina Ewing, AMO member Keith Craig and AB Douglas Heller. After a get-out-the-vote rally at the SlU Algonac hall, attended by more than 200 union memt>ers, VP Great Lakes Byron Kelley (left) takes a photo with Margaret Watson, mayor of River Rouge, Mich, (center) and Howard Wolpe, Democratic candidate for govemor. Maritime Briefs President Signs New Law On Stowaway Controversy In behalf of Senator Edward Ken­ nedy of Massachusetts, who faces a tough re-election. Seafarers from the New Bedford SlU hall are placing signs in their yards and public sites around the area. Above, SlU Port Agent SA Corinthius Thomas calls prospective voters from a Mobile, Ala. Henri Francois displays one of the campaign signs. campaign office in behalf of local and state candidates. Clinton to Support '95 Ship Bill Continued from page 3 the committee could not meet. When the bill could not be reported out of committee as a result of the farm-state senators' ploy, that left pro-maritime senators looking for other ways in which to bring the legislation to the floor. But with only two weeks in the session left and with the Senate bogged down by the Republicans' efi^orts to block all legislation of interest to the presi­ dent, backers of the maritime bill were unable to get the bill to the floor of the Senate. Planning for 1995 Immediately after Congress adjourned, backers of a strong U.S. shipping capability vowed to press for enactment of legisla­ tion in the early days of the next congressional session. fii a letter to President Clinton sent in mid-October, SlU Presi­ dent Michael Sacco and the heads of the other unions with sea­ going members, said, "We are to­ tally committed to the enactment of maritime revitalization legisla­ tion early in the 104th Congress." "We cannot and must not allow those who oppose American shipping to succeed in their goal to eliminate the United States flag from the high seas. If the U.S.-flag fleet is eliminated, the carriage of America's foreign trade will be placed totally at the mercy of foreign shipping inter­ ests—often linked directly to foreign companies that compete head-to-head-with our own ex­ ports—and thousands of highly- skilled American maritime jobs will be sent overseas as well," the union presidents noted. Signed by District No. 1Marine Engineers Beneficial As­ sociation President Joel Bem, International Organization of Masters Mates & Pilots President Timothy A. Brown, American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay, District No. 4NMU/MEBA President Louis Parise and Sacco, the letter thanked the president for his past support of U.S. shipping and noted the "tireless efforts of Transportation secretary Federico Pena, Maritime Ad­ ministrator Admiral A. Herberger and their staffs" that hel^ make significant progress in developing a new national maritime program. Former Head of Moran Towing Dies at 69 Thomas Moran, former president, chief executive of­ ficer and chairman of Moran Towing Corp., died in his sleep at his home in Darien, Conn, on September 26. He was 69. The fourth family member to head the company, Moran's Thomas Moran 32-year reign transformed the once small harbor towing and vessel docking busi­ ness, founded by his grandfather in 1860, into a diversified marine transportation company. Bom in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1925, Moran sailed as a merchant mariner from 1943 to 1945. After signing off his last ship, Moran began working with Marine Transport Lines in New York, where he eventually became vice president of operations. Moran began his career with Moran Towing in 1962. The company has a fleet of 53 tugboats and 12 barges which operate in Philadelphia; Hampton Roads, Va.; Jacksonville and Miami, Fla.; Port Arthur, Texas; and Portsmouth, N.H. A new immigration law that relieves carriers of the responsibility of detaining stowaways was signed by President Clinton last month. The new Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) law frees carriers of the responsibility of detaining stowaways for long periods while their asylum cases are decided. According to The Journal of Commerce, the INS has taken cus­ tody of all asylum-seeking stowaways since August 1 as a result of a ruling on the issue by the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The old INS policy required carriers to provide detention for stowaways and fined them for any escapes that occurred. J, Investigators Reveal Faulty Door in Ferry Sinking Investigation into the sinking of the ferry Estonia on September 28 has revealed that the locks on the huge front cargo door failed during a violent storm, letting in a flood of water from the Baltic Sea. It was this rush of water into the vehicle deck that apparently led to the capsizing and sinking of the ferry off the coast of Finland, resulting in the deaths of 900 persons. This conclusion was reached by a team of investigators, based on more than 15 hours of videotape taken underwater of the wrecked vessel by remote controlled cameras. According to an article in The Washington Post, investigators • issued a statement revealing the videotape showed the huge hinged door used for loading vehicles onto the ferry "fully separated Irom the rest of the vessel." The videotape helped confirm reports that the door had leaked or broken off the ship. The door, which operated in much the same way as a garage door, was detached from the ferry when the locks failed. The bow door is supposed to be watertight, but investigators revealed it had been partly dislodged, leaving a gap of about three feet along the top edge that allowed water to rush into the car deck. The Washington Post quoted one investigator as stating that the evidence "points to the fact that there was something wrong with the doors before the ship left harbor." Great Lakes Seafarers Overcome Icy Delay According to the Great Lakes Carrier Association, an organization which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Great Lakes, a record-breaking August and a large increase in September loadings have enabled Great Lakes vessels to finally offset the significant ice delays encountered in March and April and pull ahead of last year's cargo carriage pace. As of September 30, shipments of various dry and liquid bulk cargoes aboard U.S.-flag bottoms totaled 74.8 million tons, an increase of roughly 1(W,000 tons compared to the same time last year. The association notes that while the increase may seem small, at the end of April, U.S.-flag carriage was more than 2.5 million tons behind schedule. The heavy ice formations that covered the Lakes in March and well into April cost U.S.-flag ships the equivalent of 133 steaming days. To offset the lost sailing days, U.S.-flag carriers have utilized virtually every serviceable ship on the Lakes this season. �I myEHBBR 1994 V* ^ , ' » '• '•«-«' •>*<•- SEAFAREBS lOG ' • I 7 Paul Hall Center Introduces Tanker Safety Glass The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month conducted an exten­ sively detailed, hands-on Tanker Operation/Safety pilot course which soon will become a regular part of the Lundeberg School's curriculum. Six Seafarers and four mem­ bers of the American Maritime Officers (AMD) early this month completed the two-week pilot course, which included plenty of feedback, suggestions and a writ­ ten critique from the students. Their input will be used to help refine and possibly expand the course before it is added to the regular upgrading schedule. The SIU developed the course in response to the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). That legislation is intended to keep the nation's waters free of marine oil spills. In its commitment to comply with all U.S. Coast Guard proce­ dures and practices, the SIU responded to the OPA mandate by including the issue of training in its three-year standard freightship and tanker contract (covering the period of June 16, 1993 to June 15, 1996) and by establishing the Tanker Opera­ tion/Safety course. 'Essential Course' "This is an important course, an essential course, and I'll be sure to pass the information I've learned on to my fellow menibers aboard ship," said Bosun Milton Caballero, 36, one of six SIU members who took the pilot class along with four members of the American Maritime Officers (AMD). "The course really helped me," stated Bosun Hugo Dermody, 45. "I learned a lot about safety inside tanks, what chemi­ cals to be cautious of, and how and why they are hazardous." Added Pumpman Tom Koubek, an 18-year SIU mem­ ber: "I've learned a lot of new things about handling certain hazardous cargoes, how to use respirators and other emergency equipment. These are all very im­ portant." Koubek and his classmates agreed that a large volume of material was covered by instruc­ tors Byran Cummings and Jake Karaczynski. Students were introduced to the chemical and physical proper­ ties of petroleum products, flammability characteristics, toxicity/asphyxiation charac­ teristics and health hazards as­ sociated with exposure to petroleum products. They reviewed how to correct­ ly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment. Other topics and exercises in­ cluded: • Creating site-specific ship­ board safety plans. • Reviewing final rules on ben­ zene products. • Troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear. • Extensive confined-space safety training and rescue opera­ tions aboard the Empress II, the Lundeberg School's modern training barge. • Fit-tests using respirators and other breathing apparatus and emergency equipment. • An introduction to fire chemistry and other aspects of firefighting, including fire hazard awareness and identification; fire prevention via vapor control; fire prevention via ignition source control; fire extinguishing equip­ ment; fire fighting techniques and fire/emergency duties. • Tanker construction and safety Other areas of study included different types of oils, medical surveillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution contingency plans, water pollu­ tion, water program requirements and removal of oil and other haz­ ardous substances. Students also covered regional oil removal contingency plans; rules for protecting the marine en­ vironment; vessel pollution prevention equipment design and approval requirements; site safety, organization and coor­ dination and more. Seafarers who completed the course were Koubek, Dermody, Instructor Byran Cummings Caballero, Ferdinand Gongora, answers a student's question and Marian Kabat. James Ellis about a protective mask. Sahi's Scrumptious Feast Completing the pilot course for Tanker Operation/Safety are (from left, kneeling) AMO mernbers Luis Charlin and Casey Boga and Seafarers Hugo Dormody and Milton Caballero, (back row) SIU members James Ellis and Marian Kabat, AMO member Ernie Richardson, Seafarers Ferdinand Gpngora and Tom Koubek, AMO member Ray Dwyer and instructor Byran Cummings. As part of the hands-on Tanker Operation/Safety course. Instructor Byran Cummings (right) reviews some of the health hazards associated with petroleum products. Seafarers and AMO members review the proper fit and functions of breathing apparatus Thi«e Courses That Lead To a USCG Radar Endorsement Available to Houston Area Seafarers A four-hour radar course, sponsored by the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point, Md., will be held for all Seafarers who do not currently have their radar endor­ sement. Three dates have been scheduled so far. The first class will be held Tuesday, November 29 at the SIU hall in Houston. It will last from 8 a.m. until ion. noon. The second will take place on Wednesday, November 30 at the Ramada Inn in Port Arthur. Class hours are the same—^from 8 a.m. until noon. Additionally, on Thursday, December 1, the thM radar mini-course will be held, also at the SIU hall in Houston, and also from 8 a.m. until noon. For additional information, contact the Houston hail ^(713)659-5152. •arf.-. ; - y •' �8 ROVEMBER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers Aid Gulf Buildup Iraqi Troops Back Off as U.S. Reenters Gulf life Hurley added that the entire Seafarers transported U.S. evoked memories of Operations military personnel and materiel Desert Shield/Desert Storm, crew "did a really good job. All of to the Persian Gulf last month as which began in late 1990 anc the ABs were terrific, and the America responded to a buildup ended in early '91 as the U.S. steward and engine departments We had to put of elite Iraqi troops near Kuwait. armed forces liberated Kuwait also were great The U.S. Military Sealift from Iraqi President Saddam in a lot of extra hours loading Command (MSG) in early Oc­ Hussein's invasive military for­ stores, carrying them and things like that. We also topped off our tober directed 19 Afloat ces. But they added that last fuel.... I have six men in the deck Prepositioning Force ships, includ­ ing eight from the Ready Reserve month's operations were com­ department, and they haven't Force (RRF)^ to sail in support of paratively safer and on a much missed an hourof [work] since we Operation Southern Watch. SIU smaller scale than the Persian were called." Ghief Mate John Denton, an members crewed 11 of those ves­ Gulf War, during which more sels, some of which off-loaded in than 200 U.S.-flag ships directed SIU hawsepiper, offered similar A1 Jabal, Saudi Arabia. by MSG carried 15 million tons of praise for the crew and noted the But the threat of a confronta­ cargo and fuel to and from the cooperative nature of both the civilian crew and the military pas­ tion with Iraq quickly receded, Middle East. sengers. "It was a big effort to do and by mid-October the U.S. had Prepare for the Worst the job, but we got it done—any­ capped its military buildup in the "Back in '91, no one knew thing that the Marines needed," region and canceled plans for fur­ ther mobilizations as the Iraqi where we were going or how far," he said. "The deck gang is well tenance," he added. "My impres­ troops withdrew from the border. Bosun Michael Hurley said from above average, and with 75 extra sion is that everyone performed Approximately 13,000 U.S. the bridge of the PVT Franklin J. people on board, the steward with character." ground troops and 2,000 Marines Phillips. "This time, we weren't department was tasked pretty SlU-crewed ships which were on board a group of Navy ships will too concerned about getting hit. hard." involved in Operation Southern "But we reviewed how to use remain in the Gulf for several more Watch included the roll-on/rollHigh Morale weeks, during which time they will all the protective clothing and gas off vessels Cape Washington, Aboard the PFCJames Ander­ American Kestrel, JEB Stuart and conduct military exercises. At masks and everything, just in press time, the Seafarers-crewed case. We were prepared for any­ son, Bosun James Keith Jr. said Cape Wrath-, the crane ship that "morale was high" during Gopher State-, the Maritime prepositioning ship Cpl. Louis J. thing." Like many of the other last month's operations. "We Prepositioning Squadron vessels Hauge Jr. also was involved in drills in the Gulf. The other prepositioning ships, which were on full alert, and at first we Anderson, Phillips, Hauge, 1st LT prepositioning vessels had dis­ remain fully operational and thought the situation might turn AlexBonnyman and PFC William pell to Diego Garcia and near loaded with cargo throughout the into another Desert Storm," he Baughr, and the heavy lift/sub­ year, the Phillips did not off-load said. "But we were ready — mersible Amencon Cormorant. Saipan in the Western Pacific. everyone stuck together and did a More than 150,000 U.S. its equipment. "We were prepared for a major goodjob. ground troops had been on alert, Action Backfires "We got the cargo holds ready but the alert was canceled on Oc­ download, but when we got to the Some news analysts in the Persian Gulf,the threat had become for download and also got the U.S. have suggested that Hussein tober 20. SIU members said that Opera­ minimal," noted Mike Michaelson, deck gear ready. We greased the ordered his troops to move cranes and did all-around main­ toward Kuwait's northern border tion Southern Watch naturally captain of the Phillips. in the hope that the United Na­ tions would lift trade sanctions currently enforced against Iraq, including one that prevents ex­ porting of Iraqi oil. Officikls in Baghdad may have believed that the troop movements would draw attention to the country's economic hardships. They also may have schemed to withdraw the troops and then formally recognize Kuwait's integrity and borders, again hoping that the U.N. in turn would lift or ease the sanc­ tions. Instead the move backfired, as the international community con­ demned Iraq's actions and sup­ ported the American mihtaiy's response. SIU Crews 8 ilfff Sft/jis BoumI Ibr HalU fljparathms Continued from page 3 military rulers and a group of American diplomats, the invasion was changed to a peacekeeping mission as the military officials agreed to reinstate Aristide. That transfer of power took place last month. The RRF ships still carried the same cargo as was planned for the invasion, however, including trucks, ammunition, medical equipment, communications gear, barges, portable pier sys­ tems and more. They also transported military personnel. Seafarers who took part in Operations Restore/Maintain Democracy reported smooth operations and excellent coopera­ tion between the civilian crews and the military. SIU members also expressed strong support for America's mission in Haiti. Aboard the Cape Mohican, which sailed from Norfolk, Va., Seafarers in the steward depart­ ment prepared more than 4,000 extra meals for members of the Army and Navy. "We carried an emergency portable pier system, and we had about 200 milit^ personnel on board," said Ghief Steward Bud Marchman. "I was informed that the mihtary was going to use their MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), but the captain and all of us felt very bad about that. MREs will sustain life, but they get old very quickly! "With the captain's permis­ sion, Ghief Gook IVforjorie Mack and I prepared extra food at each meal for the military, who provided mess cooks. They were overwhelmed with the kindness and really enjoyed the food. We felt good about it, too, because these are our troops. \^en you get a chance to do something for your country, you do it." Andrew Mack, the bosun aboard the Mohican, compli­ mented the galley gang for a "fan­ tastic job" and stated the entire The CapeIsland was one of eight RRF ships crewed by Seafarers to support military operations in Haiti. crew performed in a thoroughly efficient and professional man­ ner. "It was a successful trip, and anything we could do for our military, we were glad to do." AB Howard Blanks sailed aboard the Cape Texas, which crewed up in Mobile, Ala. and then loaded cargo in Norfolk and in Wilmington, N.G. before making the four-day voyage to Haiti. He said that off-loading in Port-au-Prince took slightly less than two days. "Everything went well and everyone on this ship did their job," stated Blanks. "Nobody was worried, and we discussed the U.S. presence in Haiti and agreed that it was definitely the right thing to do." Blanks added that during his brief time ashore, "The Haitian people were happy to s6e us and they treated us with a lot of respect. I was cautious, but they were glad we were over there." AB Charles Simmons used an 80-ton elevator aboard the Ready to do their part in the break-out of ships bound for Haiti are Cape Taylor to move cargo from OMU Van Cowart (left) and DEU Carl Turner on board the Cape Texas deck to deck, and he declared that the upgrading courses he has as it crewed up in Mobile. taken at the Paul Hall Center proved particularly useful during these operations. "We went to Bayoime, N.J., for cargo and the loading took 24 hours," he recalled. "Once we got to Haiti, we unloaded in 17 hours, and we headed back to Mobile immedi­ ately after the discharge." Simmons said the Taylor's crew saw thousands of Haitians lining the shores. "Those people are hungry and they had no form of government. They need our help badly, and I think the United States (military) certainly should be there. "I'm jt^t sorry it was such a short cruise—18 days, start to finish—^because we want to help." Haiti on September 19. Thousands more troops followed as the U.S. facilitated Haiti's return to democratic rule. 'Sterling Support' General John Shalikashvili, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, described the U.S. mer­ chant marine's role in Haiti as "sterling support to our great na­ tion" and noted the "flawless, timely response" of everyone in­ volved in the RRF activation. More than 2,000 U.S. troops landed without resistance on AB Kennard Campbell (left) and Bosun Millard Napier took part in Operations Restore/Maintain Democracy as crewmembers aboard the Cape Texas. �• '• ' -• -'•* •' / • ../;fe'- '• ". '-'p. " NOIfEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSLOG ^ KaK Cento-Adds Haw Vessel To Seheel's Hands-^m TTaHi^ Fleet The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently added a second 80-foot former U.S. Navy boat to its fleei of training vessels at Piney Point, Md. The vessel will provide upgraders with an expanded op­ portunity for hands-on training in radar, navigation and shiphandling, as well as other seamanship skills. "Since she was operational channel surveys and mine detec­ until just a few weeks ago, it will tion duties. be easy to convert her for our The Lundeberg School pre­ training needs," noted instructor viously acquired a similar boat in Bill Hellwege, who was joined by the spring of 1992 from the Naval fellow instructors Jim Brown and Air Warfare Center in Patuxent Tommy Swann and Lundeberg River, Md. After its arrival at School Waterways Advisor Bill Piney Point, Lundeberg School The yet-to-be-named wooden vessel will provide upgraders with an Saul in transporting the boat from personnel removed all the excess expanded opportunity for hands-on training. the U.S. Coast Guard training base and obsolete Navy gear, worked in Cape May, NJ. to Piney Point. on the engines and updated the The yet-to-be-named craft is navigation equipment. The craft of wooden construction with an also was painted white (over her aluminum deck house and has a original gray) and named displacement of 70 tons. The Securer. main engines are two twin-pack In addition to its regular func­ GM 671 diesels with twin shafts tions as a training boat, the producing 660 hp, for a top speed 5ea/arer assisted, earlier this of 13.5 knots. year, in the towing of another Among the boat's equipment piece of marine equipment to be is radar, a fathometer, gyro com­ used for training, the Empress II, pass, UHF and VHP radio and a state-of-the-art barge formerly more. used by the U.S. government for This class of vessel formerly electromagnetic testing. was used for instruction in The Seafarer, the Empress II seamanship, navigation and en­ and the newer boat were acquired gineering at the U.S. Naval via the U.S. Defense Regional Academy in Annapolis, Md. and Material Office based in Virginia, at the Naval Officer Candidate under terms of the Merchant School in Newport, R.I. The ves­ Marine Act of 1936, as amended Because the craft was being operated almost until the Lundeberg sels also were assigned as harbor in 1980. That law reads in part School acquired it, instructor Bill Hellwege believes it will not take too defense craft, and would have that "excess or surplus vessels, much effort to convert her for the school's training needs. provided, in time of war, a mine shipboard equipment and other countermeasure force in and marine equipment, owned by the charter to the Federal and state which has been jointly approved The new training boat is equipped around U.S. harbors. Additional­ United States, may be made avail­ maritime academies and to any by the (Maritime) Administration with radar that will be utilized by upgaders at the Paul Hall Center. ly, they were used for shipping able by gift, loan, sale, lease or nonprofit training institution and the U.S. Coast Guard...." Two Additional Sill Hails to Host Refrigeration Classes November 14 Is Deadline for Obtaining EPA Certification The refrigeration technician which mandates it. That regula­ Anyone may take the exam an card (which has no expiration) for all QMED, electrician, certification course conducted by tion stems from the Clean Air Act unlimited number of times,so dif- and a certificate. refrigeration and junior engineer the Lundeberg School of the Paul Amendments of 1990. ferent certifications may be According to a recent action jobs. The first day of the course earned separately. Hall Center for Maritime Train­ by the Seafarers Appeals Board SIU members who are on a begins at 8 a.m. and lasts until 4 Results will be mailed to (SAB), after November 14,1994, ship during the November 14 ing and Education is available to p.m. Topics covered include Seafarers no more than a month Seafarers who have passed the deadline are asked by the union to Seafarers this month at the SIU halls in San Juan, P.R. and in Al- refrigerants and compressor after they take the exam. Those certified refrigeration technician obtain certification as soon as gonac, Mich. The two-day class lubricating oils, refrigerant han­ who pass one or more sections of exam will be given priority within possible after they sign off the dso is scheduled this month for dling safety procedures, how the test will receive a certification their respective seniority classes vessel. refiigerants affect the environment the Paul Hall Center. Additional classes are slated and dieories of refrigeration. Day two also starts at 8 a.m. for early 1995 at the SIU halls in Jacksonville, Fla., Wilmington, and lasts until 2 p.m., followed by Seafarers who took the Paul the exam. Some of the subjects Calif, and Brooklyn, N.Y. The Lundeberg School has covered are refrigeration servic­ Hall Center's two-day refrigera­ been offering the class—^which is ing, handling small appliances tion technician certification approved by the Environmental and working with high- and low- course at SIU halls in San Fran­ cisco, Seattle, Honolulu and detection Agent^ (EPA)—at SIU pressure equipment. The instractor conducts test­ Wilmington, Calif, last month halls across die coimtry since July. It also is available as part of engine ing following the second day of found Aat thorough prepara­ tion combined with Ae classwork department upgrading courses at class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. The exam is divided into four made passage of the exam more the Lundeberg School and is being offered occasionally as a separate parts, and there are corresponding likely. Like many other SIU members certification types. Most Seafarers course at Piney Point A four-part, lOO-question who handle refrigerants will need who took the course earlier this EPA exam is administer^ imme­ at least what are known as Type I year, those who took it on the diately after the class. Passing this and Type II certifications, since West Coast and in Hawaii ad­ test will result in Seafarers earn­ galley equipment is covered vised fellow members that study­ ing EPA certification that is re­ under Type I, and ships' stores sys­ ing the course textbook in quired for anyone involved in tems are covCTed under Type n. advance is a major boon when it Seafarers at the SIU hall in Seattle take notes on theories of refrigera­ The SIU encourages all comes time to t^e the lOO-ques- tion during the two-day refrigeration technician certification course. repair and servicing of refrigera­ QMEDs to test for what is called tion Environmental Protection tion equipment and air condition­ Universal certification. In par­ Agency exam inunediately fol­ Cisco and also passed all four when signing up for the class. ing systems. parts of the test. "It's a good They should &en send a check for ticular, Seafarers who work lowing the course. November 14 is the deadline "There's so much information course and the instructor is first- $25, made payable to the "Paul aboard cruise ships should seek for obtaining certification, ac­ to cover in a relatively short time, rate," he said. "I got the book in Hall Center," to: EPA Refrigera­ Universal certification. cording to llie EPA regulation you better show up ready to advance and it re^y helped. The tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ learn," said Electrician Gilbert diagrams are excellent, the in­ ter for Maritime Training and REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE Millsap, 61, who passed all four structions are very specific and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney 1994 sections of the exam at the Seattle I'll be able to refer to it in the Point, Md. 20674, Attn: J.C. LOCATION DATE hall. "I had the book 'Refrigerants future." DAY Weigman. The book will be sent San Juan, P.R. and the Environment' a week Nov. 16-17 OMU Mark Lawrence, who by first class mail. (Be sure to Wed.-Thu. San Juan, P.R. Nov. 18-19 before the class, and it served me took the class in Honolulu, and indicate an address where the Fri.-Sat. Algonac, Mich. Nov. 29-30 Tue.-Wed. well." QMED Steve Byerly (Wil­ book should be sent.) Piney Point, Md. Nov. 21-22 Mon.-Tue. The 40-year SIU member mington) separately gave identi­ The Lundeberg School also is 199S added that he appreciated the Paul cal summaries of the necessity for trying tomake the book available LOCATION DATE Hall Center bringing the course to studious preparation: "Getting for purchase directly from the DAY Jacksonville, Fla. SIU halls throughout the country. the 'oook in advance is a must!" ports where the courses are Jan. 9-13 *Mon.-Frl. Wilmington, Calif. "We owe a vote of thanks to the they each stated. Feb. 13-17 scheduled. Check with the in­ •Mon.-Frl. Brooklyn, N.Y. Mar. 13-17 •Mon.-Fri. union for putting this on." Seafarers who want to buy the dividual port agents to find out if •Five-day blocKs o? time nave ueen sei aarew loi uiooo wuiwo iw ac­ QMED/Electrician Sonny book should indicate this to the the book is available in advance commodate all who apply and those who want to retest. Each course, Acosta took theclass in San Fran- port agent whom they contact at a particular hall. Seafanrs Stress Class Preparation however, will take place over the regular two-day period. 9 �••;-: i 10 •••••• ••. M0VEMRER19S4 SEAFARERS LOG AB John Sokolik works hard to keep the W/Zkes'decks white. OS Glenn King reports to the deck, ready to begin long hours of chip­ ping and painting. •'f, r'' ' Operating the air compressor which feeds seismic research equipment is QMED Greg Jones. A • • '•' "Keeping up the appearance of a white ship is no easy task," notes Frederick K. Smallwood,the first mate of the USNS Wilkes. But that doesn't stop the deck crew of the oceanographic survey ship from "making a difficult job look easy," Smallwood adds in his September 14 communication to the Seafarers LOG. Smallwood (who also provided the photos for this article) reported to the Seafarers LOG that there is always a lot of work to be done aboard the USNS Wilkes. "The work is very interesting, and the scientists on board always have a few minutes to explain what they are doing with various experiments," he noted in his letter. "While the ship's mission is centered around oceanographic operations, there is always day-to-day work that must go on," the chief mate added. Keeping with the regulations of an oceanographic research vessel, the USNS Wilkes must be painted radiant white at all times. This makes deck maintenance for the crew, led by Bosun Bill Richardson, a constant challenge. Chipping and painting must be worked out with over-the-side operations, and the crew often works long hours. In September, the USNS Wilkes was reunited with an oceanographic seafloor survey system sled which it previously had brought up from 17,000 feet of water off of the south coast of Hawaii in May 1993. The sled had been refurbished and is now being operated by the USNS Wilkes in the Sea of Japan through the end of October. W^ile at sea, the vessel encountered two typhoons—^Ellie and Fred. According to Smallwood, Ellie passed close enough to the ship's operating area that evasive action was required. The USNS Wilkes rode out the storm at a buoy in the harbor at Sasebo, Japan. The 287-foot USNS Wilkes has been operated by Bay Ship Management for the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Earlier this year, however, the MSC awarded a five-year operating contract for the vessel and others of its class to Dyn Marine Inc. That company's operation of the f/SZVS Wi/kej began October 29. Dyn Marine is operating the USNS Wilkes and the other vessels under MSC's contract with non-union vessels in organizational status. OS Darrayl Marshall applies white paint to the stem bulwark. • ."-"v - •' '• "H-v. Purser Vicky Holloway (left) and Cook/Baker Carmelita Henry meet outside the purser's office to go over the day's menu. - J-! Preparing to take a bot­ tom sample Is Bosun Bill Richardson. Bosun Bill Richardson (right) and OS George Galanis mix palnL �NOVEMBER 1994 SEAfARBISLOQ 11 "T^r. (Utet "TKIA. 1^6cA<XKi 'i^(%ltc<^ u^e tKorried 2L t9'?4 or PrcHce 'prederccA. TKcC. ^CcA^rd 64. X cAie^ engineer untA (^Kyudetf. 6(t S<t*t Pu<x*t, P.^.; ^euyuHtf 64- e<4t^U4efed. tvcCA (Ate Se<t^<xrer4 Pt<ut 6M, P6Metf P<y6*it, /4^ter cuitA. (Ac S'TZC ttuyie CA^xa. 40 cfe<vt^, ^xul 0(^<Ua4. Sr. retcxecC CoAt S>ece*HAcr. 't^e euui AIA cvi^ 44 cfe<vi4., (^taxiefA (i*t frA^Uo<x6Ave} ttuiAe tAcOi AMIC i*t /trrMfo., 'Pccerto^ IRcca. 1R<t«6 Ac tHiAAe^ '?H-ci. Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us some happy moments in the lives of SlU members, in­ cluding two weddings, a fishing trip and families getting together. As always, the LOG welcomes photographs from Seafarers and their families and will publish them on a periodic basis. <xtl tAe eicttiUtceA eit 2!7KSS> p6*K "OddiAUui PiUffie recettdcf Mctzrried (Ae ^4r*Her, (patHero^, uxAfX Atx6l4 ^rtuft PltxMdurxA. '/^fuxcwt A64, ^ieer4 ^r A64, ieleedaxM (x^ <xut-<x^-(Ae-<xrd6M.<xrtf. a<xc<t(69M 4-6te4. Paxf^te reduxr(ed (A<x( Ae "(Atxut^t <^<xiMt^ docnu (Ae '7t6le and /^Mut^'XM r6(Aer4 C<A<X4 xduettture, Au( (Ae re<zl adxxett(ure c<x(X4 at- <^Md <xld-^<x4A6<x*ied 'PAoxtdureiM uxeddtMx^. ^( (Ai4(ed ^<xr (Aree d<ttf41" Paxfne added (Aat Ae 64 &(x*t46derc(i<^ (aAtxo^ d^rt 6M a 100-Mtile d<xt^-4led r6de 6M /fta4Aa 4(x*He(6*Me 4<X<XM. 'SU( 0 ve dlewed doxuM a C6((le iince A/ (^xxd Mto-rrced. /4( Atune 6*t '7H'<yA6le, /4l<x., S(ec<Mird/T4464(emt ^A<xrie4, (P-tdicer fr. A(dd4 ACA cf<yu*u^ 4(X*t, (P-A<vite4 III. 'JAe elder (P<Mcer reeetttlcf4a6led M (Ae (P-adte A<yA<y4., (<xA6Hf (Ae ^Acfr IrtMc (Ae '7H'<yA6le 4At/uf4ird (tx 7V6l*K6*o^t<M-, '• •• ';?v • V:--, •-.'i^V ^ecetUlc^ re(6red ^TOMC (Ae SOTl, 'S<X4UM 'ntoMuel SUiAO. u646t4 P6Metf Ptxitit uxiiA A64 UM.^, daxcra. OMAC daut^(er, /fMO^ar(xt6Ma. lAe S6l(Aa4 MtaAe (Ae6r AMU. 6M P<xr(u<^al aad un^e aMCf S'TTl ^rieMdd (4X 4t<xfi- Atf and dacp AelU udieM docAed ^^ , . '8(X4UM S<X6 Pat^M '4 {aMt.6t(f (AC46(4 A6Mt <XM (Ae 0iter4ea4 OAttx utAde 6(UAa4 dtxcAed 6M d<xM<} "SeacA. lAecf are. {IMC ie{(. dtxH. I^MOH; dau^A(er. /44A(ecf; Pa^aM; 4<XH, dfiex aad UA6{e. dee. ;V.' =• - • .'.iV -" ^Ar64 Sierra eau^A( (A64 4(eelAead 6M ^r/XM( a/ (Ae /4l(^/XMae S^TTl Aall. ^Arc4 4acl4 a4 a 27HSS^- �ifiPij-•• ..iV- • ••V • ,:7^" •• •• v'>V'-«.-r-'»i''*-:i"-i':J.<^.':'; 7"77W--7 12 MOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG 13 71 .7,' ".:rK": • • '7 • -.•,;._ ', • l rewmembers aboard [the MV Advantage surmounted rough seas to rescue hundreds of exand hausted I ravenous South Yemeni refugees aboard two gunboats in deplorable condition which were in danger of sinking. On July 9, the Advantage and its crewmembers came to the aid of the two foundering gunboats containing 353 men, women and children who were fleeing the civil war between the north and south in their native Yemen. The Advantage, a breakbulk ship operated by Red River Ship­ ping for the Military Sealift Com­ mand (MSG), had just finished unloading U.S. military armored vehicles in Kuwait when it was contacted by the MSG, which ad­ vised the captain of the position of the two distressed gunboats in the Gulf of Aden. The South Yemeni gunboats (identified only as boats 121 and 123) were direct­ ly on the course of the Advantage from Kuwait to the Red Sea, so the MSG requested that the vessel and crew investigate the situation and render assistance if possible. According to news reports, six boats had attempted to leave Aden harbor under the guns of North Yemeni forces. Four of those had been blown up and sunk. The two boats rescued by the Advantage v/cre literally all that was left of South Yemen's army and navy. Included in those rescued were the head of the army, the advisor minister of defense and various military colonels. Also aboard was South Yemen's deputy prime minister. Preparing for the Rescue Preparations for the rescue began by all departments the night before the mission took place. However, crewmembers did not know how many people they would be bringing on board or the condition of the refugees until the Advantage reached the two gunboats. "The night before, we got the house ready. We cleared out several rooms and began prepar­ ing food and drinks for when the refugees came on board, because what we did know is that they had been without food and water for a little while," Steward/Bakqr JohnVenables told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. A shipboard hospital and emergency room was set up for the sick and injured by Second Mate Steven Souza and QMED Richard Sanford, who helped the South Yemeni refugees in need of medical attention with his extensive paramedic background. Preparations by the deck crew, led by Bosun Shaw Matthews, included making fenders by at­ taching lines to large tires and lowering them from the Ad­ vantage in order to keep the vessels' hulls from smashing against one another. 7' f , •. ." ' ".7 The Advantage reached the first gunboat at 6 a.m. and found hundreds of heavily armed South Yemeni soldiers aboard that vessel. "We had no idea that they were so heavily armed," noted Matthews. "The element of surprise was so great when we first saw how many weapons they had. It was a very scary and tense time while the refugees and our crewmembers sized one another up," Matthews explained. "I don't think I feared for my life, but I was afraid of what might happen when we brought them on board. They were in a very desperate situation, and they more than outnumbered us," said the bosun. "What we realized later was that the refugees were scared too," he added. Venables recalled that at first it was not apparent that women and children were aboard the ves­ sels. "When we first came upon the boats, we could not see the women or children. The Yemenis had them all hidden inside. Once they realized that we were there to help them, everyone appeared on deck," he said. Ghief Gook Matt Spence noted that although communica­ tion was difficult at first, it was soon evident that the refugees were ready to comply with any condi­ tions set by the Advantage crew. "Before we^ould bring them on board, we had to get the Yemeni soldiers to throw away their weapons," recalled Spence. "The captain called down from the bridge to ask the refugees to disarm." "Once it became ap­ parent that we were there to help, the Yemenis began throwing their weapons into the sea," he said. Rescue Begins The Advantage maneuvered itself into position to receive lines from the first gunboat. Rough seas caused heavy rolling of the ship and initially hampered the crew's efforts. "Due to high swells, we couldn't lower the gangway, so we sent down the pilot ladder," explained Matthews. The lines offered by the gun­ boats were too small to hold the vessels to the Advantage, so Mat­ thews, AB Lawrence Jackson and Sanford descended the pilot ladder and boarded both gunboats to help the refugees. "Due to lack of experience, the refugees were having trouble handling the lines, so we basically helped &em organize in order for our rescue efforts to be conducted safely," explained Matthews. "We showed them how to hold the ladder so they would not hurt themselves and strapped those who needed to go in the gumey safely in place," he added. "We got down onto the first boat and the first thing we noticed was the incredible stench and the horrible condition of the vessel. It was like nothing I have ever seen," Matthews stated. "Conditions on both of the boats were absolutely deplorable," said Bosun Shaw. "Not only were they filthy from the hundreds of Yemenis strug­ gling to survive while at sea, but the boats seemed to be poorly maintained. They looked as if they had been tied up for a great amount of time," he added. Matthews said that although the refugees had thrown the weapons they were holding into the ocean, there were hundreds of other arms resting in various places aboard the boats. "There were literally guns everywhere you looked. In the piping and wiring conduits, shoved in comers and almost everywhere our eyes could see, there were guns. It was an amaz­ ing sight," added the bosun. Making the Transfer Once lines were secure and all visible weapons had been thrown into the sea, tlie transfer operation began and did not stop until the last refugee was hoisted firom the second Iwat later that afternoon. During the boarding process, many of the South Yemenis had trouble using the pilot ladder. "Hungry, thirsty, exhausted and traumatized, a 30-foot climb up a rope ladder is tough for a man in good shape, but for the old and sick it is Mount Everest," wrote AB William Kallins in an article describing the rescue which was published in the Bradenton Herald of Bradenton, Fla. He added that the crewmembers also lowered lifelines and a metal gurney to help pull up the weak and sick and keep them from being crushed between the parallel hulls. Three pregpant women and two soldiers with gunshot wounds woe hoisted safely aboard the Ad­ vantage mHaSi gumey. QMED Sanford carried the 15 South Yemeni children from the gunboats one at a time, on his back, up the 30-foot pilot ladder to safety aboard the Advantage. "We worked about 10-and-ahalf hours straight, in 105 degree heat, getting people on board," Spence stated. "T^e entire crew really worked together to get the job done. It was very important to us to save the refugees." searched the refugees one by one for additional weapons that had not been thrown into the sea. Only a few were discovered and those were given up voluntarily. "You could see the hunger in [the refugees'] eyes," Matthews recalled. "Not only for food and water but for friendly human con­ tact. They had literally been through hell," he observed. When the refugees from the first vessel were aboard the Ad­ vantage, crewmembers began to communicate with them. "Because most of the refugees on the gunboats were Yemeni of­ ficials, they were very well-edu­ cated. There were many who spoke English and explained to us that they were fleeing the country because people were being butchered in the streets of Yemen," noted Spence, who also provided the photos accompany­ ing this article. Venables recalled that the refugees had been fighting for days without end before their departure from the war-tom na­ tion. "They described to us the horrors of the civil war in their country. They had literally been fighting street to street, home to home, for more than three months before their escape. In fact, they had to fight their way out of the hairbor on the day of foeir escape, just barely making it out alive," recalled Venables. "When I reflect back on the Taking Care of the Refugees required the amputation of a toe. Advantage, something that they had not experienced in a long time. Special Galley Efforts "Being in the desperate situa­ Meanwhile the steward tion that they had been in, they department, consisting of Spence, were just overwhelmed to be Venables and SA William Wickamong friendly people," said land, served the refugees Venables. hundreds of pounds of rice and "What was most wonderful cases of vegetables mixed with a were the children. The 15 of them soup base. "Because they had not averaged in age between 2 and 5 had any type of nourishment in years old. Once on board, with several days, the food we served their tummies full and made to had to be an important and quick feel secure, they became kids source of protein and vitamins. again—running and playing and We did not prepare any meat be­ laughing. It really made afi the cause that could make them sick," hard work worthwhile," noted Venables. Spence recalled, "We set up Venables added. The steward/baker noted that two food stations and fed Spence took over a lot of the everyone. We brought out big responsibility of caring for the pots of food and kept feeding children. He helped them get until they were full." cleaned up and fed while teaching Feeding, housing and provid­ them new American songs. ing medical attention for the 353 "The playfulness of the refugees went on through the children provided some relief night. "The entire crew per­ from the seriousness of the situa­ formed heroically to get the tion. They were the best. They refugees comfortably settled," noted Spence. Once the refugees had rested, | slept and eaten, many were able to find temporary comfort aboard the Crewmembers worked! for more than 10 hours j bringing the 353 Yemeni refugees from both! boats aboard the Ad-\ vantage. \ Once on board, crewmembers 7' , Michael Koppenhaver, Bosun Shaw Matthews, AB Lawrence Jackson and OS Bill Kallins make fenders for the Advantage ' inpreparaSon for the rescue operation. ? | " . . . * ^« .iC'- - -7 - ,• Once the refugees realized thatl the Advantage was there to res-| cue them, the children and! women came out from their hiding' places. , . ~ i Once lines were secured, crew- | members prepare to bring the ' refugees on board while the second boat remains drifting in the distance. -r, Chief Cook Matt Spence made I many fast friends among the! Yemeni children, who werel relieved to laugh and play again| aboard the Advantage. Silil '"""I • 'i fVr "' f 7~"- -Simf -1 77-7'' .-..v...." . '7:'" """" - 'c<^\ • i-. ':J .7 77 A 'Tense Time' The South Yemenis had been adrift for four days, nine miles offshore. When the Advantage reached them, they had only reserve fuel, a little food and vir­ tually no water left. "TTie refugees had practically run out of food and water several days before we found them. They were really tired. There was also a school of sharks swimming in the area," said Spence. He noted that although the sharks were "only four-footers, they can cause problems," r Although lines were attached, the rough seas made it difficult to bring the gunboats alongside the Advantage. •t'-; ' • •• A 9 7. When everyone was safely abodrd the Advantage, the refugees relaxed and enjoyed cold drinks and sandwiches on deck. --7''-K. ' . - •, «• still had a lot of life in them and they were playing as soon as we got them on board and away from all dangers," recalled Spence. Several hours after the refugees were situated aboard the Advantage, Matthews noted a change in the atmosphere. "The mood of the Yemenis changed dramatically from relief and hap­ piness over being rescued, to a great sense of sadness and despair," he recalled. "In the long trip to Oman, they had time to think of their foture and their ultimate destiny," the bosun reflected. 'They had just been forced out of the only country they had ever known, and they really had no place to go. It was very sad." v", ^ ,• _• '•7 i \\ /,I •• • 7' I '' ' j ^ ^ '-h • The End of the Voyage The Advantage was instructed to deliver the South Yemenis to safety in a refugee camp set up for them by the United Nations in Oman, 12 hours from where the rescue took place and 14 hours off course for the Advantage. All 353 South Yemeni refugees were transported safely to the camp in Oman by the Ad­ vantage crew. According to Spence, it took approximately two hours for all the refugees to leave the ship. "I can honestly say that I shook everyone of the 353 refugees' hands and received many hugs from the grateful Yemenis. It was kind of sad for the crew to say goodbye. We wished them all the best," said Matthews. : In a telex sent to the ship, crewmembers aboard the Ad­ vantage were commended by Vice Admiral Douglas J. Katz, Gommander Naval Surface For­ ces U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He stated, "I would like to extend a hearty congratulations to you on your successfrjl rescue of die 353 Yemeni personnel adrift in international waters. Without exception, I am sure that those rescued will forever hold the U.S. merchant marine in the highest esteem. Your actions serve as an example of the time honored tradition of service and compassion associated with mariners the world over." Mark Parris, acting assistant secretary for Near Eastern affairs for the Department of State, wrote in a letter to Red River Shipping Gompany, "I wish to take this op­ portunity to thank you and your employees for their successful rescue at sea of nearly 300 men, women and children fleeing the unfortunate conflict in Yemen. The Department of State commends Ship Master Hairy F. Ball and the crew of the MVAdvantage for ac­ ting in the finest tradition of the U.S. merchant marine." "We can think of no more out­ standing example of the dedica­ tion and ability of the U.S. merchant marine than this," Par­ ris added. Rodney Gregory, vice presi­ dent of operations for Red River Shipping Gorp., praised the Ad­ vantage crew in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. "Food, water and showers were provided to the 353 refugees, who were delivered to Oman the following day. This un­ selfish effort by the master and crew of the MV Advantage is an outstanding example of the dedica­ tion and ability of the U.S. mer­ chant marine," Gregory wrote. The Advantage is used to aug­ ment the MSG'S prepositioning program which is designed to meet the U.S. military's rapid response needs in times of war or international conflict. I - Before the Yemenis were allowed to come on board, crewmembers communicate to them that they have to throw all weapons into the sea. Crew Is Praised isisl# ' Rollingatireondeck, which S2 will be used to keep hulls from smashing against one another, is OS Bill Kallins. - situation, it neverceases to amaze me. Here you have these people who had been fighting for their lives for months without end, and then we came along and told them that if they threw away their weapons, we would help them and their families. And they did. They threw away their weqwns and put their trust in us. It was an incredible feeling," Venables noted. "It was amazing to see the looks on their faces when they came aboard. They would hug us and express how happy they were," recalled Spence. As some of the Advantage crewmembers were exchanging information with the South Yemenis who spoke English, other Seafarers were aiding the sick and the injured while the steward department put the final touches on a meal for more than 350. Attending to those in need of medical attention was Sanford, who Venables said did a "remark­ able job." The pregnant women, soldiers and the elderly were treated for simple ailments and released from the ship's hospital "happy to be alive," Venables said. Of all 353 refugees brought aboard, only one person suffered a slightly serious injury which later "i- "• . • _• s,;., .•• |ii|iip7:7 The Yemenis wait patiently to board the Ad­ vantage while watching the first of their fellow countrymen climb the pilot ladder to safety. •f- A Yemeni soldier explains the horrible condi­ tions of the civil war to QMED Bob Ready while newly boarding refugees are searched for ad­ ditional weapons. �:--*.i6.--. .• -••W' vt- -• .' .•••.••• •'•• • SJ :-.:-4--^ •• • • 14 N0¥EMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Harvest Grains Keep Orgulf Tugs Busy . ••y.;:.-. ;.'T. . As the cooler winds of autumn begin sweeping down from the north, SIU crewmembers aboard Orgulf tugboats along the Mississippi River continue to work without interruption. "It has been a busy summer for us, which can be attributed to the flooding of the Mississippi last year. Looking to this fall—harvest time—it seems like we will continue to have plenty of work," Dorlis Taylor, who sails as a cook aboard the Enterprise Star, told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Friendship Eases Hard WorlT Taylor added that teamwork and friendship aboard the tug makes hard work a little easier. "Because we work in so many different conditions—day and night. as well assometimes unfavorable weather— it helps to like what you do and the people you woik with. We are aU like a big family," she noted. Besides its usual loads of mulch, coal, scrap and other dry cargo, Orgulf tugs have been moving much of the summer crops along the waterways and will con­ tinue as the fall harvest begins. "There is always so much work to be done that it is really great to be working with others who not only share similar interests but also who make going to work fun," noted Eddie Oliver Jr. who sails as a deckhand aboard the 7.5. McDermptt. SlU-crewed Orgulf tugs travel a diverse spaii of waters along the Missis­ sippi, and personal safety is always a con­ cern, as is the safety of others navigating the area Safety Is Stressed Crewmembers aboard vessels like the Peter Fanchi reinforce the importance of safety on the waterways. Deckhand Andreas Knighter stated that he always practices safety while on board and en­ courages his fellow crewmembers todo so as well. "It is our concern for one another that makes sailing on Orgulf tugs so great. When we are sailing... all we have is each other," the deckhand noted. Depending on thearea and current con­ ditions in their designated watenvay, some boats are able to operate with as manv as 35 barges. A busy season means non-stop work for Utilityman Chris Orgulf, which is based in Cincinnati, Hormuth (left) and Mate Barry Clarke (right) of the J.B. operates tugs and barges along the Missis- Klelnpeter. sippi River. While the upper part of the river closes in winter because of ice and bad weather, the company operates vessels year-round from Moore's Landing, Mo. south to New Orleans. n «« . 1 *71 .*_*•_ Preparing fresh clam chowder for crewmembers on the U.S. McDermoffls Cook Peggy Robinett. ; Overseeing deck operations On a quick break, Lead Deckhand Checking the lines on board the "'"fV'?'' aboard the Pefer Jo//of is Lead Mozell Turner catches up on union J.S. McDermott \s Deckhand for egg salad aboard the Knighter, gets t^^ Deckhand Dennis Joliot. news aboard the Enfe/pnse Star. Eddie Oliver Jr. Enterprise Star. tie up tne vessel. Slow, For Great Lakes' Iglehart Aboard the J.A.W. Iglefiart, which was delayed from ^ginning its sailing season by icy waters, are Watchman Jeffrey Davis (right) and SIU Algonac Patrolman Ken Homer. Despite a glacial start to the Great Lakes sailing season, the J.A.W. Iglehart has been working great M Wjif S""®' operator. Inland Lakes kola n Management, expects the vessel will be sailing late into the year. The slow beginning of the sail­ ing season was due to thick ice for­ mations that covered Lake Superior and the connecting channels. As a result, many Great Lakes ships did not begin operations until late spring. The J.A. W. Iglehart, a self-unloading cement carrier, became stuck in more than 36 inches of ice when entering Thunder Bay near Alpena, Mich, to pick up cargo. Industry sources predict that Great Lakes ships like the Iglehart will work late into the year. There is no shortage of cargoes on the lakes this year, so shipping should continue as long as the weather permits. V Second Cook Paul Paton (left) and Algonac Patrolman Tim Kelley Porter Ahmed Kaid tidies up the Getting ready for the next meal aboard the Inland Lakes Manageexpect the Iglehart to have steady work until the lakes freeze over, galley aboard the J.A.W. Iglehart. ment vessel is Second Cook Lee Sleeper. •\ ; r' �^ ,, , -ty , SEAFMtERSLOG NOVEMBER 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea December 1994 & January 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups All Groups Trip Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 8 57 53 5 28 14 24 2 6 10 6 2 •1 1 1 2 4 9 13 5 3 0 2 1 20 20 19 5 13 9 1 12 3 33 0 14 6 9 1 1 8 44 26 5 15 3 7 14 21 36 5 - 39 8 17 11 - • • 12 12 42 7 •M-'m :• 0 ''•Us.- ", 12 10 16 10 ^-•:v.-13'.'v. 11 ••• '•^\''y-2iv: 29 1?" 4: 6 43 49 7 20 7 • 1 2 7 7 12 3 7 4 1 4 5 25 7 0 11 6 1 9 22 38 53 7 16 19 1 4 1 :Civ: 0 • 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 13 2 1 1 • .• 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 • 0 0 139 426 338 61 135 152 42 66 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 35 52 :s:t 11 . 6 . 2 4 ' 1 4 ::../t:5 0 0 0 1 0 3 12 iti1 .ttitt,6' t::.^ i-:::it 3 ' 5 8 15 5 8 5 5 4 9 2 9 12 6 2 5 5 0 3 23 13. 3 8 11 2 24 t.'-: 11 20 3'• • 5 tt 8 •^y-:-2% 5 O'tt 32 ir.:3 1 28 , S6i: 4 0 • •' 18 1 17. ... 5 16 MyiMi :t:::4. • 5 22 21 18 8 1 3 0 4 7 4 3 5 . 4 0 7 12 6 3 6 8 5 5 7 20 25 6 5 S 9 :t 2\--^'t. t'tit 6' . 0 2 0 t: 1 0 0 26 0 ••:t|i::'6t' 0 3 " 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 61 276 208 40 28 85 86 35 STEWARD DEPARTMENT i-2.. 40 8 0 3 14 0 W22 1 0 2 1 y-r. 0 St- 4--: V 3 ':f4' • 'i-yi 0 13 6 6 2 3 5 6 . 4 4 14 11 0 1• 1 1 3 3 11 9 6 1 4 11 2 4 M-44 f 11 3 1 • "5:^ 3 10 25 8 2 3 22 5 15 14 8 14 2 2 16 36 4 2 4 16 2 4 0 4 3 0 1 1 8 17 11 1 i ' 1 1 3 4 12 18 0 6 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . 1' , ^ 1 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 55 228 187 45 98 40 16 30 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 89 - 35 •• 14 0 0 18 13 4 1 2 0 2 0 .-t-'t' 2': 0 2 10 0 3 i 0 1 :.3 ^ 24 28 7 0 12 9 1 17 4 31 2 0 1 8 0 2 21 29 7 0 8 11 5 14 • . g..' •s? 22 28 7 ,0rr' 6 0 15 33 43 . T-V ,0 :tr 16 7 2 15 21 28 9 it:tiO:':.t: 3 10 3 11 16 41 9 0 1 13 9 5 19 4 5 0 3 3 4 7 112 47 10 0 10 13 0 53 10 35 0 1 4 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 36 0 0 0 11 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 331 450 95 0 50 117 32 161 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York 25 36 Philadelphia 0 5 Baltimore 5 7 Norfolk 10 13 Mobile 9 12 New Orleans 12 26 Jacksonville 19 17 San Francisco 16 23 16 Wilmington 11 Seattle 28 29 3 Puerto Rico 7 18 Honolulu 4 25 Houston 20 St. Louis 0 1 8 Piney Point / 1 0 0 Algonac 167 239 Totals Port 19 22 New York 1 Philadelphia • .it-s • • 6::t.; it:.'8. Baltimore 6 5 Norfolk 4 7 Mobile 13 New Orleans 6 10 8 Jacksonville 18 San Francisco 15 12 7 Wilmington 10 16 Seattle 3 7 Puerto Rico 8 2 Honolulu 13 20 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 4 17 Piney Point 0 0 Algonac 145 123 Totals Port 20 -12 New York 2 1 . Philadelphia 3 4 Baltimore 8 9 Norfolk 7 5 Mobile 5 New Orletuis 5 5V;; 4 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 33 6 Wilmington 11 12. 14 Seattle 0 4 Puerto Rico 9 7 Honolulu , %} 9 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 6 3 Kney Point 0 0 Algonac 102 121 Totals Port 40 New Yoi^ 1 2 Philadelphia 6 0 Baltimore 13 6 Norfolk 16 1 Mobile 10 New Orleans 4 21 1 Jacksonville 22 San Francisco 8 15 5 Wilmington 20 7 Seattle 2 2 Puerto Rico 28 3 Honolulu 15 5 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 32 0 Piney Point 0 0 Algonac 241 49 Totals Totals All 727 160 'm 292 351 394 136 146 869 1.339 586 Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,027 jobs were shipped an SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,027 jobs shipped, 351 jobs or about 34 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filied by "B" and "C seniority people. From September 16 to October 15,1994, a total of 146 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 21,776 jobs have been shipped. •• " 15 Piney Point Monday: December 5; Tuesday, January 3* 'changed by New Year's Day H-i' New York Tuesday: December 6, Januaiy 3 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 7, January 4 Baltimore Thursday: December 8, January 5 Norfolk Thursday: December 8, Januaiy 5 Jacksonville Thursday: December 8, January 5 Algonac s Friday: December 9, January 6 Houston Monday: December 12, January 9 New Orleans Tuesday: December 13, January 10 Mobile Wednesday: December 14, January 11 San Francisco Thursday: December 15, January 12 Wilmington Monday: December 19, January 16 Seattle Friday: December 23; Monday, Januaiy 23* 'changed by Martin Luther King's birthday San Juan Thursday:December 8, Januaiy 5 St. Louis Friday: December 16, January 13 Honolulu Friday: December 16, January 13 Duluth Wednesday: December 14, January 11 Jersey City Wednesday: December 21, January 18 New Bedford Tuesday: December 20, January 17 EatA port's meeUiystaite at 10:30ajn. Personals VICTOR DALE MATTISON Anyone knowing Victor Dale Mattison or his where­ abouts, please contact Loiraine Mattison at 432 Helen Street, Alpena, MI 49707; orphone (517) 354-8836. NORBERTO "ALBERT" PINEDA Please contact Laura Hand Comilsen at 406 Gait Avenue, Rock Falls, BL 61071; or phone (815) 6264693. Your sister is ill. CEFERINO REYES Please contact yoiu" son, Mario Reyes, at 376 Oak TrailsRoad,DesPlaines,IL 60016. JOHN FRANCIS ROBERTS Please contact your son, John Roberts,at 18 Bernard Drive North, MillersviUe, MD 21108. RADAMESTORO Please contact your wife, Laura Isabel Mejia, at 332 Starr Street, BrooUyn, NY; or phone (718) 628-9646. Corrections • SIU Pensioner William Drew recently informed the Seafarers LOG that reports of his death have been greatly exaggerated. An article about the Manitou on page 12 in last month's LOG mistakenly identified Brother Drew as deceased. "The doctors have given up on me a couple of times, but I'm okay," Drew said recently from his home in Morehead City, N.C. "Actually, this is nothing new. I was listed as Missing In Action twice during World War II." Brother Drew joined the SIU in 1950 in New York and sailed as a QMED and electrician. He retired 14 years ago. • In the caption at the bottom of page 5 in last month's Seafarers LOG, Jim McGee was misidentifled. He is the Houston port agent. • The caption identifying two photographs of New Or­ leans-based crewmembers on page 12 of last month's Seafarers LOG was incorrect. The photo of boatmen Wil­ liam Judd Sr., Steve Judd (who now serves as an SIU patrolman) and William Judd Jr. should have idenbfied their vessel as the Margaret S. Cooper, a shipdocking tug operated by Crescent Towing. The photograph of boatmen Mike Maggett, Eddie Moore, Steve Judd, David Queipo, A. Stevenson and David Kuhlman should have noted their vessel as Red Circle's Teresa F. It was the Teresa F. that recently carried phosphorus. 4:^ .••5' • f: •'•1/ M- • �NO¥EMOER 1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory '-'L: '1 Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack CafTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48(K)1 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVH^LE 3315 Liberty St. JacksonvUle, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey Qty, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEWBEDFORD 48 Union SL New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. . New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 ^•NEWYORK. 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK • 115 Third St Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S.4St Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215^)336-3818 PINEYPOINT P.O. Box 75 Kney 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 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 5ION. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 NP—Non Priority ..EEO™ONBE.C„ C.»,CL*Src..»NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 20 1 11 2 0 6 0 14 16 C,»NP C.»,a.*tarC.,.NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 18 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 16 . 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 5 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 42 0 24 J 10 3 ,i 0 0 44 30 74 Totals Ail Departments 0 51 20 0 39 11 0 103 * 'Tot^ Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" memis the total number of men registered at the, port at the end of last month. ' ' i Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 •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 2 44 2. 50 "i-K'i. 2 22 0 25 1 2 0 5 0 9 0 1 10 0 17 0 15 32 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 ' • 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 I 3 2 2 0 27 0 27 6 47 30 8 77 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 16 0 0 0 0 1 16 24 3 51 4 82 3 2 29 0 34 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 0 • V, 2 • 0 0 ""'Vl' 0 4 -0 5 0 2 3 7 5 2 4 0 19 0 46 65 2 7 0 5 14 :• 0 0 1 • v.V;- 0 2 • ••.0:-::S 0 2 ill 2 4 Totals All Departments 80 11 40 98 10 35 134 17 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. *• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 84 Are You Missing Important Maii? 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 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 In order to ensure that each active that you are not getting your union SIU member and pensioner receives mail, please use the form on this page a copy of the Seafarers LOG each to update your home address. month—as well as other important Your home address is your per­ mail such as W-2 forms, pension and manent address, and this is where all welfare checks and bulletins or official union documents will be notices—a correct home address mailed (unless otherwise specified). must be on file with the union. If you are getting more than one If you have moved recently or feel (PLEASE PRINT) HOME ADDRESS FORM 11/94 T I I I Name Phone No. L Address Social Security No. • Active SIU • Other Book No. /. • 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. I I L. (Signed). - J �r • v .•V-'v..v •^',-f%^...:. •' ' • . _•" • ikJjr ..'(tfji"--'-• ,; •_,','I.-:. .^•«'- '..- NO¥EMBER 1994 SEAFARERSLOC J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 19 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing the world's water­ ways. Twelve of those signing off" sailed in the deep sea division; five navigated the inland water­ ways; one sailed on the Great Lakes; and one was a member of the Railroad Marine Division. Ten of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military—five in the Navy, two in the Anny, two in the Air Force and one in the Coast Guard. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, James S. Rogers completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Deep Sea member Robert E. Wagner has been with the union for the longest period, beginning his seafaring career in 1946. The oldest retiring mem­ bers are Clarence E. Lancaster at 72, and Levi Hershberger and Wilbur J. Crooks, both at 71. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pen­ sioners. DEEP SEA JAMES F. BRACK, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Bom in Georgia, Brother Brack has retired to Texas. ROBERT G. ECKLEY, 63, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Pen­ nsylvania, Brother Eckley started sailing in the Great Lakes division and then transferred to the deep sea division. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Eckley served in the U.S. Air Force in 1951. He resides in Pennsyl­ vania. LORENZO A. FORGERON, 67, joined the union in 1958 in the port of Seat­ tle. He sailed in the deck department. Bom in Nova Scotia, Brother Forgeron has retired to Washington. WILLIAM A. GIL­ LETTE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Bom in Michigan, he started his sail­ ing career in the Great Lakes division, later transferring to the deep sea division as a member of the steward department. Brother Gillette upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1953. Brother Gillette retired to Michigan. yr- RAILROAD MARINE 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. LEVI HERSH­ BERGER, 71, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Detroit. He began sailing in the Great Lakes division, later transferring to the deep sea division. Brother Hershberger sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army in 1943. A native of Michigan, Brother Hershberger currently resides in Texas. ALEX A. JARADIE, 55, joined the union in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Bom in Yemen, Arabia, Brother Jaradie became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1%8. He lives in New York. ROBERT K. LAM­ BERT, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Mobile, Ala. as a member of the deck department. Brother Lambert served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1950. Bom in Florida, Brother Lambert resides in Alabama. MANUEL F.LOPEZ, 64, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Hous­ ton. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Lopez upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army fiom 1947 to 1955. A native of New Jersey, Brother Lopez has retired to Califomia. JOAQUIN R. MILLER, 64, joined the union in 1959 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Miller upgraded frequently at Piney Point and received his QMED endorsement there. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1947 to 1958. Bom in Mas­ sachusetts, Brother Miller resides in Washington. LINWOOD E. PRICE, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Price still calls his native North Carolina home. JAMES S. ROGERS, 55, a graduate of the Andrew Fumseth School of Training, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Rogers upgraded at the Lundeberg School and com­ pleted the bosun recertification program there in 1982. A native of Virginia, he has retired to Maryland. ROBERT E. WAGNER, 65, began sailing with the union in 1946 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in the deck department. Bom in Pen­ nsylvania, Brother Wagner has retired to Califomia. INLAND FRANK H. AUERSWALD, 57, joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed as a mate and upgraded at the Lundeberg School a number of times, most recently to firstclass pilot. Boatman Auerswald served in the U.S. Navy. A na­ tive of Pennsylvania, Boatman Auerswald now resides in New Jersey. THOMAS M. DOHERTY, 59, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. He started sailing in the deep sea division and later transferred to the inland division. Boatman Doherty sailed in the deck department.; He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Doherty served in the U.S. Navy fiom 1952 to 1956. He presently resides in New Jersey. CLARENCE E. LAN­ CASTER, 72, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed as chief engineer. Bom in North Carolina, Boatman Lancaster still calls North Carolina home. VERNON E. VANSANT, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va, Joatman Vansant sailed as chief mate. He served in the U.S. f^Iavy from 1952 to 1953. A na­ tive of Delaware, Boatman Van­ sant now resides in Florida." 17 WILLIAM E. WILCOX, 62, a native of Michigan, joined the union in 1961 in Detroit. He began his sailing career on the Great Lakes and later transferred to the inland division. Boatman Wilcox sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He still calls Michigan home. GREAT LAKES NORMAN E. MOENICH, 62, an Ohio native, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Cleveland. He sailed as a tug deckhand. Boatman Moenich still calls Ohio home. WILBUR J. CROOKS, 71, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Crooks sailed as deckhand. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. A native of New Jersey, Brother Crooks still calls New Jersey home. Corrections In the April and August edi­ tions of the Seafarers LOG, in­ correct information was given about new pensioner Arnold Ferry. Brother Perry, 65, joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of Boston, Mass. A New Bedford, Mass. native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Perry still calls New Bedford home. In the October LOG, Joseph Self was described as sailing in the deck department. Boatman Self sailed in the in­ land division as a captain. LOG-A-RHYTHMS A Sleeping Warrior by Charles R. Westover A ship in port is like a sleeping warrior Waiting for its next battle with the sea. But when it's out on the ocean it becomes alive. Smoking, creaking and fighting the huge waves. It's a home, it's a fortress, it's a haven for few, A place to work, to eat, to sleep. To read one's memoirs of the past. To meditate, to plan, to hope. Huge and strong, if it could speak It would tell many tales of distant shores. Of the men who sailed her And took care of her. Quiet now, in port with its booms raised up high. Mostmen left, to forget for awhile The companionship of others. The loneliness of the days at sea. Just happy to be on land again. But anxious to go back. Quiet now, just a breeze, a seagull, A passing plane to remind us of the present. Looking at the giant warrior, carrier of cargo. Carrying supplies now like it was a hundred years ago. (Charles R. Westover, a resident of Dunedin, Fla., sailed with the SIU firom 1946 to 1954. In 1946, he helped organize Cities Service tankers. This poem was written in 1974 while sitting on the dock in Port Tampa.) The Sea and the Woman by Alban Castro The sea is like a woman. Some secrets left untold. The sea is like a woman. Its beauty we must unfold. The sea is like a woman. Its horizons so far to sea. The sea is like a woman. We know not what will be. The sea is like a woman. It can be cold, dark and gray. The sea is like a woman. But I find it hard to stay away. (Alban Castro sails an an OS with the SIU. He recently was aboard the Sealift Arabian Sea.) �i f;- 18 NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG For RRF Operation^ Statu Seafarers have boarded the Cape Race to begin sea trials— the final phase of die ship's trans­ formation from a Saudi Arabian-flag vessel to a vessel in the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet. Following its recent purchase by the Maritime Administration (MarAd) and subsequent conver­ sion in a Baltimore shipyard where all equipment and shipboard technology were brought up to U.S. Coast Guard standards—the SlU-crewed Cape Race went out on sea trials to verify that all equipment was in proper working order. The diesel engine was checked, fuel ef­ ficiency was monitored, and any­ thing that possibly could go wrong was evaluated and, if necessary, corrected. Bosun John McCIaren was pleased with the teamwork" aboard theship during this critical stage in the process of the ship becoming an operational RRF vessel. He credited Chief Steward Andre Gee, Chief Cook Harry Jones and the rest of the galley gang with providing some wonder­ ful meals to the hard-working crew. SIU Representative Sal Aquia, who took ^e photos accompany­ ing this article, met the vessel in Baltimore prior to its voyage to Norfolk, Va., where it is based, and noted that "the crew really loved the work." He added that the "food was out of this world" and that everything seemed very orderly aboard ship. Operated by International Marine Cairiers (IMC), the Cape Race wUl remain under govenment ownership for use in surge shipping fm d^n^times of conflict^or w^ ^ All equipment and operations aboard the SlU-crewed Cape Hace were thoroughly tested during sea trials Chief Cook Harry Jones serves lunch to RudiLiuzzi, captain on board AB Pasquale Girgilli completes Heading back to work after lunch are (frorn left) Chief Engineer Paul the Cape Race. The ship is in Sea trials, preparing for the RRF. some paperwork aboard ship. Mussotto, AB Joe Cirafissi and AB Bob Trigett. --•••- V «"K-:'K . Sea trials are busy times for Chief Steward AB Glenn Bake enjoys one of the hearty OMU Jeffrey Bull (left) relaxes while Chief Taking a break after lunch are SA Henry Andrd Gee (left) and Bosun John McCIaren. meals prepared by the galley gang. Cook Harry Jones gets to eat his dessert. Nelson (left) and Chief Steward Andr6 Gee. From the LNG Gemini w The LNG Gemini, one of seven LNG tankers in the Energy Transportation Corporation fleet, sails roundtrip between Arun or Bontang, Indonesia, where it loads its cargo, and Himeji, Osaka, Tobafa or Nagoya, Japan, where it discharges the liquid natural gas. The four photographs appearing below and at right were submitted to theSeafarers LOG by die Gemini's chief steward, Kris A. Hopkins, and show how some of the crewmembers pass their fr^ time on the 28-day roundtrip voyage. OMFn<; Kfivin Conklin and Paul Wolf break for a CUD of rofffelboaJdthe^ L,"}:. V . iui Bosun Ramli Mohamed enjoys the Independence Day cookout. Helping prepare a shipboard barbecue is Chef Cook Judi Chester, Steward Matt Scudder completes a workout in the ship's exercii room. �-; liOVEMBER 1994 Sf-. If /4 •• SEAFARERS LOG Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educa­ SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (Seational Director Ron Day, Deck Land Service), August 14—Chair­ Delegate Harry R. Johns, Engine man Werner Becher, Secretary Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward James H. Cbaney, l^ucationd Delegate Mohamed M. Quraish. Director Walter Stevens, Deck Secretary reported receipt of new Delegate Marc Cella, Engine The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- pay rate for unlicensed crew. Delegate Robert D. Zurflub, tward minuk» as possibie. On occasion, b^use of space Educational director urged mem­ Steward Delegate Thomas M. bers to upgrade at Piney Point as Kelly. Chairman reported that ar­ iimitations, some wili be omitted. often as possible. Treasurer an­ rival in Tacoma, Wash, is later than Ships minutes ttrst are reviewed by the union's contract department nounced $645.50 in ship's fund scheduled due to typhoon en route. Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addrest^ by (te after purchasing 50 new videotapes He thanked crew for helping keep in last four months. No beefs or dis­ lounge area clean and reminded union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then puted OT reported in deck, engine crewmembers that vacation and forwarded to the Seafaren LOG for pubiication. or steward departments. Crewmem­ benefit forms are available aboard bers requested additional washing ship. Educational director advised SEAUFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), Educational Director T. Neuwiller, machine on crew living level. Ship crewmembers to take advantage of June 15—Chairman Brian Deck Delegate Louis Sorito, heading to Bahrain. upgrading opportunities at Paul Sandlin, Educational Director Steward Delegate A1 Fretta. Chair­ H^l Center. No beefs or disputed SACRAMENTO(Vulctin Car­ Marty Marcellus. Chairman ad­ man reminded crewmembers to OT reported by all three depart­ riers), August 6—Chairman Benvised crewmembers to take care close hatch in forepeak. He men­ ment delegates. Request made by nie Hobbs, Secretary M. Scott, when handling mooring lines. He tioned previous motion to sub­ crew for new toaster. Educational Director B. Caldwell, also noted ice machine needs scribe to Stars and Stripes Deck Delegate Spencer Lyle. NEWARK BAY(Sea-Land Ser­ repair. Secretary stressed impor­ magazine will be brought up with Chairman praised crew for fine vice), August 21—Chairman tance of upgrading skills at Piney captain. Secretary noted new linen job. He said any questions concern­ Pedro Sanchez, Secretary Felipe Point. No beefs or disputed OT system working well. Educational ing sanitary and OT would be P.A. Orianda, Educational Direc­ reported by deck, engine or crewmembers to director urged answered at payoff. Secretary tor Mark Rubl, Deck Delegate steward departments. Question take advantage of educational opSteve Yursha, Engine Delegate stressed importance of continuing raised regarding pay increase due portunites at Lundeberg School. SPAD donations. Educational William Parker. Chairman noted June 1. Next port: Long Beach, No beefs or disputed OT reported director urged all members to at­ radio in crew lounge and Calif. in all three departments. Copies of tend Lundeberg School. He noted microwave oven in crew mess still new contract handed out to each SEAUFT CHINA SEA (IMC), that a well-educated merchant unrepairable. Educational director member and final details of agree­ June 16—Chairman Ron Owens, marine is a strong merchant urged crewmembers to attend ment posted. Clarification ne^ed Secretary Toyokazu Gonzales, on questions of unemployment and marine. Treasurer announced $540 Piney Point for upgrading and spe­ Educational Director Joe Algere, cial courses, including refrigeration health benefit coverage for depend­ in ship's fund. Disputed OT Steward Delegate Brenda C. reported in deck department. No technician class. No beefs or dis­ ents. Vote of thanks given to Grays. Discussion held about puted OT reported in all depart­ steward department for tremendous beefs or disputed OT reported in travel pay. Chairman noted need engine or steward departments. ments. Russ Barrack elected new job. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. for copies of contract and job Special thanks given to steward deck delegate. Recommendations descriptions. Will await patrolman CHARLES L. BffOWW (Tran­ regarding pension requirements for­ department. Next port: Haifa, Is­ in Femdale, Wash. No beefs or dis­ soceanic Cable), August 30— warded to contracts department. rael. puted OT reported by three depart­ Chairman Paul J. Lewis, Secretary Ship heading out to Boston, Mass., SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Seaments. Crewmembers gave vote of Brenda Kamiya, Deck Delegate Elizabeth, N.J., Norfolk, Va. and thanks to galley gang for variety of Roger J. Reinke, Engine Delegate Land Service), August 28—Chair­ Rotterdam, Netherlands. man Amado Abaniel, Secretary food and overall professionalism, Patrick D. McPherson, Steward with special mention to Chief Delegate Roherto Escobar. Chair­ Ray A. Garcia, Educational Direc­ SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Service), August 23—Chairman tor Daniel J. Famenia, Deck Cook Grays for good and tasty man noted payoff scheduled for Delegate Scott Wilson, Engine Howard Gibbs, Secretary Robert August 31. Treasurer announced food and GSU M.K. AbduUa for A. Martinez, Educational Director keeping ship clean. Next port: $400 in ship's fund. Steward holds Delegate Michael Veigel, Steward Delegate Louella M. Sproul. Sonny R. Acosta, Deck Delegate Femdale. another $25 for upcoming bar­ Chairman thanked crewmembers Theodore Doi, Steward Delegate becue expenses. Suggestion to SEA-LAND EXPRESS (Seafor smooth voyage and electrician raise maintenance and cute to $50 Arthur Medeiros. Chairman Land Service), July 24—Chairman will be forwarded to contracts for performing necessary repairs. reported payoff in Long Beach, Ernest Duhon, Secretary G. He advised departments to be department for consideration. Calif, on August 26. Secretary Bryant Jr., Educational Director safety conscious at all times and to stressed importance of donating to Archie Bell, Deck Delegate Larry LONG LINES (Transoceanic check Seafarers LOG for schedule SPAD to supfiort maritime in­ Cable), August 23—Chairman L. Long, Engine Delegate of upgrading courses. No beefs or dustry. Educational director em­ Helary Domhrowski, Secretary D. disputed OT reported in all depart­ Richard H. Surrick, Steward phasized training and upgrading at Coliison, Educational Director Delegate Frank Sison. Chairman ments. Vote of thanks given to Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ reported receipt of work rales for Juanito Dansalan, Deck Delegate steward department for job well puted OT reported in all three steward department. He reminded Eddie Morre, Engine Delegate done. Next,port: Honolulu. departments. Vote of thanks given crewmembers to sign crew list and Mike Las Dulce, Steward SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (Sea^ to steward department for fine job. repair form. Secretary discussed Delegate William Smith. Educa­ van services. Educational director tional director reminded crewmem­ Land Service), August 28—Chair­ man Joel G. Miller, Secretary G.F. requested all crewmembers leaving bers to upgrade their skills at Paul Thomas, Educational Director ship to strip bunks and clean rooms Hall Center. Treasurer announced B#?00#fS/74/VGE(10M), Sep­ Austin Horn. Secretary noted $600 in ship's fiind. No beefs or for next person. Movie fund con­ tember 10—Chairman Bob Pagan, problem with some food from sup­ Secretary John Hanrahan, Educa­ disputed OT reported by all three tains $600. Some disputed OT plier. Believes it can be taken care reported in steward department. No department delegates. New tional Director Thomas Woemer, of without too much trouble. eyewash station now aboard ship b^fs or disputed OT reported by Deck Delegate L. Jacobs, Engine and first aid kits placed in different Educational director recommends deck or engine department Delegate A. Nasser, Steward to crewmembers to take time to go locations. New crew lounge furni­ delegates. Request made to have Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. payoff on arrival in port regardless ture also aboard. Crewmembers re­ to Lundeberg School. No beefs or Chairman prais^ quality work per­ disputed OT reported in deck, en­ of time. Vote of thanks extended to quested new washers and dryers formed by all crewmembers in gine or steward departments. Sug­ when old ones fail. Next port: steward department forJob well recent butterworthing and tank gestion made to repair or replace Honolulu. done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. cleaning operations. He informed remote control to crew TV and to crew of in^vidual responsibilities RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN use movie fund to purchase several in trash separation. Educational LNG ARIES(Energy Transporta­ tion Corp.), August 28—Chairman (Ocean Shipholding), August 21— exercise bicycles for crew. Next director reviewed emergency port: Oakland, Calif. Chairman James T. Martin, M. Pereira, Secretary R. Brown, duties with all hands. He also stressed training at Lundeberg School and necessity to obtain new refrigeration endorsements by November 14. Additionally, he said all potential safety hazards are to be reported to educational direc­ tor. Treasurer announced depletion of ship's fund due to purchase of videotapes. Recent contributions raised $1,500 for Cancer Society. Vo beefs or disputed OT report^ >y department delegates. Discus­ sion held on current smoking xjlicy. Clarification may be neces­ sary. Crewmembers put in request "or new washing machine. Vote of 1 hanks given to steward department or clean ship and well-fed crew. Quality, Competence and Pride Aboard Bent The SlU steward department aboard the USNS Silas Bent \s the first in Military Sealift Command, Atlantic history to receive a score of 100 percent in all areas of a rigorous quality assurance inspection last July. "We aboard the Silas Benthave done our very best to represent the SlU and what it stands for in the merchant marine industry—quality, competence and pride," said Ben Henderson, chief steward aboard the vessel, operated by Bay Tankers until last month, when it was turned over to another company for operation. Members of the award-winning steward department are (from left, seated) Henderson, Third Cook Gary Mooney, Chief Cook John Gehring, Cook/Baker Douglas Swets, (from left, standing) SAs Thomas Cyrus, Jack Mohamad, Melvin Rivera and Mohamed Ghaleb. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), Sep­ tember 11-Chairman Ralph W. jibbs. Secret^ Howard G. Wiliams. Educational Director '"rederick C. Harris, Deck Delegate Daniel Gaylor, Engine Delegate Joel L.Spell Jr. Chairman announced Patriot, a tanker, currently under contract to carry grain. Everthing running smoothly. Treasurer announced 800 in ship's fund. No disputed OT reported by department delegates. Recommendation to -••'Xk- :' ;•• 19 Catching Up Chief Steward Edgardo Vaz­ quez (left) and AB Jose Osorio catch up on the latest maritime news in the Seafarers LOG during a union meeting aboard the Sea-Land Expedition. have full dental and optical benefits referred to contracts department at headquarters. Labor Day barbecue was big success, thanks to Steward Williams, Chief Cook Daniel Payne and GSU Julian Mendoza. A.B. Roger E. Pland added to festitivies by play­ ing bagpipes. Next port: Santo Domingo, Nicaragua. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), September 10— Chairman Nels»n Sala, Secretary Jos£ R. Colls, Educational Direc­ tor Thomas I^sco, Deck Delegate Ramon Castro, Engine Delegate Ramon Collazo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman an­ nounced payoff as soon as patrol­ man comes on board. Secretary stated 31 Cuban refugees picked up so far off Cuban coast and returned to Coast Guard at sea. Beef reported in deck department and some disputed OT in engine department. Ship sailing to Elizabeth, N.J., San Juan, P.R. and Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), September 5Chairman John B. Lundborg, Secretary G. Bryant Jr., Educa­ tional Director Archie Bell, Deck Delegate Dennis Brown, Engine Delegate Richard H. Surrick, Steward Delegate Frank Sison. Chairman reported pretty good trip with everyone worlang well together. Two-week shipyard period expected some time in January. Educational director urged crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. Beef brought up in deck department and some disputed OT reported in steward department to be taken up with boarding patrol­ man at payoff. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and job well done. Those getting off ship reminded to clean room for next person joining vessel and return room keys. Smokers also asked to empty ashtrays. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Sea-Land Service), September 12—Chairman Stephen Rasmussen, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Vocational Director Kashmir Singh, Deck Delegate George ries. Steward Delegate Daniel ^axie Sr. Chairman thanked deck and steward departments for fine obs. His shipboard time is up and le will be getting off in Oakland, Calif. Educational director urged crewmembers to upgrade at Piney ^oint and contribute to SPAD. reasurer announced money in ship's fund spent on movies in Caohsiung, Taiwan. No beefs or disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Clarification reuested on renewal of z-cards and telephone number in Long Beach, Calif, for sailing board. Crewmem)ers thanked company for new VCR. Ship sailing to Long Beach; Oakland; Dutch Harbor, Alaska, and Tokyo, Japan. I- •• • 3!: . �ZO H0KMBER1994 SEAFAREBSLOG AHemate SiduAar^Bp Whmer Know Your Rights Auttouttcedby W^fare Plan PAYMENT OF MONIES. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ No monies are to be paid to anyone lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland in any official capacity in the SIU Waters District makes specific unless an official uniion receipt is Voltaire Villanueva graduated provision for safeguarding the given for same. Under no cir­ Each May, the Seafarers Wel­ from Philip and Sala Burton membership's money and union cumstances should any member fare Plan awards seven scholar­ Academic High School (San finances. The constitution re­ lay any money for any reason unships to three Seafarers and four Francisco) in 1994. President o quires a detailed audit by certified ess he is given such receipt. In the dependents of Seafarers. the student body, he also was ex public accountants every year, event anyone attempts to r^uire One of the students selected tensively involved in other schoo which is to be submitted to the any such payment be made without this year for a four-year, $15,000 activities, including photog membership by the secretary- supplying a receipt, or if a member scholarship was unable to take rapher for the school yearboo treasurer. A yearly finance commit­ is requir^ to make a payment and advantage of the award; there­ and photographer and editor for tee of rank-and-file members, is given an official receipt, but feels fore, it was given to one of the the school newspaper. He also elected by the membership, each that he or she should not have been previously selected alternates— helped coach the junior varsity year examines the finances of the required to make such payment, Voltaire A. Villanueva. baseball team and was a French union and reports folly their find­ this should immediately be Voltaire, 17, is a full-time, firstforeign-exchange student. He is ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. year student enrolled in the considered by many of his bers of this committee may make Bachelor of Arts program in radioCONSTITUTIONAL teachers as a bom leader, with an dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ television broadcasting at San eagerness to leam and improve mendations and separate findings. TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ Francisco State University. He also TRUST FUNDS. All trust stitution are available in all union himself and his community. plans to enter the history degree funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, halls. All members should obtain Voltaire is the son of Nellie course of study in order to become Voltaire A. Villanueva Lakes and Inland Waters District copies of this constitution so as to and Ernesto Villanueva. Vil­ a high school history teacher. are administered in accordance familiarize themselves with its like my sister, about what I have After helping tutor his lanueva has been an SIU member with the provisions of various contents. Any time a member feels younger sister in various subjects learned . . Teaching someone since 1969, sailing deep sea, most trust fond agreements. All these any other member or officer is at­ at school, Voltaire discovered the what I knew [that] they didn'tknow recently aboard the President agreements specify that the trus­ tempting to deprive him or her of power of teaching. "I felt that I gave me a great feeling," he said in Washington, operated by tees in charge of these funds shall any constitutional right or obliga­ needed to educate other people. his scholarship application. American President Lines. equally consist of union and tion by any methods, such as deal­ management representatives and ing with charges, trials, etc., as well their alternates. All expenditures as all other details, the member so and disbursement^ of trust funds affected should immediately notify are made only upon approval by headquarters. a majority of die trustees. All trust EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ fond financial records are avail­ bers are guaranteed equal rights able at the headquarters of the Five months may seem like a in employment and as members various trust funds. long time from now, but five of the SIU. These rights are clear­ SHIPPING RIGHTS. A months is really not all that much ly set forth in the SIU constitution member's shipping rights and time when it comes to completing and in the contracts which the seniority are protected exclusivea scholarship application for one union has negotiated with the y by contracts between the union of seven awards to be given to employers. Consequently, no and the employers. Members member may be discriminated three Seafarers and four depend­ should get to know their shipping ents of SIU members for the 1995 rights. Copies of these contracts against because of race, creed, school year.The deadline for sub­ are posted and available in all color, sex, national or geographic mitting applications is April 15, union halls. If members believe origin. If any member feels that 1995. there have been violations of their he or she is denied theequal rights Of the seven scholarships of­ shipping or seniority rights as con­ to which he or she is entitled, the tain^ in the contracts between the member should notify union fered by the Seafarers Welfare union and the employers, they headquarters. Plan to qualified SIU members should notify the Seafarers Ap and their dependents, three are SEAFARERS POLITICAL leals Board by certified mail, ACTIVITY DONATION — reserved for SIU members (one in return receipt requested. The SPAD. SPAD is a separate the amount of $15,000 for a fouriroper address for this is: segregated fond. Its proce^ are year scholarship to a college or Augustin TeUez, Chairman us^ to further its objects and pur­ university, and two $6,000 twoSeafarers Appeals Board poses including, but not limited to, year scholarships for study at a 5201 Auth Way furthering the political, social and vocational school or community Camp Springs, MD 20746 economic interests of maritime college). The other four scholar­ workers, the preservation and fiirr Full copies of contracts as ships will be awarded to spouses thering of the American merchant refened to are available to members and dependent children of marine with improved employ­ at all times, either by writing diiecdy Seafarers. Each of these four is a to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ ment opportunities for seamen and $15,000 stipend for study at a peals BoaixL boatmen and the advancement of four-year college or university. trade union concepts. In connection CONTRACTS. Copies of all • college transcripts, Seafarers Welfare Plan on or The application form is not SIU contracts are available in all with such objects, SPAD supports • letters of reference and before ^rU 15,1995. difficult to complete; however, it arid contributes to political can­ • SAT or ACT results. Eligibility requirements for SIU halls. These contracts specify didates for elective office. All con­ will take some time to gather all the wages and conditions under Schools often are very slow in Seafarers and their spouses and the other necessary paperwork which an SIU member works and tributions are vo untary. No that must be included with the handling transcript requests, so unmarried dependents are spelled ives aboard a ship or boat Mem­ contribution may be solicited or application package. This in­ applicants must be sure to submit out in a booklet which contains an bers should know their contract received because of force, job dis­ cludes: their requests to those institutions application form. To receive rights, as well as their obligations, crimination, financial reprisal, or • an autobiographical state­ as soon as possible. Applicants booklet, fill out the coupon below such as filing for overtime (OT) on threat of such conduct, or as a con­ ment, also should sign up for the ACT and mail it to the Seafarers Wel­ the proper sheets and in the proper dition of membership in the union or SAT exam and start thinking fare Plan. • photograph, manner. If, at any time, a member or of employment. If a contribution With the cost of a college believes that an SIU patrolman or is made by reason of the above • certified copy of birth cer­ about whom to ask to write letters tificate, of recommendation for them. education rising each year, the other union official fails to protect improper conduct, the member Once all the paperwork has SIU scholarship is one SIU their contractual rights properly, he should notify the Seafarers Interna­ • high school transcript and certification of graduation or offi­ been completed and the applica­ benefit that can help members or she should contact the nearest tional Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of thecontribu­ cial copy of high school tion form is filled out, the entire and their families realize then- SIU port agent. tion for investigation and aj^ equivalency scores. package should be sent to the educational goals. EDITORIAL POLICY — propriate action and refund, if THE SEAFARERS LOG. The involuntary. A member should lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility 1 Seafarers LOG traditionally has support SPAD to protect and fur­ information, procedures for applying and the application form. refraned from publishing any ar­ ther his or her economic, political ticle serving the political purposes and social interests, and American Name of any individual in the union, of­ trade union concepts. ficer or member. It also has refrained I Book Number If at any time a member feels Tom publishing articles deemed I that any of the above rights have harmful to the union or its collective I Address been violated, or that he or she has membership. This established been denied the constitutional x)licy has beenreaffirmed by memj City, State, Zip Code. right of access to union records of )ership action at the September information, the member should 960 meetings in all constitutional I Telephone Number _ immediately notify SIU President jorts. The responsibility for Michael Sacco at headquarters Seafarers LOG policy is vested in • This application Is for: • Self D Dependent an ^itorial board which consists of jy certified mail, return receipt the executive board of the union. requested. The address is: If for dependent, state relationship to SIU member Michael Sacco, President ' Tie executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union rom among its ranks, one in­ Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way dividual to cany out this respon­ 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/94 sibility. Camp Springs, MD 20746. L 'J Scholarship Applicants Have Five Months Left to Prepare ,'. }•: •'.;.vVa.;.,.r',c ,:.-;t. :"K P V -V--' �NOVEMBER 1994 SEJ^MERSLOG —TT-T:——';—r—= >i Final Departures DEEP SEA FRANK ALAMEIDA Pensioner Frank Alameida, 79, passed away July 5. A native of Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ land Waters District (AGLIWD) in 1981. Brother Alameida resided in San Mateo, Calif, and began receiv ing his pension in April 1975. JULIAN A. BULLAND Pensioner Julian A. Bulland, 89, died August 2. Bom in the Philip­ pine Islands, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Bul­ land retired in March 1977. JOSEPH L. CIUPAK Joseph L. Ciupak, 38, passed away Au^st20. A native of Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1987 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Ciupak sailed aboard American Hawaii Cruise vessels as a member of the steward depart­ ment. LLEWELLYN CUDWORTH DANIELS Llewellyn Cudworth Daniels, 61, died August 20. Bom in North Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Daniels sailed in the en­ gine department. LAWRENCE EILAND Pensioner Lawrence Eiland, 84, died June 8. He began his seafaring career with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Eiland shipped out of the New Orleans hall and sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Bom in Clanton, Ala., he began receiving his pension in Sep­ tember 1970. MOHAMMED ELALIKHIDR Mohammed Elalikhidr, 47, passed away August 7. A native of Maryland, he sailed with the SIU from 1966 through 1991 as a mem­ ber of the steward department. Brother Elalikhidr last sailed aboard Interocean Management and OMI vessels. agent, handling beefs and provid­ ing union services to seamen employed on MSC vessels. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946, Brother Grier retired in Febmary 1989. IRVING L. GORDON Pensioner Irving L. Gordon, 94, passed away May 9. Bom in Il­ linois, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. military from 1942 to 1945. Brother Gordon retired in June 1967. RAFAEL T. IBALAUD Pensioner Rafael T. Ibalaud, 73, passed away August 10. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Ibalaud worked in the steward depart­ ment as a food preparer on American President Lines ves­ sels. Brother Ibalaud retired in July 1974. WILLIAM JONES William Jones, 53, died June 20. Brother Jones joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine dqiartment. BIN H. LEW Pensioner Bin H. Lew, 82, passed away July 4. A native of China, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Lew retired in November 1975. GRANT MARZETT Pensioner Grant Marzett, 64, died September 14. Born in Alabama, he joined the union m 1951. Brother Marzett sailed in the steward depart­ ment and upgraded to chief steward. He also completed the steward recertification program in 1984 at the Lundeberg School. Brother Marzett retired in Novem­ ber 1991. ANDREW LEVI MITCHELL JR. Pensioner Andrew Levi Mitchell Jr., 88, died May 15. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1943 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He retired in March 1970. JOHN ELWICK Pensioner John Elwick, 78, died May 5. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Elwick retired in Septem­ ber 1974. EIEINRICHM. MOOSLEITNER GEORGE THOMAS GRIER Pensioner George Thomas Grier, 71, died July 14. During 20 years of ship­ ping on Military Sealift Com­ mand (MSC), Pacific Fleet vessels, he was instmmental in organizing the Military Sea Transport Union (MSTU), the foremnner of the SIU's Govemment Services Division. In 1964, Brother Grier came ashore to work as a business Pensioner Heinrich M. Moosleitner, 59, passed away Septem­ ber 11. Brother Moos­ leitner joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1962 the port of San rancisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He Irst sailed aboard the SS Monterey. Bom in West Germany, became a naturalized U.S.—" citizen. Brother Moosleitner wa? sailing as chief steward when he retired in July 1993. •v'y.*'^>>'* . Philippine Islands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Tagaca retired in January 1974. WILFORD H. MOTLEY Pensioner Wilford H. Motley, 80, died August 21. Bom in Ok­ lahoma, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union mferged with the AGLIWD. Brother Motley retired in Decem­ ber 1972. DAVID A. NORRIS Pensioner David A. Norris, 74, passed away August 22. Bom in Alabama, he began sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Norris sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the LUndeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Norris retired in April 1988. PAULREISSNER Pensioner Paul Reissner, 84, died August 2. A native of Ger­ many, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Reissner retired in June 1969. WILLIAM T. RODEGEB William T. Rodegeb, 23, passed away June 19. Bom in San Fran­ cisco, he joined the Seafarers in 1991. Brother Rodegeb sailed as a general utility aboard American Hawaii Cmise vessels. GEORGE G. SCHELLMANN Pensioner George G. Schellmann, 94, died November 28, 1993. Bom in Germany, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Schellmann retired in July 1969. WALTER L. SEDEJ Pensioner Walter L. Sedej, 84, passed away July 30 in his native city of Trieste, Italy. Brother Sedej began sailing with the union in 1961 in the port of San Francisco and became a natural­ ized U.S. citizen. He sailed in the engine department. In a letter from a friend, informing the union of his lassing, it was noted that Brother Sedej was very proud of two things—the U.S. citizenship he gained while sailing, and the fact that he was a member of the SIU. He retired in May 1976. CHADWICK TARKENTON Pensioner Chadwick Tarkenton, 79, passed away September 18. A native of North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Taikenton sailed in the deck department He served in the U.S. Navy in the 1940s. Brother Tarkenton retiied in July 1980. JERRY JEROME THOMPSON Jerry Jerome Thompson, 44, died July 21. Bom in North Carolina, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of New York after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Thompson sailed in the engine department. MELVIN WARE Pensioner Melvin Ware, 70, died August 17. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Ware retired in August 1973. INLAND RADFORD W.EQUILS Pensioner Radford W. Equils, 80, died Septem­ ber 1. A na­ tive of North Carolina, he joined the union in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He last sailed as a tug engineer. Boatman Equils retired in May 1974. GEORGE CLIFTON ORFIELD Pensioner George Clifton Orfield, 83, passed away September 17. Bom in Richmond, Va., he joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va., sailing as a cook on the tug Remus (Allied Towing). Boatman Orfield worked for Allied Towing from 1974 to 1977. He retired in July 1983. LON O. OUSLEY Lon O. Ousley, 59, died September 8. Bom in Oklahoma, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of St. Louis. He sailed in both the engine and deck depart­ ments. Boatman Ousley upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ALBERT P. PETERSEN Pensioner Al­ bert P. Peter­ sen, 72, passed away September 1. A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., he joined the SIU in 1973 in the )ort of Norfolk, Va. Boatman 'etersen sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy fixjm 1941 to 1947. Boatman Peter­ sen retired in April 1987. JOHNC.STEEBER John C. Steeber, 66, passed away July 8. Bom in New Jer­ sey, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Steeber upgraded at the undeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1954. HOWARD F. SNYDER SR. Pensioner Howard F. Snyder Sr., 90, died Sep­ tember 26. Bom in Maryland, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed as a barge­ PEDROP.TAGACA Pensioner Pedro P. Tagaca, 81, died June 23. A native of the .\ V •ir. 21 —^ man. Boatman Snyder retired in January 1969. GREATLAKES MAGNUS B. FROLAND Magnus B. Froland, 89, passed away Augusts. He joined the Seafarers in the port of Detroit and last sailed as a captain. A na­ tive of Bergen, Norway, Brother Froland retired to Sturgeon Bay, Wis. in January 1971. FRIDTJOF "FRITZEL" MARTINUSSEN Pensioner Fridtjof "Fritzel" Martinussen, 77, passed away July 19. He joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Chicago. Among his shipboard as­ signments, Brother Martinussen sailed as an AB on Bob-Lo Co. ves­ sels and American Steamship Co. vessels. He also sailed on the MV Clark-Milwaukee from \96\io 1962. Brother Martinussen was bom in Frovaag, Norway and be­ came a naturalized U.S. citizen. He retired in November 1983. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JOHNPISCITELLO Pensioner John Piscitellot82,died July 4. He joined the At­ lantic Fishermen's Union, an af­ filiate of the SIU, in the 1940s in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. He last sailed as a captain and retired in August 1974. DOMENICO SPINOLA Pensioner Domenico Spinola, 84, passed away Aupist20. A native of Milazzo, Sici­ ly, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD. Before retiring in March 1973, Brother Spinola sailed as a captain aboard the vessel St. Mary. MCS Official Hamilton Dies at 74 in Seattle Horace "Hamp" Hamilton, 74, passed away Octo­ ber 17 in Seattle. Bom in Dal­ las, Texas, Brother Hamilton began sailing in 1945 as a deck steward. He later served as port agent in Seattle for the Marine Cooks and Stewards, which merged with the SIU in 1978. He worked there until his retirement in 1985. Brother Hamilton leaves his wife, Ida B. "Ann"; a daughter; stepson; four grandchildren; and one great grandchild. �22 NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes :• '• '• .. .<I...' Pumproom Maintenance—Upgrading graduates of the September 26 Trainee Lifeboat Class 529—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 529 are pumproom maintenance class are (from left, kneeling) Sheldon Greenberg, Sara Moore, (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Ctiarles Lowe Jr., Kevin Hindes, James BradleyTwiford, Robert Lee McDonald, (standing) Jeff Stuart, Jeff Morris, Thomas Diviny Taylor Jr., Dwayne Marrero, (standing) Tony Perez, John Kannuck, Fermin Morin, John Jr., Ronald Lukacs, Mark Francois, Rick Metcalf, Ralph Gosnell Jr., Raymond Machaj and Dan Holden (instructor). Gustafson, Decario Harris, Richard Allen and Olando Donadelle Jr. Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—^Working their way up the engine department ratings are (from left. kneeling) Yahya Shamman, William Prince, Roy Robinson Jr., Eric Campbell, Earl Gillespie Jr., Jamie Brown Jr., Gregory Brandani, Daniel Gibtrons, (second row) Jose R. Diaz, Vincent Flores Jr., Kurt Jacobsen, Rotrert Parker, Gregory Howard, Mike Chartren, Kenny Flanagan, Randy Pearson, Douglas Hau, (third row) Steve Biles, John Burress, Theron Bowen, Michael Cobb, Adrian Davis, Anthony Crummell, Michael Dean, Steven Fisher and Jerry Stricklen. Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by ihe September 21 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) In/in Jones, Fred V. Bautista, Richard Fraser, Ben Cusic (instructor), (standing) Anthony Williams, Darrien Lewis, Erik Washington, Kevin Johnson and James Brown. Maryland Beaches' Sand Restored By the Work of the Long Island Seafarers aboard the dredge Long Island recently helped pump more than one million yards of fill along eight miles of Ocean City, Md. beachfront,.replacing sand lost over the years through erosion and hurricane winds. The Long Island, operated by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co., was assigned to the project for 75 days, completing the task in early October. Pumping 15,000 cubic yards of sand a day from the ocean floor to the shore, the dredge's assignments are primarily beach replenishment projects. Seafarers aboard the 1971-built, non-self-propelled, sea-going hopper dredge operate all of the dredging machinery, including drag-arms which are lowered to the bottom. Machinery that mixes the sand to a sand-water slurry and pumping equipment also are operated by Seafarers. Among the eight Seafarers aboard are members of the steward department, who keep the crewmembers replenished. The next project for the 510-foot long, 75-foot beam dredge is restoring ihe sand of the Cape May, N.J. beach. Photos accompanying this article were taken by SIU Nofolk Port Agent Mike Paladino. Pumping 15,000 cubic yards of sand on a daily basis, it took the dredge LongIsland crew two-and-a-half months to restore sand to Maryland beaches. Working long, hard hours, the crewmembers on the Long Island break for lunch. Port Engineer Ray Bamett (left) and Mate Chief Steward Leo Kinnev oreoares a Pictured from left are AB Joe Baricco, AB Thomas Moore, SA Dennis Kennington, Phil Kleinebreil have a few minutes of quiet nutritious mfial fnr tho rro«i nf tho Captain David Ling, AB Bennie Spencer and AB Doug Carson. in the galley before pumping resumes dredge Long te/and. 'i;- �NOVEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG LUHDEBERG SCHOa. Engine UpgnuUng Courses 1994• 1995 mSUUmG OtURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between late November 1994 and March 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. Date of Enrollment Course Tanker Operations January 2 January 30 February 27 Bridge Management January 30 Limited License, Part 1 ,. . January 23 Limited License Part n February 6 Limited License, Part ill i February 20 Able Seaman January 23 Radar January 23 February 27 • Wif •• Celestial Navigation February 13 Sealift Operations &Myiiidsnance January 23 Date of Completion January 27 February 24 March 17 February 10 February 3 February 17 March 3 April 7 February 3 March 10 March 24 February 17 Course Power Plant Maintenance QMED - Any Rating Refrigeration Systems Maintenance ^ Operations Diesel Engine Technology Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Marine Electrical Maintenance H Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Technician I Marine Electronics Technician H Welding Course Engine Familiarizataion Di&sel DDE/Limited License Prep Safety Specialty Ceunee Course Date of Enrollment Date of Comidetion Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting November 25 December 9 Course Date of Completion Bosun Recertification Steward Recertification February 20 January 23 March 31 March 6 Stee/anll^igiading Courses Course Date of Enrollment Date of Completion Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward November 21 November 21 February 10 February 10 (Middle) (Hist) (Street) (Slate) Deep Sea Member D (Zip Code) Date of Birth. (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Lakes Member n Date of Enrollment Date of Completion January 30 February 27 March 27 February 10 March 10 April 7 li • -r'y'Sw. Jacksonville, Fla. January 9 Wilmington, Calif. February 13 Brooklyn, N.Y. March 13 For 1994 courses, see page 9 in this edition of the LOG. Date of Completion January 13 February 17 March 17 The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Date of Enrollment Date of Completion GED Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) 12 weeks - open-ended admission 6 weeks - open ended admission 6 weeks - open ended admission Session 1 January 30 March 24 Primary language spoken UPGRADING AmHMmN _L February 17 March 31 March 10 ilifirir£ifif»alfiMf ScheAule Date of Enrollment (City) January 9 January 9 February 30 Date of Enrollment RecertHHuaiottPtcgrams Telephone ( Date of Completion 1995ReMgemOon Technician Ccumk Locadon (Last) Date of Enrollment March 13 April 7 February 20 March 24 January 9 February 17 March 13 April 21 January 9 Februarys February 6 March 3 March 31 March 6 March 17 February 20 •"0 f All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Name Address 23 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. Citizens D Yes D No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held •Ves Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class# ^ •Ves Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? CD Yes [DNO Firefighting: CH Yes CUNO CFR:IZlYes With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card 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 com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE LAST VESSEL; Rating; Date On: Date Off:. DNO SIGNATURE. DNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. CD No DATE RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 11/94 '""iirf �SEAijuaxes Volume 56, Number 11 1995 Scholarships There are only five months left to complete and mall in scholarship applications. The submission deadline is April 15, 1995. See page 20 for additional information or an application form. November 1994 Third Generation Seafarer Carries on Legacy SIU Family Proudly Looks on as Mathews Graduates from Training Program grandfather's footsteps, even though they always told me I could do whatever I wanted," the 19-year-old stated. " remember growing up, I would go to the barge and meet my father, and I was really inter­ ested in the work even then. I also was fortunate enough to go on one trip with him. "I'm just attracted to it. The pay is good, I like working with my hands and I like working on anything that floats." Whether or not future generations of the family con­ tinue the Mathews-SIU legacy, Carson^—who is in good health and spends a lot of time fishing and gardening-—concluded that he is thrilled to have set the career precedent for his son and grandson. "I think anyone Tankerman William Mathews Sr. (left) and SIU Retiree Carson Math­ would feel the same way, and William Sr., shown here at work Familiar Trail ews (right) join William Jr. after his recent graduation from the trainee I'm truly proud to see another on a barge In 1975, says he has member of the family sign on enjoyed working In the Inland Both Carson and William program at Piney Point. with the Seafarers." division. Sr.—a 27-year member of the School. As that was the year the for the members to be proud of." SIU—elected to sail in the inland Pride also was on William division, and William Jr. said he Piney Point complex was first used by the school. Seafarers Sr.'s mind when his son com­ also is interested in inland work. attending classes there also as­ pleted the trainee program. But, "I'm very excited, ready to get out sisted in building the center's like Carson, William Sr. em­ there," he said. "I've always been various facilities. phasized that he never exerted interested in thisline of work, and "I went to [the SIU hall in] pressure on William Jr. to enter I love the water." William Sr., 49, currently is Brooklyn, N.Y. for five days' the maritime field. "It makes me employed by Penn Maritime raining, then spent four-and-a- feel great that he chose this, but and usually works in the Nor­ ^alf weeks at Piney Point," he whatever the kids do, my wife folk, Va. area. He has a simple recalled. "There were a lot of and I support them. We have a explanation for why three good people here. I did some daughter who's a schoolteacher, generations of Mathews, in­ raining and some hard work, and we're happy for her, too." cluding his brother. Jack, have eventually, I drove a carload of Getting Started opted for maritime careers and gUys to Norfolk, and we all When Carson first went to membership in the Seafarers. shipped out a day or two later." He returned to Piney Point work on a tug, he simply was "The union's been very good to us, and I believe we've been or upgrading courses in '91and searching for a better means to good to the SIU as well," he '92 and was stunned by the support his family. He had been said. "It's a great feeling to have jrogress of both the curriculum working seasonally in agriculture This 1981 photo shows William Sr. providing a sampling of maritime three generations in the SIU." and the facilities. "The whole and as a hunting guide; in life to William Jr., who was 6 years old when he visited the vessel. For William Sr., the road to system here is beautiful, there's maritime, he found steady Piney Point is a familiar one. He no end to how far anyone can employment with much better completed his seafaring training go," he observed. "The instruc- pay. Similarly, William Sr. got a in 1967 at the Lundeberg :ors are first-rate. It's something sampling of other employment The National Center for ing at the time was found near opportunities before he settled Missing and Exploited her car, but Mary Opitz has on the waterways. He worked in Children has asked the not been seen since. The a textile mill for four years Seafarers International photo below has been age-en­ before approaching some finends who were SIU members about Union to assist them in locat­ hanced to show how the 30ing Mary Opitz. year-old woman might the possibility of shipping. She was last seen on appear today. He started in the deep sea division, with two voyages to January 16, 1981 leaving the At the time of her disap­ Vietnam during the war. "Both Edison Mall in Fort Myers, pearance when she was 17 ships had good crews, but Viet­ Fla., heading out to the parking years old, the brown-haired, lot. A package she was carry- hazel-eyed Mary Opitz was 5 nam was bad," he recdled. After earning a tankerman's ft 5 in. tall and weighed 105 ticket, William Sr. found the pounds. She had braces on her duties and scheduUng of the in­ teeth and was wearing two land division more to his liking, gold bracelets and a gold neck­ and he's been there ever since, lace with a charm. with "absolutely no regrets. I've been a tankerman since '69 and Anyone having informa­ I've pumped a lot of products, tion on the whereabouts of from Bangor, Maine to Mary Opitz should contact Beaumont, Texas. Acids, oil, the National Center for Miss­ molasses—you name it, I've ing and Exploited Children at pumped it." (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ For William Jr., the decision ing Persons Unit of the Lee with a background like this, It's no wonder William Jr. Is ready to work to take up inland division work County (Fla.) Sheriff s office Mary OpItz as she Is believed on tugs, in this photo, he Is 8 and having fun on his first boat, on was easy. "I always wanted to to look at age 30. at (813) 335-9229. Currituck Sound In North Carolina. follow in my father's and More than four decades after he joined the Seafarers, Carson Williams Mathews recently was on hand to see his grandson William Mathews Jr., graduate from the trainee pro­ gram at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md. Also in attendance with Car­ son this past September was his son, Tankerman William Mathews Sr., rounding out three generations of SIU mem­ bers in the Mathews family. "I'm proud of them both, really proud," said 78-year-old Carson Mathews, who sailed in the deck and engine depart­ ments in the inland division and who retired in 1981. "I'm glad they followed in my footsteps, but they did it on their own." Help Locate This Missing Person -*v � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ARA AND KEYSTONE SIGN PACT IN STRIKE PRECEDING DEAL, SIU AIDED PICKETING SEAFARERS BACK ISRAELI BROTHERS MARITIME BILL STYMIED IN SENATE CLINTON TO BACK U.S. SHIP BILL IN ‘95 SEAFARERS HAILED FOR HAITI ROLE SEAMEN REPORT SMOOTH OPERATIONS, CLOSE COOPERATION WITH U.S. MILITARY PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES ASSISTED BY SIU MEMBERS SENATE FAILS TO VOTE ON INLAND SAFETY BILL HOST OF MARITIME MEASURES LEFT UNPASSED, ISSUES WILL BE RAISED IN NEXT CONGRESS RRF DROPS TO 89 SHIPS HOUSTON FLOOD HITS SEAFARERS RESPONDER BOATS ASSIST IN SAN JACINTO OIL SPILL PAUL HALL CENTER INTRODUCES TANKER SAFETY CLASS SEAFARERS AID GULF BUILDUP IRAQI TROOPS BACK OFF AS U.S. REENTER GULF PAUL HALL CENTER ADDS NEW VESSEL TO SCHOOL’S HANDS-ON TRAINING FLEET TWO ADDITIONAL SIU HALLS TO HOST REFRIGERATION CLASSES SEAFARERS STRESS CLASS PREPARATION INTERESTING WORK PERFORMED BY SIU CREW ABOARD RESEARCH VESSEL SEAFARERS FAMILY PHOTOS 353 FLEEING YEMENIS SAVED BY MV ADVANTAGE HARVEST GRAINS KEEP ORGULF TUGS BUSY SEA TRIALS READY CAPE RACE FOR RRF OPERATIONAL STATUS ALTERNATE SCHOLARSHIP WINNER ANNOUNCED BY WELFARE PLAN THIRD GENERATION SEAFARER CARRIES ON LEGACY 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 11/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 11 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5fbce37fd868037b986a9adc40261c5b.pdf 5366ca756c4c3994febdc0c14bb6537a PDF Text Text Speaking Before the MTD Convention Administration, Congress and Military Officials: r • Key legislators, administration officials and military officers pledged their support in the effort to enact a new U.S. shipping program to ensure American sealift capability in times of conflict and to promote economic security. Speaking to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department were, from the top, clockwise, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena, Vice Admiral William A. Earner, Representative Herbert H. Bateman, Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, Representative Charles Rangel, Representative Neil Abercrombie and New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. Pages 11-14. �2 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 President's Report Nuevo San Juan Crewmembers Fighting a New Anti-U.S.-Worker Scheme Up to now, to escape American labor laws and pay scales, U.S. businesses have located factories overseas. In the shipping industry, American operators have transferred their vessels to bargain-basement ship registries operated by cash-starved nations, thereby bypassing American taxes, safety regulations and wage rates. Traditionally, to avoid paying American scales, companies have had to transfer production offshore by some means. That is changing. A loophole in the nation's immigration laws lets American companies avoid paying American scale salaries and benefits by Michael Sacco hiring skilled professionals from around the globe and bringing them to the United States. Instead of transferring production overseas, the companies simply import their cheap labor to work in the U.S. Here's an example of what is happening: A Washington Post article recently reported that a giant insurance company based in New York laid off 250 of its computer programmers in New York, New Jersey and New Hampshire, replacing them with temporary workers from India. Of course the so-called temporary programmers from India worked for a fraction of what the 250 American computer professionals earned. The same article reports that a Chinese company has offered to provide software companies with Chinese computer programmers willing to work for $500 a r.1onth in jobs held by Americans being paid $5,000 per month. The reason U.S. companies can get away with this practice is an immigration law. On the books is a provision that allows skilled workers in specialty occupations to enter the United States under "non-jmmigrant" status. The purpose of the law is to allow scientists, engineers, programmers and others to come to the U.S. in order to lend their particular expertise to an American company. But what was supposed to be a rarely used practice to allow American businesses to hire the world's best and brightest on a temporary basis has become a scam for importing thousands of workers from countries where individuals will work for a fraction of American wages. Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich has asked Congress to close this loophole by preventing businesses from hiring foreign professionals to replace laid-off American workers. The administration's plan deserves the support of Congress and the American public. While this loophole affects professional employees, if allowed to stand, it establishes a dangerous trend for all workers. Imagine the impact on American jobs if companies are allowed to import individuals from lesser developed countries to take on factory jobs, service work or, closer to home, transportation positions such as truckers, airline pilots, railroad engineers and boatmen. No longer will American companies have to go offshore to escape U.S. scale wages, benefits and working conditions. By importing foreign labor willing to work for wages a scrap of what Americans earn, U.S. companies could continue to enjoy the advantages of being based in the U.S., close to their markets, while reaping the benefits of paying foreign wage rates. The SIU will be working with the AFL-CIO and its Maritime Trades Department as well as many unions to try and close this immigration loophole before it spreads. The security of all American workers is at stake. Working With New AFL-CIO Officers Last month, the delegates to the AFL-CIO convention in New York City elected John J. Sweeney as the national labor federation's president, Richard Trumka as secretary-treasurer and Linda Chavez-Thompson as executive vice president. I have worked for several years with each of them on the AFLCIO Executive Council and know them all to be truly dedicated to the cause of all working men and women. All of us in the SIU look forward to working with them in their new roles. Also, we extend our best wishes to Thomas Donahue and Barbara Easterling for their hard work and commitment as they leave the president and secretary-treasurer's positions. Volume 57, Number 11 November 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) 899-0675. Second-class 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. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Help Kids' Dreams Come True When it comes to helping children, especially children in the intensive care unit (ICU) at the Hospital Pediactrico Central in San Juan, P.R. during the holidays, SIU members have been very generous. A Seafarers LOG article last year (October 1994) reported on the many acts of kindness performed by SIU crewmembers aboard theNuevo San Juan of the Navieras NPR Inc. fleet, whose vessels are operated and managed by NPR, Inc. According to a recent letter from the ship's chief steward, K.L. Marchand, the efforts have grown and have had a real impact on the lives of some very sick children. ·How It Began NPR, Inc. had, for many years, held an annual fundraising drive to collect money for toys for children in the hospital. But in October 1993, Capt. E. Powell of the Nuevo San Juan and Santiago Carrero, terminal manager at NPR, Inc., thought about ways to increase donations. Realizing that children are in the hospital every day, they initiated a year-round program which has become "Amigos de los Ninos" (friends of the children), and has grown into a non-profit foundation that allows for tax deductible donations. Crewmembers aboard the Nuevo San Juan joined Powell's effort, each pitching in a portion of his salary (usually one hour of premium overtime per pay period) to purchase toys, clothing, medical equipment and other the campaign provisions. spread, first And to crews on other NPR, Inc. vessels and then to the shoregangs in Elizabeth, NJ. and San Juan, P.R. much," he noted. And so a Thanksgiving Day party has been planned for this year in addition to the annual Christmas party. Marchand has seen the results of this program to help sick children. "I didn't really realize how far a little help can go until I sawitwithmyowneyes,"hesaid. "Doctors and staff members from the intensive care unit at the hospital recently were invited aboard the Nuevo San Juan for lunch. I must say, [the vessel] was filled with smiling faces and gratitude to everyone," the chief steward related. Marchand said that as the Some of the "Amigos de las guests were leaving, they all came Niflos" aboard the Nuevo San by the galley and personally Juan are (above, from left) Chief thanked the steward department Steward K.L. Marchand, Chief for the delicious food, good ser- Cook B.T. McEleney and (below) vice and help given to the hospi- AB Edmundo D. Cruz. tal. "It was a great feeling to know that we can make a difference if we stop to look around to see how we can help," the chief steward said. It is hoped the campaign will grow and continue to spread to other ships in the SIU. Anyone interested in helping expand the scope of the "Amigos de los Ninos" campaign may contact Santiago Carrero at NPR, Inc. at GPO Box 71306, San Juan, PR 00936. In the New York area, one may contact Edward Powell, 253 Princeton Dr., River Edge, NJ 07661; telephone (201) 3420231. ------------------------ I Congress Ready to Rev1·e·w Bl.II Allow1·ng Alaskan 01·1 Exports Aboard U.S. Sh1·ps �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Senate O.K. s Funds For U.S. Ship Bill 1 The U.S. Senate took a major step in passing a 10-year maritime revitalization program when it approved funds for the first year of the measure. By a voice vote on September 29, legislators approved an amendment offered by Senators Trent Lott (R-Miss.), Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) and John Breaux (D-La.) to provide $46 million within a Fiscal Year 1996 appropriations bill to be used for a U.S.-flag ship program, which is being supported by the SIU. The vote by the Senate was the first time since Photo by Bill Burke/Page One After addressing their goals of organizing more workers, newly elected maritime revitalization legislation was introduced AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, Executive VP Linda Chavez- in 1992 that money actually has been appropriated Thompson and Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka receive the ac- for the measure. The funds were included in an colades of delegates to the 1995 national labor federation convention. appropriations bill for the Departments of Commerce, Justice and State and the U.S. Judiciary. (Although the merchant marine and U.S. Maritime Administration fall under the purview of the Departrnent of Transportation, maritime funding comes within the commerce appropriations bill.) Sweeney Elected AFL-CIO President Sacco Re-Elected to Council John J. Sweeney became the fourth president of the AFL-CIO on October 25 when he was elected to the position during the 21st constitutional convention of the national labor federation held last month in New York City. Sweeney, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), defeated Thomas Donahue with 56 percent of the more than 13 million votes cast on October 25. Donahue had served as president of the AFLCIO since Lane Kirkland retired in August. Besides Sweeney, convention delegates elected Richard Trumka as the federation's secretarytreasurer and Linda ChavezThompson to hold the newly created constitutional position of executive vice president. Delegates approved another change in the federation's constitution, increasing from 33 to 51 the number of people who will serve on the AFL-CIO executive council. SIU President Michael Sacco retained his seat on the council. (He was first elected an AFLCIO vice president in 1991.) Immediately following his election as the head of the AFLCI O, Sweeney called for unity within the labor movement in order to fight for causes important to all working Americans. "To the more than 13 million workers we represent and to the millions more who are not represented, our commitment is firm and clear. When you struggle for justice, you will not struggle alone," Sweeney told the convention. Among Sweeney's priorities as president will be organizing. During his campaign for the position, he outlined a program to spend more money on organizing and to train more people to work in the field to bring non-union shops and workers into the AFLCIO. "I'm here to tell you that the most important thing we can do starting right now, today, is to organize every working woman and man who needs a better deal and a new voice," the newly elected AFL-CIO president said. Sweeney also noted the need for state and local central labor councils to be more involved in the federation's work. He pointed out these councils serve as the AFL-CIO's grassroots workers and should be an active part of the federation's efforts. Sweeney began his labor career in the Ladies' Garment Workers Union immediately after graduating from Iona College with a degree in economics. In 1960, he became contract director for SEIU Local 32B. After rising through the local, Sweeney became its president in 1976. The following year, Local 32B merged with Local 32J to create a 70,000-member local of which Sweeney served as president. In 1980, the New York City native was elected president of the entire SEIU. The next year, he became a member of the AFLCIO executive council. Trumka, 46, defeated Barbara Easterling in balloting for the position of secretary-treasurer. Easterling, the first woman to hold the position, was named as secretary-treasurer in August when Donahue moved up to replace Kirkland. A third-generation coal miner from southwest Pennsylvania, Trumka went to work in the mines when he was 19 and was active in Local 6290 of the United Mine Workers (UMWA). Following his graduation from Penn State and earning a law degree at Villanova University, he worked on the UMWA's legal staff for four years. Trumka went back to the mines in 1978 and was elected to the union's executive board in 1981. A year later, he became the union's president, a position he held at the time of his election as AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer. Chavez-Thompson became the federation's first executive vice president after delegates to the convention approved creation of the post in the AFL-CIO' s constitution. She began her 27-year career in the labor movement as a local secretary in Texas for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). She worked her way through the union's ranks and was elected an AFSCME vice president in 1988. Chavez-Thompson, 50, became the AFL-CIO's first Hispanic woman vice president when she was elected to the executive council in 1993. Goes to Conference The funding bill now goes to a joint HouseSenate conference committee. A similar House appropriations bill did not include money for maritime revitalization. Under the rules of the Congress, the conference committee may accept the Senate or the House version, or it may take pieces of both and craft its own legislation. The compromise bill is then presented to both chambers for their approval before it goes to the president for his signature or veto. President Clinton has stated he is in favor of maritime revitalization; however, other measures in the multi-billion-dollar appropriations bill could cause him to veto the measure which would force Congress to create a new piece of legislation. Although the federal fiscal year of 1996 began on October 1, Congress has not completed work on all the appropriations bills. Congress approved a continuing resolution in September to operate the government through November 15 using Fiscal Year 1995 funding levels. In August, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee _marked up S. 1139, while the House version (H.R. 1350) cleared the National Security Committee in May. Both bills call for a 10-year, $1 billion program to fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships. However, neither of these bills actually appropriated any money; they only outlined the program. Both S. 1139 and H.R. 1350 are pending consideration by their respective chambers. In order for Congress to create the maritime revitalization program, it must pass both an authorizations bill (like H.R. 1350 and S. 1139) and an appropriations bill. The legislators are working on both these measures. The Senate approved the $46 million for FY '96 following a vigorous floor debate in which legislators from both parties promoted the U.S.-flag merchant marine. After stating maritime revitalization is needed, Lott, the chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, noted, "From the sea battles of the American Revolution through the Persian Gulf, our seafarers and merchant marine courageously supplied and sustained our troops in combat and conflict. "In times of national emergency or war, I want to know that we will continue the finest tradition of the U.S.-flag fleet and merchant marine-secure in the knowledge that our sealift capability is assured and confident that our troops will be supplied." Provide Jobs In announcing his support for the measure, Inouye stated maritime revitalization would provide jobs for American mariners while aiding the nation's economic and national security. "This is a bargain," he told his fellow senators. "This has bipartisan support. It is a popular program. It is an American program." Maryland's Barbara Mikulski said the maritime revitalization program follows her belief "in public/private cooperation to encourage govemBipartisan Support ment savings: "It provides a rainy day maritime infrastructure Prior to the Senate's approval of funds within the commerce appropriations bill, committees in both the for U.S. defense needs while, at the same time, HouseandSenatehadexpressedtheirbipartisansup- stimulating private sector enterprise," the port for creating a maritime revitalization program. Democrat noted. MTD Delegates Call for Passage Of Maritime Revitalization Effort The need for Congress to pass a maritime revitalization bill was the primary theme of speakers addressing the delegates to the 1995 biennial convention of the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) in New York on October 19 and 20. For more about the Maritime TradesDepartmentconvention, f:s~~':f,~~1 k!~~~~i~ Lida.this .....__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____. America's cabotage laws, extension of veterans benefits to all World War II-era merchant mariners, promotion of a U.S.flag cruise industry and protection for America's commercial fishermen. Convention delegates also received updates from officials of various unions on the plight of striking workers at sites across America. They heard about battles for good-paying jobs, decent benefits and safe working conditions still being waged in Decatur, Ill. by the Auto Workers union against Caterpillar, by the Paperworkers union against Staley and by the Rubber Workers union against Bridgestone/Firestone. They also listeµed as representatives from the Machinists union told about the strike against Boeing, and Detroit's newspaper workers explained the situation against the Michigan city's journals. Through resolutions, the delegates called on Congress and the administration to honor the protections and hard-won benefits provided for American workers at their job sites. The call for a U.S. ship bill came from administration officials, the military and members of Congress. Among those making the case for the U.S.-flag merchant marine were U.S. Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia, Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, House Merchant Marine Panel Chairman Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, Representatives Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii) and Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) and Vice Admiral William A. Earner, head of the U.S. Navy's logistics operations. The delegates to the two-day convention, who represented the 40 unions and 28 port councils that make up the MTD, also New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani outlines his plans to revitalize the debated and passed resolutions city's port facilities during his address at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades calling for the retention of Department biennial convention. �4 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 New USCG Tankerman Regulations Affect ABs, Pumpmen and Inland Tankermen Boatmen with tankerman ratings and unlicensed seamen who assist in tanker cargo operations are affected by recently issued U.S. Coast Guard regulations that require new tankerman' s endorsements. After March 31, 1997, merchant mariners who renew their z-cards and who need one of the four new tankermen endorsements must show proof of satisfactorily completing a Coast Guard-approved tankerman assistant or tankerman-person in charge (PIC) course. This includes all unlicensed mariners involved in the handling, transfer and transportation of oil and other hazardous liquid cargoes aboard ships and barges. parts involved in transport and transfer of hazardous materials, tankermen who renew their zcards after March 31, 1997 must show evidence of satisfactorily completing either a Coast Guardapproved tankerman-PIC (barge) course or an approved tankerman course. Passage of the four-week tankerman course (not to be confused with the tanker operation/safety course) offered at the Paul Hall Center meets this requirement. Defines Qualifications Published in April as an interim final rule, the new regulation requiring the tankermen endorsements defines qualifications of tank:ermen and other seamen involved in cargo operations. The Key Grandfather Clause rule requires such mariners to obHowever, effective March 31, tain from a Coast Guard-approved 19%, unlicensed personnel as- testing facility one of the following sisting with tanker cargo opera- four endorsements: tankermantions (ABs and pumpmen) must PIC (barge), restricted tankerhold the new endorsement of man-PIC (barge), tankermantankerman assistant. Mariners assistant or tankerman-engineer. can secure that endorsement by Mariners will have to meet standshowing proof of having sailed at ards established by the Coast least 30 days aboard tankers in the Guard (with input from the inpast five years, between April 1, dustry) for amounts of ex1991 and March 31, 1996 (this is perience, completion of training considered a grandfather courses and physical fitness in provision). The endorsement then order to obtain such certification. would be added to the z-card, According to the regulation, which automatically would be the Coast Guard no longer will renewed. conduct tankerman exams. InBy contrast, inland mariners stead, the agency will certify currently endorsed as tankermen schools (such as the Paul Hall automatically will become Center's Harry Lundeberg tankermen-PICs as of March 31, School of Seamanship) and pos1996. Like their deep sea counter- sibly operators to give the tests. --------------------------. SIU Opposes Fees Attached To Tankerman Endorsements The SIU challenged the U.S. Coast Guard's plan to charge boatmen and seamen a fee to modify their current merchant mariner's documents with the newly-required tankerman endorsement. In a communication to the agency, the SIU asked that the Coast Guard not charge seamen and boatmen the $80 (unlicensed) and $95 (licensed) fees assigned to the new endorsement. (Since the Coast Guard instituted so-called user fees for the issuance of merchant mariner's documents and marine documents in 1993, the SIU has fought the measure in the U.S. courts. At this time, the SIU's law suit against the user fees is before the U.S. Court of Appeals.) In a letter to Coast Guard Captain George N accara, deputy chief, Office of Marine Safety/Security and Environmental Protection, Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, pointed out that qualified deep sea mariners who recently renewed their z-cards and who need any of the new tankerman' s endorsements will need to use the grandfather provision to secure the endorsements and, therefore, will incur the fees involved with updating their zcard, even if they recently renewed their document. ''The grandfathering provision will allow them to receive these endorsements based solely on prior sailing knowledge and experience. However, they will be required to have these endorsements placed on their documents at a cost of $80 (unlicensed) or $95 (licensed), even if the mariner recently paid to have his document renewed! This is absolutely unfair," wrote Eglinton. "In order to alleviate this unfair financial burden, the SIU requests the Coast Guard accept one of two alternatives," Eglinton continued. "The first would have the Coast Guard consider the issuance of these newly required endorsements as part of the renewal process left over from when the mariner renewed his or her document. Retroactively, the issuance fee from that procedure would cover [the issuance of the new endorsements]. ''The second option would require the regional examination centers to provide qualified applicants with letters certifying the seafarer for the new endorsement(s) until that document expires." Additionally, the union requested that the Lundeberg School's four-week tanker operation/safety course be considered valid for obtaining any of the new ratings, either via the grandfather clause or when a mariner renews his or her z-card after March 31, 1997. At press time, the Coast Guard had not rendered a decision on these matters. In another change from the current system, the new tankerrnan tests will include practical (handson) testing, so that mariners will have to demonstrate their skills in transferring liquid cargoes. quids course, a 40-hour tankship/liquified gases course, a 40-hour tank barge/dangerous liquids course, a 40-hour tank barge/liquified gases course and a 16-hour firefighting course. The Coast Guard has proposed the following courses (a tankerman would need to take one or more, depending upon which type of vessel he or she sails): a 40-hour tankship/dangerous Ii- The rule stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), the Port and Tanker Safety Act of 1980 and amendments to the International Convention of the Standards for Training, Certifica- tion and Watchkeeping (STCW), to which the United States is a signatory nation. Its intent is to improve safety in the handling, transfer and transport of hazardous liquid cargoes. According to the Coast Guard, the agency's Regional Examination Centers are ready to begin issuing the tank:erman assistant endorsement to those individuals presenting 30 days of seatime aboard tankers in the last five years. Next month's edition of the Seafarers LOG will provide more detailed information on the new regulations and the procedures for compliance. Delta Queen Head Denounces Attacks On U.S.-Flag Passenger Ship Laws Attacks on the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886 and other U.S. laws orchestrated by foreign-flag interests threaten to throttle a potentially burgeoning American-flag passenger vessel industry, the head of the U.S.-flag American Classic Voyages told members of the Washington Propeller Club last month. BY contrast, the U ·S ·-flag cruise ship business "not only can exist, but also grow and thrive undercurrentU.S.passengervessel laws," stated Philip Callan, president and CEO of the company, which operates five U.S.flag passenger vessels. U.S. Cruise Industry Can Grow American Classic Voyages is the parent company of The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. (which operates the SIU-contracted riverboats American Queen, Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen) as well as American Hawaii Cruises (which operates the Seafarers-crewed cruise ships SS Independence and SS Constitution). "We have proven that the U.S.-flag passenger vessel industry is capable of functioning and growing within existing laws," Calian stated at the luncheon, which took place on Capitol Hill. "We pay our crews U.S. wage rates, we use U.S. shipyards and we still provide our shareholders with a return on their investment. "But [proposed changes to the Passenger Vessel Services Act and other laws] would force us into an arena where the rules are so biased in favor of foreign-flag companies, we and our 2,000 employees could never survive. All we ask is an even playing field" Approximately 130 foreignflag passenger ships call on U.S. ports, many on a year-round basis. That number is expected to grow in the near future. With these formidable resources, foreign cruise lines have launched an aggressive campaign aimed at the following: • Amending U.S. laws in order to operate without restriction between U.S. ports utilizing foreign subsidy-built, untaxed floating resorts; • Allowing U.S. tax deductions for business meetings taking place on foreign-flag ships, even if the vessels never call on a U.S. port; • Limiting passenger lawsuits and eliminating current access to U.S. courts by foreign crewmembers; • Exempting foreign-flag employees (U.S. citizens or foreigners) from withholding taxes on wages earned in U.S. waters; and • Exempting foreign-flag operations from fair-hiring, accommodation laws and regulations that apply to all U.S. hoteliers and travel-service providers. With lower capital costs, cheap foreign labor in many positions and no federal corporate tax, these foreign vessels would be able to sail into any U.S. port during the peak tourist season and seriously undercut not only hotel and resort business in coastal communities, but also U.S. leisure destinations farther within the country-only to sail away at season's end. Legislation already has been introduced in the House to expand tax breaks for foreign-flag ships, and other legislation is being drafted to repeal the Passenger Vessel Services Act. Foreign Passenger Ships Get Breaks The act prohibits foreign-flag vessels from transporting passengers between U.S. ports. (The U.S. also has similar laws regarding domestic passenger travel by air, rail and road.) It was passed by Congress in 1886. Foreign-flag cruise ship operators already enjoy an exemption of sorts from the Passenger Services Act, in that the U.S. Customs Service (the agency responsible for interpreting U.S. cabotage laws) has ruled that foreign-flag cruise vessels may carry passengers on so-called "cruises to nowhere" (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port and do not sail to any other port). Taking advantage of this ruling, numerous foreign-flag gaming vessels are operating in the lucrative and expanding U.S. cruise-to-nowhere market. In fact, the fleet of foreign-flag cruise ships-supported by massive foreign government shipbuilding subsidies-that call on U .S. ports steadily has grown during the past 15 years. None of those vessels pay U.S. corporate or gaming taxes. With a reported investment of at least $8.5 billion for ships on order, foreign cruise lines need new itineraries and markets for their ships. The U.S. remains the prime target. Hence, the lnternational Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL)-the registered foreign agentwhichlobbiesintheUnited States for foreign cruise-ship companies-has publicly stated its objective of seeking changes to U.S. cabotage laws as well as Philip Calian, president of American Classic Voyages, says his company "has proven that the U.S.-flag passenger vessel industry is capable of growing under existing laws." expanding tax breaks to allow foreign cruise ships to host conventions. "All cruise lines with operations in the U.S. should pay U.S. taxes," said Callan. "They should be subject to :U.S. labor laws, U.S. construction laws, U.S. environmental laws, and U.S. health and safety laws. "As long as foreign-flag cruise lines aren't subject to those laws, they shouldn't be allowed to operate in U.S. waters. They don't want to play by our rules, and they haven't had to, to date." American Classic Voyages Invests in Future Callan recounted the painstaking steps taken by American Classic Voyages during the past nine years to improve their products and services while substantially increasing the number of passengers. He noted that the company has invested approximately $75 million to refurbish the Independence and soon the Constitution. Millions more were spent to upgrade the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen. And, earlier this year, the company launched the American Queen-the world's largest riverboat,builtatanapproximatecostof $65 million. The American Queen is the first overnight cruise vessel built in the U.S. in 37 years. If the foreign-flag interests succeed in reworking U.S. laws affecting passenger ships, "we will be delivering an entire industry that we have built to foreign companies who have made no investment," said Callan. "We want our industry, we want our jobs. Please, don't legislate us from rescuing and revitalizing this industry." �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 5 Seafarers Aid V.I. Hurricane Victims Thousands of UIW Members' Homes Destroyed, Face High Losses The "Brotherhood of the Sea" has sprung into action to aid victims of Hurricane Marilyn, which demolished the U.S. Virgin Islands on September 16. The deadly storm left thousands of members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), an SIU affiliate union, with severely damaged or destroyed homes and property. (The UIW represents 4,000 government and private sector employees who reside on the islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John.) Additionally, at press time, no word had been obtained as to how the seamen who make their homes in the U.S. Virgin Islands had fared during the storm. To date, members of the SIU and the UIW-as well as their contracted companies-have col1ec te d an abundance of humanitarian aid to help the victims of Marilyn's brutality. Relief Efforts Under Way Seafarers in Philadelphia and Santurce, P.R. are conducting relief drives to secure food items, building materials and other much needed supplies for UIW members whose lives have been turned around following the hurricane. In Philadelphia, union memhers have been busy filling a container, donated by Crowley American Transport, with thousands of gallons of bottled water as well as batteries, flashlights, clothing and other relief items to ship to the Virgin Islands. San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz noted that Seafarers from the port of Santurce have been loading barges provided by Crowley to transport the relief supplies to St. Thomas and St. Croix, the two islands which took the brunt of the damage. A number of UIW-contracted companies from around the country also have donated food and water to union members on the devastated islands. arrived in St. Thomas to deliver equipment and supplies to aid in the cleanup of the battered island. TheSIU-crewedTransoceanic Cable Ship, the Charles E. Brown, sailed from St. Thomas on September 13 to ride out Hurricane Marilyn at sea Upon the ship's return to St. Thomas, the crew of the cable ship has been working to rebuild the telephone and communications systems on the island as well as providing water and other supplies to those affected by Marilyn. Sea-Land, Navieras NPR, Inc. and Crowley also have donated plywood, water and non-perishable foods to help aid the Caribbean island residents rebuild their homes and businesses. Companies Ship Supplies Marilyn Mangled Islands Many SIU-contracted shipping companies also have been instrumental in the relief effort. The day before Hurricane Marilyn slammed into St. Croix, the OM/ Star was discharging cargo in the island's port. The tanker was ordered out to sea to escape the storm. AB Gabriel I. Bonefont was aboard the vessel during that voyage and saw the devastation on the island upon the ship's return to St. Croix 18 hours later. "lt was incredible," said Bonefont. "You couldn't tell where the wind had stopped and the mud slides had begun. There was damage everywhere." In the weeks since Hurricane Marilyn, the OM/ Star has returned to the Virgin Islands with cases of food and water to help those who have been affected by the storm. Other SIU-contracted shipping companies that have been involved in the relief efforts includeOceanShipholdings,Inc.of Houston, which has sent 80 cases of canned food, and American Overseas of Quincy, Mass., which donated five pallets of various goods. A week after the storm hit. the SIU-crewed Maersk Constellation Hurricane Marilyn had sustained winds of more than 115 miles per hour when the most destructive part of the storm swept over St. Thomas. Marilyn also damaged property on St. Croix and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as parts of Puerto Rico. The U.S. Virgin Islands lost power, phone service and water. St. Thomas and St. Croix have not yet had their utilities fully restored. Estimates put the damage on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, including economic losses from Hurricane Marilyn, at $3.5 billion-twice the estimated loss from Hurricane Hugo (which devastated the islands in 1989). President Clinton declared the Virgin Islands a disaster area, which made that area eligible for federal emergency aid. . The U.S. Virgin Islands is home to 4,000 members of the SIU's affiliated union, the United Industrial Workers (UIW). The Septem~er 16 hurricane passed directly over St. Thomas, leaving thousands with homes that were damaged or destroyed. UIW members on that island report extensive damage that will take months to clean up. Vast Devastation Eighty-five percent of the St. Thomas Hospital, where a number of UIW members are employed, was destroyed. A 104bed U.S. Army combat hospital has been set up on the island to house patients while parts of the medical facility are rebuilt. Ten people died as a result of Hurricane Marilyn: five on St. John, three on St. Thomas and two on St. Croix. St. Thomas, home to 51,000 residents, was completely flattened by Hurricane Marilyn. Amos Peters, vice president of the UIW' s Caribbean region, said, "You have to understand. At least 90 percent of the residents of this · island have sustained major damage to their homes. Most homes are inhabitable. There are many, many more who have completely lost everything. We have been devastated." Peters noted that plywood, tarpaulins and nails are some of the most needed materials on St. Thomas. (See accompanying list on this page.) Both the St. Thomas and the St. Croix UIW halls suffered minor damage. The UIW office on St. Croix was back in operation after losing power and phone service for about one week. The St. Thomas hall, like most of the island, is still without electricity, water and phone service. Peters stated that the union hall remains open during daylight hours and is providing whatever assistance possible to UIW memhers who have been destroyed by Hurricane Marilyn. "We're in a very serious position," Peters said. ''The majority oftheislandiswithoutpowerand telephone. We're really hurting on St. Thomas." UIW Representative James Bennerson estimated that more than a dozen UIW members on St. Croix lost their homes. He reported that "people are back to work, though not under normal conditions-the majority of people are helping in the cleanup of the island." It will take months just to clear all the debris left by fallen trees and collapsed buildings on St. Thomas, said Peters. More than 80 percent of the housing and buildings on St. Thomas have been destroyed, and the economy is not expected to recover for quite some time. # At the SIU hall in Santurce, P.R., Seafarers unload relief supplies sent to the hall to aid UIW members living on the U.S. Virgin Islands who were affected by Hurricane Marilyn. From the left are Mechanic Rene Pedraza, OS Jorge Borges and QMED John Lange Virgin Islands Seeks Donations of Goods Approximately 4,000 members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), an SIU affiliate union, live on the U.S. Virgin Islands of St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas, which were devastated by Hurricane Marilyn in September. The following items, compiled by UIW Caribbean Vice President Amos Peters, are needed by union members whose homes were badly damaged or completely destroyed by the storm. To contribute any of the items listed below, please bring the donated goods to an SIU haJI. The union will arrange to have the items shipped to SIU and UIW members on the islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. Urgently Needed Items Towels Insect repellant Medicine - Insulin Pots and pans Buckets Toothpaste Toilet Paper Heavy duty extension cords Plywood Nails Other Needed Items Baby food. diapers and formula Glass for window repairs Refrigerators Nonperishable food items Stoves Generators Dinin~ room sets Clothes (both children and T elev1sions adult sizes) Curtains Shoes Rugs Flashlights Tiles Batteries Cribs Lamp Oil Dressing Tables Mattresses Night Stands Linens Water Propane Stoves Lanterns/lamps Blankets Radios Soap/detergents Tarpaunns Washing machines and dryers �.------------------ ........- -- - - - -·- 6 -· -- SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Barer Calls Jones Act Attacks 'Dangerous and Flawed' Totem Executive Says Cabotage Ltlw Valuable Component of U.S. Transportation Proclaiming that one of the major functions of any nation is to provide domestic job opportunities for the citizens of that nation, the head of Totem Resources Corporation blasted recent efforts to repeal the nation' s cabotage laws as "ill-conceived, dangerous and deeply flawed." Stanley H. Barer, co-chairman and CEO of Totem Resources, presented his remarks October 17 to the annual meeting of the American Association of Port Authorities. (A subsidiary firm of Totem Resources is the SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), which provides roll-on/roll-off service between the U.S. Pacific Northwest and Alaska.) In his address, Barer outlined many of the positive aspects provided by the Jones Act, the 1920 law that calls for cargo transported between two domestic ports to be carried on U.S.flag , U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built vessels. Provides Jobs and Taxes He pointed out that vessels covered by the Jones Act provide jobs for more than 120,000 U.S. citizens, including 80,000 inland, Great Lakes and deep sea crewmembers, all of whom pay federal, state and local taxes. All of this would be lost if the Jones Act were removed and foreign-flag vessels with foreign crews were allowed to sail America's waterways. Also, Barer noted that the foreign companies and their crews would be exempt from "the National Labor Relations Act, federal hours of service requirements, child labor laws, Coast Guard safety regulations, the U.S. Civil Rights laws, our national laws relating to health insurance, pension and other benefits and all other state and federal legal requirements, such as OSHA, environmental regulations, etc." Wages Comparable Stanley H. Barer outlined the many positive effects of the Jones Act on the U.S. economy during the recent meeting of the American Association of Port Authorities. He is pictured above when he was the guest speaker at the Paul Hall Memorial Lecture in May. ing, communications, health care, education and, I guess, we could even fire all of our government workers and bring in low-cost people to work in our government and to man our armed forces." Source of Attacks More than 500 members of Sugar Workers Union Local No. 1., an affiliate of the SIU, returned to work last month following a month-long strike against the California and Hawaii (C&H) Sugar Company in Crockett, Calif. Union members voted 164 to 152 to end the walkout and accept a new three-year contract after management withdrew take-away demands first presented to the workers in negotiations. Louie Benavidez, the union's business agent, said all of the Sugar Workers regained their jobs after the picket line came down. "We look at the company's withdrawing its demands for a two-tier wage system and reductions on medical and pension benefits as a victory," Benavidez told the Seafarers LOG. "We are happy to be back at work." On September 8, union members rejected a contract proposal that called for a three-year wage freeze, a more than 100 percent increase in employees' insurance premium payments, elimination of retiree medical benefits, and a reduction in wages and benefits for new hires. When C&H refused to withdraw the take-aways, union members overwhelmingly voted to strike. Members of the International Longshoremen Warehousemen's Union honored the picket lines in the walkout. The previous agreement expired on May 31, but the union members worked through the summer while negotiations continued. The C&H employees work as machine operators, packers, sugar boilers and maintenance personnel. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 7 New SIU Office Opens In Port Everglades, Fla. South Florida Seafarers now have a new facility where they can go to talce care of union business. The new office, located at 1221 South Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, officially opened its doors to SIU members on October 2, when renovations were completed. Seafarers will be able to file their vacation, health and pension paperwork at the office. The facility also is set up to provide Seafarers with the their clinic cards. However, the nearest hiring hall still is located in Jacksonville, Fla. Situated approximately five miles from the old SIU office in Dania, Aa., the building was selected because of its location. Only blocks from downtown Fort Lauderdale, the office also is conveniently located just minutes from Port Everglades, the airport, rail service and other mass transit systems. ''It is in an excellent location for Seafarers," said SIU Representative ----.......,...,~"""' Ambrose Cucinotta. "There is ample parking, and the building itself is in good condition. Everyone seems to really like it." Seafarers helped get the building ready for business. They put up walls, cleaned carpets, painted and plastered. The old lettering on the front of the building had to be talcen down and the Seafarers International Union logo put in its place. Minor construction and landscaping chores also were done by SIU members. ving gfass from a s booth in the former insurance office is OMU Tom Goldsbmy. Laying down joint compound for the creation of a wall in the new facility is QMED James Broderick. OMEO E~it MUHiS in~ stalls a new vent fan.. motor in the mech.. anical room of the Port Everglades office. AB Jeff Gilbert removes the old sign from the front of the Fort Lauderdale building. After landscaping the grounds surrounding the new office, AB Mike Williams sweeps up the hedge clippings. Helping renovations are, from left, Bosun Edward Doruth, SIU Rep. Before the opening of the Ambrose Cucinotta new SIU office, AB Mark and AB Jeff Gilbert. Ramsey repairs a window. At the counter of the new SIU facility in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., SIU Representative Ambrose Cucinotta (right) helps Cook/Baker Leon Grant make travel arrangements to the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, �.....----~----~--~----~~~~- --- ~-----------------------------.......~ B SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Safety Drills: Standard Fare ·Aboard SIU-Crewed Ranger W eeldy lifeboat and fire drills are held aboard the Ranger to ensure the readiness of the crew in case of an emergency. Chief Steward Neville Johnson, who took the photos accompanying this article, noted that the Ranger crewmembers also attend regularly scheduled safety meetings where they are updated on the latest regulations governing Seafarers who sail aboard tankers. At the time the below photos were taken, the OMI Corp. tanker was en route to Puerto Cabello, Venezuela with approximately 34,000 tons of soybean and sunfloweroil. After partially discharging the vegetable oil in Venezuela, the ship then sailed for Columbia and Guatemala, where the balance of the cargo was offloaded. Captain Mike Herbein, master onboard the Ranger, complimented the crew for a smooth voyage. "Crewmembers were very cooperative and got along excellently," the captain told the Seafarers LOG. Celebrating the ratification by Seafarers of a new three-year pact between the SIU and Higman Towing are negotiating team members, from left, Houston Port Agent Jim McGee, Tankerman Mark Elmore, SIU Rep. Don Anderson and Captain Chris Spivey. Not pictured is Captain Mike _M_c_N_e_e_le_y_ . _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Higman SIU Members Ratify Three-Year Pact Seafarers who navigate Higman Towing tugboats and barges along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway have ratified a new contract that improves wages, benefits and working conditions into the year 1998. Included in the new pact is a first-time provision to provide a bonus to Seafarers based on their years of service to Higman Towing. "For each year of service the members have sailed with Higman, they will receive a yearly bonus," noted SIU Houston Port Agent Jim McGee. "While the longevity pay bonus has a threeyear service requirement. it benefits not only those members who have been with the company for 30-plus years, but also those who have recently begun their inland sailing care~rs," added McGee, who served on the union's negotiation comnuttee. "We reached a very fair and equitable contract that benefits us all. We gained a lot of things that we deserve," said Captain Chris Spivey, who also was a member of the negotiating team. Within the new agreement were significant wage increases throughout the life of the three- year agreement, outpatient care for dependents of SIU members and pension improvements. The contract-which began Fire and lifeboat drills are a regular part of shipboard life aboard the Ranger. Pictured at left during a October 1-also made vast im- recent safety drill are crewmembers (kneeling, from left) Bosun Daniel Laitinen Jr., AB Albert Ellis, provements in working condi- (standing, from left) Chief Mate Thomas Conlon, OMU Al Hickman, AB Jesus Vergar, Chief Pump-man Ray Prim, 1st Ass. Eng. Joe Mahar and AB Austin Howard. tions for the Seafarers. In calling the contract between Higman and the union "one of the finest contracts in the inland industry," SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco noted that the gains made in the new agreement can be used as a "springboard for other SIU inland contracts." Negotiations between the Houston-based company and the union began in August and concluded September 29. Besides McGee and Spivey, SIU negotiators for the Higman contract included Union Representative Don Anderson, Captain Mike McNeeley and Tankerman Mark Elmore. "They were good, hard and long negotiations. In the end, we Standing on the stern of the Ranger fol- After a safety drill aboard the Ranger, Chief Steward Neville were all able to come up with a lowing a fire and lifeboat drill is SA Arnulfo Johnson (left) and Chief Cook Stephanie Smith stand on contract that benefitted Lacayo. deck for a photo before returning to the galley. everyone," concluded McGee. Seafarers crew Higman· s 18 tugboats which transport petroleum products primarily between Corpus Christi, Texas and Mobile, Ala. SPAD Posters Hit Union Halls Seafarers Maintain RRF Ships For Seafarers who work aboard the Cape Lobos and Cape Lambert, maintaining two Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels is Posters reminding Seafarers of the importance of the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) are being displayed in union halls around the country as well as aboard SIU-crewed ships. Admiring one of the posters hanging in the New York SIU hall are (from left) Wiper Maurice Ayuso, AB Terrence Kane and Recertified Steward Ed Haber. hard work. . The two ships, ?perated by Amsea and docked m Eagle Island, N.C., are ready to be fully crewed and sent to any area of crisis in the world at a moment's notice. This means that when the ships are on reserve status, they must be kept in excellent working condition at all times. SIU members maintain the ships' engines by keeping them greased and oiled and constantly check the electrical systems by monitoring and changing wires as needed. Most important, the Seafarers keep the ramps of the roll-on/roll-off ships working properly so that cargo can be brought on and taken off the Military Sealift Command vessels. Keeping the ramps of the Cape Lobos in excellent condition is vital to the defense of the United States. Seafarers responsible for maintaining the Ready Reserve Force vessel are, from left, Bosun Chris Lightfoot, SIU Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino, QMED K. Pell, UDE Frank Washington and Electrician William Ryan. SIU Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino meets with Seafarers who keep the Cape Lambert ready to sail at a moment's notice. From left are QMED Robert Ramsey, Paladino, Bosun Robert Woodson, QMED T. Migliara, UDE John Watkins and Electrician J. Crist. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 9 Action by Alton Belle Seafarers Sares Rirerboat Crewmembers Stave Off Runaway Barge Headed for Entertainment Area Quick action by Seafarers who sail aboard the Alton Belle II kept a runaway barge from smashing into the riverboat and its staging barge. On the morning of August 30, the runaway barge, filled with 50,000 bushels of grain, was tied up at the Con Agra loading dock, several hundred yards upstream from the Alton Belle facility, when a passing towboat's wake snapped a three-inch line and set the barge floating toward the riverboat. Barge First Spotted Captain Jerry Wendie spotted the barge shortly after 7 a.m. while the riverboat was preparing for its 7:30 a.m. cruise up the Mississippi River from Alton, m. Mate Dave Wendie was on the bridge with the captain when the barge was spotted and immediately notified security to quickly evacuate the passengers waiting aboard the riverboat' s staging barge, known as the Alton Landing. Captain Wendie next dis- patched deck department members to launch rescue boats to capture and maneuver the runaway barge away from the Alton Landing, which serves as the riverboat's entertainment and boarding complex. Chief Engineer Jack Norris started the Alton Belle II' s engines, and Captain Wendie diverted the riverboat away from the dock and out of the path of the barge. "We had to move the boat to avoid being hit," Captain Wendie said. Deckhands Cliff Jones and Don Garrett manned one rescue boat while Deckhands John Cooper and Greg Pritchett boarded the other. "While in constant communication with the bridge, we proceeded to the location of the loose barge," recalled Jones. Cooper recalled the tense situation. "The barge was headed straight for the Landing. It was incredibly scary trying to get it under control and away from the area," Cooper stated. "Our first attempt was to catch Alton Belle crewmembers who helped bring a runaway barge loaded with two million pounds of grain under control are, from left, Mate Dave Wendie, Captain Jerry Wendie, Chief Engineer Jack Norris, and Deckhands Don Garrett, Cliff Jones, John Cooper and Greg Pritchett. a line from the rescue boat to the barge and guide it away from the Belle facility," noted Jones. "However, with the arrival of the Alton Belle II' s second rescue boat and direction from the bridge, we were able to straighten Rare Pearl Harbor Call Marks SS Independence V-J Day Trip World War II veterans, guest lecturers and members of the U.S. armed forces who were in command positions at Pearl Harbor in 1941 were among the full load of passengers aboard American Hawaii Cruises' SS Independence as it sailed on a memorial cruise through Pearl Harbor in remembrance of the SOth anniversary of V-J Day (Victory over Japan)-the day the Japanese surrendered. Even Maxine Andrews of the singing Andrews Sisters (ofWWII-era fame) came aboard for part of the cruise which began September 3. The passenger ship sailed through the harbor on a slow bell as it passed the USS Arizona memorial (resting place for hundreds of crewmembers who ~e aboard the vessel when it was sunk during the December 6, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor) where 'President Bill Clinton was attending a service in remembrance of those brave men and women who were killed during that attack. The SS Independence then sailed counterclockwise around Ford Island (site of the former Hickam Army Airfield) and other points of interest from World War II before heading to Kona (on the big island of Hawaii) to continue its regular seven-day cruise of the Hawaiian Islands. Due to the solemn nature of the memorial, this OS Sean Stout climbs the mast to untangle a fouled was only the third time a civilian merchant ship has signal flag on the SS Independence before the vessel sails into Pearl Harbor. been allowed into Pearl Harbor. the loose barge with the current and push it toward the center of the river-away from the Alton Belle Landing facility," Deckhand Jones continued. A towboat arrived soon after and took the barge safely back to the Con Agra dock. 'Too Close for Comfort' "It was a scary situation but between the two rescue boats, we were able to head the barge off. Our rescue boat was only about 10 or 15 feet from the dock, trying to hold the barge back until a towboat could reach us. It was too close for comfort," Cooper recalled. "It was one of those days where you were thankful for the calm conditions of the river. If the Mississippi had been running harder or had been choppy, we would have really been in trouble," Cooper said. "It was a pretty hectic and frightening situation, but we all saw it clearly and reacted to it. It was a total group effort by everyone involved. All of our safety features were in force. That barge could have done a lot of damage. We were really very lucky," Cooper concluded. Sam Houston Crew Feted For Two Years of Safety Two years of safe operation aboard the Sam Houston were recognized by a plaque bearing the names of all officers and crew on the vessel during that time. From the left are (front row) OS Stephen Yursha, Bosun B. Riddick, Capt. Hugh McEachern, Radio Officer William Dailey, QMED Alton Hickman, OS Ahmed Madari, SB William Winters, (back row) Chief Engineer David Janes, Chief Mate Mike Mara, Waterman Vice President Erik Johnson and Capt. William Niemeyer. A special awards ceremony was held October 1, 1995 in New Orleans by Waterman Steamship Corporation aboard the Sam Houston in recognition of the outstanding achievement by the officers and crew in completing two years of service with no loss of time due to crew-related injuries. Programs were printed listing all the officers and crewmembers who have sailed on the vessel ,.__._...,~,,_..."., from August 31, 1993 to September 1, 1995; and Erik L. Johnson, vice president at Waterman, presented the crew with a wooden ........._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _..:..__...;;;;;;..;__......;:.;~~;;:;.;;;;:;z..._..;;,_ _ _ _ - - - - - - · plaque onto which brass plates The SS Independence sails past the USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor on the 50th anniversary of bearing the names of all the crewV-J Day. Being allowed into Pearl Harbor is an extremely rare honor for a civilian merchant ship. members aboard the Sam Hous- ------= ton during the two-year period had been affixed. The company also presented the crew with a celebratory cake on which was written, in icing, "Thanks for a job well done!" The Sam Houston is replicated in icing on a cake which reads, "Thanks for a job well done!" �10 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Aboard the Long Lines, Seafarers Make History For Longest Cable Lay Celebrating his birthday at sea during the cable operation is SA Miguel Hidalgo. Seafarers aboard the Long Lines recently helped create a world record for the longest cable laying operation in history when a month-long cable installation was completed between Guam and Hawaii. SIU members aboard the Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. vessel prepared for the operation for six weeks by loading cable while docked in Hitachi, Japan. The vessel sailed for Guam. From there, the Long Lines began the operation-which took approximately 30 days-to place the 6,580 kilometers of fiber-optic cable along the floor of the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii. Robert Wells, an AT&T engineer in charge of overseeing the operation of deep water installations, stated, "The essence of the Guam-Hawaii project is that it was the longest cable lay operation done by anyone, anywhere--ever." As the largest ship in the Transoceanic Cable Ship fleet of five cable-laying vessels, the Long Lines was chosen to install the fiber-optic cable between Guam and Hawaii because of the ship's capacity to carry the large amount of cable needed to complete the operation. The Long Lines holds the world record for total cable miles installed as well as for cable miles installed in a single year. While loading the cable in Hitachi, SIU members enjoyed cookouts with the Japanese workers who assisted in the massive loading operation. Steward department members, led by Chief Steward Thomas Wybo, prepared hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken while the Japanese workers shared their various stir-fry recipes with the Long Lines crew. "Because the Long lines has operated in the AT&T cable ship fleet longer than any other vessel, it is still affectionately referred to as 'The Queen of the Aeet.' The Long Lines, which is based in Honolulu, is an impeccably kept ship, and that is a credit to the crew," Wells told the Seafarers LOG. Seafarers have crewed Transoceanic vessels since the early 1960s. The company operates a total of five cable ships: The Long Lines, Charles L. Brown, Global Sentinel, Global Link and Global Mariner. Members of the Long Lines' steward department prepared special foods for crewmembers and Japanese workers while the ship took on cable in Hitachi, Japan. l: Long Lines' Oiler Joe Perry enjoys the cookout in Hitachi, Japan with fellow crewmembers Chief Purser Bruce Steinle (left) and Second Assistant Engineer Andy Ackerman (right). !, (middle) tfl Cable AB Lee Hardman (left) and Steward Storekeeper Shari Smithson take a quick break from work loading cable aboard the ship in Hitachi, Japan. Smithson provided the photos on this page. �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Delegates Hear Officials Announce Their Support for U.S. Ship Bill Whether the words came from officials of the Clinton administration, members of Congress, the logistics chief for the U.S. Navy or the mayor of New York, the message delivered to the delegates of the 1995 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention was the same: America needs its merchant fleet. The speakers at the two-day meeting held in New York City all provided words of support to back up resolutions passed by the delegates, who came from the MTD's 40 member unions and 28 port councils. Working for Enactment While those attending the convention called on Congress to pass legislation enacting a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program, the chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel said he is doing everything he can to pass the measure. "I can assure you we will fight to get as much for the survival of the American merchant marine as possible," Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.) announced to the delegates. Herberger, who was a member of the operating the program during Fiscal Year 1996 in its commerce appropriations bill. Masters, Mates and Pilots before joining (That bill now is before a House-Senate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - conference committee. Both the authorizaMaritime Administrator tion and appropriations bills have to pass Albert Herberger: Congress for the program to become reality.) 'The centerpiece Bateman said he was assured by the of [our transleadership of the House that H.R. 1350 portation system] "will come to the floor this session. So, we has been the are no longer talking about if; we are talkmerchant marine.' ing about when." Bipartisan Support stating that he would work with . Bateman to get Democratic support · for N the . measure was R epresentattve et 1 Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), who urged those listening to continue fighting for the legislation. the U.S. Navy and retiring as an admiral, said the merchant fleet is an important part of America's transportation needs. "We have the times t transportau· on syst · th Id" h tat d "It· tti em m e wor • es e · . is ge ng better day by day. The cen~erp~.ece of that has been the merchant manne. Needed by Military administration's support for the merchant marine is not limited to passing maritime revitalization. "There's something else that the president and I strongly support and that is the Jones Act," Pena proclaimed. (The Jones Act is a 1920 law that states any cargo moved between two American ports must be carried aboard a U.S.crewed, U.S.-flag and U.S.-built vessel. There have been some efforts recently to try to get Congress to look into repealing the nation's cabotage law.) "Here we have a law that provides jobs for Americans, protects the environment, insures our national security, does it at no expense to the taxpayers without a dime of subsidies from Washington. So why should anyone want to repeal it?" the secretary remarked. The delegates, through several resolutions, urged fellow trade unionists to support the Jones Act and inform elected officials of the law's importance to the nation's economy and transportation systems. Pena noted the Clinton administration holds firm to its belief that given a level playing field America's working men and women "could compete in any market in the world." Herberger told the audience that U.S. Representative America's military forces will continue to Neil Abercrombie: need the commercial fleet well into the next century, in order for the nation to 'We 're trying to retain its superpower status. get this bill "Ninety-five percent of the tonnage that through.' has to go to any engagement for the U.S. Representative foreseeable future-I'm saying the year "' Herbert H. Bateman: "How are Herb Bateman and myself 2025-95 percent of it will go by sealift. 'The important and other people who want to put the Wen~theskilledlaborthatwillmanour point is to get a Rebuild City's Ports maritime [revitalization] bill [through] fleet. . , . program going to succeed if we can• t get 218 votes? Supporting Herberger s contention that Representative Charles Rangel (D' authorized, funded That's what it's about," Abercrombie said. the armed forces need a stron~ mer~h~t N.Y.) recalled the important role the U.S. and operating.' (In order for a bill to pass the House of fleet ~as the head of the Navy s log1st1cs merchant fleet played in his youth growing Representatives 218 of the 435 possible operations. up in New York. "We still d~pend o~ the ~ner fleet to ''The important point is to get a program votes are needed.) U.S. Representative Abercrombie praised Bateman for meet th~ sustamment ~ft, !Ilam.~y ~ause authorized, funded and operating." Charles Rangel: The chairman told the convention that working with Democrats and Republicans m?st of 1.t ~an be contamenzed, Vice Adbills to authorize the creation of amaritime in order to craft maritime revitalization mrral Wilham A. Earner told the conven'The merchant _o_n_._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ revitalization program (H.R. 1350 in the legislation and work for its passage.ti marines were a Adding his support for the legislation House and S. 1139 in tl1e Senate) have pla.ce we could go cleared the committee process and await was Maritime Administrator Albert Herand become Vice Admiral William action by their respective chambers. He berger, who noted passage in Congress is somebody.' Earner: also noted the Senate had gone a step "closer at this point in time than we cer- , beyond by providing $46 million for tainly have been in the last three years." 'We strongly "The pride we had when we saw those support that ships moving out there with an American program in DOD.' flag there, to know that in every neighborAdmiral Salutes World War II Merchant Mariners hood, no matter what the training or lack l .... of training, the merchant marines were a 'This is what we did in Desert Stom1, place we could go and become someand this is what we plan to do in the fu- body," the congressman said. ture." ''That ship could dock in any port, and Earner noted the vessels covered by a the men that got off of those ships were maritime revitalization program would ambassadors for the United States of "be more than adequate to meet our sus- America, and they would set the standard tainment and resupply lift requirements for the entire world as to what a good ship into the future. was," Rangel remembered. "We strongly support that program in In an attempt to recapture that spirit as the Department of Defense," said the ad- well as provide jobs along the New York miral. waterfront, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani told the convention that his office will be workJones Act Endorsed ing to rebuild the city's port facilities. Those words almost echoed the New York Mayor remarks of the convention's keynote Rudolph Giuliani: speaker, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena, who said, "The president 'Healthy ports and I believe in the maritime industry. wor1U """' 11 111 Transportation Sec'y Federico Pena: create opportunities in the maritime industry and ... other industries. ' 'The president and I believe in the The mayor noted that maritime has maritime industry. ' played an important role throughout the Ray CrowelVPage One Vice Admiral William A. Earner, head of the U.S. Navy's logistics operations, talks with retired SIU contracts vice president Angus "Red" Campbell following the admiral's salute to merchant mariners who served during World War II. Campbell saw duty on a merchant ship off Normandy Beach during D-Day operations, June 6, 1944. Behind the pair is a display of World War II maritime-related posters brought to the MTD convention from the exhibit on display at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. "I contended from the very first day I took office that revitalizing the maritime industry was essential for our country. The maritime industry is essential to rebuilding the economy, essential to our transportation infrastructure, essential to fortifying our n~tional security," Pena stated. The secretary added that the history of the city and he plans to revive the industry in Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan. "Healthy ports create opportunities in the maritime industry and it creates opportunities in other industries as well," Giuliani said. "I'm telling you all this because I want you to know that my administration and the city of New York has a major commitment to this industry." �12 SEAFARERS LOG Richard L. Trumka, · President. United Mine Workers of America �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 13 �p-i!----------------------------------------------------- ·- --14 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Unionists Fight for Job Security Whether in Detroit, Seattle or Decatur, Ill., American workers are ta1cing on giant corporations in an effort to ensure a decent living for themselves and their families, reported the presidents of three unions affiliated with the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD). Speaking to the biennial convention of the MTD meeting in New York City October 19-20, the union presidents discussed strikes stemming from bitter disputes with employers bent on breaking the pay levels, benefits and job security of the trade unionists who built their companies. Responding to the reports of George J. Kourpias, president, International Association of Machinists (IAM); Wayne E. Glenn, president, United Paperworkers Intemational Union (UPIU) and James J. Norton, president, Graphic Communications International Union (GCIU), the MTD delegates, representing 40 national unions and 28 port councils, unanimously voted to support the striking workers and provide all assistance possible. Boycott Detroit Newspapers In Detroit, where six unions are on strike against two newspapers-the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News, union members are boycotting the two publications, theGCIU president reported. The2,500unionmemberswhoworkas reporters, press operators, printers, engravers, copy editors, drivers, circulation employees, photographers, mailers, artists and graphic workers went on strike July 13. The six newspaper unions have made an "unconditional offer to return to work, followed by 30 days of intense bargaining and a commitment that any unresolved issue at the end of the 30 days will be sent to binding arbitration," said Norton. The GCIU president also noted that the striking unions had made proposals to the companies that would have resulted in a savings of $15 million dollars. But the two papers, owned by Gannett Co. and Knight-Ridder, are intent on eliminating 200 full time jobs and 1,600 newspaper carrier positions. The publications also insist on eliminating benefits and allowing increases in pay solely at the discretion of management. Thus, the strike goes on, Norton concluded. Lock Out in Decatur In Decatur, ID. the British-owned Staley Corporation has locked out members of the UPlli for two years, reported Glenn. GCIU President The sweetener-producing company James J. Norton: demanded elimination of an 8-hour 'If you engage and workday and the 40-hour week, gutting the cooperate in a seniority provisions of the union contract and complete freedom to subcontract boycott of the adwork. Glenn explained that when Staley vertisers who go unionists refused to roll over, the company into the Detroit newspapers •..you forced a lock out and brought in replaceworkers. will help bring an ment To aid the 700 Paperworkers on strike, end to this strike.' trade unionists have urged Staley's largest customers to do business elsewhere. To date, the company's number one customer-Miller Beer- has taken its business away from Staley. Glenn urged all trade unionists to assist in the campaign to convince Pepsi-Cola, the company's second largest customer, to stop ordering sweetener from Staley. -------------UPIU President Wayne E. Glenn: 'Sometimes we have to trans/er the fight from the pla,nt gate to wherever we can make company CEO's and stockholders the most Kourpiassaidtheunion'sgoalis"toget the company back to the table" in order to "start talking about both the cuts in health care and also about job security." The IAM president noted the significance of the fight with Boeing. This struggle is "about whether or not the United States will continue to be number one in the aerospace industry and whether or not we will build airplanes in America or just sell them," Kourpias said. And it also is about whether America will have the kind of industries that can support highly skilled and well paid workers, he added. --------------- L 'What is involved here is whether or uncomfortable.' Rally With Boeing Workers Kourpias informed the delegates that in Seattle members of the IAM went on strike last month against Boeing Corporation, a leading aerospace company known for building airplanes. Machinists' members also are on strike at other Boeing facilities in Wichita, Kan.; Portland, Ore. and Spokane, Wash., he said. The central issue of the Boeing strike is job security, Kourpias said. Union memhers seek an opportunity to do the work before the company makes subcontracting decisions. Boeing also is seeking cuts in health care coverage that are unacceptable to the union. To support the more than 32,000 striking Boeing Machinists, union members are joining picket lines and participating in rallies around the country. IAM President George J. Kourpias: not we are going to remain a highwage, high-skilled society.' MTD Pledge of Support Noting that the struggle of one group of workers is a fight for all American trade unionists, MTD President Michael Sacco pledged the full cooperation and assistance of the MTD and its affiliated unions in the labor fights in Decatur, Detroit and Seattle. "We'll be there on your picket lines, we'll make calls to CEOs, we'll stop buying goods advertized in scab newspapers. In short, we'll do whatever it takes to help the trade unionists in these struggles win and win big," Sacco said. Sacco, Zenga, Pecquex Elected to MTD Posts By a unanimous vote, the delegates to the 1995 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) biennial convention re-elected Michael Sacco as the department's president. Also by acclamation, the delegates returned William Zenga as vice president and Frank Pecquex as executive secretary-treasurer to fill executive officer posts that will govern the MTD for the next four years. Sacco, who serves as the president of the Seafarers International Union, was appointed by the department's executive board as president of the MTD in 1988 . He was elected to his first full fouryear term during the 1991 convention. As MTD president, Sacco heads an organiza- tion composed of 40 different national unions and 28 port councils located in the United States and Canada The membership of the MTD represents 8.5 million workers in fields related to the maritime industry. William Zenga originally was elected vice president of theMIDatthe 1987biennial convention and has been reelected to the office at each successive convention. A member of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) since 1941, Zenga currently serves as the business manager of IUOE Local 25, Marine Di vision, based in Metuchen, N .J. Zenga also serves as vice president of the Delaware Valley and Vicinity Maritime Port Council. In his duties as vice president, Zenga assists the president during meetings and presides in the president's absence. Frank Pecquex was appointed executive secretary-treasurer in 1993 following the retirement of Jean Ingrao. This will be Pecquex' s first full term. The job of executive secretary-treasurer ineludes keeping records of MTD meetings and conventions, tracking the department's financial matters and conducting the correspondence pertaining to the office. Priortohisappointment, Pecquex served from 1991 to 1993 as the MTD' s administrator. In that post, the New York native coordinated activities between the MTD and its network of port maritime councils. In 1985, Pecquex was maritime and labor-related designated the depart- issues on Capitol Hill. ment's legislative director. The MTD president, In that post, he promoted vice president and execu- tive secretary-treasurer are elected every four years during the department's convention. • ~ Being sworn in as officers of the Maritime Trades Department are, from the left, William Zenga, Michael Sacco and Frank Pecquex. Administering the oath is MTD General Counsel Leslie Tarantola. Each officer received a nomination and second from the convention floor. From the left who nominated William Zenga. The final two pictured are Ed Panarello of the Maritime are Byron Kelley and Joseph Sacco of the Seafarers, who nominated Michael Sacco. Port Council of Greater New York and Vicinity and Dennis Lundy of the Port Maritime The next two photos are of Wayne Gyenizs and Jack Webb of the Operating Engineers, Council of Southern California, who nominated Frank Pecquex. �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 34 New York Philadelphia 5 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 11 Mobile 9 New Orleans 19 Jacksonville 27 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 7 Seattle 25 Puerto Rico 9 Honolulu 11 Houston 27 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 2 204 Totals Port New York 19 Philadelphia 6 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 7 Mobile 9 New Orleans 8 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 5 14 Seattle Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 3 8 Houstol! St. Louis 0 2 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 111 Port New York 17 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 6 Norfolk 6 Mobile 3 New Orleans 7 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 13 12 Seattle Puerto Rico 3 11 Honolulu Houston 10 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 4 Algonac 1 Totals 125 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Totals All De(!artments TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 8 3 4 s 21 0 5 4 17 3 6 10 10 0 3 0 7 11 7 22 0 17 18 21 15 9 18 12 16 1 22 20 5 4 17 8 2 1 12 4 28 3 0 10 0 3 1 33 221 9 3 10 13 9 10 10 8 1 0 0 1 0 5 0 12 1 11 10 5 0 0 5 5 11 10 3 3 1 130 1 8 8 4 3 0 2 7 1 4 17 0 135 0 0 3 15 26 45 35 16 1 I 8 20 2 2 5 7 39 28 36 32 45 4 2 11 11 4 12 51 2 23 8 8 14 1 55 3 15 1 382 5 407 1 86 2 0 0 36 23 3 13 6 1 2 10 15 12 18 23 5 0 1 5 0 0 0 66 0 12 15 11 2 6 7 1 10 5 14 0 2 6 24 19 6 1 1 6 1 4 11 21 10 17 7 22 2 6 8 9 0 0 21 0 0 0 6 1 4 4 16 18 0 7 2 3 14 0 2 1 1 2 3 3 4 17 20 22 6 6 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 0 4 0 95 12 36 202 2 0 1 1 0 29 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 0 10 0 1 2 4 0 4 2 1 0 0 0 0 9 9 5 16 1 222 23 2 l 13 5 15 43 1 2 0 4 0 24 7 4 0 3 0 0 0 18 1 3 0 15 8 8 12 3 15 1 23 0 0 0 7 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 19 15 0 0 1 0 0 0 10 0 1 7 0 15 41 233 159 36 15 68 24 2 1 11 0 102 6 32 7 1 0 0 9 2 1 1 15 9 1 5 1 2 48 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 13 8 9 1 2 2 11 56 20 29 4 17 20 9 7 3 2 2 4 2 1 14 1 0 5 9 7 3 3 3 9 11 1 3 27 19 19 7 10 8 8 5 3 0 6 48 75 45 89 0 9 1 0 0 0 7 3 26 5 5 0 0 0 2 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 46 1 256 0 0 132 0 0 0 88 436 1 221 486 700 210 905 1~24 386 8 17 18 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 3 10 0 0 3 0 2 4 3 0 10 9 3 2 2 0 1 40 134 112 0 0 0 394 412 154 143 I 5 17 27 4 19 2 11 4 26 17 28 12 51 35 35 15 57 28 14 18 17 1 2 3 7 11 9 5 31 l San Juan Thursday: December 7, January Friday: December 15, January 19 Honolulu Friday: December 15, January 19 Duluth Wednesday: December 13, January 17 Jersey City December 20, January 24 New Bedford Tuesday: December 19, January 23 Wednesday~ Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 8 12 70 9 0 1 1996 Scholarships Open To Seafarers, Dependents Seven scholarships will be awarded next year to three SIU members and four dependent children (or spouses) of Seafarers. Of the three SIU scholarships, one is a four-year stipend in the total amount of $15,000; two are two-year scholarships, each totalling $6,000. Each of the dependent scholarships is for $15,000. One hint: In order to win one of the scholarships, an application form must be filled out and sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15, 1996. That leaves just five months to collect all the necessary paperwork that must be included with the application package. The first step is to get an application form (either by mail using the coupon bdow or from any SIU hall). The next step is to fill out the form and gather the other items that accompany the form. These include an autobiographical statement, a photograph, a certified copy of applicant's birth certificate, high school transcripts and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, college transcripts, letters of reference and SAT or ACT score results. Another hint: Five months may seem like a lot of time to complete the application package, but it should be noted that some schools often are very slow in handling transcript requests. There is no time like the present to start the process. r--------------------------~ please send me the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number This application is for * "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. 11 St. Louis 0 13 l 0 Mobile Wednesday: December 13, January 17 San Francisco Thursday: December 14, January 18 Wilmington Monday, December 18, January 22 Seattle Friday: December 22, January 26 1 7 4 10 6 Norfolk Thursday: December 7, January 11 Jacksonville Thursday: December 7, January 11 Algonac Friday: December 8, January 12 Houston Monday: December 11, January 15 New Orleans Tuesday: December 12, January 16 1 1 8 0 1 6 Baltimore Thursday: December 7, January 11 0 2 3 25 6 Piney Point Monday: December 4, January 8 New York Tuesday: December 5, January 9 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 6, January 10 7 4 26 55 0 0 1 15 7 20 50 9 6 30 2 8 0 0 2 1 7 7 7 71 4 1 88 11 1 0 2 2 0 0 14 I 5 3 5 20 0 1 6 16 0 10 1 0 1 0 16 2 1 0 1 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 12 0 9 3 0 0 0 1 10 2 3 3 3 8 9 19 12 7 16 1 0 1 164 1 9 5 December 1995 & January 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters DECK DEPARTMENT 24 1 3 1 93 4 3 15 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 D Self D Dependent Mail the completed form to tJu Sclw/arship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 AUlh Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11195 --------------------------~ �16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory NOVEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes SEPTEMBER 16- OCTOBER 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augu~tin Tellez ViCe President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Cafl'ey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters 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 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 5580'2 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 0730'2 (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 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 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 21 7 0 8 0 0 5 2 0 2 17 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP •*REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Clas.s L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 39 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 5 20 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 5 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 11 13 0 20 5 0 9 5 0 38 11 0 36 26 0 64 16 0 78 Totals All Departments *"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. 34 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1995 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 1 37 2 42 3 0 5 0 8 0 3 0 1 9 5 11 0 0 2 0 2 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 1 1 ·10 1 0 18 1 5 0 6 5 0 2 0 0 2 *•REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 32 3 3 19 7 2 2 21 5 27 40 30 42 3 1 1 0 5 0 1 11 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 3 0 0 11 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 2 0 5 1 0 2 5 6 5 0 9 0 15 0 1 0 1 6 3 0 1 0 0 6 0 13 12 19 ·u 48 60 49 5 12 20 58 Totals All Departments * "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. 64 1 0 7 0 8 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 5 7 e1u BULLETIN BOARD ~ ~ ~ ~ ? FLU SHOTS BEING GIVEN IN PORT OF SEATTLE Virginia Mason Clinic will again offer flu shots this year to members who qualify under the rules of the Seafarers Welfare Plan. The inoculations will be given on Monday, November 20, 1995, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon and again between 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the Seattle union hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. In order to expedite the necessary paperwork, it is requested that any member intending to receive a flu shot call the hall one week prior to November 20. The telephone number is (206) 441-1960. To utilize this benefit, a member must be qualified under the rules of the plan. He or she must bring proof of 120 days seatimefor 1994 and one day of covered employment on or after May 15, 1995. (There are no exceptions to this rule.) 3 1 7 0 11 11 ~ UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS In order to ensure that SIU members and pensioners receive a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail- a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently and have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest SIU hall and fill out a change of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security number) to: Address Control, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. 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 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 SEAFARERS MUST RENEW Z-CARDS BY 1999 Issuance Year Merchant seamen must renew their z-cards every five years, according to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. In order to keep their merchant mariner's documents up to date, Seafarers can use the chart on the right. Renewal dates are determined by the issuance date on the z-cards. The exact date of expiration matches the month and date when the document was issued. Renewal Year 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1985 1980 1975 1970 1965 1960 1955 1950 1945 1940 1986 1981 1976 1971 1966 1961 1956 1951 1946 1941 1987 1982 1977 1972 1967 1962 1957 1952 1947 1942 1937 1988 1983 1978 1973 1968 1963 1958 1953 1948 1943 1938 1989 1984 1979 1974 1969 1964 1959 1954 1949 1944 1939 1995 1996 1997 199$ 1999 Source: Federal Register, September 27, 1994 �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 J,. J,. mong the 19 Seafarers joinA ing the ranks of pensioners this month is Bosun Billie B. Darley. His 50 years with the union began aboard a Liberty ship and ended when he signed off the LNG Capricorn. He is one of 13 pensioners who sailed in the deep sea department; another five navigated the inland waterways, and one shipped in the Atlantic Fishermen's division. Nine of the retiring SIU members served in the U.S. military-four in the Navy, three in the Army, one in the Marine Corps and one in the Coast Guard. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, Paul M. Butterworth, Harold F. Eady and Darley completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., while Marvin Deloatch graduated from the steward recertification course there. These courses offer the highest level of training for deck and steward department members at the Lundeberg School. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms 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 thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. deberg School. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Craig presently resides in Florida. BILLIEB. DARLEY, 67, first sailed for the SIU in 1945 aboard the Charles W. Warfield. The deck department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification course there in 1984. Since 1980, he has sailed primarily aboard LNG vessels. Born in Florida, Brother Darley continues to live in that state. Carolina. Brother Escobar upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He has retired to his native Puerto Rico. MOHAMED A. ELJANNY, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1971 from the port of Detroit. Brother Eljanny sailed in both the deck and engine departments and shipped in all three divisions: deep sea, inland and Great Lakes. Born in Arabia, Brother Eljanny now resides in Michigan. ROBERT J. KOTECKI, 65,joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of JackMARVIN sonville, DEWATCH, '-'---====...J Fla. Brother 57,began Kotecki sailed in both the sailing with steward and engine departthe Seaments. He served in the U.S. farers in Army from 1950 to 1953. 1964 from Born in Illinois, Brother the port of Kotecki now calls Florida = "--====="'--' Norfolk, Va. Brother Deloatch shipped in the home. steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg PABLO School and completed the RAMOS, steward recertification program 59, started there in 1980. He also was inhis career volved with union organizing with the activities. Born in North Seafarers in Carolina, Brother Deloatch 1966 in the makes his home in New York. port of New York. DEEP SEA Brother Ramos sailed in the KENNETH RAYMOND DYKSTRA, deck department and upgraded V. BAKER, 65, started at the Lundeberg School. Born 65,began in Puerto Rico, Brother Ramos his career sailing with now lives in New York. with the SIU the Seai.:1 1968 in farers in .-----=---...., ANTHONY the port of 1948 from Detroit. The S.ROTUNthe port of Michigan na- ~~~~ DA, 59, ==~===Norfolk, Va. tive shipped in the deck departgraduated Brother Baker shipped as a ment in both the deep sea and from the member of the engine departGreat Lakes divisions. Brother Andrew ment. He served in the U.S. Dykstra has retired to Michigan. Furuseth Army from 1954 to I 956. Training Born in Georgia, Brother Baker School in HAROLD makes his horn~ in Texas. 1961 and joined the union in F.EADY, the port of New York. Brother 65,joined PAULM. Rotunda sailed as a member of the union in the engine department and was BUTTER1967 in the WORTH, actively involved in union orport of San 70, started ganizing activities. From 1956 Francisco. to 1960, he served in the U.S. his career The deck with the SIU Navy. A native of West Vir~--'--'~=~department in 1968 in ginia, Brother Rotunda conmember upgraded his skills at tinues to live there. the port of the Lundeberg School and Baltimore. graduated from the bosun recerThe deck department member tification course there in 1990. GEORGE upgraded at the Lundeberg From 1951to1954, he served S. THOMPSchool in Piney Point, Md., and in the U.S . Navy . Born in IlSON, 65, completed the bosun recertifica- linois, Brother Eady presently began sailtion course there in I 982. lives in Texas. ing with the From 1943 to 1945, he served union in in the U.S. Navy. Born in West 1968 in the ROBERTO Virginia, Brother Butterworth port of ESCOBAR, now lives in Georgia. Philadel53, graduphia. The Pennsylvania native ated from shipped in the engine departLAWRENC the Andrew ment and upgraded at the LunCRAIG,66, Furuseth deberg School. From 1947 to Training began sail1951, he served in the U.S. School in ing with the Navy. Brother Thomas con1960 and Seafarers in tinues to live in his native state started his career with the 1948 from of Pennsylvania. union in the port of New York. the port of Born in Puerto Rico, he sailed Seattle. He in the steward department, last PAUL F. WHALEN, 67, =-==---:::.-"'==c....==-= shipped in sailing as a chief cook aboard started his career with the the engine department and the NPR, Inc. vessel, the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of upgraded to QMED at the Lun- New York. The New York native sailed in the engine department. He attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. From 1951to1952, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Whalen now calls California home. INLAND WILFORD W.HOPKINS,62, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. During his union career, Boatman Hopkins sailed as a launch operator, relief captain and captain. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Hopkins has retired to that state. ~--~l CARLTON A.SHANNON,62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Boatman Shannon sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1951to1972 he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. A native of North Carolina, Boatman Shan- 11 J,. J,. non continues to live in his home state. NORMAN W. SAWYER, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Sawyer sailed in both the steward and engine departments. Born in Virginia, he presently lives in North Carolina. WOODROW W. STOKLEY, 56, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Stokley shipped in the engine department, last sailing as an engineer. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Stokley now makes his home in Virginia. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN LEOJ. SABATO, 67,joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1946 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Born in Massachusetts, he shipped in the deck department. In 1968 Brother Sabato became an official for the union and served as a port agent in the port of Gloucester, Mass. As a rank-and-file member, he participated in a number of organizing drives and beefs. Brother Sabato continues to live in his native state of Massachusetts. I LOG-A-RHYTHM by Edme Dale Sessions Ill Song of the Tradewinds Oh I am the wind the sailors love, I am steady and strong and true. They follow my track by the clouds above, Over the fathomless tropic blue. Through daylight and dark, I follow the bark, I keep like a hound on the trail. I'm stronger at noon, yet under the moon I stiffen the bunt of the sails. Yes I am the wind, your next of kin, Race with me o'er the top of the waves. I love all the sailors and ships upon the seas, The dolphins, the whales and the bays! Ships on Canvas Now I don't care from which way the winds shall blow, north-south-the Gulf, from the bays or the China Sea! Just paint me a ship that's like a ship, and that'll do for me! (Eddie Dale Sessions III sailed with the SIU from 1987 until 1990, last shipping as an AB aboard the M. V. Faust. He presently resides in Phoenix, Ariz. where he wrote these poems.) �18 NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 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. LNG GEMINl(ETC), July 16Chairman Ramli Mohamad, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director D. Wise, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin. Secretary thanked crew for keeping lounge in order and reminded those signing off to leave quarters clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Treasurer announced $331 in ship's fund. Deck delegate noted lack of air conditioning aboard ship while in shipyard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reported telex from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez about deck crew work received and posted on crew bulletin board. Crew discussed purchase of snorkeling equipment, dictionary and world atlas from money in ship's fund. Crewmembers extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Crew reported LNG Gemini responded to distress signal from crew of Minral Dampier. Following five-hour search of area, nothing was recovered. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. PAUL BUCK(Ocean Shipholding), July 2-Chainnan Luke Wells, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Engine Delegate Jonathan Newhouse, Steward Delegate Al Young. Chairman stated new washer and dryer needed for crew laundry. He advised crew of return flight arrangements being made which will be relayed once ship arrives in port. Bosun thanked galley gang for excellent cookouts. Educational director reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into issuing members insurance photo I.D.s so they can go to hospitals without problem. Chairman asked crew to consider others on board by using Hook-up on the Hudson proper washing machines and dryers for work clothes. /TB JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), August 27-Chairman Walter Petty, Secretary Rayfield Crawford, Educational Director Jurgen Gottschlich, Deck Delegate Hans Gottschlich, Steward Delegate Luis Escobar. Chairman urged crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman advised crew of new regulations for tankennen and stressed importance of taking Lundeberg School's tanker operations course. Crew thanked steward department for job weU done. LAWRENCE H. GIANELLA (Ocean Shipholding), August 29Chairman Rudy Santos, Secretary James Lewis, Deck Delegate Scott Snodgrass, Engine Delegate Joe Walker, Steward Delegate S. Suraredjo. Chairman reported $170 in ship's fund. Secretary asked contracts department to make sure company provides adequate supply of fresh fruit and vegetables and sufficient amount of milk to last entire trip. Chairman reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. PAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholding), August 27-Chairman John Koneles, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Deck Delegate Todd McClane, Engine Delegate Lionel Lee, Steward Delegate David Smith. Chairman noted new mattresses would come on board in Houston, while dryers and VCR would be requested upon arrival. He reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operations course by next year. Secretary informed crew that reports of tanker operations course being offered at Paul Hall Center have been very favorable. Educational director encouraged all members to attend upgrading classes at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Norfolk, Va. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), August 28-Chairman J.R. Wilson, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Educational Director Robert Martinez, Deck Delegate Monte Grimes, Engine Delegate Jorge Bermeo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman discussed sending letter to contracts department concerning sailing days per trip. Bosun thanked all unlicensed crewmembers and stated he hoped to sail with such outstanding SIU members again. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked crew for separating plastics from other trash. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. Bosun Jerry Borucki operates the OM/ Hudson's crane during hook-up of the aft cargo hoses at Union Oil Co. in Richmond, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), August 28-Chairman William Lough, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director Bozidar Balic. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by deck or steward department delegates. Crew reported water in crew's quarters too hot for comfortable showers. Crew noted captain ordered gangway secured in position that blocks lifeboats. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), August 27-Chairman Dennis Brown, Secretary Gene Sivley, Educational Director Steve Biglow, Deck Delegate George Vukmir, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Dien Short. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), September 21-Chainnan Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director G. Demetropoulos, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman noted patrolman to meet ship in Charleston, S.C. for payoff. Secretary discussed importance of SPAD in upcoming elections and asked members to support union in all activities. Educational director urged crew to take tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director gave special vote of thanks to galley gang for fine job. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. CLEVELAND (Sealift, Inc.), September 17-Chainnan D.J. Garoutte, Secretary M. Vinca, Educational Director I.S. Samra, Deck Delegate Paul Cadran, Engine Delegate Steve Sanches, Steward Delegate Carlos Sierra. Chairman discussed Alaskan oil legislation and noted passage will mean more jobs for American seamen. He reminded crewmembers if they have shipboard problems to report them to department delegates. He advised crew to dispose of trash in proper containers. Secretary asked crew to separate plastic items from other refuse. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $105 in ship's fund . No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crew to keep laundry room clean and noise down. Next port: Diego Garcia. LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), September 24-Chainnan Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Otis Sessions, Deck Delegate Richard Lewis, Engine Delegate Robert Rice. Chairman commended crew for fine voyage. He thanked all hands for performing in "best SIU tradition." Secretary informed crew that vacation forms are on board ship. Educational director encouraged crewmembers to upgrade and better their skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer announced $220 in ship's fund. Crew asked for improved communications with union headquarters. Crew thanked galley gang for delicious steak dinner. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. LNG GEMINI (ETC), September 3-Chairman Philip Parisi, Secretary Kris Hopkins, Educational Director William Twiford, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Thomas Flynn, Steward Delegate Patricia Ballance. Secretary explained sanitation process for ship's second deck. Educational delegate urged members to upgrade and take advantage of educational oppor. tunities at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $400 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crewmembers to help keep lounge clean and avoid slamming doors, which disturbs those sleeping on first and second decks. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), September 24-Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Bill Barrett, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate R. Lee. Chairman told crewmembers there will be ice forming on deck this trip and advised them to use extra care. He informed crew arctic gear would be issued soon. Bosun encouraged crewmembers to remain politically active by writing congressmen and urging them to support H.R 1350, the maritime revitalization bill. Secretary explained that survival of maritime depends on members staying politically active. He spoke to crew about need for members to write Congress to support maritime bills. Educational director noted importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and attending tanker operations course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reminded to read monthly President's Report in LOG. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), September asked contracts department to look into more timely reimbursement of medical expenses for members and families. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), September 24Chairman William Stoltz, Secretary Edward Porter, Educational Director Ralph Garner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that new ice machine be fixed upon arrival in port of Port Elizabeth, N .J. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), September 5Chairman Norberto Prats, Secretary Mark Holley. Educational director advised crewmembers of importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed Service With a Smile Aboard the Bobo Adding a few last-minute ingredients is all that remains to complete preparations for another meal aboard the 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo. Chief Steward Dorray Saberon took this picture of his fellow galley gang members on the Amsea vessel. They are (from left, front row) Chief Cook Santa Paturzo, SA Darlene Cherry, Cook/Baker Sharon Herner, (back row) SA Toro Jerson and SA Bruce Davidson. 10-Chainnan Tim Olvany, Secretary Mark Flores, Educational Director Patrick Coppola, Deck Delegate Justo Lacayo, Engine Delegate Spencer Smith, Steward Delegate Angel Correa. Chairman announced upcoming payoff and asked crewmembers to clean rooms before leaving ship. Bosun encouraged members to donate to SPAD to keep maritime a high priority in Congress. Secretary reminded crew to remain aware of union and maritime activities by reading Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged crew to write congressmen for their support for maritime legislation. He also stressed importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chafrman reminded crewmembers not to smoke in mess hall during meal hours. Crew asked contracts department to look into reducing time needed for pension. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crewmembers observed moment of silence for departed SIU brothers and sisters. PAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholding), September 17-Chairrnan John Koneles, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Deck Delegate Gary Nogel, Engine Delegate Lionel Lee, Steward Delegate David Smith. Crew discussed upgrading lounge VCR to multisystem model so American movies can be purchased and viewed overseas. Chairman noted payoff in Norfolk, Va. Secretary reported reliefs due aboard ship on October 4 in Puerto Rico. Educational director reminded members to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. He also discussed U.S. Coast Guard tankerman's endorsements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read crew latest tanker operations course information in Seafarers LOG . Crew OT reported. Steward delegate asked crew to keep doors to mess room locked while in port. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), September 3Chajrman Ken McGregor, Secretary George Boop, Educational Director Robert Hamil, Deck Delegate Larry Reiner. Chairman reported entire Sea-Land Producer crew sent letters to their senators and representatives in Congress, urging support for H.R. 1350 and S. J 139, the maritime revitalization bills. Bosun.· thanked deck delegate Reiner for promoting shipwide letter-writing campaign. He additionally stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. He also thanked deck department for job well done in cargo holds. Educational director stressed importance of tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended "very well deserved" vote of thanks to steward department for excellent food and smiling faces. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman Steamship), September 3Chairman Angelo Urti, Secretary Lonnie Gamble, Educational Director Donald Peterson, Engine Delegate Robert Hines Jr., Steward Delegate Kenneth Greenidge. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Morehead City, N.C. on September S. Educational director advised crewmembers to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked union headquarters for sending ship copies of Seafarers LOG, which keeps them informed on union news. Chairman gave personal thanks to galley gang, engine and deck departments for jobs well done. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 19 Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES W. CARTER Pensioner James W . Carter, 91, died August 7 . The Alabama native started his career with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Carter shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. He began receiving his pen sion in March 1968. HOWARD F. CLARK Howard F. Clark, 60, passed away September 10. Born in South Dakota, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Clark sailed in the steward department. He graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1979 at the union's training facility, the Lundeberg School, in Piney Point, Md. From 1953 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Navy. EDWARD ''EDDIE" DALE Pensioner Edward "Eddie" Dale, 68, passed away August 27. Brother Dale graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School, which provided entry-level skills, in 1962 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. The Alabama native sailed in the steward department and completed the steward recertification course in J980 at the Lundcberg School. From 1945 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Dale retired in November 1989. JACOBO ENRIQUEZ Pensioner Jacobo Enriquez, 88, passed away July 21. He began his sailing career with the union in ====== 1941 in the port of New York. Brother Enriquez shipped in the steward department and was active in various union organizing drives. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Enriquez began receiving his pension in September 1972. LYNWOOD FITZGERALD Pensioner Lynwood Fitzgerald, 71, passed away July 11. Born in Virginia, he -1 b~gan sailing ·, with the - Seafarers in 1948 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Fitzgerald sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Fitzgerald began receiving his pension in June 1981. 1957. He began receiving his pension in February 1986. ALBERT J.MARTINELLI Pensioner Albert J. Martinelli, 73, passed away June 7. Brother Martinelli joined the SIU in 1943 in the .___ _ _ ___, port of Baltimore. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. EDWARD S. FRIEDERICK The Pennsylvania native was acPensioner Edward S. Friederick, tive in union organizing drives. 88, passed away February 17. He began receiving his pension Brother Friederick started his sail- in December 1984. ing career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that RAYMOND V. McDONALD union merged with the SIU' s Raymond V. AGLIWD. Born in South McDonald, Dakota, Brother Friederick lived 55, died in Oregon and retired in June April 20. He 1969. began his career with WILLIAM A.C. GRAVES the SIU in Pensioner William A.C. Graves, the 1960s in 68, died August 28. A native of the p01t of Canada, he started his career Boston. The with the Marine Cooks and Massachusetts native sailed in Stewards in 1959 in the port of the deck department in the inland New York, before that union division. He completed the towmerged with the SIU's boat operator course in 1978 and AGLIWD. Brother Graves received his towboat operator's retired in October 1977. license. From 1979 to 1983, Brother McDonald served as a union representative in the GEORGE E. HAYS Tampa and Jacksonville, Fla. George E. ports. Afterwards, Brother McHays, 44, Don ald returned to shipping on passed away deep sea vessels. From 1958 to July 21. 1961 , he served in the U.S. Born in KenMarine Corps. tucky, he began sailing DONALD C. McGLYNN with the Seafarers in Donald C. 1980 from McGlynn, the port of Honolulu. Brother 22, passed Hays shipped in the engine away July 25 deprutment and upgraded to as a result of QMED at the Lundeberg School. a drowning He served in the U.S. Navy from accident with 1972 to 1976. Seafarer Bryan Terry '---'--===----=~-=--;;,_,J near Hilo, HERBERT 0. LEAKE Hawaii. Brother McGlynnjoined I Pensioner the Seafarers in 1992 in the port HerbertO. of Honolulu. He sailed in both Leake, 63, the steward and deck departpassed away ments aboard American Hawaii September Cruises' ships. 17. Brother Leake SILAS M. McGOWAN graduated from the Pensioner Silas M. Mc----'===----' Andrew Gowan, 66, Furuseth Training School in died July 8. I 961 and joined the union in the Born in p011 of New York. Born in VirTexas, he ginia, he sailed in the deck began sailing department and completed the with the bosun recertification course in union in l 975 at the Lundeberg School. L___.!!!o_~'----~__Jl945from During his career with the SIU, he was active in several union or- the port of New Orleans. Brother McGowan shipped as a member ganizing drives. From 1949 to of the deck department, last sail1952, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Leake retired in ing as a bosun. From 1950 to 1952, he served in the U.S. February 1992. Army. Brother McGowan retired in July 1991. JOSEMADUREI ELIAS MENDOZA Pensioner Pensioner Jose Elias MenMadurei, 78, doza, 84, died August passed away 13. Brother July 18. He Madurei started his , started his ~ / career with - · career with the Seafarers the Seafarers in 1952 in -~==== in 1944 in '---"------~--=-..~ the port of the port of Baltimore. He sailed Galveston, Texas. Brother Mena s a member of the deck departdoza sailed as a member of the ment. Born in Brazil, he became engine department. Born in a naturalized U.S. citizen in JIRODEWA Pensioner Jiro Dewa, 77, died August 7. He started sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1939 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Hawaii, Brother Dewa began receiving his pension in February 1980. • .v-, Mexico, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He began receiving his pension in November 1983. union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Reed began receiving his pension in June 1969. CHEEMOHAT LEWIS W. ROBERTS Pensioner LewisW. Roberts, 77, passed away August 3. He joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Bos=='---=~~~ ton. Brother Roberts last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. From 1942 to 1944, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Pennsylvania, he retired in November 1984. Pensioner Chee Mohat, 94, died August 6. Born in the Philippines, Brother Mohat joined the SIU in '-""""'---'"'-==-'-'-~~~ 1943 in the port of New York. He last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. Brother Mohat began receiving his pension in January 1967. BENJAMIN RUCKER Pensioner Benjamin Rucker, 77, died August 4. Bornin Georgia, he began sailing with the SIU in 1944 from the port of New York. Brother Rucker shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief steward. He lived in Texas and retired in July 1983. SERGIO MORALES . Pensioner I Sergio Morales, 69, passed away ' September 4. Brother , _ . · Morales started his career with = === the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother Morales last sailed as a chief cook during the Gulf War. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Morales retired in June 1992. GENE J. RUSSELL Pensioner Gene J. Russell, 74, passed away August 14. Brother Russell joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in the port of New York, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. He sailed during World War II, then returned to New York as an MSC union representative. After the New York MSC port closed, he returned to sea. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Russell began receiving his pension in January 1992. BERNARD MOSES Pensioner Bernard Moses, 87, died August 7. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in New York, Brother Moses began receiving his pension in July 1968. LOUIS NAVARRO Pensioner Louis Navarro, 92, passed away May 28. Born in South America, he began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the late 1940s, before that union merged with the Sill's AGLIWD. Brother Navarro began receiving his pension in March 1971. WILLIAM H. PARISH Pensioner William H. Parish, 72, died August 31. Brother Parish joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1944. Brother Parish retired in October 1979. RAFAEL D. SANTIAGO Pensioner Rafael D. Santiago, 84, died August 10. A native of Puerto Rico, he started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1958, before that union merged with the SIU' s · AGLIWD. Brother Santiago retired in June 1969. I I ' SAMUEL A. SEAGER ! Pensioner Samuel A. Seager, 78, i passed away September 30. 'I Brother Seager joined the Marine ; Cooks and Stewards (MSC) in I 1952 in the port of San Francis! co, before that union merged i with the SIU's AGLIWD. He sailed in both the steward and . deck departments. From 1964 to · 1966, Brother Seager served as a KARLJ.RANA port agent for the MCS and he Pensioner was a member of the merger comKarl J. Rana, mittee in 1978 which advanced 90, died Sep- the plan for bringing the MCS tember 3. into the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in He joined the New York, he began receiving Seafarers in his pension in January 1986. 1947 in the port of New ALFREDO SICAN SR. Orleans. Alfredo Brother Rana Sican Sr., 88, sailed as a member of the died August steward department. Born in 21. He began Norway, he became a naturalized sailing with U.S. citizen. He retired in the Seafarers February 1970. in 1961 from the port of Seattle. SAMUEL A. REED SR. Born in the Pensioner Samuel A. Reed Sr., Philippines, Brother Sican 74, passed away June 19. Born shipped as a member of the deck in Texas, he started his career department. with the Marine Cooks and Co11tiliued on page 20 Stewards in 1945, before that 1 1 �,....-------- - - - 20 -- - - -~-- - NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures Continued from page 19 MARTIN SIERRA 1945 in the port of New Orleans. The engine department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in Estonia, Brother Taska retired in August 1971. BRYAN TERRY Pensioner Bryan Terry, Martin Sier20, drowned ra, 71, July 25 with passed away Seafarer August 11. Donald McBorn in PennGlynn near sylvania, he Hilo on the joined the island of union in 1.---=====--_J 1941 in the .....____,......_ ~~_J Hawaii. Brother port of New York. Brother SierTerry graduated from the Lunra sailed in the steward departdeberg School's entry level proment. From 1941to1947, he gram for seamen in February served in the U.S. Navy. Brother 1995 and joined the SIU in the Sierra retired in September 1986. port of Piney Point, Md. He sailed as a member of the deck FRANCIS E. SMITH department. Born in Oregon, he Francis E. made his home in Washington Smith, 71, state. died July 25. A native of MANUEL N. TIGMO Maryland, he Pensioner began sailing ·Manuel N. with the SIU Tigmo, 79, in 1947 from died August the port of 17. He .__=.;:__===-==-___, Baltimore. began sailing Brother Smith sailed in the with the SIU steward department and comin 1947 from pleted the steward recertification the port of course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. A World War II veteran, =----=.:---~-f> New York. Brother Tigmo shipped in the he served in the U.S. Marine steward department, last sailing Corps from 1942 to 1945. as a chief cook. Born in the Philippine Islands, he began his JOSEPH W. SPEARMAN retirement in August 1982. Joseph W. Spearman, RICARDO E. VASQUEZ 42, passed Ricardo E. away June Vasquez, 58, 22. Brother passed away Spearman July 27. graduated Brother from the LunVasquez deberg started his School's career with entry program in 1978 and joined the Seafarers the SIU in the port of Piney = - - - - ' in 1968 in Point, Md. The Maryland native t he port of New York. The sailed in the engine department. Panamanian native sailed in both the engine and steward departGLEN C. STANFORD ments. Pensioner Glen C. StanHAROLD L. WEA VER ford, 68, passed away Pensioner July 27. He Harold L. began sailing Weaver, 72, with the died July 11. Seafarers in Born in Mis1948 from sissippi, he the port of began sailing New Orleans. The Mississippi nawith the SIU tive shipped in the deck departin 1951 from ment and completed the bosun ---"'--"--"-"=~__Jtheportof recertification course in 1975 at Mobile, Ala. Brother Weaver the Lundeberg School. From shipped in both the deep sea and 1945 to 1946, he served in the i nland divisions. As a member of U.S. Army. Brother Stanford the deck department, he comretired in January 1989. pleted the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School i n 1974. Brother Weaver lived JOHNR. TALBOT i n Alabama and began receiving Pensioner his pension in September 1986. John R. Talbot, 73, died August 18. RAYMOND K. WEEDEN Born in Penn- RaymondK. sylvania, he Weeden,45, joined the passed away SIU in 1943 April 3. in the port of Brother Baltimore. 1 Weeden Brother Talbot was a member of .. began sailing the deck department. He last with the sailed as a bosun before retiring ' · union in in July 1977. I_c..::.::.===== 1968. He shipped in the steward departNICKOLAI TASKA ment, last sailing as a chief Pensioner s teward. Born in California, Nickolai Brother Weeden made his home Taska, 79, 111 Nevada. passed away July 10. EARL WILLIS Brother p ensioner Earl Willis, 70, passed Taska started away September 16. Born in his career West Virginia, he began sailing with the with the SIU in 1956 from the Seafarers in port of Baltimore. Brother Willis shipped in the engine department and served as a delegate to the SIU's 1970 educational crew conference held at the Lundeberg School. From 1945 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Willis began receiving his pension in November 1988. INLAND ROBERT J. ALDRIDGE Pensioner RobertJ. Aldridge, 70, passed away July 30. Born in Kansas, he began sailing with the Seafarers '------"'="---====in 1957 from the port of Houston. Boatman Aldridge sailed as a mate and captain. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Aldridge began receiving his pension in July 1983. PATRICK E. DYEL PatrickE. Dyel, 34, passed away August 18 after a long fight with cancer. He graduated from the Lun......__.........._ .......~... deberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1979 and began sailing with the Seafarers from the port of Piney Point, Md. BoatIJlan Dyel sailed in the deck department. Born in New York, he resided in Florida. Boatman Dyel' s wish to have his ashes scattered in the Gulf of Mexico was honored and carried out by his shipmates aboard the Energy Altair on September 1. DONALD H. KIRK Pensioner DonaldH. Kirk, 72 passed away August24. Born in New York, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Kirk was a licensed master. He advanced in the deck department from mate to captain and worked primarily aboard Curtis Bay Towing Co. vessels in Baltimore. He began receiving his pension in November 1984. ALEX LeBLANC Pensioner Alex LeBlanc, 76, died May 23. He joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. The Louisiana native sailed as a tugboat captain. Boatman LeBlanc retired in March 1984. L:.._-====== HOLMES S. MORRISON JR, Holmes S. Morrison Jr., 53, passed away August 30. Born in New York, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port ofHous ton. Boatman Morrison sailed as a member of ..__~~.;;.;;....~.;...;....;...___,thedeck department. BACHE G. PARKS Boatman Warmack shipped in the deck department • in both the inland and deep sea divisions. From 1942 to 1945,he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in G~orgia, he began receiving his pension in March 1989. BacheG. JOHN WOZUNK JR. Parks, 58, Pensioner died SeptemJohn ber 3. BoatWozunkJr., man Parks 61, died ' joined the August 1. SIU in 1982 Born in New in the port of Jersey, he Piney Point, joined the Md. The Vir' SIU in 1964 ginia native sailed as a member <.::.-==-----==--~' in the port of of the deck department. From Philadelphia. Boatman Wozunk 1955 to 1958, he served in the sailed in the deck department and U.S. Navy. upgraded at the Lundeberg School to earn his pilot's license. REGINAL M. PASUR From 1952 to 1954, he served in Pensioner the U.S. Navy. Boatman Wozunk ReginalM. retired in November 1990. Pasur, 70, passed away GREAT LAKES September 30. A native KIRK D. BUSHELL of Texas, he started his KirkD. career with Bushell, 33, the Seafarers died June 14. in 1957 in the port of Houston, The Michisailing as a member of the deck gan native department. He served in the joined the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. SIU in 1980 Boatman Pasur began receiving in the port of ' his pension in September 1990. Piney Point, ! Md. Brother Bushell sailed in the engine deJOHN R. SHORES partment and upgraded his skills Pensioner regularly at the Lundeberg School. John R. · ·Shores, 86, died Septem- EDWARD J. GALLAGHER ber 4. Born Pensioner Edin Maryland, ward J. Galhe started his lagher, 75, career with passed away the Seafarers September 5. ..___ _ _ _~__, in 1960 in Born in the port of Philadelphia. BoatOhio, he man Shores sailed in the deck began sailing department and began receiving with the SIU his pension in January 1974. ======:=:::...:-~===--=in1968from the port of Cleveland. Brother Gallagher shipped as a member SYDNEY A. SIMMONS of the deck department. From Sydney A. 1943 to 1945, he served in the Simmons, U.S. Navy. Brother Gallagher 73, passed began receiving his pension in away June March 1983. 16. A native of Maryland, CURTIS L. SOUTHWICK he joined the SIU in 1972 Pensioner in the port of Curtis L. .___ _ _ _ ___, Baltimore. Southwick, Boatman Simmons was a 69, passed licensed pilot. He sailed in the away August deck department and advanced 11. Born in from mate to relief captain. He Pennsyllived in Maryland. vania, he lo started sailing with the ELLIOTT H. STEVENS Pensioner El- union in 1944 from the port of New York. Brother Southwick liott H. shipped in the deck department. Stevens, 63, He was a resident of Indiana and passed away r etired in October 1990. August 5. Born in VirRAILROAD MARINE ginia, he started bis career with T.W.FORREST the SIU in Pensioner 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. T.W. Forrest, Boatman Stevens sailed primari74, died Seply as a launch operator aboard tember 14. boats operated by the AssociaA native of tion of Maryland Pilots . From Virginia, he 1950 to 1956, he served in the joined the U.S. Army. Boatman Stevens SIU in 1960 retired in June 1990. in the port of -----'----~ Norfolk, Va. SIDNEYM. WARMACK B rother Forrest sailed in the deck department. From 1942 to 1946, Pensioner Sidney M. Warmack, he served in the U.S. Navy. 71, passed away August 6. He B rother Forrest began receiving started his career with the SIU in hi s pension in October 1981. 1971 in the port of Philadelphia. l ~ 1 �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Heinz Pet Products Company: Heinz Pet Products Products made by UIW members: Pet foods. Brand names include 9-Lives, Skippy, Gravy Train, Ken-L Ration and others. UIW members at Heinz: Involved in all facets of producing and canning pet foods. Distribution: Nationwide Facilities: Two adjacent plants in Terminal Island, Calif. covering 1 million square feet. That's a fact: The popular success of Heinz's pet foods recently led the company to hire hundreds of new UIW members at the Southern California plant. 21 Summary Annual Report for MCS Supplementary Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, EIN 51-6097856, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994. 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 through a trust fund and insurance. Plan expenses were $952, 188. These expenses included $181,280 in administrative expenses and $770,908 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of l,771 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 $11,202,695 as of December 31, 1994, compared to $11,963,391 as of January 1, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of$760,696. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of the 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 any assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $191,492, including realized losses of $144,485 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $335,977. 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 ERIS A. w. hen Seafarers purchase products made and packaged at the Heinz Pet Products plant in Terminal Island, Calif., they not only buy the best pet foods but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That's because the factory workers at Heinz Pet Products are members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. UIW members handle a number of responsibilities at Heinz, many of which are labor-intensive. They work as canners, forklift drivers, mechanics, quality control inspectors and more. Their duties include stacking cases and moving pallets; maintenance and repair of modem equipment used for cooking, cooling, packaging and labeling; lab-testing of the pet food for proper content (including nutrients); operation of presses which are used to form can-lids; operation of lining machines which produce the remainder of the can; checking to make sure the cans are properly labeled, sealed and dentfree; loading the products for shipment; and other work such as operating the large, continuous cookers. Your Rights to Additional Information UIW member Miro Rosini adjusts a valve at the Heinz plant in Terminal Island, Calif .The UIW is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union. 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. transaction in excess of 5 percent of plan assets, 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers, 5. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, and 6. service provider and trustee information. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is the plan administrator, at Trustees of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.50 for the full annual report or $.10 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 administratcr, 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 (Trustees of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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, N-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. 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 secretaiytreasmer. 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. 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 vi o la tio ns 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 520 l Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred toareavailabletomembersatalltimes, 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 (O'I) 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 SHIPPING RIGHTS. A should contact the nearest SIU port member's shipping rights and agent. seniority are protected exclusively EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The members should obtain copies of men and the advancement of trade Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individualintheunion,officerormemher. 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 1%0 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 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. C0 NST IT UT I0 NAL 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 di!aiminated 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 furRIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. thering of the American merchant Copies of the SIU constitution are marine with improved employment available in all union halls. All opportunities for seamen and boat- union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are yoluntary. 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 improperconduct, 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 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 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �22 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes l >:~T.>~-1 1 LIF EBOAT CL ASS ~..'"'~-'t:·\: Trainee Lifeboat Class 541-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 541 are (from left, kneeling) Jason Taylor, Neil Bond, James White, Dustin Wilson, Anthony Sumlar, (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), David Wakeman, Cory Cothren, Sean Connor, Grady Deaton and Theodore Hale. Refri~eration Systems-Marking their completion on "October 6 from the refrigeration systems class are Welding-Completing the welding course on (from left, kneeling) Troy Wood, Gregory Thomas, Henry August 24 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Kovach, Hall, (second row) Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Ross Marcano Torre, (second row) Jack Caffey Jr., Richard Himebauch, Mark Lawrence, Frank Quebedeaux and FredAlrnojera and Jim Shaffer (instructor). die Hudson. Limited License-completing the two-week curriculum on August 1O which prepares students to take the Designated Duty Engineer (ODE) exam are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Nicholas Conway, Pedro Marrero, George McClendon, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Randy Peterson, Richard Strongman, Joseph Whalen, Robert Funk, John Mullen, Alfredo Gonzalez and Henry Brown. Upgraders Lifeboat-Receiving their lifeboat endorsement on September 20 are (from left, kneeling) Carmelo de La Cruz, Rodrigo Jimenez, Steven Blumenthal, Fernando Onativia, Else David, Juan Green, Jaime Racpan, (second row) Noel Bocaya, Mario Ramiro, Robert Daniels, Eric Van Benthuysen, Ronald Whitefield, Theo Niang, Clarence Brown, John Venables, Silvio David and Bob Boyle (instructor). Tankerman OperationsSIU members completing the tankerman operations course on August 24 are (from left, front row) William Perry, Mario Romero, Inocencio Desaville, Bob Carle (instructor), Jerry Smith, Melvin Layner, (second row) Shawn Clark, Carlos Soto, John Hanrahan, Dale Sierra, Paul Szalus, Joseph Carrillo, Mark Stewart, Earl Macom, Jeff Turkus, (third row) Rafael Atehortua, Ervin Bronstein, Hilario Martinez, Tony Carvalho, Napoleon San Martin, Clay Brown, James Cunningham, Harold Caldeira, William Deloach, Michael Fields, Ferdinand Gongora, Rufus Hairston, James Dunne, Levi Rollins, (fourth row) Joel Trotter, Angelo PersicaJr., Bryan Iverson, Blair Humes, Michael Gramer, Spiridon Perdikis, Patrick Rankin,.- James Martin, Cleo Jones, David Garoutte, Roy Blankenship, Ronald Malozi, James Long, Davon McMillan, Forton Martinez and Paul Honeycutt. Tankerman Operations-On September 19, another group of Seafarers graduated from the tankerman operations course. They are (from left, front row) Lawrence Wright, Anthony Heinoldt, Christopher Hyatt, Neville Hughes, Guadalupe Garza, Gloria Holmes, Esther Wilkes, Mohamed Hussein, Inocencio Desaville, Luisito Balatbat, Nelson Morales, Donald Dilley, (second row) Byran Cummings (instructor), Jose Rodriguez, Anthony Garcia, Thomas Milovich, Jared Blavat, Donna DeCesare, Kenneth Long, Steve Kastel, Terry Magno, Karen Denney, Luis Escobar, Sharon Herner, John Knott, (third row) Wilmer McCants, Reginald Williams, Gerald Hyman, John Zepeda, Chartes Mispagel, Felipe Clotter, David McGrew, Shawn Williams, Jesus Gonzaga, Roberto Flauta, Andres Caballero, Tereso Rochez, Amanda Suncin, William Robles, (fourth row) Robert Seim, Rafael Matos, Mark Scardino, Frederick Meier, Curtis Dunlap, Richard Barnhart, Gregory Agren, Carson Jordan and James Willey. �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBER6 SCHOOL 1995 -1996 UP6RADIN6 COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses Start The following is the schedule for classes being held in November and December 1995-as well as some courses proposed for January, February and March of 1996-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. Please note that 1996 courses listed here are tentative and do not include all classes planned for this period. Future issues of the LOG will carry a more complete listing for next yearJ s upgrading classes. 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 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. Deck Upgrading Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion Celestial Navigation November6 December15 Radar Observer/Unlimited March18 March22 Third Mate January29 May17 23 Course Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward November3 January26 Inland Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. November13 November24 Radar Obsener/lnland November6 November IO Engine Room Familiarization January 8 January19 Safely Specialty Courses Start Course Date Tanker Operations November 6 November 20 Engine Upgrading courses Start·· · January 8 Course Date Date of Completion QMED January 15 March31 Date of Completion December 1 December 15 February 2 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS March18 Welding ····"··Marine ElectriealMBintenancel April12 . · ·· March18 . April26 Diesel Engine Technology March 18 April 12 Power Plant Maintenance February S March15 ... This schedule includes a tentative list of classes for the first three months of 1996. The Lundeberg School is in the process of finalizing its complete course schedule for next year~ As soon as the dates are secured, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Meanwhile, members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5202. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Ul'GRADING APl'LICATION With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted slwwing suffi- cient time to qua.lify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Last) (First) (Middle) Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~~~~~~~~~~~-~ (Street) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone_..__ __.__ _ _ _ __ (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D of each ofthe following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour ..z-card as well as your Lundeberg Sclwol identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. 1he admissions office WJU NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE Inland Warers Member D Lakes 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: D Yes D No Home Port -~----~~~~- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DNo DYes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? 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 s p o k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:----Dare On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 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. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 11/95 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan may be found on page 21 in this issue of the LOG Volume 57, Number 11 November 1995 By Air and by Sea Chief Steward Harris Relishes Dual Careers "Some individuals go through life never pursuing their dreams. But infallowing my dream, I have found inner peace and serenity. " (Editor's note: Chief Steward Marjorie Harris recently submitted the fallowing article and accompanying photo to the Seafarers LOG. "/would like to share a part of my unique and rewarding life with my fellow Seafarers," noted Harris, who sails from the port of Wilmington, N. C.) I have been a flight attendant with United Airlines and a member of the Association of Flight Attendants union for the past 24 years. Although it has been a very rewarding career, I have always longed to do more than just fly. I was raised in a middle-class family in San Pedro, Calif. and spent a lot of time around the sea. Many a weekend was spent sailing on my family's yacht. In retrospect, I realize those roots played a major role in what I would achieve later in life. Sailing with my father became second nature to me, and my father, by the way, was a sailmaker and an expert yachtsman who won many trophies for his sailing ability. I also occasionally used to hang around the docks with my father in Southern California as a child, watching the big ships ,, , ; come in. I always wondered what it would be like to work on one. More than once, I daydreamed about someday pulling into the harbor in Long Beach, Calif. riding on one of those big ships. But I've heard the saying, "Someday my ship will come in and I'll be at the airport!" I think it must have been written for me, because I do spend so much time at airports-and that's no place to catch a ship. Many years passed since I began working at United, but I didn't forget my seafaring dream. In fact, for quite a while, I lived it vicariously through my brother, Charles Morrison. He graduated from the California Maritime Academy and obtained a position with Sabine Towing (now Kirby). He eventually advanced to master. Finally, in the early 1990s, I decided it was time to act before it was too late. With the help of friends, I obtained my merchant mariner's document, and in 1992-at age 50-I shipped out as a member of the steward department. In order to do this, I took a four-month leave of absence from United Airlines and ventured off to my first ship, the SS Buyer. That day remains a vivid memory, something I never will forget. After several flights (starting in Long Beach), I finally arrived in Southport, N.C. It was late in the evening when I arrived. Never thinking that I would be boarding the ship by any other means than a gangway, I was in for one big surprise! Manulani from May to September. Since I began my new career with the SIU, I have worked on ships operated by The first lesson I learned Matson, OMI and IMC. I also was, don't ever wear a skirt or sailed on the cruise ship SS Indedress when meeting a ship. Inpendence. stead of climbing a gangway, I I have finally fulfilled my had to take a 30-minute ride on inner need to go to sea. It is in a rolling and surging launch. my blood, and I believe I will alThen I had to leap from the ways have this need to ride the launch onto the pilot ladder, in big ships. the black of night. I continue to take leaves from Despite the difficult start, the United every year. Sailing is a rest of that trip was great. I great change of pace fi'mn fly i:ng, reca11 feeling apprehensive, wondering if I could handle this and no matter how many times I new responsibility. But my ship- go to sea, nature is still breathtaking when you're out there. mates were wonderful, and Keeping up with both careers everything worked out. has been challenging, but very After accruing enough sea worthwhile. Some individuals time to obtain my membership go through life never pursuing book in the SIU, I traveled to ...;t_,,-' the Paul Hall Center's Seafarers their dreams. But in following my dream, I have found inner ~_,_ .., Harry Lundeberg School of ,..,,..;;;;;r-:_,......~~Seamanship . I upgraded to chief peace and serenity. ~-"""""-_:-:. ..J cook. Later, I upgraded to chief I have seen the sea when it is steward, and I am scheduled to stormy and wild, when it is take the tanker operation/safety quiet and serene, when it is dark course this month. and moody. And in all its This year I worked on the moods, I see myself. Marjorie Harris (center) has found happiness in dual careers as a flight attendant with United Airlines and a chief steward with the SIU. Above: Harris joins Chief Cook Jim Williamson (left) and Chief Steward Gerald Figg in the galley of the Manulani just prior to signing off the Matson ship. � 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 November 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NUEVO SAN JUAN CREWMEMBERS HELP KIDS’ DREAMS COME TRUE CONGRESS READY TO REVIEW BILL ALLOWING ALASKAN OIL EXPORTS ABOARD U.S. SHIPS SENATE O.K.’S FUNDS FOR U.S. SHIP BILL SWEENEY ELECTED AFL-CIO PRESIDENT MTD DELEGATES CALL FOR PASSAGE OF MARITIME REVITALIZATION EFFORT NEW USCG TANKERMAN REGULATIONS AFFECT ABS, PUMPMEN AND INLAND TANKERMEN DELTA QUEEN HEAD DENOUNCES ATTACKS ON U.S. -FLAG PASSENGER SHIP LAWS SIU OPPOSES FEES ATTACHED TO TANKERMAN ENDORSEMENTS SEAFARERS AID V.I. HURRICANE VICTIMS BARER CALLS JONES ACT ATTACKS ‘DANGEROUS AND FLAWED’ SEAFARER SURVICES HURRICAN ABOARD 42-FOOT SAILBOAT SUGAR WORKERS END MONTH-LONG STRIKE COMPANY REMOES GIVEBACK DEMANDS NEW SIU OFFICE OPENS IN PORT EVERGLADES, FLA. SAFETY DRILLS: STANDARD FARE ABOARD SIU-CREWED RANGER HIGMAN SIU MEMBERS RATIFY THREE-YEAR PACT ACTION BY ALTON BELLE SEAFARERS SAVES RIVERBOAT RARE PEARL HARBOR CALL MARKS SS INDEPENDENCE V-J DAY TRIP SAM HOUSTON CREW FETED FOR TWO YEARS OF SAFETY ABOARD THE LONG LINES, SEAFARERS MAKE HISTORY FOR LONGEST CABLE LAY AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION DELEGATES HEAR OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE THEIR SUPPORT FOR U.S. SHIP BILL AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION UNIONISTS FIGHT FOR JOB SECURITY SACCO, ZENGA, PECQUEX ELECTED TO MTD POSTS BY AIR AND BY SEA CHIEF STEWARD HARRIS RELISHES DUAL CAREERS 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 11/01/1995 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. 11 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5ca51ddc2c6a1a54033e69d78c8318bb.pdf 8ce8fb0a0685d7d08f36d3798d64bb01 PDF Text Text U.5.-Flag Firms Seek Slots in New Maritime Program SIU Mourns Passing of Joe Sacco Flurry of Activity Follows Clinton's Signing Ship Bill October 8, 1996 STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 8, 1996 STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT Today I am pleased to sign into law H.R. 1350, the "Maritime Security Act of 1996." This Act sets the course for America's merchant marine into the 21st century. th!h: 0~~~i As h e s i g n e d the ~n~:en Maritime Security Act of cha~t marine , , allies. 1996 into law Pres1- tates of a long, will con~inue to ha dent Bill Clinton praised American tizen merchai mic and sealift defens • the role that U.S. merthe s!:~i~e~!: chant mariners have m~:~~~:c~ing with the owner' played throughout the 1 vessel~, the Government commercial ships, along w history of the United portation system support hat the seafar~ng m~n • States stating "The ips in peacetime will ' ' reserve sealift ships American flag must al. This Act ways sail in the sea emplo~ent rights that ap rces in time of war or lanes of the world." t mariners have always re , and they deserve the as Page 3. be there when they retu of ~eminded o~ th in protecting The enactment bipartisan e ff 1 Cl. The Maritime Security Act will protect American jobs and maintain a U.S. presence in international maritime trade, ensuring that vital imports and exports are delivered in both peacetime and wartime . The Act reaffirms our Nation's resolve to maintain a strong U.S. -flag presence on the high sea s for our continued national security and economic growth . WILLIAM J. CLINTON THE WHITE HOUSE , October 8, 1996. # # # News of the sudden passing of SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco met with scores of tributes and condolences from fellow Seafarers throughout the country and aboard ships. Members of the maritime community joined in expressing their sorrow over the loss of one who had made a significant contribution to U.S.-flag shipping. Pages 3, 12-13. Union Calls for Bolstering of Safety Standards on Waterways Pages �,...------------~-------------------------------------------------------------~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~---~--- - President's Report Editor's note: Following is the eulogy delivered by SIU President Michael Sacco at the funeral mass of his brother, SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, October 25 in Owings, Md. Joey, as he was known throughout the union and industry, passed away October 19. Friends and family: This is one of the hardest things I will ever have to do. But Joey and I always stood by each other. And today, as we remember his life, I have to be there for my brother. You know that Joey and I shared a family and we shared a passion - the SIU. From the day he came to work for the union until the day he passed away, everything that Joey did was intended to better the lives of the working men and women in our union. He spent his whole life helping others, trying to provide security and opportunity for the people he represented. When you think of Joey, you think of heart. It's one of those strange things in life: His physical heart gave out on him, but his spiritual heart was stronger than anything on this earth. That big heart of Joey's had a place in it for everyone in this room. And it was evident in everything he did: in the time he took with everyone in the pride and happiness he took in gaining a wage increase for a group of Seafarers • in his commitment to solving problems in his vision for the future of the U.S. merchant marine and in the way he scooped up his grandchildren and grandnieces and grand-nephews. Joey's heart was so big, sometimes we wondered if it was too big. There could be a fire alarm ringing at headquarters, and everyone would be hurrying out of the building - and you couldn't get Joey to move, because he was on the phone, talking to a pensioner who had a problem. That tells you what Joey was all about. He was much more interested in helping others than in looking out for himself. That example also reflects one of Joey's best assets: He was a great listener. He listened to all of us in this room. That was one of the ways he made us all feel important. Another one of Joey's great strengths was foresight. He never believed that the SIU could rest on its laurels, and he always looked to the future. In that regard, it's fitting that he spent his early years with the SIU helping to establish our Harry Lundeberg training school in Piney Point. Because he truly believed in education and training for Seafarers. He always said the only way maritime labor will survive is if our members are educated and trained for the challenges that lie ahead. Year after year, we see that Joey hit the nail right on the head. Of course, most of all, Joey believed in people. Many of you in this room got your start as union officials because Joey believed in you. Because of that faith in people, Joey believed in this union and in the trade union movement. He understood the frustrations and dreams of working people, because he himself rose from the ranks from AB all the way to vice president of the SIU. That's one reason why he was a successful organizer, a genuine trade unionist and a great labor leader. He was also an excellent family man. [Speaking to Joseph Sacco's widow, Judy] Joey loved you and your family. Everyone who knew Joey for many years could feel the difference in his life once you were there. There was a constant gleam in Joey's eyes once he met you. At a time like this, it helps to know that before Joey died, you gave him the gift of a family - a family of his very own. Friends and family, when Joey and I came to SIU headquarters almost seven years ago, we shared a dream. We wanted to rebuild the union and the American merchant marine. We wanted to provide jobs and job security for our members and their families. Joey spent every day of his life on that goal. And because he did, we are closer to realizing that dream than ever before. Today, I'm sure Joey is sitting at a desk in heaven, listening to everyone's problems. He's probably running things up there by now. I can see him leaning forward to hear a point, and I can hear his booming laugh as he shares a joke with friends. God, I'll miss him more than words can ever describe. Each and every one of us will miss him. But ·1 also know Joey is looking over us, making sure we carry on his dreams. He set the example for us to follow. And Joey, for you, we will go forward and make sure your dreams come true. Unions Push Worker Issues As Election Day Approaches Seafarers Participate in Voting Process With Election Day upon United States citizens, issues affecting America's working families-fair wages, workplace safety, job security and retirement security, to name a few-are prominent in the national, state and local debates. U.S. workers "don'twanttorun the Congress, or the White House, or the political parties," AFL-CIO President John Sweeney said recently. "They want to be compensated and respected for the contributions they make. They want to send their children to decent schools. They want to go to a safe workplace every day. They want a doctor when they need one, a little rest when they are weary, and a pension after a lifetime of work." Since early this year, the AFLCIO, the national federation of trade unions (of which the SIU is an affiliate) has waged an extensive political education campaign to let American workers know how members of Congress have voted on issues of importance to them. Radio and television ads have played in cities and towns all across the country, providing information on votes cast by individual elected officials on such items as Medicare, Social Security, the budget and minimum wage. This campaign has helped keep worker issues at the fore as citizens prepare to elect a president and vice president, 34 senators and all 435 members of the House of Representatives. Additionally, the AFL-CIO's "Labor '96" campaign currently involves more than 10,000 union activists across the country who are explaining the issues to their union brothers and sisters and urging them to vote on November 5. AB Mark Pesola (left) and DEU Charlie MaGinnis are ready to assist citizens attending a recent political event in Seattle. Seafarers also voluntarily have been involved in the election process. Members and their families have attended rallies, manned phone banks and distributed literature for promaritime, pro-worker candidates. Politics Impacts Workers The profound effect of politics on millions of U.S. workers and their families was highlighted in a flurry of action by the Senate and the Clinton administration in July and August. On July 9, the Senate voted overwhelmingly to raise the national minimum wage by 90 cents per hour, and the president subsequently signed the bill, which was strongly supported by the AFL-CIO. A day later, the Senate took action on two bills opposed by organized labor. The Senate passed the so-called TEAM Act, which was designed .to bring back company-dominated, sham unions. However, as promised, the president vetoed the measure. Finally, legislation calling for a national so-called right-to-work law died in a filibuster when the bill's sponsor was 29 votes short of the 60 needed to push it to a final vote. The bill would have prohibited union contracts from requiring non-union employees to pay dues as a condition of employment. "These are three prime examples that illustrate how important it is to elect representatives who support America's working men and women and their families," noted SIU President Michael Sacco. "I hope all Seafarers and their families keep that in mind, and I encourage all of our brothers and sisters to vote on November 5." I Volume 58, Number 11 November 1996 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN J 086-4636) is publjshed 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 207909998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth 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© 1996 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Houston-area Seafarers, including Chris Bronski, Wesley Smith, Roman Hill, Wendy Fearing, Rodney Pence, Joe Billatto and Jerry VanEtten, pause for a photo before claiming their security posts at a recent political rally. November 1996 �Heart Attack Claims Exec. VI' Joe Sacco Joseph M. Sacco, executive vice president of the SIU for the past eight years, suffered a fatal heart attack October 19 in New York City, while attending the Greater New York Port Council dinner dance. He was 58. "Everyone who knew Joe Sacco knows that he devoted his entire life to the union," noted his brother, SIU President Michael Sacco. "Every action he undertook was to improve the lives of the men and women who make up the Seafarers International Union. "He truly was well-respected by everyone he knew. We will miss him immensely," President Sacco added, echoing the words of SIU members, labor officials, company representatives and politicians. "Joe Sacco worked hard for the Seafarers," stated the union's secretarytreasurer, John Fay. "Joey was a real 'people· person. He loved being among the members. His door always was open to anyone who had a problem, concern or just wanted to stop and talk ... A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., Joe Sacco served as the executive vice president of the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District since 1988. His responsibilities included supervising and directing all organizational and operational activities in ports located nationwide, as well as coordinating all contractual negotiations with member companies. He also supervised the political activities of the Sill. Sacco, a veteran of the U.S. Army, was a member of the executive board of the Seafarers International Union of North America, AFL-CIO-a federation of 18 autonomous unions. He also served as vice president of the Gulf Coast region for the Sill-affiliated United Industrial Workers, which represents shoreside workers in a variety of maritime and government-related industries as well as manufacturing jobs. He represented the SIU on the executive board of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, which is made up of 37 maritime-related unions with a combined membership of approximately 8 million working men and women. Prior to working in the Sill's Camp Springs, Md. headquarters, Sacco spent more than a decade as a labor official in the state of Texas. Based in Houston, he served as the SIU Gulf Coast vice president from 1980 to 1988. In that position, he oversaw operations for the union's halls in Jacksonville, Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; New Orleans and Houston. From 1976 to 1980, he worked as the union's port agent in Houston and as a patrolman from 1974 to 1976. Remembrance, pages 12-13 In addition to these duties, Sacco served as a vice president for the Texas State AFLCIO from 1979 to 1989. He also was a member of the executive board for the Harris Comity (Texas) Central Labor Council. From 1968 to 1973, Sacco served the union in several positions including patrolman in San Francisco and port director in Piney Point, Md. While in Piney Point, he developed the initial vocational training curriculum used by the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Sacco started sailing with the Sill in 1964 as a member of the deck department. Joseph Sacco is survived by his wife, Judy; three stepchildren, Pam Goddard, Scott Mitchell and Amy Mitchell; two grandchildren; his brother, Michael; and three sisters, Marie Sacco, Ann Doruth and Ida DiCanio. A mass of Christian burial was conducted at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Dunkirk, Md. on October 25. Brother Sacco was laid to rest at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, Md. SEAFARERS SEAFARERS SUPPORT f RONTIER 111nRK£RS SIU-Contracted Companies Apply for Slots in Maritime Security Program Sill-contracted companies are among those submitting applications to the Maritime Administration (MarAd) to have their vessels included in the new Maritime Security Program. The government program went into effect last month when President Clinton signed H.R. 1350, the Maritime Security Act of 1996. The act, which was backed by the Sill and had overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress, calls for a 10-year, $1 billion program to help fund approximately 50 U.S.flag militarily useful vessels. Immediately after the bill became Public Law 104-239 with the Presidential Statement Concerning the Maritime Security Act Becoming Public Law 104-239 Today, I am pleased to sign into law H.R. 1350, the Maritime Security Act of 1996. This act sets the course for America's merchant marine into the 21st century. The American flag must always sail in the sea lanes of the world. In recent years, our country has again been reminded of the critical role played by the U.S. merchant marine in protecting our interests and the security of our allies. The enactment of this legislation is the culmination of a long, bipartisan effort. It will ensure that the United States will continue to have American-flag ships crewed by loyal American-citizen merchant mariners to meet our nation's economic and sealift defense requirements. The American merchant marine is an important component of the sealift needed by the Department of Defense. By contracting with the owners and operators of U.S.-flag commercial vessels, the government will gain access to a fleet of modern commercial ships, along with the sophisticated intermodal transportation system supporting it. The government also assures that the seafaring men and women who crew these commercial ships in peacetime will be available to crew the government's reserve ships in times of crisis. This act extends to seafarers the same basic re-employment rights that apply to reserve members of our armed forces in time of war or national emergency. American merchant mariners have always responded to the calf in times of crisis, and they deserve the assurance that their peacetime jobs will be there when they return. The Maritime Security Act will protect American jobs and maintain a U.S. presence in international maritime trade, ensuring that vital imports and exports are delivered in both peacetime and wartime. The act reaffirms our nation's resolve to maintain a strong U.S.-flag presence on the high seas for our continued national security and economic growth. William J. Clinton The White House October 8, 1996 November 1996 president's signature on October 8, MarAd announced in the Federal Register the process for applying for positions within the Maritime Security Program. Completed applications should be received by the Department of Transportation agency no later than November 7. An announcement regarding what ships will be included is expected as early as December 1. If a ship is accepted into the program, the company that operates it agrees to make the vessel as well as its shoreside infrastructure available to ·the U.S. military in times of war or national emergency. The Department of Defense also would be able to use the vessel to transport cargo in times of peace. The Maritime Security Program goes into effect as the Operating Differential Subsidy program expires. The Maritime Security Program reduces the U.S. government's annual costs by more than 50 percent as compared to the subsidy program. MarAd Administrator Albert ® SUPPORl RONll£R -»EAFARER~ • W ORKERS SUPPORT r t. FRONTIER Herberger noted the new law "will deregulate outdated requirements attached to previous maritime programs, will reduce the government's costs by more than half, and will help bring about a more modern and competitive maritime fleet. "We are anxious to get on with the business of implementing this legislation. We now have in place a policy and a program to ensure that modern commercial vessels will continue to fly our flag, promote our commerce, employ skilled American seafarers and answer th~ call to serve our country whenever needed," Herberger added. Union Election Voting Starts November 1 Voting for the officers of the Seafarers International Union's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to be conducted by secret ballot, begins November 1 and continues through December 31. Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 19972000 term. Such members may pick up their ballots at any of 21 Sill halls throughout the country. Ballots may be obtained from 9 a.m. until noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, until December 31. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents, two headquarters representatives and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions). In accordance with the union's constitution, a credentials committee made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers elected by their fell ow members, reviewed the nomination applications to ensure each candidate's eligibility. The committee's report was prepared August 16 (the day after the nominations period closed) and approved by the membership at the September meetings. Secret Ballots The secret ballots are accompanied by envelopes marked "Ballot" as well as postage-paid envelopes bearing the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee. Each Seafarer must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent's designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked "Ballot" and the mailing envelope. When the member receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be stamped with the word "Voted" and the date. Members who cannot travel to one of the 21 Union halls during the voting period may request an absentee ballot. Such requests should be made in writing, by registered or certified mail, to the SIU' s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Requests for an absentee ballot should be postmarked no later than November 15. Article XIIl of the union's constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article xm, along with a sample of the official ballot, a list of voting locations and other related information appears on pages 11-14 of the Oc- Continued on page 5 Seafarers LOG 3 �Jones Act Stays Intact As Congress Adjourns The nation's freight cabotage law remained intact fo~owing the adjournment of the 104 Congress last month. Despite bills being introduced late in the session in both the House and Senate to gut provisions of the Jones Act, neither chamber took any action on their respective measures. The Jones Act, part of the 1920 Merchant Marine Act, states that freight moved from one domestic port to another must be carried aboard U.S.-crewed. U.S.-built and U.S.-flag vessels. The SIU opposes any changes in the cabotage law. "Throughout this session of Congress, we heard reports and rumors that the Jones Act would come under attack because so many new legislators who did not understand the importance of the measure were elected in 1994," stated Terry Turner, the union's director for government affairs. "However, Seafarers and their families worked hard to let the members of Congress know why this country needs the Jones Act for its national and economic security. ''Thanks to that grassroots effort, the friends of the U.S.-flag fleet were able to stand together and beat back any attacks on the Jones Act.'' Turner added. Year of Support Throughout 1996, resolutions and statements of support for the Seafarer Dukehart Appointed to USCG's Merchant Marine Personnel Committee Seafarer David Dukehart recently was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Federico Pefia to the U.S. Coast Guard's Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC). Dukehart, who sails as a QMED-electrician, is the only unlicensed mariner on the 19-member panel, whose purpose is to advise Pena (via the Coast Guard commandant) on matters relating to the training, qualification, licensing, certification and physical fitness of individuals serving in the U.S. merchant marine. The rest of MERPAC includes licensed mariners, maritime instructors and other representatives of marine training institutes, Coast Guard officials and administrators from shipping companies. The group meets periodically and covers a wide range of topics relevant to training and certification for U.S. seafarers. "With all the rules that are going to be implemented, if the Coast Guard just got its information from the companies, the mariners may be left out," Dukehart said in explaining why he was interested in serving on the committee. "I'm hoping to give some input from the unlicensed seafai:er's point of view." Dukehart, a 1972 graduate of the Harry Lundeberg School, attended the most recent MERPAC meeting, September 26-27 at Coast Guard headquarters in Washington, DC. The next meeting probably will take place in February or March 1997. "It was refreshing to see an active, unlicensed mariner participate and provide the committee with facts-what really take place out there, and how these regulations affect their lives," stated Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md . and a MERP AC member since January 1995. During the September meeting, participants covered such subjects 4 Seafarers LOG ]/"r ii~~ I l .. \ Jones Act came from various groups across the country. Leading the charge for the nation's freight cabotage law was the entire membership of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. In a letter to fellow members of the House, the 14 representatives on the panel, joined by five other congressmen, stated they opposed any change to the nation's cabotage laws, including the Passenger Vessel Services Act. (This measure states passengers traveling between domestic ports must be moved on U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built and U.S.-flag ships.) ''The Merchant Marine Panel's commitment to America's cabotage laws is unanimous," stated Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-Calif.), the vice chairman of the panel, when he presented the April 15 letter. "We will continue to oppose any changes to these important laws." Flag Officers Weigh In A month later, a group of 71 retired U.S. Navy flag officers blasted the introduction of a bill in the Senate to plunder the Jones Act. Speaking on behalf of the organization, known as the American Security Council, retired Navy Reserve Rear Admiral Robert H. Spiro Jr. said, 'The U.S.-ownership requirement contained in the Jones Act is essential because during national emergencies the domestic fleet of merchant vessels is called upon to transport troops and materials in support of our military operations." Subcommittee Hearing SIU member Dave Dukehart (right) prepares to be sworn in as a member of a Coast Guard advisory committee by Coast Guard Admiral James Card. as simulator training, the International Safety Management Code (ISM), recently implemented regulations affecting tankerman qualifications and more. They also reviewed recent reports generated by other Coast Guard committees, including one from the Towing Vessel Safety Advisory Committee (TSAC), which focuses on the nation's inland waterways. But the main focus of the recent MERPAC meeting was the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for mariners. The international treaty already has had a significant impact on training and certification requirements for U.S. mariners, and its breadth will expand in the months and years ahead. "That's a perfect example of why I wanted to serve," noted Dukehart, a frequent upgrader who mo t recently sailed aboard the Cape Wrath. "It's important that as final rules are issued that will become Coast Guard regulations (in compliance with STCW), they've had enough input to make it work for everyone across the board," added the Florida resident. In June, the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee heard from one witness after another on the importance of the Jones Act during a day-long hearing. "The coastwise laws of the United States, and similar cabotage 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,', Philip Grill, chairman of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force, told the subcommittee. Captain Chris Lupton makes a point during a North Carolina meeting of grassroots supporters of the Jones Act. Terry Turner, the SIU's director for government affairs, testifies in June in support of America's freight cabotage law. (The task force, of which the SIU is a member, is a pro-Jones Act coalition of more than 400 maritime and transportation-related organizations.) Three Seafarers and their family members traveled from North Carolina to attend the hearing and met with elected officials from the state to seek their support for the Jones Act. Throughout the summer and fall, the grassroots effort spread as local committees formed in Hawaii, Alaska, North Carolina and Puerto Rico to support the Jones Act. during the group's convention in September. "The Jones Act is critical to maintaining a viable maritime industrial base and a reliable pool of maritime manpower.,, Favorable Resolution While a House bill to attack the Jones Act was introduced in August as Congress left Washington for the month, the Navy League, which has 71,000 members, announced its support for the cabotage law. ''The Navy League urges support of the Jones Act, which is critical to U.S. national security and America's economic wellbeing," read a resolution passed Ready for Next Congress Despite the lack of progress on either of the anti-Jones Act bills, the law's supporters are prepared to work just as hard for the measure when a new Congress reports to Washington next January. Grill noted that the ever-changing political climate could allow legislators who have openly denounced the Jones Act to become chairmen of important panels, subcommittees or full committees. He also pointed out "influential trade associations could join the fight against the Jones Act.', The SIU's Turner added, "Although we may have won this found in Congress, the fight will continue. We will remain on watch for any attacks against the Jones Act and other laws affecting the U.S.-flag fleet." New Tacoma, Wash. SIU Hall Open A SEAFARERS ¥ tNTERNATIONAL UNION Located at 3411 South Union Ave., the new Tacoma, Wash. SIU hall is ready to serve Seafarers in the Seattle-Tacoma area. SIU members waiting for a job call will particularly like some of the amenities of the facility, including the full kitchen (with stove, refrigerator and microwave oven) as well as the large TV room. November 1996 �Union Seeks 3-Watch System in USCG Inland Regs Making the inland waterways safer was the primary concern expressed in the union's response to the U.S. Coast Guard's call for comments to proposed rules in the wake of a 1993 tugboat/bridge accident that claimed 47 lives. One key recommendation made by the SIU was the need for a three-watch system on vessels embarking on voyages of less than 600 miles. Another important exhortation by the union explained the need for documentation of all personnel employed on inland vessels. The SIU made these and other recommendations in response to the agency's notice of proposed rule making for licensing and manning for officers of towing vessels Need for Safety According 10 existing law, boatmen may work up to 12 hours a day on the inland waterways. However, there are ins ranees when this rule is stretched, which concerns the union. The SIU said the rule proposed by the Coast Guard "does not address a critical aspect of the towing industry-the proper amount of watchstanders and reliefs required to assure the safe and efficient operation of towing vessels. "We recommend that the Coast Guard revisit 46 USC 8104(g) and require towing vessels on voyages less than 600 miles to set a threewatch rotation, adding a licensed and unlicensed seaman to the crew," stated SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco in a letter dated October 16. Fatigue Concerns The union noted the additional crewmembers provided by a third watch would give a vessel's master the opportunity to deal with any operational or practical concerns with regard to maintaining enforced rest requirements. "Fire response, a fouled tow, heavy-weather anchoring or helicopter operations are examples of emergency evolutions that, while not necessarily life threatening, may quickly become manpower intensive," Sacco pointed out. "Fatigue in towing operations is universal since, generally speaking, the primary criteria for the management of a tow is often a cargo delivery requirement established by contract. Scheduling and change of delivery details often supersede safety criteria on deck, and almost always require the use of a seaman for over-extended duty hours," added the union. However, should the Coast Guard decide to stay with the twowatch, 12-hour day, the union recommended that the rule be better enforced. Inland Documentation Regarding the need that all personnel be required to carry a merchant mariner's document (also known as a z-card), the SIU stated this would a be another step toward increasing safety on the inland waterways. In order to obtain a document, a mariner must submit to a drug test, a criminal background check and a driving record review for any drunk-driving o·r controlled-substance violations, among other things. The SIU has been pushing for the documentation of all boatmen. During a hearing on inland safety conducted by the House Coast Guard and Navigation Subcommittee on September 8, 1993, SIU Elections Begin Nov. 1 Continued from page 3 tober 1996 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Moreover, a notice of the election was mailed in September to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. Vote for All Positions The untimely death of SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco will not affect the balloting procedures. Members should vote for all positions listed on the ballot. A rank-and-file tallying committee (consisting of two members elected from each of the union's constitutional ports) will be elected in December. They will convene as the tallying committee in early January 1997, when they will tabulate the election results. The position of executive vice president will be filled in accordance with provisions found in the SIU constitution sometime after the election results become official. Sacco told the legislators, "Given the nature of the product carried, the large population centers on the rivers' paths and the unpredictability of the rivers themselves, it is ludicrous that within this large segment of waterborne transportation, there are personnel in the industry who are not required by law to meet minimal criteria similar to that required of deep sea personnel." Later that same month, the tug Mauvilla, pushing six barges, struck a railroad bridge north of Mobile, Ala . The accident misaligned the rails, causing Amtrak's Sunset Limited to jump the track and plummet into Big Bayou Canot, killing 47 people. This disaster raised new concerns about conditions on the inland waterways. The SIU also addressed other provisions found in the proposed Coast Guard rules for towing vessels. The union supported the rules' call for classroom, hands-on and field training for licensing boatmen as well as for license renewals; creation of an apprentice mate as an entry-level training position for licensed work; and stronger towing company responsibilities. The Coast Guard will review the union's recommendations as well as the others the federal agency receives before issuing at a later date its final rules on the licensing and manning for officers of towing vessels. Hall Center's Towboat Industry Group Focuses on Future Training Needs Representatives from SIU-contracted inland companies, union officials and Lundeberg School instructors met October 2-3 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for the semi-annual Inland Advisory Board Subcommittee meeting. The conference represents part of an ongoing effort both to fine-tune the Lundeberg School's curriculum for inland boatmen and maintain a constructive dialogue regarding other aspects of the industry. Among the topics covered during the two-day session were the industry's training needs and the courses available for boatmen at the Lundeberg School. "We have an excellent team of experts at this school putting classes together to help our members and you in the industry to meet future regulations," SIU President Michael Sacco said while opening the meeting. "We are looking forward to working together to keep the inland industry well and alive . ... It is very important to train our people before regulations come into effect. With that in mind, the SIU strives to be the leader in maritime education and training, and we are constantly changing with the industry," Sacco added. The inland group also discussed the passage of the Maritime Security Act and efforts to combat attacks on the Jones Act. In addition, the subcommittee addressed the potential impact that the STCW convention may have on the training and education of U.S. boatmen. Another important focus of last month's meeting was to discuss and form opinion on the U.S. Coast Guard's notice of proposed rule making on the licensing and manning for officers of towing vessels. The comments developed by the group were submitted to the Coast Guard for consideration in finalizing new laws governing the inland towboat industry. The subcommittee is part of the Inland Towboat Advisory Board, a volunteer group formed by the Paul Hall Center. The main mission of the board is to make recommendations regarding the Lundeberg School's curriculum for the inland industry. Specialized Courses Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the center, noted that during the past year, the Lundeberg School has provided special courses for hundreds of inland members who are employed by the companies represented at the subcommittee meeting. "We design our classes with careful consideration of each company's unique needs and of members' work schedules," Eglinton explained. "If you can't come to us, we will come to you and provide on-site training for your employees. Just communicate with us about your needs and we will do whatever possible to help you," he added. In fact, Lundeberg instructors Mark Jones and Casey Taylor recently returned from Puerto Rico, where they conducted a hazardous materials course for Crowley. Jones described the course to the subcommittee and discussed the number of tailor-made courses that the center has put together for various companies over the last few years. While emphasizing flexibility, instructors presented outlines of existing classes available at the school to the inland industry. They answered questions and exchanged ideas with the company representatives in attendance regarding scheduling, class size, course content and more. STCW Requirements Eglinton reviewed the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) with the inland group. The STCW is an international agreement with nearly 100 signatory nations, including the U.S. The pact sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by deep-sea mariners worldwide. Eglinton cautioned the group, however, that although the treaty focuses on mariners who sail in international waters, it will also affect boatmen if the Coast Guard adopts regulations for training similar to those spelled out in the STCW. Phil Peak, who is working with the Lundeberg School in developing a full curriculum to meet STCW requirements, noted the school already is conducting a number of courses that comply with the STCW convention. Moreover, while the STCW agreement calls for the practical demonstration of skills as part of testing for a rating or endorsement, the school has focused on skills-based training for many years, and all of the courses offered at the Paul Hall Center include hands-on training. Companies represented at the meeting included Orgulf, Dixie Carriers/Kirby Corp., Penn Maritime, Crowley Marine Services and Express Marine. Good News from Puerto Rico VOTING LOCATIONS Baltimore . . . Detroit-Algonac Duluth . • . . . Ft. Lauderdale . Honolulu • . Houston .. Jacksonville Jersey City Lake Charles Mobile . . . . : . . . • . . New Bedford . New Orleans . New York . . . Norfolk. . . . . Philadelphia •.• Piney Point . Puerto Rico . San Francisco .. St. Louis . : . . . Tacoma . . • . . Wilmington • , . 1216 E. Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21202 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, Ml 48001 705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonvme, FL 32206 99 Montgomery St., Jersey City, NJ 07302 Suite 204, Prlen Village Office Park, 710 West End Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles, LA 70601 1640 Dauphin Island Parakway, Mobile, Al 36605 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 630 Jackson Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Santurce, PR 00907 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 510 North Broad Ave.) Wilmington, CA 90744 November 1996 1 Seafarers welcome the news that the bargaining unit at the SIU-contracted Marine Ocean Engineering Department (MOE) of Lockheed Martin Services, Inc. in Fajardo, P.A. recently expanded following a ruling by the National Labor Relations Board. That victory was one of several topics discussed during a recent meeting of SIU members employed at Lockheed Martin. Among those pictured following the meeting are Angel Acosta, Jose Lopez, Carlos Figueroa, Rich Rhinehart, Billy Evans, Filo Agosto, Harry Wessel, Robert Flores, Victor Gutierrez, Tom Jones, David Lopez, Peter Torrens, Robert Candelario and Amancio Crespo. The MOE workers maintain and operate several types of vessels used to support the Atlantic Weapons Training Facility at the U.S. Naval Station Roosevelt Roads. Seafarers LOG 5 �Global Sentinel Crew Helps Unite the World International communications took a giant leap forward in August when the SIU-crewed Global Sentinel completed the northern portion of a fiberoptic cable-laying operation, known as TPC-5. This $1.2 billion, 4-year project involved the positioning of 14,000 miles of undersea cable stretching from California to Oregon, across the Pacific Ocean to Japan, then returning to California via Guam and Hawaii. "The fiber-optic cable is about the size of a household garden hose," explained Shawn "Fuji" Fujiwara, chief cook aboard the vessel. who sent a summary of the project to the Seafarers LOG as well as the accompanying photos. He noted that the cable has six fiber-optic strands, each the size of a human hair. Each strand can simultaneously transmit 300,000 phone calls and other electronic signals, including television broadcasts, when it goes on-line sometime next month. From its home port in Seattle, the Transoceanic cable ship Global Sentinel first made a 6,200 mile, 21-day trip in May to Newington, N.H. to load 6,000 kilometers (about 3,800 miles) of cable required for the TPC-5 operation. The ship then returned to the West Coast city of San Luis Obispo. Calif. and spliced into the southern portion ofTPC5. More than 1,000 kilometers of cable were then laid up the coast to Coos Bay, Ore., where the cable was brought ashore to AT&T' s Bandon Land Station. From there, 2,540 kilometers of additional cable were laid across the Pacific, to be joined with another cable laid last year by KDD, a Japanese telecommunications company and one of the many partners in this multinational project. According to Fujiwara, the crew of the Global Sentinel used a special device to drag more than 15,000 feet to the bottom of the ocean floor to retrieve the other end of the cable and bring it onboard to be spliced. "It took 15 hours to reach the bottom and drag for the cable," Fujiwara stated, "but the crew got the cable on the first pass." Splicing the two ends of the cable and testing it took an additional 18 hours, after which the cable was released to the bottom of the ocean. The crew, having finished the job two days ahead of schedule, set sail back to Seattle where they received high praise from AT&T officials for a job well done. Keeping the crew well fed and in good spirits was the task of the cable ship's steward department under the leadership of Chief Steward Robert L. Easley, Chief Cook Fujiwara and Cook/Bakers Jeff Smith and Jessy Asung. While they prepared meals four times a day for I 00 very hungry people, the steward assistants kept the vessel in spotless condition. Seafarers have crewed Transoceanic Cable Ship vessels since the early 1960s, helping to lay telecommunication cables for AT&T, Transoceanic Cable Ship's parent company. AT&T's fleet includes five cable ships: the Global Sentinel, Global Link, Global Mariner, Long Lines and Charles L. Brown. Breakfast is ready to be served by (from left) Chief Cook Shawn "Fuji" Fujiwara, Cook/Baker Jeff Smith, Chief Steward Robert Easley and Cook/Baker Jessy Asung. Chief Steward Robert Easley (left) and Chief Cook Shawn "Fuji" Fujiwara helped the crew celebrate the early completion of the TPC-5 project with a pizza and fried chicken feast. More than 30 large pizza were consumed by the personnel aboard the SIU-crewed ship. The deck gang aboard the cable ship prepares a repeater (a signal intensifier) for launching. Each of the repeaters weighs 1,000 pounds. 6 Seafarers LOG One of 87 repeaters used in the project is released into the ocean from the stern of the Global Sentinel. November 1996 �ITF Secures $110,000 in Back Pay for Frightened Crew Runaway-Flag Ship Strewn with Health and Safety Deficiencies con, a group of Russians aboard another of the company's vessels fought for and won back wages with the assistance of the ITF. With this second violation of the ITF contract, inspectors worldwide will closely monitor the company's actions and shipboard standards, Morris added. The ITF represents approximately 10 million transportation employees - from more than 400 trade unions worldwide, including the SIU. One of the primary endeavors of the Seafarers Section of the ITF, of which SIU Secretary-Treasurer John Fay is chairman, is to end the scandal of runaway-flag shipping. To that end, ITF inspectors all over the world assist the crews of such vessels and work to ensure that the shipowners are held accountable. Because the ITF recognizes that completely eliminating runaways will not happen overnight, one of its immediate goals is bringing such vessels under ITF contract. The drive has been successful, as more than 4,000 ships now are covered by ITF agreements. By signing on with the ITF, the mariners aboard runaway-flag ships at least have some recourse against the shipowners. And they are protected by a written contract that establishes wage rates meeting international standards, as well as many other benefits. Swift intervention by SIU International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) Inspector Edd Morris gained 13 exploited Burmese mariners $110,000 in back wages earlier this year. Morris began helping the crew of the runaway-flag Berga Falcon shortly after they contacted the London office of the ITF on August 2. The ITF inspector quickly learned that by the time the Greek-owned. Panamanian-flag ship docked at the Domino Sugar tenninal in the port of Baltimore in early August, most of the ship's Burmese crewmembers from the runaway-flag ship Berga Falcon thank Edd Morris, ona of thG SIU's ITF crewmembers literally feared for inspectors (standing, third from right), for securing their back wages after the ship docked in Baltimore. their lives. They had no money, little food, so many problems with the en- secure $110,000 in back wages, seamen in the ITF system." Morris dirty water, inadequate ventila- gineroom I am surprised the ship which included transportation said. "However, it is despicable that their own government would tion, broken tools and no safety could even saiL There was no food costs home. However, Morris noted most of bully them into not returning gear or medicine. Additionally, on board except eggs and rice. the vessel had more than a dozen They were living and being treated the Burmese seamen may never home." like animals and they were deathly return to their native country due The inspector noted that this serious equipment deficiencies. to the fear of punishment. was not the first time that the "When we signed on the vessel afraid," Morris explained. After several clandestine meet"This was a big win for the ITF owner of the vessel, Kapelco in Imrningham, U.K. in May, we signed an agreement of ITF stand- ings with Morris, 16 of the 17 in that we did something sig- Maritime Service LTD of Piraeus, ard wages in the presence of ITF crewmembers filed a lawsuit for nificant for Burmese seamen and Greece, exploited and manipuinspectors. However, we have wages owed to them. Once the they did something for themselves lated seafarers from an econominever received this ITF standard lawsuit became known, the cap- after many years of exploitation. cally depressed country. Just tain, superintendent and the In addition, we further developed before the group of Burmese salary," the crew wrote. "Our vessel is absolutely un- maritime agency in Burma which a network to assist Burmese seamen signed on the Berga Fa!seaworthy. We don't want to sail got them their jobs aboard the the next voyage due to the fear of Berga Falcon threatened and verSIU Supports Striking Symphony loss of life at sea. If possible, bally abused the crewmembers. of the crew decided to Three please send surveyor on board to check everything, especially en- drop their complaints. They were gineroom," wrote the Berga Fal- discharged and sent home, along with the person who originally had con crew. According to Morris, who met not joined the suit. Morris continued meeting with with the mariners in Baltimore, they were hesitant to discuss their the other crewmembers, and the problems, even though they had ship was arrested by U.S. marshals on August 13. contacted the ITF. But even the arrest was not "It took a lot of courage for the Burmese crewmembers to even without incident. When the capcome forward. This government tain discovered that U.S. marshals has a reputation of severely were en route to make the arrest, punishing seamen who reveal he attempted to sail out of port mistreatment and unsuitable con- without tugs or a pilot and was ditions aboard ship. They exploit even planning to cut the mooring their seamen by renting them out lines that the line-handlers refused to foreign-flag companies to make to cast off for him, according to Morris. money," Morris explained. Following the arrest, the 13 "In fact, if the Burmese seamen complain or report mistreatment to Burmese crewmembers who stuck Philadelphia-area Seafarers last month demonstrated in support of striking members of the worldanyone in authority, typically they by the lawsuit were moved into a famous Philadelphia Orchestra, who belong to Local 77 of the American Federation of Musicians. The are thrown off the ship and sent local hotel by the company until an 105 orchestra members have been on strike since September 15 because of management proposals home to face their fate. The Bur- agreement could be reached on for massive cuts in medical benefits, a decrease in wages and an unwillingness to help the symphony secure recording and broadcast contracts {which substantially impact the musicians' wages). Top mese government has been known their wages. While Morris worked to secure photo, from left: SIU Patrolman Joe Mieluchowski, DEU Dave Heindel Jr. and Retiree Frank B. Smith to jail, beat and blacklist seamen line up in support of the strikers. Pictured below left (from the left) are Recertified Steward Andrew who talk. They also will take all of the back wages and make the ship Austin and OS Bill Johnstone. Below right, an orchestra member provides entertainment as a way of their earnings. It is a very, very habitable, harassment of the Burthanking those who demonstrated with the strikers. mese men by their government horrible situation," he added. continued. Unsuitable Living "The company was meeting When Morris boarded the ves- with members of their families in sel on August 4, he found the crew- Burma and detailing what would me m b ers living in "unsafe, happen to their loved one should the miserable conditions. They had no lawsuit continue. Their wives and fresh water for bathing-which mothers called them in Baltimore they were only allowed to do once and begged them never to come a week-or for drinking. There home (for the crewmembers' own had been no air conditioning for safety)," Morris said. After several weeks of more than a year and the crew was living in stifling heat. There were negotiating, Morris was able to The crew of the Greek-owned, Panamanian-flag Berga Falcon was afraid to continue sailing due to the myriad safety problems on the ship. Norember 1996 Seafarers LOG 7 �J~~!~w~! ~t~~~~~~~a and what do you remember about it? (Asked of Seafarers at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va.) oorunrn rnd here was fue opportunity. I remember I was treated well, a lot of people showed me what I needed to do. Six months later, I upgraded to AB at the Harry Lundeberg School." Ronald Hall, Chief Cook - "It was the Cove Spirit, a tanker, in 1980. That was a fun ship. I was new to the industry and eager to go to sea. We went from Norfolk to Maine to Long Beach, California via Panama. I sailed as a messman. The older crewmembers taught me a lot, and now I try to teach others coming into the industry." Louis Anderson, Fireman/Watertender - 'The Ema Elizabeth, out of New York in 1972. It ,,- '· '-"'·'· was a tanker, and I , , had the 8·to· 12 watch. We went to Lakes' Icebreaker Mackinaw Approved for Modernization The largest icebreaker on the Great Lakes, the Mackinaw, will continue operating, thanks to a provision contained in the recently passed Coast Guard Authorization Act. The measure directs the U.S. Coast Guard to develop plans and a cost estimate for the re-engineering and modification of the Mackinaw by May l, 1997. The 290-foot cutter was built in 1944 and has been very active in keeping the iron ore trade going at the end of each navigational season. Despite its importance to Great Lakes shipping, the Mackinaw had been slated for decommissioning by the Coast Guard in May 1994. However, the brutal winter of 1993-94 changed the minds of agency officials. In late 1993, massive ice formations, snow and winds caused significant delays and end-of-the-season cancellations. Additionally, sailing was hampered by continued harsh weather in March 1994, which required convoys across Lake Superior, something not seen in decades. Although many Great Lakes vessels have hulls strengthened to cut through lesser amounts of ice, only the Mackinaw is capable of reliably opening tracks in ice fields which can be more than four feet thick and dotted with windrows. (Windrows are slabs of broken ice piled on top of one another by the wind and can be greater than 10 feet thick.) When the Coast Guard presents its plan and cost for modernization of the Mackinaw. Congress must approve and appropriate funds. It is anticipated that if appropriations are forthcoming in 1997, the icebreaker could enter the shipyard for modernization in the spring of 1998. Tony DeBoissiere, India and we were gone for six months. We were doing unrep .....::::"'-"--.......__.......... (underway replenishment) on different Navy ships .... I liked it. I was 17 years old." .t;;.. Larry Combs, AB - "My first ship was the Alcoa Puritan in 1955. I was 16 years old and sailed as an OS. We made a trip to the Caribbean and I saw things I never knew existed. We took general cargo down from Norfolk, then brought sugar and phosphate back. ... I fell in love with it, and I've never done anything else except two years I spent in the Army." Craig Amison, AB - "I caught my first SIU ship in 1967, when I was 19. I sailed as an OS on a chemical tanker out of Philadelphia, a Dow Chemical ship. I was all excited, because it was like a wish had come true. I Max Simerly, Retired Chief Pumpman - "It was the USNS Mascoma. We were getting ready for the Bay of Pigs, in the early 1960s. We were carrying fresh water out of Texas because Mr. '"'-=~-------J Castro had shut the water off at Guantanamo. We made one trip, then cleaned the tanks. It was a tough and dangerous job, that's about all you can say." =====M::; ., , ::;a::;r::;i::;ti::;m::;e=B::;r::;ie::;f:::;s======.i'' a.::11 •iiiiiiii!I~~-.---, Retired Bosun "The John S. Hawthorn, a grain ship out of Boston in 1945. I was third cook. We went to Naples carrying grain, the first ship to take grain there after the war. It was a beautiful trip. By coincidence, my brother Charlie and my twin, Herbert, were in the same port on different ships. The pay was low, but the crew were all pros, from the captain down." Charlie Parks, Bosun - "The SS Merrimac, an OMI ship. I thought, what am I getting into, here? It was an old rust-bucket filled with salty guys. I caught the ship in Wisconsin and carried grain to Tacoma. ....___ _ _ _ _ ___, We went through the St. Lawrence Seaway. I thought every ship would be like that, with three guys to a room. But everybody tried to help you. It was an exciting trip." Coast Guard Establishing Ballast Water Exchange Guidelines The U.S. Coast Guard is in the process of establishing voluntary guidelines urging vessels to exchange ballast water prior to entering U.S. ports. The National Invasive Species Act (H.R. 4283), which was signed into law by President Clinton last month. calls on the Coast Guard to issue voluntary guidelines to prevent the spread of nonindigenous species (such as the zebra mussel) into U.S. waters by having vessels release or exchange ballast water outside of U.S. territorial waters after sailing abroad. The Coast Guard has one year to develop and announce the guidelines. The regulations are to apply to all vessels with ballast water tanks that operate in U.S. waters after sailing outside the exclusive U.S. economic zone. However, the guidelines will take into consideration the safety of each vessel, crew and passengers. Under the new program, vessels are to exchange ballast water beyond the economic zone and in other areas where the ballast does not pose a threat of infestation or spread of nonindigenous species in U.S. waters. Ships may also use an environmentally sound alternative ballast water management method if it is determined that such a method is as effective as ballast water exchange. At the urging of the maritime industry, the act explicitly gives sole discretion over safety to a ship's master. If the master determines it would be unsafe to exchange ballast water (i.e. stormy seas), the vessel would be permitted to proceed into port. A ship will not be penalized for not exchanging ballast water and will not be prevented from doing so while in port if there is a valid reason for not having discharged at sea. Vessels are to keep records, which are subject to inspection, in order to determine compliance. The Coast Guard is required to give equal treatment to U.S.-flag and foreignflag vessels in monitoring compliance with the guidelines. Two years after the issuance of guidelines, and after consultation with interested and affected parties, the secretary of transportation must issue a report to Congress on compliance with the national guidelines; the extent to which the safety exemption is used; and, the effectiveness of the guidelines in preventing new introductions of exotic species. The Coast Guard will have authority to issue the guidelines as regulations in areas where there has been poor compliance or where spread of nonindigenous species is occurring. Orgulf Boatmen Ply Midwestern Waters Tug Labdon Exemplifies Active Agenda Seafarers aboard the Orgulf tugboat Bob Labdon maintain a busy 30-day schedule plying the waters of the Mississippi, Illinois and Ohio rivers. The Labdon, one of 22 boats operated by Cincinnati-based Orgulf, pushes barges carrying various shipments including coal, grain, steel, mulch, scrap and other dry cargoes. The SIU- Taking a short break to attend the meeting is Utilityman David Honey. B Seafarers LOG crewed boat can push as many as 15 barges at once, with each barge holding as much as 1,500 tons of cargo. Seafarers sail as lead deckhands, deckhands. utility people and cooks aboard the Labdon and the other Orgulf vessels. "Moore's Landing is the only lengthy stop in their schedules," notes SIU Representative Becky Sleeper, who provided the photos accompanying this article. Moore's Landing is a small inlet on the Mississippi River located near Wyatt, Mo. It is the region's busiest water terminal, and Orgulf uses it as its transfer area for upper and lower river tugs and barges. The Mississippi River becomes wider south of Moore's Landing, so Orgulf operates larger tugs on that part of the river. Some of the boats have 10,500 horsepower and can push up to 40 loaded barges apiece, with each barge holding 60,000 tons. The Labdon is among the company's smaller boats: 150 long, 45 feet wide with 4,500 horsepower. C Boa lAeno~ [~ Sleeper reports that all of the boats are known as "good feeders"-a reputation enhanced last year when the Paul Hall Center's Inland Advisory Board recommended creation of a special Orgulf culinary class at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The school worked with officials from the company to formulate a program for the cooks that met the needs of the boatmen and Orgulf as well as fit within the crewmembers' work schedules. Subsequently, a number of Orgulf cooks have successfully completed the class. Lead Deckhand Darren Currey signs in for a shipboard union meeting. November 1996 �Frigid Conditions Do Not Stop Matthiesen from Finishing Greenland Resupply Mission As the ship approaches Greenland, AB Isom "Ice Man" Ingram paints on the bow of the Richard G. Matthiesen. Massive ice fields, sub-zero temperatures, gales and heavy snow showers during the summer months are nothing new for Bosun Jim Martin, who has sailed aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen numerous times in his 24-year SIU career. The bosun's most recent assignment aboard the tanker occurred this summer, when the Matthiesen conducted its annual resupply mission of the U.S. Air Force Base at Thule, Greenland, known as "Operation Pacer Goose." The SID-crewed Ocean Shipholding vessel routinely resupplies U.S. military bases around the world with petroleum products. The Thule base is located on the northwest coast of the largest island in the world-Greenland. It sits 695 miles north of the Arctic Circle and is locked in by ice nine months of the year. Ice conditions lessen a bit during the months of July, August and September, when supply ships are able to reach the military base. The area is frozen over again by October. "I have been aboard the Matthiesen each time it has been asked to make the Pacer Goose run. The 1996 voyage went very smoothly despite the thick ice conditions. It is really a beautiful trip and every time I make it, I am as impressed as I was the first time," recalled Martin. The Matthiesen, currently operating on a longterm charter to the Military Sealift Command (MSC), delivered a total of 227 ,600 barrels of jet fuel to the U.S. Air Force base this year. Difficult Mission The vessel sailed out of Charleston, S.C. on June 13 for St. Theodore, Greece to load bunkers and petroleum. While in St. Theodore, the Matthiesen underwent an extensive pre-ice transit inspection of all ballast tanks, voids and cofferdams. The vessel was found to be in sound condition. Chief Cook Michael Pooler keeps "We had to ensure that the Matthiesen was fully crewmembers happy and healthy prepared for the difficult trip ahead," Martin stated. with his hearty recipes. The Matthiesen departed Greece on July 5 for the picturesque but tedious trip to Greenland. At that time, the National Ice Center advised the captain that the ice conditions surrounding the Arctic Circle and Thule were particularly severe. Crewmembers immediately began preparations for the arctic transit. According to Martin, fire lines, inert gas lines and tank-washing lines were pulled and water was drained from the oil content monitor. Additionally, antifreeze levels in the deck presSecuring the anchors in preparation for departure sure/vacuum valves and the from Thule are (from left) DEU Michael Edwards, emergency diesel generator were checked and topped off as needed. AB Kirk Kolar and AB Darryl Brice. "There is a lot of work involved in getting a ship ready for drastically cold temperatures and icy waters. This was a great crew. We all worked together to get the job done," stated the bosun, who earlier this year completed the bosun recerSteward depactment members sign in at the union meeting held after tification prodeparting from Greenland. From left, they are Chief Steward Leville gram at the Paul McElroy, Chief Cook Michael Pooler, GSU Andres Caballero and GSU Hall Center in M. Mutthanna. Piney Point, Md. "I was particularly pleased with my deck crew. They did an outstanding job," Martin added. It took the Matthiesen 24 days to reach Thule with the assistance of a Canadian Coast Guard ice breaker and a cargo vessel. The Matthiesen encountered severe ice, thick fog and heavy snows during the voyage to Greenland, and at times it became necessary for the 32,572 DWT tanker to anchor until conditions improved. "Amazingly enough, we reached Thule without damaging the vessel. That is very unusual considering the size of the Matthiesen and the incredible size of the ice formations we encountered. We were all amazed," Martin said. Once in the Greenland port, crewmembers immediately began preparations for offloading the cargo. In order to protect the giant tanker against possible strong winds sweeping off a nearby glacier, deck department members tightly secured the Matthiesen against a pier. Once all mooring lines and wires were put into place, the discharge of cargo began. Offloading of the jet fuel went smoothly and was completed in a little more than 39 hours. On August 1, the Matthiesen raised anchor and began the long journey home. The bosun noted that the trip out of Thule was not as difficult because some of the ice had been weakened by the earlier transit. "Compared to some of what we went through on our way into Thule, the voyage out was nothing. While we did experience some ice-related delays, they were not nearly as severe," recalled the bosun from Dickinson, Texas. "All in all, I think the voyage went great. The crew complimented one another and ultimately contributed to the overall success of the Matthiesen/' concluded Martin, who sent information and the accompanying photos to the Sea/are rs LOG. Crew Thanked In a letter to the captain and crewmembers of the Matthiesen, Calvin Bancroft, vice president of fleet operations for Ocean Shipholding, stated, "In review of this year's niission to Thule, Greenland in extreme pack ice conditions, I wish to extend my sincere appreciation for the diligence, professional efforts and overall patience exhibited by your officers and crew. "As you know, the U.S. Air Force required the petroleum delivery at Thule and there was significant concern regarding the safe passage into the air base because of the concentration of pack ice. "It was apparent that the efforts of the vessel master, ice pilot and the vessel officers and crew worked in concert and [effectively cooperated] with both this office and the Canadian icebreaker in the efforts to effectuate a safe petroleum delivery. "Furthermore, I understand that a vessel internal inspection has ascertained that our vessel did not sustain any ice damage. "I extend my best regards on behalf of OSI to each member of this year's mission and I wish you and your families all the best. Again, thank you for your efforts on behalf of this office, this organization and the United States of America!" Gathering in the crew mess for a shipboard union meeting are members of the engine Also reporting to the Matthiesen'sgalley for the meeting department. They are (from left) QMED F. Pereira, Pumpman Theodore Quinones, DEU are (from left) Bosun Jim Martin, AB Michael Meeks and Mario Chery, DEU Michael Edwards and QMED David Parker. AB Kirk Kolar. November 1996 Bosun Jim Martin works on deck of the Richard G. Matthiesen as the vessel carefully maneuvers through ice fields and icebergs on the way to Thule, Greenland. Demonstrating how to put on a survival suit at a safety meeting prior to the Matthiesen's departure for Greenland is DEU Mike Edwards. AB Isom "Ice Man" Ingram (left) and DEU Mario Chery hook up a pump to the slop tank in case a spill occurs. This was Chery's first trip after graduating from the Lundeberg School's trainee program. Seafarers LOG 9 �At Work Aboard the JEB Stuart The Seafarers-crewed JEB Stuart is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC) prepositioning fleet based off Diego Garcia. SIU members aboard the Stuart remain ready to sail at a moment's notice. fully loaded with cargo for U.S. troops. In order to stay prepared for activation, Seafarers aboard the LASH ship work to keep both the vessel and the crew in peak condition. Members of the deck department handle painting, maintenance and other duties; engine department Seafarers keep the ship running LEFT: . AB Mike Thompson performs maintenance on the JEB Stuart. BELOW: The deck gang paints the vessel's bow. Pictured, from the left, are ABs Floyd Patterson and Charlie Touzet and Bosun Floyd Perry. smoothly; and the galley gang provides meals designed to be both delicious and nutritious. A key asset in the logistics plan of the U.S. armed forces, the prepositioning fleet is made up of privately owned American-flag vessels which are ready to set sail immediately after activation. Diego Garcia is located in the British Indian Ocean Territories. It is a small island that is home to a key U.S. Navy support facility. Recently, Chief Steward Howard Williams sent the photos on this page to the Seafarers LOG, depicting SIU members during a voyage aboard the vessel. The JEB Stuart is operated by Waterman Steamship Co. for MSC. RIGHT: Receiving stores in Diego Garcia is Chief Steward Howard Williams. LEFT: AB Charlie Touzet steers the ship into an anchorage area. ~ ~ When Chief Electrician Nile Dean signed aboard the JEB Stuart, it marked his first trip on a LASH vessel. RIGHT: OS Duane Jessup (left) and AB Thomas Walker take part in a fire and boat drill. - Ready for dinner are (from left) AB Charlie Touzet, Bosun Stanley Daranda, a U.S. soldier, OS Duane Jessup and Chief Cook Anthony Bach. The galley gang is proud to provide nutritious food, such as the items in the salad bar pictured here, for the entire crew. 10 Seafarers LOG From left, Chief Steward Howard Williams, Chief Cook Anthony Bach and SA Byron R. Harris help make the JEB Stuart a good feeder. November 1996 �Oiler Francis Oxley works in the control room of the USNS Sumner. Standing watch on the gangway of the oceanographic surveillance ship is OS Kenneth Grose. Sumner Crew Focuses on Safety Concern and Care Displayed in Daily Shipboard Jobs ·L SHIP. ..ac-·~tl/..... i.: • • • . s.r-·~R Chief Mate Joe Cobb (left) and AB Ken Smith are ready for the next task. From left, AB John Cooke, OS Cesar Smith and AB Dennis Caples tie up the ship in the port of Mobile. Chief Cook Harry Brewer (left) and GVA Tommaso Cammilleri help keep the crew well fed. November 1996 The SIU-crewed USNS Sumner does not transport what most would consider typical cargo. But Seafarers aboard the oceanographic surveillance ship have the same objective as fellow members who sail aboard containerships, tankers, bulkers and all other SIU-crewed vessels. That ongoing goal is safety. "Our top priority is ensuring safe working conditions, making sure everyone knows the operation of the ship and the equipment," states Bosun Mike Davis, a member of the union for 17 years. ''This is a pretty unique operation in that our cargo basically is the (Navy) scientists and their equipment," adds Davis. "We make sure they receive all the assistance from us that they need." Operated by Dyn Marine Services of Virginia for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Sumner went on sea trials this summer and then in September completed a mission that involved coring and testing the ocean floor off the Gulf Coast. Last month, the vessel sailed into Bender Shipyard in Mobile, Ala. for alterations to various scientific equipment as well as cranes, winch booths and engines. ''This is the newest class of TAGS (survey) ship, so people are very interested in it," observes OMU Terry Smith, a 1993 graduate of the Paul Hall Center's training program for entry-level mariners. "It's inter- Delivered to MSC in 1995, the USNS Sumner features state-of-the-art oceanographic research equipment. esting for the crew to see what the scientists do and hearing them explain their studies." SIU Means Opportunities Although Davis is a longtime Seafarer while Smith is comparatively new to the union, both members say they fully appreciate the career opportunities they have by belonging to the Sill. "I try to educate the new guys about how much the union does benefit them," states Davis, who formerly sailed aboard Crowley tugboats. "With an SIU contract, you have job security, the opportunity to upgrade (at the Paul Hall Center), and the opportunity to throw in for other jobs. "As long as we all do a good job on the ships, we'll continue to have those benefits," Davis continues. "I think the union members all know that when we sign on a ship, we sign on to do a job and we take it very seriously." Smith, who recently completed the tanker operation safety course at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School, adds, "You learn so much at the school, and Helping prepare dinner is GVA Donald Porter. it really helps you keep the ships running in good condition. I'm applying for the QMED course after I sign off the Sumner." Delivered in 1995 Built in Moss Point, Mass., the Sumner was delivered to MSC in May 1995. The ship is designed to gather underwater data in both coastal and deep sea waters. The vessel was constructed to enable scientists to conduct physical, chemical and biological oceanography, as well as research involving marine geology, acoustics and numerous other areas of study. The Sumner is powered by an electric propulsion system consisting of two 4,000 horsepower motors that turn twin Z-drives, providing 360 degree thrust and direction control. The ship also is equipped with a 1,500 horsepower retractable bow thruster. Seafarers on the Sumner help operate and maintain the ship's navigation, deck, engineering and galley equipment while supporting survey missions. OS Cesar Smith works the lines aboard the USNS Sumner. Seafarers LOG 11 �Following are excerpts of some of the correspondence received at SIU headquarters as well as interviews regarding the passing of Brother Joseph Sacco. ft was a sad day for us on the Sea-Land Enterprise, to hear that our brother and friend has passed on. We will miss our brother very much, and our hearts go out to his family and friends. - Crew of the Slfa·Land Enterprise Both licensed and unlicensed crewmembers will remember Brother Sacco for the immeasurable contributions he made to the maritime trades. - Brothers Kim Dewitt and Tyrone Burrell and the crew of the Liberty Sea His efforts on behalf of all Seafarers have, and will con· tinue to be, greatly appreciated. His passing is a great loss, but his ideals and goals will live forever. - Crew of the LNG Virgo I will pray for your comfort and understanding at this time of great sorrow. - House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt (0-Mo.) Joe put his heart and soul into everything he did, no matter ifit was hisjob aboard a ship or as a union representative. Anyone who never had the opportunity to meet Joey really missed a great human being. He was universally loved. - Herb Brand, chairman, Transportation Institute Vision, loyalty, honesty the shipping community lost a good measure of these qualities with the passing of Joe Sacco. I will miss forever his humor, his kindness and his integrity. - Kendall Chen, president, ETC He was the hardest-working guy I ever knew and the most positive guy I ever knew. He was a builder who always looked to the future .... If something went wrong, instead of pointing a finger, he figured out how to fix it. -Augie Tellez, SIU vice president contracts He was a good, good person. He did a fantasticjob for the SIU, and he battled his [tail] off for the workers. He always fought for our rights, for good jobs with good pay. - Retired Bosun Ray Cuccia In Memo friend Joey Sacco epitomized the Brotherhood of the Sea, the giving and dedicated spirit of the American seafarer. - Michael McKay, president, American Maritime Officers He was a fine friend of all who have the marine industry at heart, and he will be sorely missed. - George C. Blake, executive vice president, Maritime Overseas Corp. He will be remembered with the greatest respect by the many friends he made throughout the labor movement over his many years of service and dedication. - John Sweeney, president, AFL·CIO I never met anybody who didn't like Joey Sacco. Joey had time for anybody who came to the door or called. His key thought always was the job security of the membership. - Red Campbell, retired SIU vice president contracts Nobody loved the SIU more than Joe Sacco. You come across that certain person that makes a difference in your life, and he was one of those people. - Bosun John Cain He was totally dedicated, and he cared deeply about issues, people and principles. You could always count on Joe to do the right thing. He was a very special person. - Bill Ferguson, vice president, Orgulf He had a big impact on the careers of vast numbers of SIU members. He was a mentor and a friend. He taught me how to run a port and how to fight for the membership, and he's done that for many, many young men coming up through the union. - Dean Corgey, SIU vice president Gulf Coast A brother who is also a close friend is one of the greatest joys and satisfactions in Life. You have been provided, however, with many cherished experiences with him - that no one and nothing can ever take away. - Christopher L Koch, senior vice president, Sea·Land Service This is like losing a best friend . Joe respected the members and gave all of us a right to voice our opinions. If a member was in trouble, he was there to help in every way he could.... He did a lot for the union: good contracts, decent raises, benefits for the family. He was there for us. - Lonnie Jones, chief steward Joe touched a lot of lives. I could always phone him - he was never too busy. Joey lives on in all of us he has touched. - Nell Deitz, SIU port agent, Honolulu Joey will truly be missed by his friends and colleagues. He was a valued labor leader whose contributions to the SIU will always be appreciated. -Rep. Robert Torricelli (0-NJ) He was a special guy, a bright guy with a lot of enthusiasm. He did a greatjob representing the membership. He was a tough negotiator, but was fair. - Brent Steinacker, president, Crowley Marine Services He had integrity and a nononsense approach ... . His contributions to the good and welfare of the SIU membership and their families were immeasurable. - H. "Whitey" Disley, president, Marine Firemen's Union The steward department of the MV President Adams would like to extend their sincere condolences to SIU President Mike Sacco and his family. - Alan Hollinger, chief steward; Ahmed Sharif, chief cook; David Riggens, assistant cook The entire membership of the SIU will suffer this loss. We sincerely hope that all ships hold a special moment of silence for Joe Sacco, and remember and give thanks for the good work Joe did for our union. - Crew of the Global Mariner Only a small percentage of us will have the same impact on our fellow men and women as did Brother Sacco. - Crew of the Sea-Land Challenger t 12 Seafarers LOG November 1996 �,f Joey Sacco - Crew of the Frances Hammer d Seafarer I am deeply saddened to learn of your brother's tragic death. My wife and I send our sincere and heartfelt condolence. - Senate Minority Leader Tom oaschle (D-S.D.) I had the pleasure of knowing him over the last seven years. I know you and your family were proud of all of his accomplishments. both on a personal as well as a business basis. - Erik L. Jonnsen, executive vice presi- dent, Waterman Steamenip corp. We are deeply saddened at your loss and ours. Joey will always be remembered as our friend and a man who continuously fought for our jobs. He was so dedicated and knowledgeable, and his record proves it. Joe was full of energy, a dynamic, sincere, hard-working guy right to the end. -George McCartney, SIU vice president West Coast When I say this, I mean it: He was always responsive to our problems. He was wonderful to work with and always thoughtful about people. - Pat Postiglione, labor relations manager, Maritime overseas corp. He had time for everybody, everyone who needed an answer on a union question or any other question. He was a dedicated union man. - Joe Perez, SIU port agent, New Orleans The seafaring community has lost a good shipmate. Our prayers and thoughts are with him and his family. - Crew of the Cspe Ray We know that Joseph ·s loss will be sorely felt within the Seafarers International Union. It was with deep regret to learn of his passing. - Fred V. Rosser, human resources manager Kirby Tankshlps, Inc. 1 We hope you will find solace in the knowledge that everyone whom Joey's life touched shares in your grief. - Crew of the LNG Gemini His contribution to the SIU and all maritime unions was limitless. He will be missed. - Gunnar Lundeberg, president, Sailors' Union of the Pacific Joseph was a highly respected leader in the maritime industry. He will be deeply missed. - Rear Admiral J.C. Card, U.S. Coast Guard Joe was the hardest-working guy I ever saw in my whole life. He always had the union in mind. His dream was making the SIU better for everyone. - Tom Brooks, retired bosun Joe was the finest guy I ever met, and I'm not just saying that. He was a fine gentleman and he really looked out for the interests of the union. - Tony Naccarato, vice president, human resources and administration, OMI Corp. He was the kind ofguy you He was a friend and union brother. His loss will leave a gap that will be hard to fill. - Crew of the Sea-Land Patriot We offer our condolences to the family and friends of Joseph Sacco as well as to the rest of the SIU membership on the passing of Brother Sacco. - Crew of the OOCL lnspiraUon Joseph was both a friend and an inspiration to all of us who go to sea for a living. Our prayers are with him. - Bosun Paul Lewis and crew of the Cape Rise could call any ttme, and he would drop what he was doing and quickly assist you. He always did so in the true spirit of union brotherhood. This is truly a loss. - Byron Kelley, SIU vice president Great lakes Joe was truly one of the most upstanding individuals within the labor community. He was extraordinary in his vision and dedication to the workplace advancements of the American seafarer. His untimely passing is surely a loss that will be felt throughout the American labor movement and the entire maritime industry. -Alex Shandrowsky, president, District No. 1-PCD, MEBA We have received the sad and disheartening news of the passing of our vice president, Mr. Joseph Sacco. We will miss our brother and friend very much. - Crew of the Richard G. Matthiesen Having lost members of my own family suddenly, I understand the sense of Loss and grief you must be feeling. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. - Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) There is not another person in the labor movement who has inspired me and hundreds of others as Joey has. When you hear the saying about someone who changes your life, Joey is that guy. - Robert Knight, president, Local 450 (Houston), Operating Engineers He was all union. We sailed together, worked beefs together. This was his life, and he did a tremendous job for the membership. He will be greatly missed by many, and wejoin all our brothers from the SIU in shar· ing your grief. - Jack Caffey, SIU vice president Atlantic Coast - Vladimir Shlrochenkov, president, Seafarers Union of Russia Because of his significant contribution toward making the union one of the most respected and professionally managed labor organizations in the country, I am sure that his presence will be sorely missed by the SIU family. May good memories of him sustain you and your family during this difficult time. - Rodney Gregory, vice president, operations, Red River Shipping Corp. - Crew of the Sea-Land Spirit He was a great, unique and complete union man. He will be sorely missed. We all loved Joey. No one can take his place, but we can dedicate ourselves to his vision. Count on me to keep that memory of him. - Crew of the Overseas Harriette - Lenore Miller, president, Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union His leadership will be missed. - Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) We send our deepest condolences to you and the family. May Joey's soul rest in peace. - Crew of the Sea-Land Innovator e photos on these pages highlight some 3rother Sacco's countless activities with ! SIU, from the 1960s until his passing. November 1996 Seafarers LOS 13 �AB Lassak Ready for Sailing Aboard Data Collection Ship As the USNS Observation Island prepared to return to sea, AB Brian L3$sak was ready to join the other unlicensed crewmembers aboard the Military Sealift Command-Pacific (MSCPAC) fleet data collection vessel. "It'll be good to go back out," he told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG shortly before the ship set sail in late summer. "I like this ship a lot. The MSCPAC crew and the [U.S.] Air Force contractors who sail with us all get along great." Lassak is a member of the SIU I Government Services Division, Dreaming of a College Education? Don't Upset Your Savings . .. Apply for a Scholarship Instead There is no reason that dreams of a college-level education have to deplete the hard-earned savings of Seafarers and their families. As it has annually since 1952, the Seafarers Welfare Plan again will offer seven scholarships next year to help SIU members, their spouses and dependent children attain their educational goals. Three of the monetary awards are being set aside for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for study at a four-year college or university; and two $6,000 twoyear scholarships for study at a two-year vocational school or community college). The other four scholarships will be presented to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 stipend for study at a four-year college or university. Who May Apply? Eligibility requirements are spelled out in a booklet which also contains an application form. To receive a copy of this booklet, fill out the coupon below and mail it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. The program booklets also are available at the SIU halls. What Is Required? Once eligibility has been determined, the applicant should start collecting other paperwork which must be submitted with the full application by the April 15, 1997 deadline.These include the applicant's autobiographical statement, a photograph and a certified copy of his or her birth certificate. High school transcripts and certification of graduation or official copies of high school equivalency scores also need to be included. Schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests. so it is a good idea to ask for copies as soon as possible. Additionally, college transcripts will be required of those students who have already attended some college, and letters of reference should be solicited from individuals who know an applicant's character, personality and career goals. ACT or SAT results round out the complete application package. In order for the results of these exams to be received by the scholarship selection comittee in time to be evaluated, these exams need to be taken no later than February 1997. Don't Be Discouraged If an applicant sent in a form last year and was not selected for one of the stipends, he or she should try again in 1997. Two 1995 applicants were not selected that year but tried again in 1996 and were awarded scholarships. The new year-1997-is fast approaching. Start the process going-now! r-----------------------------------, lease send me the 1997 SIU scholarship program booklet which P contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Street Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City, State, Zip Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail the completed form to the Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11196 -----------------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOG which represents unlicensed crewmembers aboard MSCPAC vessels, like the USNS Observation Island. He has been sailing with the division since 1992. The Observation Island had spent the summer in the Pearl Harbor (Hawaii) Naval Shipyard undergoing repairs. Lassak served as a watchstander while the ship was in port. It was not the first time he had served as a crewmember on the 43-year-old vessel. "I return to the Observation Island as often as I can for ship assignments," he noted. "Our master, Captain Carl Lindsey, and ' ' HES SET.:. LICENSED I Greeting a visitor aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Observation Island is AB Brian Lassak. his chief mate, Lionel Greve, really care about their crew. When you've got that type of combination on a ship you enjoy, you're a happy mariner." The Observation Island began service in 1953 as a cargo ship. During the 1960s, the vessel was used by the U.S. Navy in the test- ing and developing of the Polaris and Poseidon missiles. Fifteen years ago, the ship was converted for its present worldwide mission-to collect data for the Air Force on strategic ballistic missile flights in order to verify missile treaty compliance by other nations . AB Brian Lassak sails aboard the USNS Observation Island, which features a four-story high, 250-ton radar that can be mechanically rotated to collect data for the U.S. Air Force on ballistic·· missile flights. Support Grows tor Strawberry Pickers Support is mounting across the country to provide decent working conditions for California strawberry pickers. The United Farm Workers (UFW) has been trying to organize the 20,000 pickers-who stoop l 0 to 12 hours per day to gather the berries by hand-since last spring. The fight for union representation is focused on the strawberry pickers' rights for a decent living wage, proper field sanitation, health insurance, clean drinking water and an end to sexual harassment and other abuses. "Over the years, these workers have reported claims of sexual harassment, inadequate bathroom facilities, violations of wage and child labor laws, polluted drinking water for the workers, exposure to pesticides and employer mistreatment toward workers who demonstrate support for the union," noted UFW President Arturo Rodriguez. According to an analysis by the California Institute of Rural Studies at the University of California at Davis, a 50 percent increase in most of the workers' wages would result in no more than a five-cent increase in the price of a pint of strawberries to the consumer. Presently, the pickers average $8,000 a year in pay, with many earning less than minimum wage. The AFL-CIO has joined the effort to support the strawberry pickers beginning with the formation of the National Strawberry Commission for Workers' Rights. The commission was developed to counter the industry's anti-union California Strawberry Commission. Besides labor, other organizations on the workers' panel include those from the civil rights, women's, religious, social, academic, civic and political communities. In outlining the campaign the UFW plans to take before picking season begins next spring, Rodriguez pointed out this is not a boycott of strawberries. "We want to make people aware of what is happening to the workers as they struggle to improve their way of life," the UFW president said. With the help of other unions at the national, state and local levels, the supporters will continue visiting food stores urging the managers to purchase strawberries from companies that pay their workers a decent wage. (Teamsters represent workers in some of these California companies, known in the industry as coolers. The Teamsters are assisting the Farm Workers in the campaign.) Some store managers have shown support by signing pledge cards. The United Food and Commercial Workers, which represents a majority of unionized grocery store employees in the country, has been helping the UFW in this effort. Private citizens also may sign a pledge card, which proclaims support for the rights of the strawberry workers. Such cards may be obtained by calling the Farm Workers at (408) 763-4820. November 1996 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16, 1996 - OCTOBER 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Cl~ A Class B Class C Port New York 34 5 Baltimore · .' 6 8 Norfolk Mobile New Orleans 14 18 10 13 20 23 13 21 · Jacksoovme·: · 20 :..safrFrancisco 27 Wilnifogton 16 Seattle 32 Puerto Rico Honolulu · Houston :· 5 4 27 St. Louis 6 Pin~y Point 5 Algonac Totals Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 17 18 0 2 0 1 6 0 2 5 1 7 0 10 25 2 4 3 1 6 0 2 40 6 2 64 6 7 0 I 2 0 2 4 12 21 14 26 43 26 16 0 14 43 33 5 6 9 28 24 60 13 8 40 6 6 1 386 34 4 20 5 11 3 0 0 8 1 8 10 10 4 5 7 0 4 19 14 14 9 11 21 18 13 20 6 5 25 2 0 1 5 1 1 232 201 36 183 12 0 0 1 1 13 13 2 7 1 5 2 1 0 0 0 2 121 0 1 17 Piney Point • • • • Monday: December 2, January 6 New York ••••• Tuesday: December 3, January 7 DECK DEPARTMENT 19 4 Pbiladelphi~ TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Cl~ A Class B Class C December 1996 &January 1997 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 0 71 11 31 22 15 37 1 8 3 311 8 0 2 9 1 5 10 3 9 0 3 2 4 0 2 0 58 Philadelphia •••• Wednesday: December 4, January 8 Baltimore • • • • • Thursday: December 5, January 9 Norfolk •••••.• Thursday: December 5, January 9 Jacksonville . . . . Thursday; December 5, January 9 Algonac • . • ••• Friday: December 6, January 10 Houston . . . . . . Monday: December 9, January 13 New Orleans ...• Tuesday: December 10, January 14 Mobile •.••••• Wednesday: December 11, January 15 San Francisco ••• Thursday: December 12, January 16 Wilmington . . . . Monday: December 16 .Tuesday, January 21 * · change created by Marlin Luther King Jr.' s birthday Tacoma •••••• Friday: December 20, January 24 San Juan .•.••• Port New York 18 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 5 Norfolk 6 Mobile 9 New Orleans 12 Jackson ville 13 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 9 14 Seattle Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 4 Houston 16 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 1 Algonac 2 Totals 129 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 11 1 4 0 1 12 9 7 1 2 3 10 14 0 0 0 0 0 9 12 5 8 12 3 Totals All Departments 557 3 9 0 5 42 20 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 3 4 6 15 9 7 13 6 3 3 10 3 5 12 4 1 1 124 0 0 14 84 0 0 4 5 6 9 2 3 1 80 2 7 9 0 12 14 19 13 6 8 4 0 0 0 4 3 1 1 3 1 0 0 0 s 6 18 21 19 27 8 13 22 18 3 0 Honolulu •••••• Friday: December 13. January 17 1 4 Duluth ••.•••. Wednesday: December 11, January 15 2 3 1 1 11 3 17 0 3 10 12 3 7 0 1 4 8 6 1 24 0 1 1 2 0 2 225 169 30 30 0 4 21 2 3 2 2 0 47 6 4 0 1 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 15 3 3 2 1 4 3 3 0 11 2 1 8 5 7 4 1 7 2 5 0 6 1 11 4 6 1 6 1 1 21 8 16 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 8 2 1 1 0 0 64 0 8 IO 0 0 0 22 112 3 6 2 4 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 1 7 12 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 5 11 13 5 4 1 14 4 25 7 9 44 13 2 1 17 47 7 11 6 4 6 4 3 1 6 5 0 1 7 1 8 5 3 8 4 0 0 0 0 l 0 0 36 10 49 1 1 6 14 18 2 10 9 0 6 0 0 2 0 1 249 122 1 31 22 47 19 0 0 1 5 4 27 1 14 25 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 31 1 5 14 7 14 12 21 10 13 3 43 12 7 2 2 17 0 10 10 3 2 1 4 52 5 2 0 2 0 0 4 5 4 2 6 2 4 2 0 15 0 3 4 5 10 7 11 4 8 3 35 11 1 14 1 0 1 7 0 4 1 1 0 0 1 37 1 209 0 0 115 33 131 0 1 0 55 598 187 412 368 87 4 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 7 5 20 4 11 10 14 2 0 December 5, January 9 St. Louis . . . . . . Friday: December 13, January 17 3 12 5 Port New York 9 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 0 Norfolk 0 Mobile 0 New Orleans 4 Jacksonville 5 San Francisco 10 Wilmington 0 Seattle 2 Puerto Rico 7 Honolulu 7 Houston 1 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 0 Totals 45 2 2 0 Port New York 13 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 8 Mobile 7 New Orleans 9 Jacksonville 15 San Francisco 32 Wilmington 7 Seattle 25 Puerto Rico 6 Honolulu 8 Houston 11 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 2 Algonac 1 Totals 151 6 1 Thursday~ 7 31 16 28 32 32 22 31 4 52 23 4 17 New Bedford • • • Tuesday: December 17, January 21 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals PAUL KRUEGER (of Chicago) Please contact Donna Vesper at (616) 786-0125. BASILIO I. PATRON Domenic Cito, a former shipmate, would like to get in touch with you. Please write him at 11743 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98133; or telephone (206) 365-7346. - RICHARDLEETHOMAS Please contact your sister, Sarah, or Norma at (904) 2681249. It is urgent! DOUGLAS TURNER Please contact your brother-in-law, Howard Jenkins, at 552 Farm.view Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28311; telephone (910) Notices PUERTO RICO CHANGES AREA CODE The area code for all of Puerto Rico has changed to 787. Except for the area code, the telephone numberfor the SIU hall in Santurce remains the same. It is now (787) 721-4033. SEATTLE HALL MOVES TO TACOMA The SIU hall in Seattle has moved to Tacoma, Wash. Its new address is 3411 South Union Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98409. The new phone number is (206) 272-7774; FAX (206) 272-4121. A ceremonial grand opening will take place at the new location on November 14 from 1 :00 - 5:00 p.m. for all Seafarers in the Seattle-Tacoma area. 5 4 9 70 8 1 0 0 1 0 0 99 347 0 199 167 959 949 318 0 Jersey City . . . . . Wednesday: December 18, January 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. November 1996 Seafarers LOG 15 �s8atarers 1niernatlona1unlon( Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Directory Mkhael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer ., Joseph Sacco E~ecutive Vice President Augustin Tellez . Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1996 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port 0 40 18 Algonac 0 17 6 . :· Roy A. "Buck" Mercer .V,:~~~.J.?resident Gt;JvellUll<'nt Servii;es Port :.. : · J~kCaftey · Vice President Atlantic Coost ByrAn Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast Port ..... ... . HEADQUARTERS Algonac Algonac ALGONAC (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221~eSt. Houston, 1X 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Lt"berty St. '< Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 MontgQtnery 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 US Third St. N-0rfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPlllA 2604S.4St 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. Lauderoale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 zr· 39 0 14 6 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 6 14 0 8 6 0 5 5 0 25 21 0 44 46 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters (301) 899-0675 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth. MN 55802 0 6 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 18 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Totals All Departments 0 101 57 41 0 11 * ''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. 5201 Auth Way Camp SprlngsJ MD 20746 520 Sl Clair River Dr. Al~ott~, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 li Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 ; · 0 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Clam L Class NP SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1996 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB ClassC **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Atlantic Coast 6 Jl Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 7 52 3 0 0 3 37 2 t~e~~Jnland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast .Lake$ & Inland Waters West Coast Totals ~· 9_ 3 0 11 1 0 0 ~16 0 2 13 2 0 0 2 1 5 9 0 0 13 1 2 4 0 1 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 13 2 6 3 0 33 0 13 0 24 0 1 44 0 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 12 64 1 10 6 23 3 w1 l 0 0;, 0 2 1 iL,J,J 0 5 0 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 2 2 1 1 0 1 1 10 1 14 Totals All Departments 72 4 25 52 2 2 90 *"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. 9 43 0 7 2 7 0 0 3 0 16 3 2 2 9 Tax Time Is Coming; Make Sure Your Address Is Correct In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers WG 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. 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 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 complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r----------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT} 11/96 Name SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 Phone No. ( ) (415) 543-5855 G<>vemment Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161h Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721 -4033 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave. Social Security No. _ _ _ / _ _ _ / _ _ __ D Active SIU D Pensioner Tacoma, WA 98409 (206) 272-7774 WU.,MINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 SeafaretS LOG This will be my pennanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. _______________________________________________________________ _J November 1996 �Welcome Ashore ~ac~ month, t~~ 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. Li~ted 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. F our recertified bosuns are among the 29 Seafarers who are announcing their retirements this month. Representing more than 130 years of active union membership, the four recertified bosuns are Ted Densmore, Jack D. Kingsley, Marvin S. McDuftie and James J. O'Mara. These members graduated from the hi~h~st level of deck department trammg offered at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Including the four recertified gr~duates, 20 of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division six sailed on inland vessels, two plied the Great Lakes and one worked in the railroad marine division. Of the retiring Seafarers, 17 ~erved in the U.S. military-eight m the.Navy, five in the Army, three m the Marine Corps and one in the Air Force. Ten of the retirees have chosen to live on the East Coast 10 on the West Coast, seven in ' the Gulf states and one each in the Midwest and Puerto Rico. On this page, the Seafare rs LOG presents brief biographical a~counts of the newest SIU pens10ners. DEEP SEA WILLIAM O.BARRINEAU, 70, first sailed with the · Seafarers in 1966 from the port of San Francisco aboard the SS Delaware, operated by Marine Carriers. Brother Barrineau sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. The South Carolina native served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1952. Brother Barrineau has retired to Lockwood, Calif. ARCHI- BALD BELL, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Oremar, operated by Ore Navigation. Brother Bell sailed in the engine department and upgraded in Piney Point. He last sailed as a chief electrician. A native of Iowa, Brother Bell makes his home in Ocean Park, Wash. r-~~~---, ARNOLD BUSTILLO, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of New Orleans aboard the Steel 1!1fake:, operated by Isthmian Lmes. Brother Bustillo sailed in the deck department and upgraded to quartermaster at the Lundeberg School. Born in Honduras, Brother Bustillo resides in River Ridge, La. JOHN E. BROWDER, 62, graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training pro- gram for seamen in 1966 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. His first ship was the Alcoa Master, operated by Alcoa Steamship. The Alabama native sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Browder makes his home in Mobile, Ala. JAMESW. COMBS JR., 53, graduated from the Andrew Furus~th Training School in 1963 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Baltimore. Brother Combs first sailed aboard the SS Bethffor, operated by Bethlehem Steel Co. The California native sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a QMED from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. From 1961 to 1962, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Combs has retired to St. Augustine, Fla. TED DENSMORE, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1957 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He ~====-=i first worked in the inland division as a deckhand. Brother Densmore later transferred to deep sea vessels and upgraded frequently in Piney Point, where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1979. A native of Alabama, he served in the U.S. Army from 1947 to 1952. Brother Densmore lives in Shalimar, Fla. FREDERICK ENGEL JR., 67, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New Orleans. A native of Louisiana, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Engel resides in Metairie, La. WAH GONG JUE,65, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1958 in the port of San Francisco, ------....:!.--__,;;:.before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Jue upgraded at the MC&S training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. His first ship was the Leilani, operated by Hawaiian Textron. Brother Jue last sailed in 1995 as chief cook aboard the President Arthur. Born in China Brother Jue makes his home in ' San Francisco. Africa, he has retired to Federal Way, Wash. CONRAD A. JULIAN,66, started his career with the MC&Sin 1966inthe port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. His first ship was the President Cleveland, operated by American President Lines. Born in the Philippines, Brother Julian retired in 1991 to San Jose, Calif. JACKD. KINGSLEY, 62, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of San Francisco aboard the SS Iberville, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Kinglsey sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1975. A native of Indiana, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1961. Brother Kingsley resides in Fairfield Calif. ' JOHNO.L. KIRK,65, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Los Angeles, operated by Sea-Land Service, Inc. Anative of Oklahoma, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he attended an educational conference in 1975. From 1948 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Kirk lives in Sheep Ranch, Calif. DAVIDG. LOCSIN JR., 70, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of Yokohama, Japan aboard the SS Overseas Dinny, operated by !vfaritime Overseas Corp. A native of the Philippines, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. From 1951to1952 he served in the U.S. Army. B~other Locsin makes his home in San Francisco. MARVINS. McDUFFIE, 46, graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training ARTHUR R. McCREE, 68, program for began sailing with the SIU in seamen in 1952 from the port of San Francis- 1967 and joined the Seafarers in co. Brother McCree last sailed the port of New York. His first aboard the SS American Heritage ship.was the Norina, operated by in 1994 as a member of the deck Manne Traders. A native of department. Born in South Alabama, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded in Piney Point, where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1979. From 1969 to 1972, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother McDuffie resides in Mobile, Ala. NEIL NAPOLITAN0,65, ment and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed in 1990 aboard the Ogden Champion, operated by Ogden Marine. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Rubish resides in Jacksonville, Fla. FELIPE A. TORRES,62, started his joined the SIU career with the SIU in 1966 in in 1959 after the port of graduating New Orleans, from the :-:.,, Andrew sailing aboard . Furuseth Train- the SS Sacramento, operated by ing School. His first ship was the Sacramento Transport, Inc. ~S Atl":ntic: The New Jersey native sruled m both the engine and Brother Torres sailed in the endeck depattments and upgraded gine department and upgraded at in both departments at the Lunthe union's training facility in Piney Point, Md. A native of deberg School. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Texas, he served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. Brother Brother Napolitano makes his home in Jersey City, New Jersey. Torres lives in Houston, Texas. JAMESJ. O'MARA,60, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother O'Mara first sailed aboard the Wild Ranger, operated by Waterman Steamship Co. The New York native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1988. From 1951 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother O'Mara lives in Tacoma, Wash. VICTORG. RODRIGUEZ, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 from the port of New York. A native of Honduras, Brother Rodriguez sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Paul Hall Center. His first ship was the SS Bangor, operated by Bermuda Steamship Corp., and his last ship was the the Stonewall Jackson, a Waterman Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Rodriguez make.s his home in New Orleans. LUISA. ROMAN,61, first sailed with the SIU in 1957 from the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Roman worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard vessels operated by Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc. Brother Roman has retired to Rio Piedras, P.R. r-'JAI~~~ PHILIP RUBISH,69, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1950 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Rubish sailed in the deck depart- Novem-t~e-'~'S_9_6~~~~--------------------------------- INLAND S.A.ANDER- SON,65, joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla., after a 20-year tour in the U.S. Navy. The North Carolina native worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. Boatman Anderson attended an educational conference at the Lundeberg School in 1984. He has retired to Jacksonville, Fla. JOHNW. HUDGINS, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1959 from the port of Philadelphia. The Virginia native worke~.in the deck department, last sa1hng as a captain. Boatman Hudgins makes his home in Cobbs Creek, Va. LEONC. MORGAN, 64, became a member of the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of New Jersey, Boatman Morgan last sailed in 1984 as a captain aboard vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transport Co. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Morgan has retired to Estell Manor, NJ. BILLIEE. PADGETT, 65, first sailed with the SIU in 1980 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. aboard the .., Manhattan Island, a North American Trailing Corp. barge. Boatman Padgett recently signed off the Dodge Island, another of the company's barges. A native of Georgia, Co11tinued on page 20 ~I .................Sea . .•ra•re•rs. . LO•G . .• 1•7. . . . �Final Depaltures,. · he served in the U .S. Navy. Brother Calloe retired to his home in Jacksonville, Fla. in May 1991. DEEP SEA JOSEPH L. ACY r~iiiiiii!i~I Pensioner Joseph L. Acy, 88, passed away August 29. Brother Acy started his career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. The Louisiana native sailed in the steward department. He resided in Chalmette, La. and began receiving his pension in July 1977. FAUSTINO ALEJANDRO Pensioner Faustino Alejandro, 79, died September 18. Born inPueno Rico, he joined the SIU in 1941 in the port of . Philadelphia. .___ _ _ _ ___, Brother Alejandro sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1945 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Alejandro had retired to his home in Fajardo, P.R. in April 1982. MURPHY ALLISON Pensioner Murphy Allison, 70, passed away July 22. He first sailed with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New York aboard = = = = the Cities Service Baltimore. A native of Louisiana, he was a member of the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. B-other Allison began receiving his pension in November 1990. CONSTANTINO ANTONIOU Pensioner Constantino Antoniou, 82, died May25. Brother Antoniou began sailing with the SIU in 1942 from the port of L----""---"'-~=i New York. The deck department member last sailed as a bosun. Born in Antwerp, BelgiUJi1, he retired in January 1976. HAROLD L. AUSTIN Pensioner Harold L. Austin, 74, passed away August 7. A native of Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards ===-.J (MC&S) in 1957 in the port of Seattle, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Austin last sailed as a chief steward. He lived in Seattle and began receiving his pension in August 1988. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1946. HERBERT P. CALLOE Pensioner Eerbert P. Calloe, 70, died September 10. Brother Calloe started sailing with the Seafarers in 1961 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. A native of Massachusetts, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a chief electrician. From 1943 to 1959, tB Seafarers LOG FREDDIE BAPTISTE Pensioner Freddie Baptiste, 86, died September 19. Born in Louisiana, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port .____ ___=._-'-__, of New Orleans. Brother Baptiste sailed as a member of the steward department. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Baptiste retired to his home in New Orleans in November 1975. PAUL D. BAUTISTA Pensioner Paul D. Bautista, 85, passed away August 8. He joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Bautista last sailed as a chief cook. He began receiving his pension in July 1974. ANASTACIO ENCARNACION Pensioner Anastacio Encarnacion, 84, passed away August 6. Born in Puerto Rico, he joined the MC&S in 1951 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Encarnacion began receiving his pension in January 1979. ADEN EZELL - Pensioner Aden Ezell, 70, died September 19. A native of Florida, he joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Ezell sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1979. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Ezell retired in June 1988. JAMES FLYNN James Flynn, 40, passed away February 6. Brother Flynn graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program for seamen in 1977 and joined the union in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the San Pedro, operated by SeaLand Service, Inc. A native of Massachusetts, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. DONALD M. HARTMAN Pensioner DonaldM. Hartman, 74, died August 23. A native of South Dakota, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Hartman last sailed in the deck department as a bosun He retired in April 1971. KARL A. HELLMAN Pensioner Karl A. Hellman, 78, passed away September 13. Brother Hellman started his seafaring career with the SIU in 1946 in the port of New York. Born in Sweden, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1974. Brother Hellman lived in Renton, Wash. He began receiving his pension in December 1982. FRANKRAKAS r-~iiil•.:---i Pensioner • Frank Rakas, 69, passed away September 3. Brother Ralcas joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of New York. =----'=---=-===i The Pennsylvania native sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in July 1991. ROBERT RAMIREZ Robert Ramirez, 43, died November 4, 1995. Born in Puerto Rico, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1970 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. Brother Ramirez sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the union's training facility in Piney Point, Md. HAROLD B. RAY Harold B. Ray, 60, passed away August 7. He started his career with the ·' Seafarers in · 1954 in the port ·, of Mobile, Ala. ., : ~·, His first ship · .,.-_':'• was the Patriot, operated by Alcoa. The New Jersey native sailed in the engine department. WILLIAM P. ROBERTS Pensioner William P. Roberts, 70, died July 30. Born in California, he began his career with the MC&S, before '--"=====::~'""--'thatunion merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Roberts began receiving his pension in February 1971. the steward deparbnent and upgraded ANDREW ROBBINS to chief cook at the Lundeberg School. Prior to receiving his pension in April 1996, he sailed aboard the liberty Pensioner -- Andrew Robbins, 91, passed away August 31. Born in North Carolina, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1--~---==~_!..::._J 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Robbins sailed in the deck department. He retired in April 1972. Wave, operated by Liberty Maritime. EDWARD J. SCHIELDER Pensioner Edward J. Scbielder, 80, passed away September 16. He began sailing with the SIU in 1950 from the port of New Orleans. The Louisiana native sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in August 1976. DARRELL L. SHARP ALEX C. WOODWARD Pensioner Darrell L. Sharp, 72, passed away August 12. A native of Oregon, he joined the MC&S in 1946, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Sharp's first ship was the Edward Everett, operated by American Mail. Prior to his retirement in October 1970, he signed off the Permanente Silverbow, operated by Permanente Steamship Co. Pensioner Alex C. Woodward, 90, died September 28. He began sailing with the SIU from the port of Port Arthur, Texas. A native of Louisiana, he sailed in the engine department. Boatman Woodward began receiving his pension in August 1966 RANDY SMITH Randy Smith, 43, died August 19. Born in Maryland, be joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Smith first sailed aboard the Overseas Valdez as a member of the deck department. He later upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. From 1969 to 1973, he served in the U.S. Navy. Deborah J. Rose, 40, passed away August 21. Sister Rose graduated from the Lundeberg School's special stewards '-======= program in 1982 and joined the union in the port of Piney Point, Md. A native of Virginia, she first sailed aboard the SeaLand Patriot as a member of the steward department. SPENCER RYANS JR, Pensioner Spencer Ryans Jr., 44, died September 29. Born in Texas, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program for seamen in 1971 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Ryans sailed in CHARLES A. "TINY" BAUER Charles A. "Tiny" Bauer, 60, passed away May 13. Born in Wisconsin, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 from the port of Chicago. Brother Bauer sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. JOSEPH ROLLINS Pensioner Charles Uribe, 95, passed away September 12. He started his career with the SIU in 1949 in the port of New York. Born in ===--- == Chile, he last sailed as an electrician. Brother Uribe began receiving his pension in February 1969. Pensioner Joseph Rollins, 74, died September 22. Brother Rollins started his career with the SIU in 1961 in the deep sea division aboard the Mt. Evans, operated by American Transport. He later transferred to Great Lakes vessels, sailing in the steward department. Born in Canada, he became a U.S. citizen. He retired in September 1987. FRED VANCE ATLANTIC FISHERMEN CHARLES URIBE Pensioner Fred Vance, 69, died September 11. Brother Vance began sailing with the Seafarers in 1953 from the port of Cleveland, Ohio. He later transferred from Great Lakes vessels to the deep sea division. Brother Vance sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. From 1945 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Vance retired in January 1989. INLAND JAMES S. BACON DEBORAH J. ROSE GREAT LAKES Pensioner James S. Bacon, 71, passed away May 12. Anative of Texas, he started his career with the Seafarers in t-=::=:::====.=..!::l 1968 in the port of Houston. Boatman Bacon last sailed in the deck department as a captain. He began receiving his pension in June 1987. WILLIAM V. BLOODSWORTH Pensioner William V. Bloodsworth, 67, died August 23. Boatman Bloodsworth first sailed in 1945 aboard the Lewis F. Boyer, operated by Interstate Oil Transport, and joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. The Maryland native sailed as a captain. He began receiving his pension in October 1992. AUGUSTINE P. "GUS" DOYLE Pensioner Augustine P. "Gus" Doyle, 82, passed away August 22. Bomin , Canada, he immigrated to Gloucester, Mass. at age 15 and began his fishing career aboard the Adventure as a catchee and joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in the port of Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Doyle worked his way up to captain and retired in May 1973. RAILROAD MARINE GEORGE A. BUTLER Pensioner George A. Butler, 67, passed away July 28. A native of New Jersey, he began sailing as a deckhand in 1944 for the L-~__!!~'---"!!!!!!.-~ Erie-Lackawanna Railroad Marine Department and joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New York. Brother Butler resided in Eastport, Me. and began receiving his pension in November 1990. November 1966 �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 /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. /TB GROTON (Sheridan Transportation), June 15-Chairman Sidney Wallace, Secretary Timothy Dowd, Educational Director Pedro Santiago, Steward Delegate Mohamed Hussein. Chairman advised crew to get STCW identification certificate prior to October 1. He also reminded crewmembers to check expiration dates on z-card, clinic card and benzene card. Secretary stressed importance of attending tanker operation/ safety course at Piney Point for continued service aboard tankers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun urged all members to read Seafarers LOG for information on how to obtain STCW certificate. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for extraordinary efforts taken to keep crewmembers happy. Next port; Charleston, S.C. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), August 31-Chairman Ricardo Ramos, Secretary Eva Myers, Steward Delegate Kenneth Bethea. Chainnan advised crew ship under old contract until June 15, 1997. Bosun reminded all members to be on time for watches. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Bosun David Giaves. Educational director reminded members to obtain STCW identification certificates before October 1. He also urged crew to attend tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman suggested crew check with captain regarding transportation to and from ship while in port. He also thanked entire crew for jobs well done. Next port: Alliance, La. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship Co.), July 13-Chairman G. Corelli, Secretary Miguel Pabon, Educational Director Joe Burkette, Deck Delegate Michael Moore, Engine Delegate Victor Mondeci, Steward Delegate Leopoldo Ruiz. Chairman discussed shipboard regulations with crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun and crewmembers praised contracts department and union leadersh" r outstanding job done in tiating new agreement. Crewmembers noted October 1 deadline for STCW identification certificates. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), August 18-Chairman Terry Cowans, Secretary C. Michael Davalie, Deck Delegate Juan Rivas, Engine Delegate Oscar Padilla, Steward Delegate George Carter. Educational director encouraged all SIU members to upgrade at Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to clarify overtime rate for cleaning cargo holds. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), July 21-Chairman Frances Adams, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Irwin seau, Engine Delegate Almos Allen I , Steward Delegate Arthur Lang. Chairman thanked crew for safe and productive voyage. He urged all members to contribute to SPAD. Secretary thanked crewmembers for keeping ship clean and putting safety first at all times. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), August 29-Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director Charles Mispagel. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of Baltimore. Secretary urged all members to write their senators asking for their support of maritime legislation and to stop reflagging of U.S. ships. He also stressed importance of SPAD donations in upcoming presidential and congressional elections and encouraged crewmembers to support union activities whenever possible. Educational director noted necessity of attending tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for superb meals and asked contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits for SIU members. Next port: St. Croix, U.S.V.I. /TB GROTON (Sheridan Transportation), August 23-Chairman Sidney Wallace, Secretary Ali Hassan, Educational Director Pedro Santiago. Bosun reminded crewmembers to get STCW identification certificate before October l deadline. Secretary reported vessel scheduled for shipyard September 2. Educational director advised crewmembers of importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested lightweight coveralls for warm weather months. November 1996 LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 25-Chairman Robert Trigg, Secretary Robert Scott, Educational Director Kenneth Stratton. Secretary thanked union for excellent new contract. Treasurer announced $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new microwave, toaster, washing machine and dryer. Crew gave galley gang vote of thanks for outstanding salad bar. Steward Scott thanked union for "always being there" for members. Next port: Houston. OM/ COLUMBIA (OMI Corp.), August 18-Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Dana Zuls, Steward Delegate Mary Brayman. Bosun discussed proper procedure for holding shipboard union meetings. He also distributed outline of new contract to crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman urged all members to read SIU President Mike Sacco's monthly report in Seafarers LOG. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska, El Segundo and Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), August 27-Chairman M.A. Galliand, Secretary Henry Manning, Deck Delegate Robert Kindrick, Engine Delegate David Dunkin, Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman noted new mattresses and pillows received and issued to all crewmembers. He reported ship will dock in Houston for six days before sailing to Aorida and New Orleans. Bosun informed crew that ship will reduce its speed to allow tropical storm to pass. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done preparing excellent food. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), August 22-Chairman Steve Kastel, Secretary Julio Roman Jr., Educational Director Thomas Hogan, Deck Delegate James Inskeep, Steward Delegate Bob Racklin. Chairman asked crewmembers to consider increasing their SPAD donations when signing vacation forms. He thanked entire crew for good voyage and hard work. Secretary also encouraged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director urged crewmembers to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center and continue writing members of Senate to ask for their support of maritime revitalization legislation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), August 25Chairman Richard Moss, Secretary Larry Ewing, Educational Director Daniel Johnson. Chairman announced ship will pay off upon arrival in port of Charleston, S.C. Educational director advised crew on importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. SEA-LAND QUALITY (Sea-Land Service), August 19-Chairrnan Ronald W. Dailey, Secretary T.J. Smith, Educational Director Angel Hernandez, Deck: Delegate Martin P. Rosen, Engine Delegate Jaime Landeira, Steward Delegate Ossie D. Statham. Bosun noted he will sign off ship in port of Charleston, S.C. He stated captain is looking into why lounge chairs ordered for crew lounge have not been received. Educational director reminded crew of importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman requested crew rewind videotapes after viewing. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Port Everglades, Aa., Houston and Jacksonville, Aa. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), August 27-Chairman Evan J. Bradley, Secretary Ray C. Agvulos, Educational Director Charles C. Henley, Deck Delegate Chris Taylor, Engine Delegate Ronald Giannini, Steward Delegate Richard Casuga. Chairman announced ship heading for U.S. after shuttling in the Far East. First port of call will be Tacoma, Wash. Crew discussed new contract and possibility of starting ship's fund. Steward gave special thanks to deck and engine department members for cooperation in keeping ship clean. He noted good crew and good trip. Engine and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck delegate. WILLAMETTE (Kirby Tankships), August 25-Chairman Billy Hill, Secretary Oscar Angeles, Educational Director Tracy Hill, Deck Delegate D. Endom, Engine Delegate Craig Croft, Steward Delegate Juan Gonzalez. Chairman announced payoff in Texas, and crew discussed formation of movie fund. Bosun asked all members signing off to clean rooms and replace linens. Treasurer announced $57 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun thanked all departments for excellent teamwork. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Steward delegate reminded crewmembers to clean up mess hall after breaks and night lunches. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. DUCHESS (Ocean Duchess, Inc.), September 19-Chainnan Robert Allen, Secretary Raymond Jones. Bosun advised deck gang to always wear support belts and bump caps while working on deck. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers working 12-to-4 watch asked others to keep noise down in passageways when they are trying to sleep. Crew asked contracts department to consider medical insurance cards. Point during time on beach. Treasurer announced $280 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman and crew commended Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and negotiating committee for terrific job on new ETC contract. Steward delegate and crew discussed new food arrangements with company. Crew noted quality of stores has improved, however, quantity seems to be reduced. Steward noted many items are completely depleted before end of store cyde. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent job preparing meals. Next ports: Osaka, Japan, Arun, Indonesia and Nagoya, Japan. LONG LINES (Transoceanic Cable), September 26-Chairman Hilary Dambrowsky, Secretary Jennifer Jim. Chairman announced ship A Blessing Aboard the S·L Crusader Chief Steward Gregory Melvin believes that some of the greatest benefits of being in the SIU are the diverse freedoms and liberties granted to American seamen. In above photo, unlicensed crewmembers and officers have formed a Christian fellowship group which meets nightly aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. They are (seated) Steward Utility Jose de los Santos, (standing, from left) AB Rios Razzi, 2nd Officer Milton Alvarez, Radio Officer Larry Pivic, Melvin and Chief Engineer Jean Hutchins. "What a blessing for officers and crew to come together in prayer and bible reading and also to pray to God for our respective unions," Melvin added in a note accompanying the photo. 1st LT. JACK LUMMUS(Amsea), September 1-Chairman Paul Griffin, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educational Director Peter K wasnjuk, Deck Delegate Billy D. Watson, Engine Delegate James Lloyd, Steward Delegate Ron James Davis. Crewmembers elected Bosun Griffin as new ship's chairman. Chairman discussed union benefits with members. Educational director urged members to take time to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $622.51 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Guam. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), September 1-Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary Donna Jean Clemons, Educational Director Angel Mercado, Deck Delegate John T. Emrich, Engine Delegate Samuel Garrett, Steward Delegate Mario Finne. Educational director reminded crewmembers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Crew discussed movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted several dishes they would like galley gang to prepare on occasion. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. JEB STUART(Waterman Steamship Co.), September 29-Chairman Floyd Perry, Secretary Howard G. Williams, Educational Director Nile J. Dean, Deck Delegate Charles J. Touzet Jr., Engine Delegate Brian Monnerjahn, Steward Delegate Byron Harris. Secretary noted everything running smoothly. He informed crewmembers on many activities available in Diego Garcia. Secretary requested crewmembers receive mail every week rather than every 10 days. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Special thanks was given to Chief Steward Williams for breakfast bar and enormous salad bar. Crew reported photos of shipboard activities are being sent to Seafarers WG. Next port: Diego Garcia. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), September 26-Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Joseph W. Stores, Deck Delegate Bernardo Cruz, Engine Delegate Ahmed N. Madari, Steward Delegate Allan Sim. Chairman reported new TV on order. Crew noted dirty water coming from ship's pipes and discussed use of water filters in galley and obtaining another source of drinking water for crewmembers. Chairman announced payoff on September 30. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), September IS-Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Bruce Smith, Deck Delegate Richard Lewis. Chairman noted most crewmembers will be signing off. He thanked everyone for successful tour. Bosun also expressed pride in deck gang and reminded those signing off to clean room for next crewmember. He urged everyone to have a safe vacation and stressed importance of SPAD donations. Secretary announced vacation forms available aboard ship. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Piney scheduled for drydock in February 1997. Educational director encouraged members to continue their maritime studies in Piney Point Treasurer announced $1,200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman noted barbecue scheduled for Friday, September 27. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman Steamship Co.), September 29Chairman Anjelo Urti, Secretary Lonnie Gamble, Educational Director Donald Peterson, Deck Delegate Sant Persaud, Engine Delegate Robert Hines, Steward Delegate Michael Brown. Chairman reminded crewmembers to check zcard renewal date and get STCW identification certificate before October 1. Educational director advised engine department members they have until February to receive STCW certificate. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into requiring Waterman to pay travel time between U.S. and overseas ports. Steward asked crewmembers to help keep crew lounge clean. He requested that crewmembers not eat meals in lounge during meal hours. Next ports: Malaga and Rota, Spain and Jacksonville, Aa. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), September 29-Chairman Jerry McLean, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John Trent, Deck Delegate Jim Marsh, Engine Delegate Jack Singletary, Steward Delegate Thomas Kreis. Chairman urged all members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Educational director noted ship receiving Seafarers WGs on time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested vacuum cleaner to help keep carpet in rooms and passageways clean. Steward asked all crewmembers to return dirty dishes to galley after use. Next port: Houston. Seafarers LOG 19 - �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN - This is a summary of the annual report of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, EIN 51-6097856 for the year ended December 31, 1995. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee RetireD.Iertt Income Security Act of 1974 (BRISA): Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $1,106,013. These expenses included $191,298 in administrative expenses and $914,715 in benefits paid to participants and benefieiaries. A total of 1,711 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 $12,273,603 as of December 31, 1995, compared to $11,202~695 as ofJanuary 1, 1995. During the plan year, the pJan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,070.908. This increase includes unrealized appreciation in the value of the plan assets; that is, the difference between the current 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 any assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $2, 176,921, including employer contributions of$ 0, a gain of $375,527 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $1,801,394. 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 YQu have the right to receive a copy of tbe 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. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, 4. service provider and trustee informatfon ~d .5. reportable transactions. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is the plan administrator, at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) &99-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.00 for the full annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. Yon 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 (Trustees of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 520 I Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) and~ the U.S. Department 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 sh(.)uld be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration. Department of Labor 200 Constitution A venue, N .W., Washington, DC 20210. Supplemental Information In accordance with the Department of Labor regulations, the net realized gain of $375,527 as shown above, is computed on the ..market-to-market basis"-the difference between the sales price and the market value of an asset as of January 1, 1995; or, if the asset was both acquired disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sales price. Included in the appreciation in fair market value of investments Qf $1,471,562 as shown on the financial statements is $177 ,055 of net realized gain, which is the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the assets. and Pensioners · Continued from page 17 Boatman Padgett sailed in the deck department on both inland and deep sea vessels. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Padgett resides in Lake Park, Ga. .----.,,,,..--=-__, CHESTER J. SADOWSKI, 65, began sailing with the MC&S in 1966 from the port ofWil1 mington, =------""'-""'Calif., before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. His first ship was the President Taft, operated by American President Lines. The New Jersey native later transferred to the inland division and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Sadowsksi last sailed aboard the Sea Robin, a Crowley tug. From 1951to1955, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Boatman Sadowski lives in Paramount, Calif. WILLIAM G. TUCKER, 55, started his career with the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Houston. Boatman Tucker sailed in the deck department and upgraded his 20 Seafarers LOG skills at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a captain aboard the Admiral Jackson, operated by Crescent Towing of Mobile. Boatman Tucker makes his home in Chickasaw, Ala. GREAT LAKES r-~;;;p;;~----, MOSID A. ELGARMI, 52, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of Detroit. ==--=='-'::,__-= . = Brother Elgarmi sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Co., last serving as a member of the steward department aboard the Walter J. McCarthy. Born in Yemen, he has retired to Dearborn, Mich. EDWARD H. LISZEWSKI, 65, first sailed with the SIU in 1959 from the port of Detroit aboard the S.J. Murphy, operated by Buckeye Steamship. The Ohio native worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Kinsman Enterprise, a Kinsman Lines, Inc. vessel. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Liszewski makes his home in Seminole, Fla. RAILROAD MARINE ANTONIO TREGLIA, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1977 from the port of New York. Born in Italy, he worked primarily for New York Cross Harbor Railroad. Brother Treglia lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. Know Your Rights FINANCIALREPORTS. 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 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 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. 1be 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. Und~r 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 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 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. November 1996 �II Labor News II Steelworkers Return to Bridgestone/Firestone While Campaign for Justice Continues The fight for justice at Bridgestone/Firestone by Steelworkers continues even though the company has called back nearly all union members who had been on strike for more than two years. Steelworkers at Bridgestone/Firestone who have returned to their jobs are working without a contract and under company-imposed work rules-including mandatory 12-hour shifts. According to John Sellers, the newly elected executive vice president of the Steelworkers' Rubber/Plastics Industry Conference (formerly known as the United Rubber Workers of America before merging with the Steelworkers), the union's international campaign against Bridgestone/Firestone will continue because at least 150 workers remain off the job. Those who were not called back by the company were fired on strike-related charges or as part of a long-standing harassment campaign against union members, stated Sellers. The remaining 2,300 Steelworkers who were illegally replaced by the tire maker are back at work or have been notified to return to their jobs. Other unresolved issues include negotiating and securing a fair contract, gaining millions of dollars in back pay the company owes the strikers as dictated by National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rulings and settling the company's unfair labor practices. (In November 1995. the NLRB ruled that the strike was partially due to Bridgestone/Firestone's unfair labor practices.) In July 1994, after Bridgestone/Firestone refused to negotiate a fair contract, 4,000 Steelworkers walked off the job. Ten months later, workers halted the strike. However, during the walkout, the company hired 2,300 scabs to replace the Steelworkers. The Steelworkers began an international 'black flag' campaign against the Japanese-owned company early this year. In auto racing, a black flag is the traditional symbol used for disqualifying a car for outrageous rules violations. The 'black flag' campaign .is asking consumers not to buy Bridgestone/Firestone products or use services offered by the company until all workers are returned to work with back wages and a fair contract. The 'black flag' list includes Bridgestone/Firestone tires, golfing equipment, sporting goods and auto repairs at Bridgestoneowned MasterCare centers around the U.S. and Canada. According to the Steelworkers, the campaign has been an overwhelming success in that it has generated resolutions by 31 government bodies around the U.S. which have agreed to stop purchasing Bridgestone/Firesto e products. It also has caused many tire dealerships, including e largest in New Orleans, to refuse to sell Bridgestone tires. St orkers have handed out fliers at MasterCare centers in the U.S. -and Canada describing the company's abuse of its workers. the environment and workplace safety standards found in Bridgestone/Firestone plants. Additionally, in July, the United Auto Workers and the Saturn division of General Motors agreed to support the Steelworkers by allowing their customers to request an alternate brand of union-made at no charge, in place of the Firestone tires on new Saturn cars. Lane Kirkland Nominated by President Clinton To the U.S. Institute for Peace President Clinton has nominated retired AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland to serve on the board of directors of the United States Institute of Peace. Established in 1948, the Institute of Peace is a bipartisan board which promotes global peace and the resolution of international conflict, without violence, through education, training. research and public information. Kirkland retired as head of the nation's federation of labor-a position he held for 16 years-on August 1, 1995. After graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. in 1942, Kirkland sailed as a member of the Masters, Mates and Pilots during World War II as a deck officer. He served aboard seven different vessels carrying ammunition and other materiel. Following the war, he worked on the research staff for the American Federation of Labor. Kirkland held several other positions within the labor movement before being elected secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO in 1969. He held the position until his election as president during the AFL-CIO's 1979 convention. Happy Birthday, Joe! SIU Retiree Joe Bidzilya often prepares breakfast for fellow pensioners who visit the union hall in Philadelphia. Recently, his union brothers and sisters showed their appreciation by throwing a birthday party for Bidzilya, who turned 67 on September 19. "We just wanted to show him how much his kindness means to us," noted Bidzilya's friend Jean O'Keefe, who sent this photo to the Seafarers LOG. November 1996 Hard Work and Dedication Keep LNG Aries in Top Form Spotless decks and engines as well as superb meals are the pride of Seafarers aboard the LNG Aries. Many hours of hard work and dedication displayed by SIU members contribute to the overall efficiency of the 19-year·old liquified natural gas (LNG) car· rier. Bosun Zaine Basir and members of the deck gang make sure to keep the outward cleanliness and beauty of the Aries at a peak. QMEDs Jose Quinones and Dasril Panko and other members of the engine department expertly QMED Jose Quinones points to the maintain the LNG ship's power May 1996 Seafarers LOG which anplants to ensure they are in top nounced final approval for the export form to keep up with the vessel's of Alaskan oil. busy schedule of shuttling cargo between Tobata, Japan and Bontang, Indonesia. Chief Steward Robert Brown, Chief Cook Albert Fretta and SAs Andre Graham and Wtlliam Smalley create healthy menus to help keep the crew fit and bestequipped to perform their shipboard duties. Each voyage between Japan and Indonesia takes approximately five days, including 12 hours each for loading and discharging the cargo. However hectic the routine, Seafarers still find ways to enjoy shipboard life. Regular union meetings and crew cookouts provide Seafarers the chance to discuss issues involving the union and the state of the maritime industry and catch up on other news. According to Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who recently visited Aries crewmembers while the ship was in Japan, the new contract recently ratified by the LNG crews has contributed to a sense of well-being aboard the vessel, operated by ETC. "The crew is very pleased with Reporting to the deck to assist with a cargo transfer is AB Ralph Neal. the new five-year contract which will keep the ETC fleet sailing at least until the year 2000," Hall stated. "The Aries crew has a bunch of good union guys who are hard workers and maintain a nice, clean ship," he added. Like its LNG sister ships (the Aquarius, Capricorn, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Taurus and Virgo), the Aries is more than 900 feet long and has a cargo capacity of AB Angel Perez notes the impor125,000 cubic meters of liquified tance of SPAD contributions to the Chief Steward Robert Brown natural gas. future of the maritime industry. cleans up the galley after lunch. Participating in the union meeting aboard ship are (from left) AB Donald Peterson, AB Amir Kasim, SA Andre Graham, QMED Dasril Panko and SA William Smalley. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ~~~--~"-O EAFA R ERS HARRY LUND EB ERG SCHOOL .I. ~ ~~.~ ..tiTI_) .. ~f~~ LIFEBOAT CLASS 554 ;:~~';-~~~,~.~::~; Trainee Lifeboat Class 554-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 554 are (from left, kneeling} Joshua Strong, James Gasca, Glenn CoursEm II, Todd Buckingham, Tom Gilliland (instructor), (second row) Kevin Collins, Timothy Revere, Joshua Faughn and Bobby Norman. Upgraders Lifeboat Chris Earhart (right) is congratulated by his instructor, Ed Boyer, after completing the upgraders lifeboat course on September 17. Marine Electrical Maintenance-Members of the October 3 graduating marine electrical maintenance class are (from left) Mark Jones (instructor). Douglas Felton. Mohamed Alsinai. William Carlin and Herman Manzer. Advanced Firefighting-Upgrading SIU members completing tne advanced firefighting course on October 1 are (from left, kneeling) Christine Carneal, James Sieger, Christopher Beaton, Michael Briscoe, Charlie Durden, Tony Albright, Fred Gibson, Gary Vargas, (second row) Luke Pierson, Chris Earhart, Daniel Boutin, Troy Williams, Jamie Hall, Charles Fincher, Andre Carriere, Rolfe Welch, Charles Sandino, (third row) Shawn Orr, Jim Larkin, Ben Magliano, Darren Collins, Nick Marcantonio, Brien Collins, Jon Beard, John Smith (instructor), Roger Wasserman, Robert Walker. Tankerman Assistant Cargo Course-Seafarers completing the tankerman assistant course (formerly known as the tanker operation/safety course) on October 1 are (from left, kneeling) Jim Shaffer (instructor), John Bimpong, Alex Resendez Ill, Clyde Luse, Kevin Kellum, Jerome Torrence, Alex Lottig, Herbert Lopez-Rodriguez, (second row) Stephen Treece. Francisco Sousa , Larry Johnson, Daniel Rhodes, Hasan Rahman, Mohamed Muthanna. Mary Lopez, Michael Amador, (third row) Anthony Jones, Christopher Kirchhofer, Oscar Wiley Jr., Donald Morgan, James McDaniel, Ronnie Day, Gerhard Schwarz and Eric Orscheln. 1 22 Seafarers LOG Tankerman Assistant Cargo Course-Also graduating from the tankerman assistant cargo couse on October 1 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Miller, Oscar Gamboa, Virgilio Donghit, Fernando Mesa, Americo Garayua, Alexander Bermudez, Romualdo Medina, (second row) George Khan, Darrel Koonce Jr., Keith Kirby, Rudy Santos, Scott Kucharski, Brian Lu, Oscar Angeles, Reynaldo Gonzalez, Ben Cusic (instructor), {third row) Michael Merrell, Richard Spence, Thomas Howell, Joseph Caruso, Bryan Bush, Bernard Hutcherson, Donald Huffman and Victor Bermudez. November 1996 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 • 1991 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start · Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler April 21 May30 QMED January 13 April 2 Power Plant Maintenance November4 December13 Marine Electrical Maintenance I June30 Augusts Diesel Engine Technology January6 February 13 Refrigeration Systems February 17 March27 The following is the schedule for classes beginning between November and December 1996-as well as some courses proposed for the first half of 1997-atthe 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 the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. · · · ~lease no~that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the · · : .'. ffieml?.¢;Bh1I?.;/:. :~e . . maritime .industry and-in times of conflict-the .:n.aU¢µf$. :~¢µnty. ·:·: ·:.:. . :.:. .'.: ·~:!µ~ients art,~~ding,. any of these classes should check in the Saturday theif course's start date. The courses listed here will begin ·. promptly on the morning of the start dates. Inland Upgrading Courses · bejore Det:k. ujiliralling Courses Start Start Date of Course Date Completion Able Seaman - Special January6 January24 Tank, .~arge PIC February 10 February21 Date of Co~pl~~n , .. · ..... ''"Safefy ~ny t:oatses. Msrch4 February7 January27 . January'fr······· ·· .....·.... ,........January 17 , ,J.t;ebrtiary 10 February 21 Bridge Management . . . . . iadilr.t'.!eHtticatfon·. . Start Course i1iz,,, . , l~J>niar,y ~d;;, Date Date of Completion November18 December 16 December20 December2 Decemberl3 November22 Tankennan Assistant €argo Novepiber+l8 (fonnerly Tanker Operation/Safety) January 13 . . . . Start ".... Date of Date Co~J>letion January27 Februacy27 March3 April 3 Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ---==-=---------------------~ (Last) (First) Address _ _________ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _(Middle) _ _ _ __ (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Telephone_..__ __,___ _ _ __ (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D Date of B i r t h - - - - - - - - - -· (Month/Day/Year) Lakes Member D This schedule includes a tentative list of some ofthe da~~es proposed/or the first half of 1997. The Lundeberg Sch()ol is in the process offinali~ifig its complete course schedule for nextyear. As soon.as ~he dates are secured, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues ofthe Seafarers LOG. · With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted slwwing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY ofeach 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 END COURSE DA TE DATE Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Home Port U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No -----------Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? 0Yes DNo If yes, course~s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? DYes D No November 1996 Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: DYes DNo Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Date 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. Ifyou have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 11/96 Seafarers LOS 23 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. Cookout Raises Funds for 'Big Daddy's' Grandson 'Brotherhood of the Sea' Aids Craig Samuels' Battle with Cancer • W HEN WORD SPREAD through the Mobile, Ala. Seafarers hall that "Big Daddy's" grandson was ill, the Brotherhood of the Sea responded in full force. John E. ''Big Daddy" Samuels, who passed away in April, was loved and respected by the membership in the Gulf port. Shortly after the retired recertified steward's death, members heard that his grandson, Craig, was battling cancer. Craig is the son of DEU Kevin Samuels. ''This is 'Big Daddy's' grandson. We have to do something," recalled Chief Cook Alvin Smith, when he heard the news. ''That's the way everybody felt. We have a family down here. If you're a Seafarer, then we are all related," the galley gang member added. The members in the Mobile hall organized a fund-raising barbecue to help defray some of the expenses associated with Craig's (known as "CJ") illness. Among these expenses are payment for teachers for the homebound thirdgrader, medical assistants and other related items. Diagnoses a Year Ago According to Craig's mother, Shannon, the 9-year-old has been battling non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in his chest for more than a year. He has been taking chemotherapy weekly and was taking radiation treatments until he developed a brain infection called aspergillosis during his illness. "He's a fighter," Mrs. Samuels noted. "We were scared when the infection developed, but Craig has been battling back. The prognosis for him is good." Seafarers who know and worked with Kevin were not aware of how sick Craig was because "Kevin didn't want to talk about it," Mrs. Samuels stated. Snowball Effect However, when word got out, things began to happen fast. "I was told by [retired steward] Fred Lindsey when he was taking a donation for the family," Smith recalled. "Then things started to snowball as Beverly Bourgot, widow of charter member Tony Bourgot, offered her help with the barbecue. Shown at Disney World with Dale is Craig Samuels. The Make a Wish Foundation sent the entire Samuels famify to the Magic Kingdom after Craig· was diagnosed with cancer. Taking a break from the activities for Craig Samuels are (from left) Pensioner Samuel Lofton, SA Robert Shamburger, Chief Cook James Harris, Recertified Steward Albert Coale Jr., Patrolman Ed Kelly, Recertified Steward Collie Loper and AB Rodriguez Gonzales. everyone, including Dave (Carter, port agent), Ed (Kelly, patrolman) and Alicia (Lorge, secretary), went to work on it." With the help of local unions, businesses and a cancer support organization, the barbecue was set up for October 18 at the Mobile hall. Local television, radio and newspapers publicized the event. "We were so excited," Mrs. Samuels remembered. "We couldn't believe they would do that." Kevin also was involved in the planning until he caught a job on the Liberty Star a week prior to the barbecue. able to do anything to help." Chief Cook Smith recalled how tired he was around 6 p.m. when he saw still another car pull into the parking lot to order a dinner. ''They said they had seen us on the 5 o'clock news before they went out for dinner. They decided they were going to have dinner with us. It was very gratifying to hear them say that. We were all tired, but we weren't tired then. "All of us felt good for having played a part in helping Craig." Plenty of Volunteers Although Craig's prognosis is good, his mother said he still faces years of treatment. He continues to have chemotherapy weekly, while talcing 15 different medications for both the cancer and the infection. Mrs. Samuels stated the brain infection is expected to be gone in a year if there are no further complications. Once he is cured of that, Craig will be able to resume radiation treatments to help the chemotherapy knock out the cancer. During his year-long battle, he has been in and out of the hospital and lost a year of schooling. As noted above, the foundation was created to help the More than 30 Seafarers, retirees and their family members began grilling chickens and preparing baked beans and potato salad in the morning. Some people came to the union hall to pick up their food, while other meals were delivered to homes and businesses by Seafarers. With more than 600 meals served, the fund.raiser cleared in excess of $1,600 for a foundation set up in Craig's name. "All of us felt good about what we were doing for Craig and his family," noted Chief Cook Bertrand Wright. "It meant a lot to all of us-to be Future Looks Good Samuels family with the expenses associated with Craig's illness. Anyone wishing to help Craig and his family may do so by sending a donation to the Craig Samuels Foundation in care of Magnolia Federal Bank, 1950 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36606. "Everyone has been so helpful," Mrs. Samuels added. "We just ask that you keep Craig in your prayers." Craig Samuels' mother, Shannon (right), thanks volunteers during the fund-raising barbecue for her son. With her are Francis Lewis-Taylor from a Mobile, Ala. cancer-support group and Recertified Steward Albert Coale Jr. Ready to get the barbecue started are (from left) Port Agent Dave Carter, Recertified Steward Herbert Scypes and Chief Cook Bertrand Wright. Among those volunteeringforthe barbecue was AB Errick Nobles. � 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 November 1996 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU MOURNS PASSING OF JOE SACCO UNIONS PUSH WORKER ISSUES AS ELECTION DAY APPROACHES HEART ATTACK CLAIMS EXEC. VP JOE SACCO SIU CONTRACTED COMPANIES APPLY FOR SLOTS IN MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM UNION ELECTION VOTING START NOVEMBER 1 JONES ACT STAYS INTACT AS CONGRESS ADJOURNS SEAFARER DUKEHART APPOINTED TO USCG’S MERCHANT MARINE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE UNION SEEKS 3-WATCH SYSTEM IN USCG INLAND REGS HALL CENTER’S TOWBOAT INDUSTRY GROUP FOCUSES ON FUTURE TRAINING NEEDS GLOBAL SENTINEL CREW HELPS UNITE THE WORLD ITF SECURES $110,000 IN BACK PAY FOR FRIGHTENED CREW ORGULF BOATMEN PLY MIDWESTERN WATERS FRIGID CONDITIONS DO NOT STOP MATTHIESEN FROM FINISHING GREENLAND RESUPPLY MISSION AT WORK ABOARD THE JEB STUART SIU SHIP STANDS READY IN DIEGO GARCIA SUMNER CREW FOCUSES ON SAFETY CONERN AND CARE DISPLAYED IN DAILY SHIPBOARD JOBS AB LASSAK READY FOR SAILING ABOARD DATA COLLECTION SHIP SUPPORT GROWS FOR STRAWBERRY PICKERS HARD WORK AND DEDICATION KEEP LNG ARIES IN TOP FORM COOKOUT RAISES FUNDS FOR ‘BIG DADDY’S GRANDSON ‘BROTHERHOOD OF THE SEA’ AIDS CRAIG SAMUELS’ BATTLE WITH CANCER 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 11/01/1996 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. 11 1996 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/59d9d134739402bf9544d8f79c5e8317.pdf 191afe21ccf62a01aeb950ff3332368f PDF Text Text Seafarers last month crewed two tankers recently acquired by Maritrans, Inc. SIU members signed aboard the Allegiance in Texas and the Perseverance in Puerto Rico. Above (from left), Chief Steward Tyler Laffitte, SA John Noel, AB Jennifer Avrill and QMED Howard Allen report to the Allegiance. Page 3. Philly Shipyard to Reopen 9 New Containerships Planned -----------Page2 Paul Hall Center Develops Inland Apprentice Program _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 USNS Fisher Christened in New Orleans .., �I President's Report I Internet Excitement Last month, the SIU made an exciting announcement about the debut of our site on the world wide web. This is a big step forward for the union, not simply because we established a presence on the internet but because we have a very useful, informative site. That is a result of careful planning, patience and hard work. Rather than rushing headlong into this project, the union emphasized quality, accuracy and effectiveness--characteristics that typically take a while to develop. Early returns seemingly back up this opinion. During its initial weeks, our site received more than Michael Sacco 6,000 visits or "hits,. which I'm told is a good start. For SIU members, our web site, located at www.seafarers.org, provides lots of pertinent information. Seafarers who are connected to the site may read articles from the current issue or back issues of the Seafarers LOG. They may check descriptions of the courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. They also may delve into the early history of American maritime labor and the initial years of the SIU. Or, if they have something to say about a current issue affecting the maritime industry, they may send an electronic-mail message to their senators and congressional representative. These are just some of the site's features. Of course. with tens of millions of people around the world dialing into the internet. we also hope our site gives visitors, including potential new members, a positive profile of the union. That is why the site contains an overview of the SIU, electronic and printable pledge cards, and more. While there are many good things about www.seafarers.org, it is important to recognize that the site cannot be all things to all people. It will be a work in progress, though, and we will take advantage of the new technologies best suited to serving the membership as they become available. However, I want to make it crystal clear that the site in no way will be used to exclude Seafarers who do not have a computer. All of the booklets, applications and forms needed by SIU members will remain available through traditional sources such as the union halls, the LOG and headquarters. Much of it also will be reproduced on our web site, for the benefit of those Seafarers who utilize the interne . As we developed the union's web site, I learned many things about the way people now use computers. For some, it takes the place of writing a letter or making a telephone call. For others, it is a source of information, like an encyclopedia, a magazine or a newspaper. For instance, if you're checking on a piece of legislation, the U.S. Congress offers a site that can help obtain nearly instant updates, called "thomas.loc.gov." If you want to know the latest about the AFL-CIO's campaign against proposed fast-track legislation, "www.aflcio.org" features detailed, well-presented information. If you're interested in the International Transport Workers Federation's activities against runaway-flag shipping, you don't have to call its headquarters in London or wait for an overseas mailing to find out. Instead, you might check its site at "www.itf.org.uk." The internet also has many other plusses. It can be a gold mine for relaxing by researching your favorite hobby. It has a wealth of educational material aimed at kids. When you get right down to it, there probably isn't a legitimate topic one can think of that isn't covered somewhere on the internet. That wealth of information, combined with its immediate availability, truly is mind-boggling. Unfortunately, there is a down side to all of this technology and expansion. Perhaps more so than any other source of information, the internet puts the responsibility on consumers to be selective in what they read -and in what they believe. As someone told me when the SIU first considered developing our site, the best thing about the internet is that anyone can create a web site. And the worst thing? Anyone can create a web site. To put it in plain English, there's a lot of junk on the internet. Sick individuals promote things like child pornography. Others who also have bad intentions are deceitful, using tricks to invade people's privacy and defraud them by stealing their credit card and social security numbers. In some nationally reported cases, people have gone so far as to use the internet as an aid in planning and carrying out kidnappings and murders. Of less concern but found more often on the computers, other individuals purport to be sources of news or otherwise revealing information, when in fact they are nothing more than rumor mongers or libelous cowards. The bottom line on the internet, for now, is to consider the source of what you read. Take it with a grain of salt when you don't know who the person or group may be. because currently there is little or no regulation of the internet. People can get away with deception and lies because our nation's legal and governmental communities still are struggling to determine fair, enforceable guidelines. Those concerns are serious, but they certainly don't outweigh the enormous potential for positive use of the internet. We in the SIU arc excited to be on line, and we intend to be part of that positive growth by being responsible, accurate, accountable members of the internet community. 2 Seafarers LOG MSC1s Perkins Calls U.S. Fleet 'Vital' to National Defense The commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently reiterated his support of the U.S. merchant marine and stressed the importance of sealift. Speaking October 23 at the Propeller Club of Washington, D.C., Vice Admiral James B. Perkins said, "I continually point out the proud record of the American merchant marine who willingly put themselves in harm's way to get materials delivered." A longtime backer of the U.S. merchant marine, Perkins reminded the audience of military, maritime and congressional representatives that in times of national conflict, 95 percent of what is needed during the crisis by U.S. forces is moved by sea. Perkins noted the key role played by Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and prepositioning vessels, many of which are crewed by SIU members. ''We learned our lesson well in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield. The vessels are vital. They aren't just sitting around collecting rust. These are well-maintained ships that participate in many exercises throughout the year to ensure their readiness. "Prepositioning ships located throughout the world are wonderful deterrents for the U.S. It sends a very, very powerful message to any nation. When 17,000 U.S. Marines are ready to drop in on you, well, you think twice before causing trouble," stated Perkins. The admiral reported the MSC is committed to the future of the maritime industry as is evident in the new Bob Hope-class vessels being constructed in U.S. shipyards. "New vessels are being built. Everything is on track, and they will be coming out of the At the Propeller Club in Washington, D.C., Vice Admiral James Perkins, head of the Military Sealift Command, discusses the vital role of sealift. shipyard for the christening ceremonies very soon," he said. "Whether it is a permanent, long- or short-term contract, we want our American-flag ships manned with American merchant mariners," concluded Perkins. Howard Schulman, SIU Counsel, Dies at 79 A dedicated labor lawyer and former general counsel to the SIU, Howard Schulman died October 23, 1997 in Sharon, Conn. of kidney failure resulting from a bout with cancer. He was 79. His association with the labor movement and the maritime industry dates back to his youth. In order to put himself through St. John's Law School in New York, he worked during the day as a longshoreman. Later, when he was appointed a commissioner for the port of New York/New Participatian in union activities Jersey, he found himself over- was one of the topics addressed by Howard Schulman at the 1971 seeing activities on the very SIUNA convention. same docks where he used to work. He never forgot his days tivity for working men and hauling cargo from ships and women. never lost his concern and sensiIn offering his condolences to the family, SIU President Michael Sacco remembered Schulman as the type of lawyer you wanted on your side, whether in the courtroom or in a contract dispute. "He was a great strategist," Sacco said. "He had one of the most talented legal minds I have ever worked with on any beef since I've been with the SIU. He is going to be sorely missed." "Howard was a good friend," recalled Herb Brand, who worked closely with the late SIU President Paul Hall ~n a variety of roles. "He was devoted, loyal and dedicated to his work on behalf of maritime workers." Schulman was a former pres- Continued on page 9 Agreement Will Reopen Philadelphia Shipyard 9 New Ships Planned for First 5 Years of Operation The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania announced late last month that an agreement has been reached with Kvaerner, ASA of Norway to reopen the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard and convert it into a facility to build commercial vessels. The project, which is expected to create as many as 6,000 jobs in the southeastern Pennsylvania region, should begin by the summer of 1998. Funding for the conversion of the yard will total $399 million, with money coming from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Port the Delaware River Authority, the city of Philadelphia, the federal government as well as an economic development fund being established by CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads. In a press release, Gov. Tom Ridge announced other sources for additional funding have been identified and are involved in active negotiations. In its agreement, K vaerner -Europe's largest shipbuilder -has committed to invest $165 million into the yard over a 15year period. The company's original plans call for nine containerships to be built in the yard during the first five years, with Kvaerner buying three of them itself. However, company officials stat- ed they ultimately plan to expand the yard to produce more complex vessels like cruise ships and making it the "number one" shipyard in the U.S. Upon learning the details of the agreement, SIU President Michael Sacco noted the reopening means the world's shipbuilders and investors are looking at American workers and yards to produce world-class vessels that can fly the U.S. flag. Sacco, who also serves as the head of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (which includes several shipbuilding unions) added, "We will be monitoring this situation very closely. We will work to help make this announcement of a new major domestic shipyard a reality so union members will be involved in these new jobs to build and crew the latest vessels to sail the seas." .· Adding his support for the deal was John Snow, chairman of CSX, which owns SIU-contracted Sea-Land Service. "The commonwealth's forward-looking agreement with K vaerner offers Jones Act carriers and customers an opportunity to move a whole new technology base," Snow stated. "You are combining a worldclass shipbuilder with what soon will be a world-class shipbuilding facility." Volume 591 Number 11 November 1997 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers WG (ISSN l 086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 520 l 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 Auth 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. llo11ember 1997 �SIU Crewmembers: 'The More .Jobs, The Better!' Seafarers Sign On Newly Acquired Tankers Seafarers reported for work last month aboard two newly contracted tankers. SIU members in La Porte, Texas crewed the Allegiance, while Seafarers in Yauco, Puerto Rico climbed aboard the Perseverance. Both vessels recently were purchased by SIU-contracted Maritrans, Inc. from Sun Transport, Inc. "I think this is great. The more jobs, the better," said Recertified Steward Tyler Laffitte, who signed on the Allegiance. "When you see new jobs like this, the membership knows the union is really pulling for them, securing all kinds of jobs." DEU Angel Figueroa, also joining the crew of the Allegiance, said he views the new Shortly after signing aboard the Perseverance, ABs Justin Savage (on ladder) and Mark DePalma prepare to paint the stack while the vessel is docked in Yauco, Puerto Rico. employment opportunities for Seafarers as a chance to further enhance the union's reputation for providing qualified manpower. "I'm ready to get out there and show them what we can do. There won't be any messing around, just 110-percent effort," he stated. "Seeing more jobs for the members makes me feel great. The more the better." The Allegiance (formerly the New York Sun) is scheduled to transport gasoline and diesel fuel among ports including Houston; Jacksonville, Fla.; Port Everglades, Fla.; Aruba and Panama. Built in 1980, it weighs 34,000 tons. The 16-year-old Perseverance (formerly the Philadelphia Sun), also weighing 34,000 tons, is slated to carry lube oil to ports in Puerto Rico, Delaware, Texas and North Carolina. In addition to the tankers, Maritrans also purchased two tugbarge units from Sun Transport that will be crewed by Seafarers. And, in late August, Maritrans bought two 40,000-ton, doublehulled tankers from Chevron, as reported last month in the Seafarers LOG. SIU members will crew all of those vessels in the near future. During shipboard meetings last month on the former Sun tankers, SIU officials reviewed the contracts covering the vessels, including benefits, and answered crewmembers' questions. "We covered the contract from beginning to end, and it clearly means better wages and benefits for the crew," noted SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee, who met with the Allegiance's crew. Steve Ruiz, SIU port agent in San Juan, said Seafarers "made a smooth transition" in assuming their posts aboard the Perseverance. ''The crew seemed particularly impressed with the medical benefits and the pension plan. Our guys are very happy, because this means they have additional ships steadily coming to Puerto Rico." Above: The first Seafarers to sail aboard the Allegiance include (seated, from left) SA John Noel, Chief Steward Tyler Laffitte, AB M. Zuniga, Chief Cook G. Hopper, (standing) AB Omaha Redda, SIU Patrolman Mike Calhoun, AB Matt Garcia, QMED Howard Allen, AB Jennifer Avril!, Bosun Sam Poreachea, DEU Angel Figueroa, AB Ray Johns and QMED J. Wesley. Crewing of the Perseverance in Puerto Rico draws a positive reaction from (front row, from left) SA C. Ransom, AB Walter Wilde, AB Adam Talucci, SIU Patrolman Vict<;>r Nunez, (back row) SIU Port Agent Steve Ruiz, QMED Monroe Monseur, AB Patrick Neary, AB Mark DePalma and AB Justin Savage. Second 'Bob Hope' RO/RO Christened in New Orleans Union Will Crew Prepositioning Ship USNS Fisher Hall Center Developing Program For Entry-Level Inland Sealarers Schedul~d to .be crewed by ~eaf.arers when. it is delivered to the Military Sealift Command next year, the Representatives of SIU-contracted inland companies, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and the union met last month in Piney Point, Md., where they proposed an unlicensed inland apprentice program. The center hopes to implement the new curriculum sometime in 1998, pending approval by the U.S. Coast Guard and other Seafarerscontracted inland companies. This proposal is a direct result of the joint meeting of the center's deep sea and inland advisory boards earlier this year, noted Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the school. It was developed by a working group composed of volunteers from that meeting. "Once again, it's evident that the advisory board meetings generate valuable ideas and input from many sources," stated Eglinton, who pointed out this year's conference included representatives from the union, the Hall Center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship, the Coast Guard, U.S. Maritime Signifying more future job opportunities for SIU members, the third in a series of prepositioning ships being constructed for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) was christened last month in Louisiana. The USNS Fisher, a Bob Hope-class ship built at Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans, is slated for delivery to MSC in 1998. The 950-foot roll-on/rolloff (RO/RO) vessel will join MSC's Afloat Prepositioning Force upon delivery and will be operated by SIU-contracted Maersk Limited of Norfolk, Va. The Fisher is part of a multi-ship package intended to satisfy the nation's need for increased sealift capacity as identified after the Persian Gulf War. That package includes three other Bob Hope ships and four Watson-class vessels also operated by Maersk Limited, with delivery dates ranging between 1998 and 2000; five converted RO/ROs operated by SIU-contracted Bay Ship Management; and six other new builds for which charters have not been awarded. The 13 vessels operated by Maersk and Bay Ship represent hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers. Avondale is constructing the Bob Hope ships already under contract, with the USNS Bob Hope having been christened in March. The National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego is building the Watson-class ships, November 1997 Administration, U.S. Military Sealift Command, National Transportation Safety Board, and SIUcontracted deep sea, Great Lakes and inland operators. Previous advisory board meetings have led to the development of the center's Coast Guard-approved training record book (TRB) and the revamp of the deep sea curriculum for entry-level mariners, among many other advances. The recommended inland apprentice program includes an initial 12-week training phase covering vessel familiarization; shipboard sanitation; water survival; firefighting, first aid and CPR; galley operations; and vessel operations and maintenance. Members of the working group also recommended a training segment of two to three months aboard a vessel, followed by four weeks of advanced training at the Paul Hall Center. That final phase would include the tanker familiarization and tankerman assistant DL classes, among other training. USNS Fisher is part of a mult1-sh1p package intended to boost America's sealift capability. including the recently christened USNS George Watson. can Exceed 24 Knob Christened on October 18, the Fisher can carry up to 1,000 U.S. Army vehicles, including tanks and other combat motorized units. It is designed and constructed with more than 380,000 square feet of cargo capacity and has a beam of nearly 106 feet, with a full-load displacement of more than 62,000 tons. It has a draft of 34.5 feet, greater than 65,000 shaft horsepower and can exceed 24 knots. The vessels is named in honor of Zachary Fisher, a prominent New York City builder and real estate owner, and his wife, Elizabeth, a former USO entertainer during World War II, according to Avondale. The Fishers in 1983 founded an establishment to provide free housing for military families in times of crisis, which still operates. They also were instrumental in transforming the historic aircraft carrier USS Intrepid into a museum, and generously have supported families of military personnel killed in the line of duty, facilities for disabled children, and military scholarship programs. Only four other people have had Navy ships named after them in their lifetimes: former U.S. Senator Carl Vinson of Georgia, former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Arleigh Burke, former President Ronald Reagan, and entertainer Bob Hope. Seafarers LOii 3 �U.S. Cruise Ship Proposal Outlined to Senate MTD Also Denounces Two Bills to Gut Passenger Cabotage Act Pointing out how two bills under consideration before the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee would impede nearly a decade's worth of effort to revise the U.S.-flag cruise ship industry, the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) urged legislators to instead support a proposal to develop an American-flag fleet. Frank Pecquex, executive secretary-treasurer of the MTD, addressed the subcommittee during its October 21 hearing on the Benefits from Cruise Ships Visiting Alaska Act (S.668) and the United States Cruise Tourism Act (S. 803). Both measures would gut the nation's passenger cabotage law -the Passenger Vessel Services Act-by allowing foreign-flag cruise ships to carry tourists from one U.S. port to another. S. 668 would pertain strictly to the Alaskan trade, while S. 803 would open all U.S. deep sea shorelines to foreign-flag cruise ships for domestic voyages. Both measures are opposed by Seafarers International the Union, which is one of 32 maritime-related unions within the MTD. (SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as the head of the MTD.) Create Few, If Any, Jobs Speaking to the subcommittee, Pecquex noted the two bills "would produce few, if any, shipboard, shipyard or industrial jobs for U.S. citizens." He went on to say passage of either measure "would be especially unfortunate in view of the substantial progress that is being made toward reaching an agreement among various U.S. mar- testimony presented to the subcommittee, also noted that during the decade of the 1990s, U.S . yards had built and U.S. companies were operating smaller passenger vessels that exceeded $2 billion in construction costs without the use of subsidies available to foreign operators. Employment Under U.S. Flag With actions taking place to build up a U.S.-flag cruise fleet, Congress should not implement measures that would weaken the passenger cabotage law, MTD Exec. Sec.-Treas. Frank Pecquex tells the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee. itime interests on a U.S.-flag cruise development proposal." Decade of Effort An outline of the proposal was included in the testimony provided by the MTD as well as three maritime industry associations representing U.S.-flag shipping companies. The proposal includes the resurrection of the Maritime Administration's shipbuilding finance guarantee program (known as Title XI). The outline also contains the recently passed measure in Congress to create a pilot project to build two U.S.flag cruise ships in American yards by 2008 and the announcement (after the hearing) of Europe's largest shipbuilder to convert the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard into a commercial facility capable of constructing cruise ships, among other factors. The associations, in written Pecquex informed the senators that a U.S.-flag cruise industry would provide jobs for a wide variety of Americans, not just merchant mariners. It would include shipbuilders, steel workers, coal and iron ore miners, their suppliers and many more in the construction phase. A U.S.-flag cruise industry also would help port facilities when the ships were underway, Pecquex stated. Other Concerns The MTD official told the legislators foreign-flag cruise ships do not meet U.S. Coast Guard safety standards. He reminded them of problems found by the Coast Guard in conducting fire and safety drills aboard the foreign-flag vessels presently calling on American ports. In some cases, crewmembers who would be in charge of passenger safety did not even speak a common language, let alone English, which would be the primary language used by tourists boarding the vessels. ''The development of a larger fleet of U.S.-flag cruise ships operating in accordance with U.S . safety regulations will obviously be of significant benefit to cruise passengers," Pecquex said. Besides the subsidy and safety issues, Pecquex noted foreignflag vessels presently do not have to meet U.S. labor, pay and tax USCG Rule Aims to Boost Safety On Towing Vessels, Tank Barges The U.S. Coast Guard last month proposed rules tow line similar to the primary one. It may be availrequiring installation of equipment to suppress fires able on either the barge or the vessel towing it. on towing vessels and to enhance existing standards Also, equipment to regain control of the barge for anchoring or retrieving a drifting tank barge. and resume towing without having to place crewDeveloped in cooperation with the agency's members on the barge must be available on the towTowing Vessel Safety Advisory Committee (TSAC), ing vessel. the proposal stems from an oil spill in early 1996 off The system would undergo periodic inspection, the Rhode Island coast and a subsequent congres- and crewmembers annually would conduct retrieval sional directive in that year's Coast Guard Author- drills. ization Act. • The third part of the proposal reads as follows: The Coast Guard will accept comments on the "If neither of these two measures are viable, then the proposed rule until January 5, 1998. In accordance with a 1996 congressional man- tank barge or vessel towing it must have on board date, the Coast Guard is calling for any one of three another measure or combination of measures comemergency response measures for tank vessels to parable to" the aforementioned systems. Additionally, in trying to reduce the number of utilize in order to prevent grounding of a drifting barge. This part of the law would apply to tank fires that cause propulsion loss, the agency proposbarges and the vessels towing them on the coastal es that applicable vessels contain a general alarm system, a fire detection system, a communication waters, high seas or on the Great Lakes. According to the "notice of proposed rulemak- system, fire pump and fire main systems, portable or ing" as published in the Federal Register on October semi-portable fire extinguishers, remote engine 6, the three recommended emergency-control sys- shutdown or fuel shutoff, fuel system standards (on new vessels), a fire ax and muster list. tems are as follows: Crewmembers also must participate in periodic • Manned with an operable anchor, in which the . crew is a key component in the tank-barge anchor- safety orientations and drills as spelled out in the ing system and where training, maintenance and proposal. The Coast Guard noted that TSAC conducted a inspection provisions facilitate the system's capacity to function. At least one crewmember must be survey of the towing vessel fleet in conjunction with able to deploy the anchor within a reasonable developing their recommendations, and the study response time and must confer with the master in revealed most towing vessels already possess the determining the appropriate length of chain to be equipment and systems called for by the new rule. used. Further, because towing vessels typically are • An emergency retrieval system that will allow uninspected, vessel owners will be responsible for the barge to be rescued if the tow line ruptures. This compliance. Such adherence would be spot-checked system should include an emergency tow wire or by the Coast Guard only during vessel boardings. 4 Seafarers LOG provisions, thus making these vessels cheaper to operate than those that sail under the U.S. flag. He added that neither S. 668 nor S. 803 address this concern. The hearing ended with no action being taken on either bill. No date was announced for further consideration of S. 668 and S. 803 . Boatmen Complete Health/Safety Course Since late summer, more than 75 SIU boatmen who sail aboard Crowley and Sabine tugs have updated their health and safety skills during courses offered by the staff of the Paul Hall Center in Lake Charles, La. and Jacksonville, Fla. Emergency first aid, hazardous waste response (hazwoper) and accident prevention were some of the topics addressed by Lundeberg School instructors Casey Taylor, Mark Jones and Stormy Combs during the fourday sessions offered to Seafarers between August and November. The boatmen earned certificates for completing an 8-hour hazwoper refresher course that was part of the on-site training. That curriculum primarily focused on the identification of hazardous materials, use of protective gear and procedures for contacting emergency personnel. Other subjects covered included basic chemistry of hazardous materials; use and care of different safety and breathing equipment; confined space entry; emergency first aid and CPR; sampling techniques; emergency response plans and decontamination. Rick O'Keefe, an AB who sails aboarll Crowley tugs, noted the importance of reviewing the vital material. "It has been a couple of years since I had any type of formal training in health and safety so it was good to go over it all again. I have taken classes taught by instructor Casey Taylor in the past and I always enjoy the way he presents the material," stated O'Keefe at the Jacksonville union hall in August. The 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 for mariners (STCW) and the International Organization for Standardization affect them on the job. Boatmen · who completed the four-day course should be able to identify a hazardous material, monitor its danger level, select and use the appropriate safety gear (such as gloves, boots, protective suits, etc.), contain a spill (whether the hazardous material is only onboard the vessel or also is in the water) and identify the solution needed for decontamination of the equipment. "This was the first Lundeberg School course I have taken," stated OS Jim Quinn. who joined the SIU in 1996 and sails aboard Crowley tugs. "I thought it was great that the course was taught in Jacksonville. I enjoyed learning more about what to do if one of my crewmembers is poisoned or comes in contact with a hazardous chemical. The entire course was very informative," concluded Quinn. Seafarers pictured above who completed training at the Jacksonville, Fla. union hall are (from left) Deck Utility Rick O'Keefe, Chief Electrician Pete Albano, Chief Electrician Gerald Simpson, Chief Mate Jim Larkin, Chief Mate Roger Rothschild and Deck Utility Bobby Simmons. U.S.M.M.l. 1s Ed Stribling Passes Away Captain Edward E. Stribling, 54, the operations director at SIU-contracted U.S. Marine Management, Inc. in Norfolk, Va., passed away September 28 after a long fight with cancer. Officials at SIU headquarters and at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education remember Stribling as someone who eagerly and effectively pitched in to ensure that American mariners received proper training and certification. "He always was willing to volunteer for training committees and help in whatever other ways he could," noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, who worked with Stribling at this year's combined deep sea-inland towboat advisory board conference at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md .. A native of Charlotte, N.C., Stribling served in the U.S. Marine Corps before graduating from the Merchant Marine Academy at King's Point, N.Y. in 1967. He became commissioned in the U.S. Naval Reserve and served on active duty during the Vietnam War. In 1972, Stribling began his career as a merchant mariner. He possessed an unlimited license and captained many ships. November 1997 �AFL-CIO Steps Up Campaign Against Fast-Track Bill ous jobs. On average, they took a pay cut of $4,400 per yearsome despite working two jobs in trying to replace their lost income. Even those who kept their jobs likely felt downward pressure on wages and benefits due to NAFfA. According to a recent study conducted by Cornell University, 62 percent of U.S.based employers have used the threat of factory relocation to families have written letters to Mexico during contract talks and Congress urging defeat of fast- organizing drives. That study supports similar track legislation. The campaign by corporate findings of an earlier survey done interests in favor of fast-track by the Wall Street Journal. Workers in Mexico, whom authority mostly has consisted of media advertising and a 40-city NAFfA's proponents claimed tour organized by the U.S. would greatly benefit from the treaty, arguably have suffered Chamber of Commerce. most of all. Since the pact took NAFrA Says n All effect, 8 million Mexicans have Opponents of fast-track nego- slipped into poverty. Wages have tiations are emphasizing that they dropped by 30 percent despite do not oppose truly fair trade increased productivity, and the agreements that adequately pro- maquiladora plants along the bortect workers and the environment. der have led to a proliferation of However, they point to NAFI'A as poverty-laden communities. timely and overwhelming proof NAFI'A also has resulted in of fast track's flaws. environmental damage. The fedThe tariff-removing trade pact eration reports that the amount of between the U.S., Mexico and hazardous waste coming across Canada, implemented in January the border increased 30 percent in 1994, was negotiated on fast- 1995, and the incidences of track terms. By most accounts, it hepatitis A in border communities has been disastrous for workers has risen two to five times the and their families in all three national average. countries and has damaged the Generally, increased agriculenvironment while advancing tural imports and inadequate borquick profits for CEOs and others der inspections have led to a rise among the privileged few. in unsafe produce in American If Congress passes fast-track supermarkets. For instance, legislation, NAFI'A's severe con- strawberries, lettuce and carrots sequences will multiply as more from Mexico have a high rate of and more nations with living stan- illegal pesticide residues. dards below America's sign onto Yet, fewer than one percent of similar agreements, warn oppo- trucks crossing the U.S.-Mexico nents of the bill. border are inspected. According Under NAFrA, America has to numerous news reports, that lost more than 400,000 jobs as has led to increased drug traffickbusinesses shifted production to ing and unsafe trucks on U.S. Mexico, where wages average $4 highways. a day and enforceable environDeflcH Soars mental regulations are nonexistent. Only a minuscule number of Economically, there seemingly U.S. jobs has been created as a is no disputing the fact that direct result of the agreement. America has been hurt by Further, almost none of those NAFI'A. Before the pact, the U.S. displaced American workers had a small trade surplus with found employment with wages Mexico. Since the trade agreeand benefits equal to their previ- ment went into effect, the U.S. Senate Vote Possible This Month Trade unionists throughout the United States are leading the intensifying fight against proposed legislation that would extend fast-track negotiating authority on international trade agreements to the president. Despite those nationwide efforts, House and Senate committees last month passed fasttrack bills, and a full Senate vote may take place sometime early this month. However, with many lawmakers divided on this issue and a number still undecided, the projected outcome of floor votes in each chamber is uncertain. Under fast track, Congress gives up its right to amend a treaty. It only can approve or disapprove the entire package. The administration wants to use fast-track negotiations to expand pacts like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFI'A) to countries in Central and South America. Given the stakes as well as the precarious status of the votes, the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (of which the SIU is an affiliate), is engaged in a massive grassroots campaign aimed at defeating fast-track legislation. Last month alone, the efforts included dozens of meetings with congressional representatives, demonstrations and leaflet-distribution across the country, print and broadcast advertising, internet campaigns by the AFL-CIO and member unions, and more. The Steelworkers is one of several unions that has been particularly active in this showdown. In addition to the international union waging an on-line campaign, approximately 140,000 individual Steelworkers and their Forbes' Bill Calls for Veterans' Status For All Mariners Who Sailed in Wars Citing 'Long-Overdue Recognition,' SIU Backs Measure The SIU is supporting a bill that would extend veterans' benefits to all U.S. merchant mariners who sailed during times of war. As the Seafarers LOG went to press, Rep. Michael Forbes (R.N.Y.) was preparing to introduce the Combat Merchant Mariners Veterans Benefits Act. A member of Forbes' staff said the legislation would be presented early this month. Upon learning about the bill, SIU President Michael Sacco sent a letter to every member of Congress asking for support of the measure. "Given the enormous and courageous sacrifices these brave men and women gave in the defense of the freedom we now treasure, it is entirely fitting that this legislation be enacted," Sacco wrote. "On behalf of all the patriotic seafarers who came to the defense of our country during all times of war, I urge you to November 1997 U.S. Rep. Michael Forbes (D- N. Y.) is sponsoring legislation that would extend veterans' benefits to all U.S. merchant mariners who sailed during times of wAr. become a cosponsor of this legislation. By doing so, you are extending long-overdue recognition to the brave men and women of the U.S. merchant marine." Forbes, in appealing to fellow members of the House of Representatives for their backing, noted that the only U.S. merchant mariners eligible for veterans' benefits are those who sailed during World War II between December?, 1941 and August 15, 1945. "By limiting eligibility, the [secretary of the Air Force, who has been charged with determining veterans' status] has discriminated against a number of mariners who valiantly served our country during times of war .... In order to rectify this problem, the Combat Merchant Mariners Veterans Ilenefits Act of 1997, if signed into law, would provide veterans' benefits to individuals who served as United States merchant mariners during all times of war,'' he observed in a "Dear Colleague" letter sent to all House members. "Merchant mariners were there for our country during wartime and we need to be there for them in their time of need," he concluded. trade surplus with Mexico has become a $16 billion deficit. Moreover, although there may be a perception that trade agreements only address issues such as tariffs, quotas and customs procedures, they in fact provide many corporate protections. As noted by the AFL-CIO, ''Trade agreements like NAFI'A require countries to change their foreign investment laws to treat foreign investors the same as national ones, to compensate for expropriated property in a manner consistent with U.S. law; to reduce agricultural subsidies; and to enforce intellectual property rights (like patents). These are enforceable issues at the core of the agreement, while labor and environmental issues have been relegated, at best as in NAFI'A, to unenforceable side agreements." SIU members are urged to contact their elected officials and ask them to vote against fast track. The AFL-CIO has set up a toll-free number 1-800-97AFLCIO-to assist in this matter. Seafarers also may visit the federation's Stop Fast Track web site at www.aflcio.org/stopfasttrack. The site includes a letter against fast track that may be sent via e-mail to one's senators and representative. Ever since NAFTA, our jobs have been on lhe "fast track"~ to Mexico. c:;f1 ~ hu nm ~ 0 # ... mJll hu ... mc'~' · p hrn~puah and cnure commun111e,. 'uppo~d to do., Make II ea,1er for Amt:nciln hu,11K.''"-'' h' pull up ...1~e,·> '.'\01 cxactl~ . But :\AFTA failed to inc lude 'tandard' lO rr,1ti:d our 100-... \\ J~e ~. Cll\ 1ronrnent and ~tety, a~d Con£re~~ wasn·1 e\'en ~.1~en the chance 10 lix "ha1 ".._, wrong. So rn; le:id of fair. balanced lrJde thai bencht' 1, ~that \~ h:.11 our trJdC <Je;.ib a '.eryone. corrx>rJllOO\ m:ide Olli hke bandit- while Amencan worker. and ron,umer. were kfl hehmd. S O\\ corporati on... are a.... kmg Congre~' to give 1he pre\lde nt more fa., 1-1rack :iuthonty-to extend lhe ~AFTA deal to other counirie;. There\ only one wa\ - tri ...1op at. Tell Congrc'' 10 ...a~ no. f - !. an'.' F - \1 . ,_ Call 1-800-97-AFLCIO. Tell your representatives in Congress to say no to fast-track trade deals. AMERICA CAN'T AFFORD ANY MOllE NAFTAI Because NAFTA (which was negotiated on fasttrack terms) has proven to be disastrous for workers and their families and has damaged the environment, the AFL·CIO has started a grassroots advertising campaign aimed at defeating fast-track legislation. As shown in these examples, readers are urged to call their representatives in Congress to stop the passage of fast-track negotiating authority. Imagine if every time you ask for a raise, lhe boss threatens \\"fl_CO\U- lll THI \\Oki llt Jf I '\I I}( nhhe' mto trJdc..• lkjl' 11 l' . \1 t- '1' '-\II-\ h' p roh: (l \\1Xl cr' JnJ ~111hUllll:f' \•'t \\It f \· \.."n,.1 \\llhi1ut n1.•_tlll.1l11 .- ·~l'l' ·II !!t'l' l.'.°·t'•1.·1 h .. •11,~.1111•11 .. nd"MingA.mcl"'k.'..m' lu... lr. ' i:t~'ll~l.h•h't.=rttl\.·1111 1 f'I, 1o ulttlllrtt*"-el--e" herc t11. often pre"ured 10 JCCepl lo\\ Cr JlJ~--Or <l\C A.cm-.' 1 ~ countt"\ . Anlencan hu ... 11lt.''...e' JIC u ... m~ th...· thn:Jl 111 Ilk" 111!.'.' pT111..il1. l11l11 ' 11 \ k \ICC\.---\1.here "or~et' cam SJ~ d.:.1~-111 h11kl 1A..1!!L'' d-.1\1.n JJld !1!!hl Ul\l()f OffJOIZlnf 1.JmPJ.ign' In lxt. ~-t pcn.:ent 11t till' 1.:orp1r:..11t.· L'\L'1.Ull\l''- pt. 1 lk:~1 1u,1 t°'l."h 11c '\ AFTA "'.l' implemcmcJ ,.uJ 1h~~ "ere hl.d~ h) u~ 11 a ·J .... 1h..1r~J111111~1..l11r tn l.;.'LT \\J!:C:,J<'lwn·· At J umc \\hen ffH<rot \Hlr~m~ .\men.. Jn' jfC .. 1ru~,;:l1n'."' h 1 ~et h\ . "'men.I the b1:_·~c-.1 ..:orpor.Jllon .. m ..\nlt.·n ... J .(; \t ~ Chn , Jer. B ~mg. Pn-.:tcr 6... ( 1J111t"ll'" Jr'J morl· -Ju.: r.11-.;n;,: ' · m d hOO IOf J CJffi{lJ lgO Ul pn:"UI\." C''llPC'-' hli llti.tfL l..t..,HrJCl. '..\Ff:\ deaf-. Tell Con~n:'' to '-'I\ rn 1 The~' nnl~ olll· '' J \ IP .. 1nr 11 r ..., UIEllCA wn AffDlll lift MORE llAFTAI Call 1-800-g7 -AFLCIO. Tell your representatives in Congress to say no to fast·track trade deals. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Manpower Off ice Prepares for Role In Simulated RRF Breakout This Month All SIU hiring halls will be working with the union's manpower office for the first two weeks of this month to handle a simulated breakout of Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels during an annual drill run by the Maritime Administration (MarAd). Although Seafarers on the beach will play a vital role in this exercise, none of the members will be affected or even realize they are involved. According to Headquarters Representative Carl Peth, who is overseeing the SIU role in the MarAd exercise known as Breakout '97, all work will be done via paper among the government agency, the U.S.-flag operating companies for the RRF ships and the unions who provide the crews. "Our members will see activity behind the counter as we verify members are properly registered and available, but that is about the only way it will affect them," Peth noted. ''All the work involving the union wi11 be done here in manpower and in the halls. It will not affect the members directly." Breakout '97 is an annual exercise designed to verify that RRF ship operators and the maritime Strawberry Workers' Fight Far Fairness Is Browing The United Farm Workers (UFW) announced that the second largest grocery chain in the nation, Safeway, has signed on in support of 20,000 California strawberry pickers who are attempting to gain a contract. Safeway joins 27 other retail food companies covering 4,630 stores in 41 states and four Canadian provinces that have signed pledges supporting the rights of strawberry workers. Strawberry pickers are among the hardest working but lowest paid workers in America. Many of the packers face horrible conditions on the job: sexual harassment in the fields, inadequate bathrooms (if such facilities are available), no clean drinking water during l 0- to 12hour work days, no health coverage and no job security. For this, they earn an average of about $8,000 a year. The push to represent the strawberry workers is the United Farm Workers' biggest organizing drive in 20 years. The main focus of the effort has been a nationwide campaign to gain the commitment of grocery stores to increase the price of a pint of strawberries by a nickel. The extra five cents per pint could improve the pickers' wages as much as 50 percent. Since last summer, delegations of labor, community and religious leaders have aided this cause by visiting stores throughout the country and asking managers to take a stand on behalf of the berry workers. The pledge by Safeway to support the California strawberry workers is "another sign that change is coming to California strawberry fields," stated UFW President Arturo Rodriguez. "Safeway's support for what are basic human rights for some of the poorest workers in our country deserves the community's acclamation and gratitude." Other major chains that have signed the pledge include A&P (also known as SuperFresh, 6 Seafarers LOG Farmer Jack and Waldbaum) with stores in Philadelphia, New Jersey, Detroit, New York City, Baltimore and Ontario, Canada; Lucky California and Las Vegas; Ralphs throughout Southern California; Jewel in Chicago and Albuquerque; Acme in Philadelphia· and Calas in San Francisco. unions have enough manpower available to crew vessels in the event of an emergency. MarAd creates a scenario in which dif_. ferent ships are called to active duty and notifies the companies they have from four to 20 days to provide a full crew on paper, depending on the breakout status of the vessel. MarAd is given a list of available licensed and unlicensed mariners who serve as the crew through the exercise. Once a name is used, that mariner may not be chosen for any other ship involved in the two-week action . Seafarers should note that if their name is used in the exercise, it does not disqualify them from throwing in for a real job posted in a union hall, Peth stated. "SIU members won't even know their names have been submitted, so their registrations will not be affected," he assured. Beginning November 3, MarAd will notify RRF operators which ships need to be "crewed." Special job call sheets will be sent out by the SIU manpower office in Piney Point, Md. independent of normal crewing lists to the port nearest to the RRF ship called to Manpower personnel, like Bonnie Johnson shown here reviewing an active registration list, will work with union halls to "crew" RAF vessels during a simulated breakout exercise conducted by MarAd this month. duty through Breakout '97. Port officials will notify manpower which SIU members (who must meet the requirements for the positions needed) are available and have been assigned to the jobs. Manpower then will verify through the union's computer registration system that the members indeed are on the beach and eligible to sail in the ratings to which they have been assigned. These names then will be forwarded to the contracted carrier who will pass them along to MarAd. As a final check, the government agency will utilize the U.S. Coast Guard's data base to make sure the mariners assigned in the exercise hold the ratings for the positions they are assigned. "These two weeks will be quite busy for us, handling both the MarAd exercise as well as our regular manpower duties," Peth said. "But we have been through this before and we have always handled it well." USCG's Merchant Marine Personnel Committee Tackles Proposed STCW and Tankerman Regs Editor's note: This article was written by AB Sinclair Oubre, who serves on the MERPAC committee. On September 25 and 26, the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC) met at the Seafarers International Union's Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. This was the ninth meeting of the committee, which serves as a deliberative body to advise the secretary of transportation (via the Coast Guard commandant) on matters relating to the training, qualification, licensing, certification and fitness of seamen serving in the U.S. merchant marine. The committee includes representatives of maritime labor-both licensed and unlicensed personnel from the deck and engine departments. The rest of MERPAC includes maritime instructors and other representatives of marine training institutes, Coast Guard officials and administrators from shipping companies. The group meets periodically and covers a broad range of subjects pertinent to training and certification for U.S. mariners. During the September meeting, much discussion centered on improving the performance of the Arlington, Va.-based National Maritime Center, a regulatory arm of Coast Guard headquarters. At the previous MERPAC session, strong concerns had been raised by the maritime schools about delays in getting new courses and course changes approved, the lag in updating the question bank (from which the exam questions at the agency's regional exam centers are drawn), and the overall impact of personnel cuts. In response, the center reported that additional personnel have been hired, and processes are being established to better prioritize the facility's work. Another major topic discussed at length was the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW). The Coast Guard has printed and opened for comment the interim Coast Guard Captain Richard Stewart (standing) chairs the Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee meeting last month at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Seated to Stewart's right is Coast Guard Admiral Robert C. North. SIU members and officials, along with representatives of the school, were among those who participated in the meeting. rules that are proposed to bring U.S. legislation in line with the STCW convention. These interim rules were printed in the June 26, 1997 issue of the Federal Register. The final rules greatly will affect the way we as mariners are trained and evaluated on our job performance. In a nutshell, for both the deck and engine departments (licensed and unlicensed), the standards for performing one's work will be raised. There will be the expectation that one will know his or her task, can perform it when asked, and be satisfactorily evaluated. This should not adversely affect most U.S. merchant mariners, provided they have worked at improving their professional skills. Since the STCW is an international convention, however, with more than 100 signatory nations, it will greatly impact the manning situations on runaway-flag ships (see the October issue of the Seafarers LOG as well as the publications of the International Transport Workers Federation). The SIU's and Paul Hall Center's new Coast Guard-accepted training record book (TRB) also was discussed. The TRB is one of the required provisions of the STCW pact that includes standards and evaluation requirements in all the different ratings. Both licensed and unlicensed personnel will have to possess a TRB. (See page 20 of this issue of the LOG for more details about the TRB and an application.) Additionally, the committee discussed one other major issue: qualifications required for mariners involved in midstream fueling operations on uninspected towing vessels. The Coast Guard extended the compliance date to give industry members more time to study the new rule's impact. This new regulation would allow the person in charge (PIC) to hold a merchant mariner's document, provided the document reflects endorsement either as a restricted tankerman-PIC, a tankerman-PIC, or a tankerman-PIC (barge). The change stems from the fact that the PIC traditionally has been the master or the mate on the uninspected towing vessel. This person either is in the wheelhouse or taking his or her six hours of rest. The crewmember actually taking the fuel from the midstream fueler is a deckhand, who presently is not required to have endorsements for cargo transfers. With this in mind, the Coast Guard has proposed that the qualifications for the person on deck be raised. MERPAC reviewed the issue and supported the proposal. Meanwhile, the committee also touched on the issue of German- and Danish-flag ships sailing with a single-watch bridge. A working group was formed to study the matter and advise the Coast Guard so that a single-watch bridge does not become a practice approved by the International Maritime Organization. It is apparent that if a mate is standing on a single-person watch on the bridge, then an AB has been left on the beach. If any unlicensed merchant mariner has an issue to raise with MERPAC, they may contact the committee on the world wide web at www.dot.gov/dotinfo/uscg/hq/g-m/advisory/merpac/merpac.htm, or one may e-mail me directly at Sinclair_Oubre@compuserve.com, or fax me at (409) 985-3847. November 1997 �When a ship goes into drydock, there's a lot more for the crewmembers to do than just pack their gear and sign off. Such was the case last May, when the S.S. Independence, operated by American Hawaii Cruises, was scheduled for her required periodic drydocking in · the port of Portland, Ore. (Under Coast Guard regulations, American Hawaii ~ Cruises either can do two drydockings every five years and have an underwater hull survey done once a year, or skip the hull surveys and do a drydock every 18 . months. The company has chosen the former). As the SIU-crewed passenger ship pulled alongside a pier in Honolulu, crewmembers assisted in unloading much of the vessel's contents. They secured some items, moved other pieces around so they would not be in the way of renovations and, in general, tidied up the interior areas. Officials from the Honolulu SIU hall were on hand, as well, assisting members with any necessary paperwork, including registration and vacation forms. Approximately 60 deck and engine department members stayed with the vessel as she sailed to the Portland (Ore.) Cascade General Shipyard and helped independent contractors with some of the maintenance work during the month-long drydocking operation. i The buffet area gets a plastic covering to protect it during the ship's stay in drydock. a Completing his registration form is Room Steward Jerry Bareng. l!I Storekeeper Jaoa Cordeiro Y signs off the S.S. Independence. Oiler Rolando Romanillos takes a quick break before getting back to work. EJ ... Helping load cargo aboard Iii the S.S. Independence is OS Marcos Arriola. P.!!I OS Khaled Shamman 11:.1 does his part to help get the vessel ready for drydock. November 1997 lit!I!~~:;-» The bottom of the vessel was cleaned and repainted, and the shaft and propellers were checked for signs of wear. New wall coverings wert? added to the passenger corridors, improvements were made to the crew quarters, and two life raft stations were added, bringing the total to eight. The ship's two pools were rebuilt and a fire-detection system, similar to the kind found on the floors of airliners, was added for increased safety and security. Many other maintenance projects were included, but perhaps the most ambitious project to occur in the Portland drydock was the installation of new living quarters where once only cargo holds existed. When built 46 years ago, the S.S. Independence was designed to carry passengers and cargo across the Atlantic Ocean. Now, however, the vessel exclusively serves passengers on a weekly cruise Payoff took place on the Honolulu around the Hawaiian islands. dock before the This meant that the empty cargo cruise liner went holds were not being used and into drydock. Crewwere, in effect, available space. members also had During the period in drydock, the opportunity to register for their 28 prefabricated cabins containnext job and fill out ing 60 berths were installed in other necessary these holds and now are attracpaperwork. tive living quarters. Following a month in drydock, the S.S. Independence resumed her 7-day itinerary around the Hawaiian islands. Seafarers LOG 7 �B Seafarers LOG November 1997 �Over the River SW-Crewed Pbilly-Camden Ferry Fa.res WeU in 1991 The SIU-crewed RiverUnk, with Philadelphia in the background, transports passengers along the Delaware River. Double-checking the stability of the gangway is Deckhand Jim Anderson. The way business has gone for the SIU-crewed RiverLink in 1997, it is no wonder Seafarers see a bright future for the Philadelphia-based passenger ferry. Already this year, nearly 300,000 passengers have utilized the boat. That marks a healthy increase from 1996, and crewmembers are optimistic the rise portends similar gains through the rest of the decade and beyond. "We're very hopeful that business will continue growing and really take off in the next few years,'' observed Captain Gerry "Mickey" McGovern, who sent the photos accompanying this article to the Seafarers LOG. Formerly known as the Delawhale, the RiverLink transports people across the Delaware River between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. Each voyage takes approximately 20 minutes, although the ferry sometimes offers express service lasting about seven minutes. The vessel is 100 feet long and has a 600-horsepower twin engine that allows it to cross the river at speeds of up to I 0 knots. The ferry also is equipped with life safety equipment and features outdoor and climate-controlled indoor seating. The RiverLink is scheduled to sail through the end of this year, then will enter its seasonal shutdown before resuming service April l, 1998. When the boat began operating in 1992, it marked the resumption of a service that had stopped 40 years earlier. In 1952, the Haddonfield, Howard Schulman Dies Continued from page 2 ident of the 12,000 member Labor Law Section of the American Bar Association. He founded the New York law firm of Schulman & Abarbanel and served as general counsel for numerous labor organizations from the 1950s through the 1980s, including the SIU, the Maritime Trades Department, the Actor's Guild, the Distillery Workers and the Leather Goods Workers. As an advisor to two SIU presidents and general counsel to the union for more than 35 years, Schulman litigated hundreds of cases, some of which had profound consequences for the labor movement and the maritime industry. "Howard was certainly an example of a dedicated labor lawyer," said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey at Schulman's funeral service. "He understood the needs and aspirations of not only longshoremen but all other workers. Howard worked tirelessly toward improving the status of organized labor because he believed that real improvements for workers would only come about from strong union representation." Schulman participated in negotiations, argued before the Supreme Court, wrote articles, delivered lectures, testified before congressional hearings and government agencies, and monitored the actions of international maritime organizations. In handling the legal end of many of the SIU's major beefs, he filed a brief against the Agriculture November 1997 also manned by Seafarers, made its final voyage across the Delaware. That ferry closed due to new bridge construction and rising costs of supplies, insurance and fuel. Earlier this decade, however, conditions again became favorable for waterborne transportation. Since then, the RiverLink mostly has been utilized by families traveling to local recreation spots, museums and other attractions; hence, the boat's regular route is leisurely. 'The passengers really seem to enjoy the ride. It's a different, but safe, way to travel," noted McGovern. __ ..,,, . Safety is emphasized at all times aboard the ferry. Here, Deckhand Ed Zolynski (left) and Captain Rob Torres practice a "man overboard" drill. Department which resulted in an historic restructuring of the P.L. 480 (cargo preference) program; he defended seamen's rights under the Service Contract Act; and for 20 years he successfully fought back attempts by the Department of Health, Education and Welfare to close down branches of the Public Health hospital system. (The hospitals remained open until 1981 when Congress discontinued the 200-year-old program.) During the Vietnam War, Schulman's legal efforts prevented the licensed unions from encroaching on the jurisdictional rights of the SIU crewmembers in the engineroom. In the early 1970s, when the government said the Seafarers Political Action Donation violated the federal election laws, Schulman defended the integrity of the program. As a result, all charges against the union were dropped. "No matter what you win by negotiations or on the bricks, and no matter how long it took to accomplish and how expensive," Schulman remarked during the 1971 SIUNA convention, "it can all be taken away from you overnight by those in the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government. The answer to me is obvious-more activity, more association, more pressing in the electoral process. Participate in every means possible through your union." In 1987, after 50 years in the labor movement, Schulman announced his retirement. Schulman is survived by his wife, Paula Schulman; three daughters, Ann Milbank, Judith Lederer and Janet Dicker; and six grandchildren. Captain Gerry "Mickey" McGovern is one of many Seafarers confident in the continued upswing of business for the ferry. Cheerfully guiding passengers aboard the RiverLink is Deckhand John Beck. In addition to providing direction, Beck takes a passenger count as mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard. ITF Secures $100,000 in Back Wages And Overtime for Ukrainian Crew Mariners working aboard a runaway-flag ship recently received more than $100,000 in back pay and overtime thanks to intervention by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF). Crewmembers aboard the Liberianflag, London-owned, Koktebel contacted Edd Morris, an SIU representative and ITF inspector, shortly before the vessel arrived in the port of Norfolk, Va. Once the ship docked, Morris boarded it and met the Ukrainian crew, who informed him they had not been paid since signing on the vessel in Romania, nearly four months earlier. The crew also was restricted from going ashore by the company, which would not allow for shore passes. Morris further discovered the crew had few, if any, fresh stores. However, because the mariners were extremely afraid of reprisals and blacklisting by the company, they refused to strike or take legal action for the wages due them, the ITF inspector noted. Morris contacted the shipowner, Tai1wind Shipping of London, and informed them that unless they paid the $100,000 in back pay and overtime to the crew, the ship would be arrested. The company agreed to pay the mariners their wages and supply fresh stores, new tools, safety equipment and other needed items. Morris reported that the crew was very grateful to him and the ITF for their help. The London-based ITF represents approximately 10 million transportation employees from more than 470 trade unions worldwide, including the SIU, in more than 120 nations. One of the primary endeavors of the Seafarers Section of the ITF, of which SIU Executive Vice President John Fay is chairman, is to end the scandal of runaway-flag shipping, also known as flag-of-convenience shipping. Runaway-flag shipping is a ploy that involves multiple parties from different nations in the operation of vessels. The purpose of this practice is for greedy shipowners to escape the safety regulations, procedures, inspections, tax laws and higher wages of traditional maritime nations. Seafarers LOG 9 �Icebreaking Procedures - Part I Seafarer Gamp Writes About Dealing With Heavy Ice in the Chesapeake Bay Editor's note: A member of the SIU since 1974, Henry Gamp currently sails as a chief mate aboard the Penn Maritime ATB Lucia/Caribbean. (Jn the May, June and July 1997 issues of the Seafarers LOG, he described life aboard that tug/barge.) It was during his 13-year tenure as a tugboat captain and shipdocking pilot that he was called on to help keep icy channels leading to and from Baltimore Harbor open to shipping and barge traffic. Introduction At the time of its original publication almost 20 years ago, "Icebreaking Procedures on the Upper Chesapeake Bay" was widely praised for its valuable information for the mariner forced to deal with a weather phenomenon he might have little experience with. It is not a theoretical textbook account, but rather a compilation of hands-on experience and knowledge. Technology has improved over time. The addition of DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System) should be added to the list of ways to fix one's position during periods of heavy snow or buoys which are missing or have been dragged off station. The size and horsepower of vessels, particularity tug/barge units, is ever increasing, permitting them to force their way through ice fields that would have stopped their predecessors. The number and frequency of severe winters in this region seem generally to be in decline. Nonetheless, when we feel complacent and don't prepare, we seem to be hit with yet another severe ice season. Fundamentals of lcebreaking Due to the heavy ice conditions experienced during cold winters in January and February and the resultant stoppage or slowing down of ocean-going vessels and barge tows encountering this heavy ice in the Upper Chesapeake Bay, a few observations on how ice jams vessels and how the vessels are freed by icebrcaking tugboats may be useful to anyone unfamiliar with icebreaking procedures. Ice truly is a unique and interesting phenomenon. Several degrees in temperature determine whether ice will form at all, or if enough ice will freeze to stop ocean-going vessels. Ice may be very hard one day due to low temperatures, weaken and begin thawing with a warming temperature, and regain its strength or hardness with a falling thermometer. Ice which is broken and soft may be pressed and compacted together, becoming thicker and harder than it was originally. Large fields of ice may slide underneath other fields of ice, becoming twice as thick as the original ice. The weight of clinging ice may lay buoys on their sides or sink them. Ice freezing around small piers, pilings, day beacons and radar ranges on low water can lift and destroy them with the rising tide. Small vessels which are grounded are at the mercy of the floes and run the risk of being capsized by the tremendous pressures the ice floes exert against their hulls. Many misconceptions are held by the inexperienced on how 10 Seafarers LOG Constant breaking and refreez- reliable information. A gyro rapidly overtaking the stopped vessels are affected by ice. It compass, unaffected by these ing can make very heavy and would seem logical to say, for icebreaker) is eliminated. Tugs with elliptical stems can tum bet- strong ice. The channels are often factors, is far superior to the example, that if a vessel is very passable by vessels, but only magnetic compass, and every ter in heavy ice than tugs with jammed in the ice, breaking a icebreaking vessel should be path in front of her should free square sterns because the fullness a couple hundred feet outside the equipped with one. channel limits, heavy unbroken of the stem tends to dam the ice her. However, this usually is not The warning ''The prudent ice is unpassable or at best naviagainst it while turning, and a the case because the sharp bow navigator will not rely on any gable with much difficulty. acts as a wedge driven into the longer turning radius must be one single aid to navigation, parSometimes, the constant ship ice. This ice must have a place to allowed for. ticularly on floating aids" contraffic within a channel during a Weight is a factor in a vessel move to or it will exert pressure warm period will entirely free the tained on all National Ocean continuing to move through an on the hull. If the force thus Survey Charts is especially channel of ice, but on either side. ice field or slowing down and developed on the hull is equal or appropriate when navigating in heavy ice will remain, giving the becoming jammed. Deep-loaded greater than the propelling force appearance of navigating within a ice. Buoys are often missing. vessels and tows of the same which is driving the vessel Even when they are observed, canal. A vessel may encounter horsepower as light draft vessels ahead, she will stop. If the ice r=--~~--,-.,...~,...,...,.,..,..,.-:~~.,,,-~~~~~~~.,...,,."""-:-~ flows away they are just as apt to be off staheavy ice all tion as on. They need only be off along a chanfrom the ship station a few hundred feet to misnel, turn on a and does not reciprocal head- lead a navigator enough to compress to the ing, retrace her ground his vessel. One area point of equalizwhere this could happen is track, and find ing the proalmost no ice or Craighill Angle and Upper pelling power of Craighill Channel along the eastice of a comthe ship, she pletely different erly edge of the channel, where will continue the depth at places abruptly rises thickness and moving. The texture and vice to 16 feet at the channel limits. greatest resisTheir positions should be verified versa. tance for an iceby ranges and depth sounding The prudent encircled vessel Buoys can be unreliable and navigator pilotpushing her way ing his vessel in impossible to use at times. A through the ice ice-congested buoy may show one minute and is where she the next minute be dragged waters will turns at the bow under the ice, or vice versa. have to be (the widest part Lights on buoys are often extinattentive to the of the wedge). guished during ice season. Buoys many dangers The least resisbeing constantly dragged under and hazards tance she has is the ice may have their light cages that can beset aft of the midtorn off, their bulbs burned out him. Ice fields body, where the and their batteries dead. Due to drift with the ice will more the increased workload placed on wind and tide easily follow the the Coast Guard at this time of and very often narrowing quaryear, buoy lights may remain are moving at ter. The thrust extinguished for extended perioblique angles from the wake ods of time. in relation to stream also acts Chunks of ice often stick up the vessel's to relieve preshigh enough to be mistaken for heading, and at sure on the stem buoys on the radar. At times, much higher and carry away velocities than these growlers appear to be iceice. the navigator is covered buoys-even to the Sheer power, naked eye. anticipating. though imNumbers on buoys may not The best aids to portant, is not agree with their location. and tows will continue moving in navigation in such areas are the only factor in breaking Sometimes a new coat of paint range lights, when visibility perice when the latter become through ice; good hull design is will be worn off a buoy by its conmits their use. The course made bogged down and stopped. As it essential. For example, ships stant grating against the ice, good and compass heading may with more cutaway bows, shorter takes more power to move a be striking in their variance. exposing the number of a former heavier vessel through the water, mid-sections and cutaway quarstation where the buoy was previWhen visibility is restricted, it also takes more resistance (ice) ters will enter ice and clear it easously placed. Occasionally, a knowing which way the ice is to stop her, and this is where ier than wide-beam, blunt-bulk lighted red buoy which was forsetting and carefully watching weight and draft are advantacarriers. Some foreign vessels are merly black, or vice versa, has the fathometer are the best methgeous to navigating in ice. Also, built with icebreaking bows ods for keeping the vessel within been weathered to the point that which allow the ship to ride up on the deeper the draft, the deeper the channel. Radar ranges to the the mariner is in doubt as to the sea suctions and the less surthe ice and break it. Ships whether the buoy he is observing shore or fixed aids such as lightdesigned for Scandinavian waters face slush and chunk ice will be houses and also radar bearings to is red, black or red and black. drawn into the strainers. are often fitted in this manner. J3uoys with two-digit numbers these objects are very useful. Ice conditions are in no way Likewise, the hull design of may have one number erased Where definite improved chanuniform, even over a small area. tugs will make a great deal of (e.g., 18 may show as 1 or perThey can remain almost constant nels do not exist, these radar difference in the way they perhaps 8 instead of 18). ranges and bearings afford the form in ice. Tugs which can be or they can change quite rapidly. If smaller vessels have a When there is slack water and no navigator his best information, as ballasted to keep the bow high choice of more than one channel, the fathometer may not show a and stern deep will do better than wind, there is no motive force to route or fairway to follow, they steep shoal until the vessel has affect the ice field and give it tugs trimmed down by the bow. should take the deepest and best grounded on it. Likewise, it goes motion. Irregular shorelines, This allows the tug to ride up on marked of the alternatives. without saying that any time the islands, jetties and lighthouses the ice in the manner of iceNavigating in ice is serious water shoals up unexpectedly, act to anchor the surrounding ice breakers; in addition, the weight and the risks are real. Avoid the vessel should be stopped, her of the tug helps break the ice and when the normal forces of nature shortcuts and possible shoals position fixed and adequate would be shifting it. This stationkeeps the screw deeper in the which, more often than not, lie adjustments made on her course ary ice is referred to as fast ice. water, affording it more protecclose to those shortcuts. The ship to prevent grounding. Tugboats tion from ice damage. Some tugs Without some external force channels are the best routes to transiting ice-congested areas holding the ice field, it is free to must be trimmed down at the cannot rely on making the course follow because the volume of follow the wind and tide. Free bow to keep slush ice from foltraffic using these routes helps steered. The tug will sheer in the moving ice is known as pack ice. lowing the hull down to the sea direction of least resistance, keep them open. If you do Care must be used when followsuctions and entering sea chests, become stuck, a ship running ing a path through pack ice made which can be a crack in the ice, thereby clogging them and makclose abeam at full speed may be by another vessel or tow or when thinner ice next to a heavy ridge ing it necessary to shut down the the added boost you need to start of ice, etc. Also, the tug is often breaking a path for a vessel main engine and remove the ice. handled in such a manner as to moving again. An even mo~e astern to follow, as the broken Tugs with keel coolers are take advantage of these factors in important reason to stay in deep path may almost immediately be superior to tugs not so equipped, channels is that a rescue vessel carried outside the channel limits. avoiding the hardest ice. Add to provided the keel coolers are may not be able to take a shortthis the added deviation introPack ice being carried along substantially constructed because by the wind and tide in open duced into the magnetic compass cut and you may be without aid. they have no sea suctions and by the tug pounding in the ice water can come in contact with strainers to clog up with slush and variations of as much as I 0 fast ice and slide under this staice. The necessity of shutting Henry Gamp 's article on icedown the plant, often with the tug tionary field, forming ice twice as degrees from the normal variabreaking procedures in the tion in the Upper Chesapeake thick. The open water left will in a precarious position (i.e., Chesapeake Bay will be continBay, and the compass becomes a cover with skim ice and will be when breaking a path in front of ued in a future issue ·of the questionable instrument to be only fractionally as strong as the a vessel or tow when the assisted Seafarers LOG. continually checked against more older ice now knitted together. vessel is making way and is November 1997 �Mpping Rema.ins Constant As '91 Season Winds Up T he 1997 sailing season on the Great Lakes is slowly coming to a close for Seafarers aboard self-unloaders, cement carriers, bulkers and tug/barge units e region's essential materials. Odll~~like coal, iron ore, grain, stone, cement and other products remain high in demand al season windup that begins next month when cold weather settles on the Lakes. SIU- Carriers' Association, an organization of -:-·-"'·- the Lakes, at the end of August shipments 1..A1rwt~tn,ne rom Great Lakes ports totaled more than Cleaning the bilge under the deck plates aboard the Sam Laud is Wiper Dean Browning. Right, monitoring the J.A. W. lglehart's oil pressure in the engineroom is Oiler Eugene Hays. Deckhand Mohsin Abdulla swings down in the landing chair to tie up the Buffalo in the port of Toledo, Ohio during a recent visit. Preparing to tie up the Donald C. Hannah in Detroit are AB Kenton Henry (left) and AB John Doonan. QMED Richard Piper rebuilds one of the Sam Laud's pumps. November 1997 Controlling the ballast flow from the Sam Laud is QMED Ricky Guy. During the 1997 sailing season, the SIU-crewed American Mariner delivered a load of oats to the port of Toledo, Ohio. Posing for a photo during offloading procedures are (from left) Deckhand Robert Jewell, Watchman Daniel Bancook {center) and Wheelsman Ken Bluitt. Seafarers LOB 11 �For nearly six decades, there has been continuing cooperation between the SIU, American shipowners and the U.S. military to promote, protect and defend the national defense of this country. This cooperation recently was evident again when two SIU-crewed vessels-the Sea-Land Challenger and the USNS American Osprey-were made available to the U.S. military for anti-terrorist training exercises. The drills in part were conducted to comply with a Defense Department directive designed to bolster U.S. ability to thwart attempted terrorism. In outlining this program, intended to aid not only military personnel but also merchant mariners and other civilians working under the auspices of the U.S. government, the department pointed out that fatalities, injuries and millions of dollars in property damage have resulted from terrorist assaults on Defense Department-affiliated people and operations in the past quartercentury. On July 23, while under wa}' from Oakland, Calif. to Long Beach, Calif., the Sea-Land Challenger participated in a simulated recapture of an American ship that had been taken over by a terrorist power. ABOVE: Certificates of training are given to American Osprey crewmembers following completion of the anti-terrorism course. From the left are John Durkoff, an instructor from the Navy, John Arnold and Bosun Jerry Smith. LEFT: A U.S. Navy vessel comes alongside the Sea-Land Challenger in a simulated exercise to negotiate with terrorists who have taken over the SIU-crewed ship. BELOW (from left): Members of the Marin~ Corps are helicoptered aboard the hostage ship (Sea-Land Challenget}; two pictures of Navy Seals approaching the vessel in inflatable boats; Marines search and guard all exits while looking for terrorists. 12 Seafarers LOG November 1997 �Members of the U.S. Marine Corps board the hostage ship under simulated war conditions. Inset: a terrorist (played by an unlicensed cadet) is captured. em ers of the U.S. Marine orps were helicoptered aboard the hostage ship (the Sea-Land Challenger) while ;.-- Navy Seals, using high-speed inflatable boats, also approached the vessel. In this operation, the crewmembers were merely witnesses to the event, although at one point. a terrorist (acted by an unlicensed cadet) was captured by the "good guys." AB Jim Elbe (who sent the LOG the photos from the Sea-Land Service vessel taken during the military exercise) noted that Lt. Col. Powers, the commanding officer of this training operation, worked with Sea-Land Challenger Captain E. Paul Skoropowski in planning and implementing the rescue simulation. Following the operation, Powers commented to the crew that the scenario executed onboard the Sea-Land Challenger was the most realistic and beneficial training of this type ever accomplished under his command. Randy Miller, vessel superintendent for Sea-Land, noted that the Challenger's timetable was not disrupted by the exercise. "We were glad to cooperate with the military's request to make a vessel available for training purposes, particularly since we remained on schedule," Miller said. ·· Aboard the USNS American Osprey, SIU members were actively involved in anti-terrorist training. The vessel, operated by Bay Ship November 1997 Management, is part of the nation's Ready Reserve Force (RRF), a group of former commercial ships that have been placed under government ownership for use in surge shipping during times of conflict or war. (All crewmembers aboard ships operated by the U.S. military are required to have anti-terrorism briefings within six months of going abroad.) In July, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service sent its Guam representative to visit with the crew of the USNS American Osprey. He instructed them on how not to be a victim of terrorism, advising them to be aware of local customs, keep a low profile and travel in groups. Crewmembers also were given target training using shotguns and M-14 rifles. Safety advice on shipboard security engagement tactics was offered, including responding to a bomb threat, how to avoid being taken hostage and dealing with armed or unarmed intruders who pose a threat to the ship and its crew. "Just like practice in firefighting and CPR, prior knowledge of and instruction in anti-terrorist actions can build confidence in crewmembers who may some day have to face such situations," stated Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Lundeberg School who, himself, is certified to teach an anti-terrorist training course. The photos above, to the right and below show members of the USNS American Osprey as they are instructed in searching for and apprehending intruders. Training in the use of shotguns and M-14 rifles was also included in the anti-terrorism curriculum given by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, a branch of the Department of Defense. Seafarers LOG 13 �- - -- -- - - -- -- - - -- - - - -- - - - -- ·- - -·· - - - -- - - -·- - -- --- Seafarers Aboard Blue Ridge Stress Importance of Cabotage Law .----- . ------·~--~~-,-.,,,,, The importance of the Jones Act and maintaining a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine are two topics on which Seafarers aboard the Blue Ridge often focus during their shipboard union meetings. The tanker and her sister ship, the Coast Range, are actively engaged in the Jones Act trade, which calls for all cargo moved between two domestic ports to be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built vessels. The two SIU-crewed vessels began transporting petroleum from Portland, Ore. to ports along the West Coast this summer after being purchased by Crowley Petroleum Transport, Inc., a new division of Crowley Maritime. In the regular union meetings, Bosun Sonny Herrera reminds his fellow crewmembers of the value of the Jones Act and of writing their elected officials to urge support for the nation's freight cabotage law. 'This a great crew which truly enjoys working together," said SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who went aboard the Blue Ridge during its recent visit to the port of Portland. Hall stated the crew was in good spirits, as the photographs he sent to accompany this article show. He commended the crew for being "hard workers and good SIU members." The Blue Ridge and the Coast Range are 658 feet long and have a maximum draft of 35 feet. Both ships are capable of maintaining a speed of 15.5 knots and each can carry approximately 307,000 barrels of oil in their 19 cargo tanks, respectively. Chief Steward Ron Malozi reviews the ship's minutes before signing them after a union meeting. Discussing the value of U.S.-flag shipping is AB James Camp. After a day of hard work aboard the Blue Ridge, AB Bob Goodson reports to the galley. Bosun Sonny Herrera reminds his fellow crewmembers of the importance of the Jones Act. Ready to participate in a union meeting aboard the tanker is Chief Cook Chris Boronski. Second Pumpman Jack Singletary enjoys working aboard the new Crowley Petroleum Transport tanker. Seven Scholarships to Be Given in 1998; Apply Now The awarding of college scholarships by the Seafarers Welfare Plan has been an annual event since 1952. The new year will be no different. Seven scholarships will be offered in 1998 to help SIU members, their spouses and dependent children attain their educational goals. Three of the monetary awards are set aside for SIU members; the other four will be presented to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Eligibility requirements are AB Dave Somers says he likes the West Coast run of the tanker Blue Ridge. AB Kevin Kellum (left) and AB Chris Coggins sip coffee while waiting for the union meeting to begin aboard the Blue Ridge. spelled out in a booklet which also contains an application form. To receive a copy of this booklet, fill out the coupon below and mail it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. The program booklets also are available at the SIU halls. If an applicant sent in a form last year and was not selected for one of the scholarships, he or she should try again in 1998. The deadline for all completed applications is April 15. ·-------------------------------------, P lease send me the 1998 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Mariner's Social Security Number_____________________ Street Address - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City, State, Zip Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This application is for: D Self D Chief Pumpman Christopher Kirchhofer signs in for a shipboard union meeting. Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/97 L-------------------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOii DEU Adel Mohmoud helps the Blue Ridge run smoothly. '89 Scholarship Winner Is Teacher/Advisor John Costango was graduating from high school in 1989 when he received one of the SIU scholarships given to dependents of Seafarers. Today, eight-and-a-half years later, the.Seafarers LOG has received an update from him on his current activities. In May 1993, I graduated summa cum Laude from Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pa. 1 received a bachelor's degree with a double major in English literature and mathematics and a Pennsylvania Teacher's Certificate. Since graduation, I have been employed as a math teacher at Lower Merion High School in Ardmore, Pa., a suburb of Philadelphia. At Lower Merion, I teach a combination of honors-level and standard mathematics, mostly algebra, trigonometry and calculus. I was also an advisor to the class of 1997, the class of students who were freshmen my first year of teaching. As an advisor, I work with the class officers and help coordinate class activities, fund raisers and, ultimately, the prom and graduation. My teaching interests include the development and implementation of statistics and quantitative literacy materials in the curriculum. As such, I participated in and then was an instructor with the SEQuaL program (statistics education through quantitative literacy) from 1994 to 1997. I am currently enrolled in the master's of applied statistics program at Villanova University and hope to complete that program within the next two or three years. I am also a member of a national group whose goal is to eliminate homophobia in schools . .. As a teacher, I believe passionately in the benefits of free and equitable public education open to all students, and feel that children grow and develop best with a combination of respect and high expectations from their parents and teachers. Given the right encouragement and discipline, most students will try to meet goals which are appropriate to their abilities, and I believe that organizations which extend opportunities to young adults do us all a great service. I have always been thankful for the opportunity presented to me by the SIU scholarship committee and commend it for its efforts. November 1997 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1997 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington 39 3 23 8 11 12 2 13 7 18 3 34 16 18 17 10 0 9 34 25 29 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis 32 2 Piney Point 3 Algonac Totals 10 9 2 5 1 3 5 2 9 12 2 6 7 2 2 2 4 2 0 1 271 152 62 17 0 3 TOTAL SIIlPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 13 2 7 22 3 0 1 4 0 5 3 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Piney Point. .............. Monday: Docember 8, January 5 65 4 8 9 8 4 5 25 11 4 1 3 28 22 16 16 6 7 4 17 19 53 15 22 12 28 12 7 28 2 13 13 12 10 5 52 34 2 9 16 11 23 9 13 6 11 35 25 0 3 0 ] l 0 5 5 2 1 1 214 127 39 82 2 IO 16 4 0 12 19 33 54 15 3 8 New York ................•Tuesday: December 9, January 6 Philadelphia .............Wednesday: December 10, January 7 13 12 7 4 8 17 25 20 0 3 1 2 December 1997&January1998 Membersllip Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 3 3 Baltimore ................. Thursday: December 11, January 8 Norfolk .....................Thursday: December 11~ January 8 Jacksonville ..............Thursday: December 1I, January 8 Algonac .................... Friday: December 12, January 9 Houston .................... Monday: December 15, Januacy 12 7 6 New Orleans ............Tuesday: December 16, January 13 5 0 0 Mobile ......................Wednesday: Derember 17, January 14 Wilmington .............. Monday: December 22 1 1 0 400 227 72 San Francisco ...........Thursday: December 18, January 15 Tuesday; January 20* *Change due to Manin lulher King's birtMay Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney I?oint Algonac Totals 14 2 2 3 8 8 15 12 16 0 4 9 5 9 12 12 0 0 2 1 5 4 Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu 12 l 5 7 4 6 8 10 2 1 4 5 0 2 1 1 I 1 1 0 3 6 0 0 0 119 107 29 196 81 25 1 8 13 1 5 5 5 11 J0 26 9 18 3 10 15 9 l 10 9 4 5 3 1 7 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 134 75 New York 6 Philadelphia 0 30 0 Totals 16 0 1 0 1 4 2 12 7 2 3 4 1 6 4 2 2 2 0 6 2 8 I 6 23 18 18 14 3 15 13 7 1 0 5 21 6 9 7 22 11 11 0 0 I 4 1 IO 2 30 188 147 o· 1 4 0 3 4 IO 1 4 1 9 0 5 27 2 4 8 8 14 23 57 16 48 7 16 18 18 1 3 14 2 10 10 13 6 7 2 7 8 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 16 104 37 8 51 256 107 13 2 11 47 0 2 I 1 15 3 17 6 24 21 40 6 7 4 10 23 27 7 37 3 0 18 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 16 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 0 15 12 3 6 2 14 14 22 l 6 3 3 0 6 4 5 4 8 4 4 3 7 2 11 16 11 0 3 24 13 0 69 8 2 6 1 25 0 0 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 0 15 0 163 12 1 9 1 47 14 1 183 0 1 0 0 0 50 2 0 37 126 571 517 270 451 371 7 4 7 0 0 8 13 3 0 0 St Louis ...................Friday: December 19, January 16 0 Jersey City ............... Wednesday: December24, Januaiy 21 2 3 3 Duluth ......................Wednesday: December 17,Janl13I)' 14 New Bedford ............Tuesday: December 23, January 20 6 4 4 0 2 Personals 35 0 0 0 5 0 1 2 2 0 1 7 1 3 1 0 24 SEEKING INFORMATION ON HARRY W. PEACE David Bowers is searching for information about his father, Harry W. Peace, who worked as a merchant seaman out of New York City. Mr. Peace was born June 17, 1920 and died June 14, 1969. Mr. Bowers, who was very young when his father died, is hoping to find a photograph of his father or any information about him, including the location of other relatives. Anyone who can assist David Bowers may write him at 114 McClure Lane, Eugene, OR 97404. ROBERT W. RAGER Please contact your friend Stephanie Lock at (904) 762-3307. Secret Recipe Is Popular on Challenger 23 3 2 27 3 17 17 7 14 0 0 12 0 0 90 77 287 244 162 163 921 768 375 11 0 San Juan ...................Thursday: December 11, January 8 Honolulu ..................Friday: December 19, January 16 12 3 23 0 Tacoma ..................... Friday: December 26, January 23 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 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. November 1997 0 0 1 1 4 Totals All Departments 12 9 0 15 3 15 Totals 15 0 3 1 12 4 15 5 7 0 8 0 3 0 3 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 19 7 13 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 5 5 0 10 3 2 0 0 5 0 0 0 2 2 6 14 10 9 21 1 9 15 33 0 0 Port Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis 6 1 5 2 0 2 12 5 0 1 4 0 5 0 St. Louis Piney Point Algonac 7 2 10 3 2 5 2 2 7 1 7 0 2 1 0 Houston 2 7 7 7 10 9 6 7 9 5 6 11 16 3 Port New York Philadelphia ENGINE DEPARTMENT 7 5 0 3 0 I I 0 2 5 2 0 4 5 84 A popular supplement to the regular lunch and supper fare aboard the Sea-Land Challenger is Bosun Roy Williams' secret recipe for a highly seasoned dish consisting of beans, ham hocks, sausages, hot peppers and other vegetables. In photo above (sent to the Seafarers LOG by AB Jim Elbe), Williams prepares to serve AB Monty Grimes a bowl of the tasty mixture. Williams said he learned his secret recipe after 26 years of sailing on the East and West coasts. He also has collected recipes from many different cultures after his more than six trips around the world. Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Sealanlrs lnfetnaflonal Union Directory SEPTEMBER 16 ~OCTOBER 15, 1997 Michael Sacco President John Fay Executive Vice President CL - ~ ~ HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 30 9 0 14 5 0 8 2 0 28 23 L-Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Reindel Secretary·Treasurer 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 Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast Company/Lakes **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 14 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 8 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 13 2 0 0 16 4 0 8 1 0 7 2 0 15 21 46 0 0 36 8 39 Totals All Depts 80 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. 28 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters BALTIMORE SEPTEMBER 16 - 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 OCTOBER 15, 1997 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C (218)722-41 IO HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville. FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jer8ey 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 027 40 (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 (757) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 SL Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADF.S 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 161h Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL 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 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 DECK DEPARTMENT 26 0 3 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 22 2 11 0 13 1 0 3 0 4 0 10 0 6 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 10 11 25 ENGINE 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 11 0 DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 0 0 0 6 2 9 STEWARD 0 0 0 3 3 0 5 0 0 1 43 8 0 2 0 19 2 1 1 0 0 6 7 0 0 7 0 0 DEPARTMENT 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 52 0 3 I 1 9 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 6 10 1 0 1 0 Totals All Depts 43 3 16 37 1 14 67 4 *"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. 26 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photograph, sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Horace A. Wiltshire of Norfolk, Va., was taken aboard the SS Venore, probably in the early 1950s. The crew signed on in Baltimore and made a trip through the Panama Canal. The 560-foot Venore was built at Bethlehem-Sparrows Point Shipyard in Maryland in 1945, was managed by Ore SS Corp. and flew the American flag from its home port of Wilmington, Del. Brother Wiltshire, pictured third from left, joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Norfolk. He sailed as an AB in both the inland and deep sea divisions. The Virginia native had his deck depatment career inter· rupted by the Air Force from 1951 to 1955. He retired from the SIU in January 1990. Now 69, Brother Wilshire still enjoys the sea; now, however, he just watches it from his beachfront home in Norfolk. November 1997 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafare rs 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 19 Seafarers joining the ranks of pensioners this month are three recertified stewards and two recertified bosuns. Representing more than 165 years of active union membership. Recertified Stewards Lucretia A. Anderson, Robert D. Bright, Darrell J. Touchstone and Recertified Bosuns Henry G. Bentz and Beverly E. Dunn graduated from the highest level of training in the steward and deck departments, respectively, at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Including the five recertified graduates, 14 of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division. The remaining five worked on the inland waterways. Eleven of the retiring pensioners served in the U.S. militarynine in the Army and two in the Navy. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. A DEEP SEA LUCRETIA A.ANDERSON, 66, began sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in =====-i 1968 from the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the 's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Her first ship was the Monterey. A native of California, she attended the MC&S training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. Sister Anderson upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1991. Prior to her retirement, she signed off the R.J. Pfeiffer, operated by Matson Navigation Co. Sister Anderson calls San Francisco home. HENRYG. BENTZ, 62, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1953 from the port of New York on the Edith, an A.H. Bull Steamship Co. vessel. Born in Pennsylvania, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1991. During his sailing career, he was active in union organizing drives and beefs. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. Prior to his retirement, he signed off the LNG Virgo, operated by Energy Transportation Corp. Brother Bentz lives in Laurel, Md. CARAMELO BONAFONT, 59, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1961 and = = = joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. His first ship was the Alcoa November 1997 Pegasus. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Bonafont sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. During his sailing career, he was active in union organizing drives and strikes. From 1956 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Bonafont has retired to Yabucoa, P.R. ROBERT D. BRIGHT, 63, started his career with the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York aboard the John B. Waterman. A native of Virginia, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1981. From 1956 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Army. Prior to his retirement, he signed off the Cape Ray, an OMI Corp. vessel. Brother Bright calls Norfolk, Va. home. BEVERLYE. ,----------~ DUNN, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1950 from the port of Mobile, Ala. abo~rrd the Alcoa Pointer. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg Schcol, where he completed the bosun recertification course in 1974. The Alabama native served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Brother Dunn last sailed in 1978 aboard the Golden Endeavor, operated by Westchester Marine Shipping Co. He makes his home in Eight Mile, Ala. KARLH. HANSON, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1954 from the port of San Francisco. The ===-.....i California native sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Navy. Prior to retiring to Reno, Nev., Brother Hanson signed off the Sea-Land Navigator. CHARLES A HENLEY, 55, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963 and joined the SIU in the port of New Orleans. Born in Alabama, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeb.erg School. Prior to his retirement, he signed off on the Sea-Land Spirit. From 1959 to 1962, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Henley makes his home in Andalusia, Ala. Locksley, operated by Moore McCormack Lines. Born in Canada, he sailed in the engine department. From 1960 to 1964, he served in the U.S. Navy. He last saile,d in 1978 aboard the Walter Rice, a Reynolds Metals Co. vessel. Brother Hireen has retired to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. ROTTRIA F. LACY SR., 56, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1965 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. A native of Alabama, he sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Lacy last sailed in 1996 aboard the Mayaguez, operated by NPR, Inc. Brother Lacy calls Prichard, Ala. home. CHARLES LaSCOLA, 65, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963 and joined the SIU in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Venore. Born in Illinois, he sailed as a member of the steward department. From 1950 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother LaScola last sailed in 1994 aboard the Overseas Vivian. He makes his home in Houston. PORFIRIO L. SAMBULA, 66, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1970 from the port of New York aboard the Steel Flyer, operated by Isthmian Lines. A native of New York, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Sambula last signed off the Galveston Bay, a Sea-Land Service vessel. He has retired to Brooklyn, N.Y. DARRELL J. TOUCHSTONE, 38, graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1977 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first _ _ _ ____.ship was the Columbia. Born in Florida, he sailed in the steward department and frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the steward recertification course in 1991. He signed off the Cape Trinity as his latest ship. Brother Touchstone makes his home in Pensacola, Fla. ARMANDO VIDAL, 59, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of New York aboard the Steel Seafarer, operated by Isthmian Lines. A native of New York, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Vidal last sailed aboard vessels operated by NPR, Inc. He has retired to the Bronx, N.Y. CARLOSR. ZAPATA, 66, started his career with the SIU in 1965 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Honduras, he worked in the deck department, last sailing in 1985 aboard the Ogden Hudson. Brother Zapata makes his home in Metairie, La. INLAND ROYB. FATHEREE, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of New Orleans. The Louisiana native worked in the engine department, last sailing as chief engineer on vessels operated by Dixie Carriers. From 1951 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Fatheree calls Monroe, La. home. .-----:=:=----...., WILLIAM F. GILLIKEN, 62, joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of North Carolina, he last sailed in 1984 as a tugboat captain on vessels operated by Interstate Oil Co. From 1959 to 1961, he serve,d in the U.S. Army. Boatman Gilliken makes his home in Harkers Island, N.C. PRESTOND. MILLER, 62, began his career with the Seafarers in 1963. From that year until 1977, Boatman Miller worked primarily for Radcliff Materials. He has retired to Saraland, Ala. WILLIAM R. STEVENS, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1962. A native of Mississippi, he worked in the deck department, last sailing on vessels operated by Martin Marietta. Boatman Stevens makes his home in Franklin, LA. JAMES A. WILKINS, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951. A native of North Carolina, he worked as a tugboat captain. Boatman Wilkins last sailed in 1990 aboard the Vigilant, operated by Interstate Oil Co. From 1954 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. He has retired to Belhaven, N.C. MC&S Retirees Rekindle Friendships ----~BERNARD ""--..:=-"--"==-o....:=:w R. HIREEN, 65, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1964 from the port of Seattle aboard the Robin Terrific weather, delicious food and cheerful conversation combined to make the 1997 annual Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) picnic a great success. This year's event took place Sunday, September 7 in ~an Bruno (Calif.) Park, just south of San Francisco. Approximately 100 MC&S retirees and their families-many from out of state-attended the picnic, organized by Chuck Martin and Virginia Martin. They pl~y7d ho~seshoes and other games, exchanged old photos and shot new ones, and enjoyed the pot-luck cuisine. Pictured above are some of those who attended. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PIDLIP BATALIA Pensioner Philip Batalia, 92, passed away September 8. Born in the Philippines, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1961 ===----' from the port of Seattle aboard the Calmar. Brother Batalia sailed as a member of the steward department. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943. A resident of Seattle, he began receiving his pension in July 1982. ENRIQUE V. CONNOR Pensioner Enrique V. Connor, 77, died October 11. Brother Connor joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of New York. Born in the Philippines, he sailed in the steward department. He made his home in San Francisco and retired in October 1986. L......;~_4C,.,__ ___J EUGENE W. GRAVES Pensioner EugeneW. Graves, 73, died September 20. A native of Maryland, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Graves sailed as a member of the steward department. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945. A resident of Charlotte Hall, Md., he retired in March 1987. JACK 0. HAMBELTON Pensioner Jack FREDRICK D. CONRADI Pensioner Fredrick D. Conradi, 83, passed away September 22. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1952 in the port of Seattle, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Prior to his retirement in October 1975, he sailed as a chief steward. Brother Conradi was a resident of Long Beach, Calif. CLEO COPELAND Pensioner Cleo Copeland, 82, died September 4. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. A native of Georgia, he sailed in the engine department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Copeland was a resident of Pembroke, Ga. He began receiving his pension in July 1980. KEITH D. CRAIGG Keith D. Craigg, 66, passed away August 6. Born in Barbados, he started his career with the SIU in 1977 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Warrior, operated by Sea-Land Service. Brother Craigg sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. He was a resident of New York City. ALEKSANDER CZERWINSKI Pensioner Aleksander Czerwinski, 83, died September 21. Brother Czerwinski joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of L----..2!liiG~---l New York. Born in Poland, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. The Albany, N.Y. resident retired in July 1978. 0. Hambelton, 64, passed away August 21. Born in California, he graduated from the MC&S training school in 1966 and joined the MC&S in Santa Rosa, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Hambelton sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American President Lines. A resident of Kingsburg, Calif., he started receiving his pension in July 1989. KENNETH D. JONES Kenneth D. Jones, 40, died August 31. He joined the Seafarers. in 1987 in the port of New York. Brother . Jones sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification course in 1992. The Florida native was a resident of Jacksonville, Aa. EDDIE KASSA Pensioner Eddie Kassa, 84, passed away August 23. Brother Kassa joined the MC&S in 1969 in the port of San ~=------' Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He retired to his native Philippines in December 1985. HENRY W. KOON Pensioner Henry W. Koon, 88, died July 22. Born in Hong Kong, he joined the MC&S in 1948 in the port of San Francisco, - -""""'"""""-..L-J_.., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of San Francisco, Brother Koon began receiving his pension in March 1977. WALTER LEMMON 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Walter Lemmon, 80, passed away August 8. A Louisiana native, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 from the = = = port of San * ANTON M. EVENSEN Pensioner Anton M. Evensen, 91, passed away September 23. He began his SIU career in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Norway, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Evensen was a resident of New Orleans and began receiving his pension in December 1967. .. Francisco. His first ship was the Keva Ideal. Brother Lemmon upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School and last sailed as a chief cook. The former resident of San Francisco retired in July 1982. SALVADOR LOZADA Pensioner Salvador Lozada, 93, died August 21. He joined the MC&S in 1935 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in the Philippines, he was a resident of San Francisco and retired in November 1973. JAMES C. NORTHCUTT Pensioner James C. Northcutt, 70, passed away August 7. Brother Northcutt began sailing with the Seafarers in 1960 from the port of San Francisco aboard the City of Alma, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. The Tennessee native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1975. From 1944 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Savannah, Tenn., Brother Northcutt began receiving his pension in August 1989. union merged with the SIU's AGLlWD. Brother Russell was a resident of Farmersville, Texas and retired in June 1975. PATRICK J. SANTORO Pensioner Patrick J. Santoro, 93, passed away September 9. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1952 from his "-"'""'----~-=-_......._,native New York. Brother Santoro sailed in the deck department and was active in union organizing drives and beefs. A resident of Pompano Beach, Aa., he began receiving his pension in August 1970. EARL R. SMITH Pensioner Earl R. Smith, 74, died September 28. Brother Smith joined the SIU in the port of Tampa, Aa. in 1941. The Florida native worked in the deck department. During his sailing career, he was active in union organizing drives and beefs. Brother Smith retired in June 1984 and made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. RAYMOND M. NUGENT DEAN STEINMETZ Pensioner Raymond M. Nugent, 74, died August 31. Born in Ohio, he joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School. A resident of Las Vegas, Brother Nugent retired in April 1988. Dean Steinmetz, 67, passed away July 31. A native of Kansas, he sailed with the Seafarers from 1990 to 1992 as a nurse and storekeeper. From 1947 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Steinmetz was a resident of Hudson, Fla. OLLIE PURDY Pensioner Ollie • Purdy, 75, passed away September 24. A native of Virginia, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Purdy sailed in the deck department. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army. A resident of Trinity, Texas, Brother Purdy began receiving his pension in October 1987. ANTON D. RATKOVICH Pensioner Anton D. Ratkovich, 78, died August 28. He joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Yugoslavia, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. During his SIU career, he was active in union organizing drives and strikes. Brother Ratkovich was a resident of New York City. He retired in November 1985. ANTHONY RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Anthony Rodriguez, 77, passed away August 21. Brother Rodriguez began sailing with the Seafarers in 1953 from the port of Lake Charles, La. During his seafaring career, the Louisiana native sailed in all three departments deck, engine and steward-and attended an educational conference at the Lundeberg School in 1970. A resident of Arabi, La., Brother Rodriguez started receiving his pension in September 1982. LEON RUSSELL Pensioner Leon Russell. 73, died August 23. Born in Texas, he started his career with the MC&S in 1951 in the port of San Francisco, before that INLAND ALLEN BRUNET Pensioner Allen Brunet, 58, passed away October 2. He ~ graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1965 and -...l~......air.a:.._....__ _, joined the Seafarers in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Alcoa Master. A native of Louisiana, Brother Brunet started out in the deep sea division and later transferred to inland vessels. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1959 to 1963, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Ville Platte, La., Boatman Brunet began receiving his pension in July 1997. WILLIAM H. DAVIS Pensioner William H. Davis, 84, died July 31. A native of North Carolina, he started his career with the SIU in 1956 in L L C . . - ' = " " ' - ' - - - - - - l the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the engine department as a chief engineer. Boatman Davis retired in July 1983 and was a resident of Elkridge, Md. GREAT LAKES HOWARD J. BASLEY Pensioner HOUSTON R. WHITE Pensioner Houston R. White, 69, died October 2. Born in Florida, he started his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New ~--""",L,J York. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother White began receiving his pension in July 1988. He was a resident of Crescent City, Aa. HAROLD T. WRIGHT Pensioner Harold T. Wright, 67, passed away August 6. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of ~~-_J Tampa, Fla. Born in Ohio, Brother Wright sailed in the deck department. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Tampa, Brother Wright retired in June 1995. HON PING YEE Pensioner Hon Ping Yee, 90, died August 8. Brother Yee joined the MC&S in 1954, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Hawaii, he was a resident of Honolulu and began receiving his pension in March 1973. Hu~ar.g.+r----t---~ L-----~~~.....J Basley, 75, passed away October 3. The Wisconsin native joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Duluth, Minn. He sailed as a member o~fJ;th!.!!e~.1¥11~---i partment. Brother asley made his home in Superior, Wis. and began receiving his pension in July 1987. MAXB.TOBIN Pensioner Max B. Tobin, 77, died August 30. Born in Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1961 . in the port of Detroit. During ~ his seafaring · career, he sailed as a tug lineman, oiler, fireman and deckhand. A resident of Southgate, Mich., he retired in July 1982. ARANTIC FISHERMEN JOSEPH P. SANTOS Pensioner Joseph P. Santos, 94, passed away July 20. Born in Portugal, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1944 in the port of Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Santos was a resident of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. and began receiving his pension in October 1968. RAILROAD MARINE MINGW.YING DONALD H. MESZAROS Pensioner Ming W. Ying, 89, passed away September 11. He joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. The China native sailed in the deck department and became a U.S. citizen in 1965. Brother Ying was a resident of San Francisco and retired in April 1982. Pensioner Donald H. Meszaros, 71, passed away August 20. A native of Michigan, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948. He primarily worked as a chef aboard car ferries operated by Ann Arbor Railroad Co. Brother Meszaros was a resident of Beulah, Mich. He retired in June 1991. .___ _ _..;;;___ __J November 1997 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print a1 many digests of union shipboard · · minutes as possible. On occasion, because of 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 Seatare/S LOG tor publication. HM/ ASTRACHEM (IUM}, August 31-Chairman Spencer Lyle, Secretary Luis Escobar, Deck Delegate William Brinson, Engine Delegate Guadalupe Garza. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of Freeport, Texas. Secretary welcomed new SIU apprentices aboard and commended them on their excellent work and enthusiasm. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked Chief Steward Escobar and galley gang for gourmet meals and deck department for job well done. LNG GEMINI (ETC), August 31 -Chairman Ramli Mohamed, Secretary Kris Hopkins, Educational Director Muharam Rusin, Deck Delegate John Lafavour, Engine Delegate Marcos Hill, Steward Delegate Patricia Ballance. Crewmembers discussed moving gym equipment into basketball court. Steward reminded crew to take care of new couches in crew lounge. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School and apply for training record books (TRBs). neasurer announced $240 in ship's fund and discussed purchasing small refrigerators for crewmembers' quarters. Crew asked contracts department for clarification of shipboard sanitary duties. Steward reminded departing crewmembers to clean rooms, replace linens and tum in keys. Entire crew thanked steward department for fine meals. Next ports: Tobata, Japan; Bontang, Indonesia; Nagoya. Japan. MAERSK CONSTELLATION (Maersk Lines), August 29Chairman Terry Hilton, Secretary Khamis Mageed, Educational Director Leonard Strong. Bosun thanked crew for safe trip and reported payoff in port of Concord, Calif. He asked members to have rooms clean and ready for next occupant. Chairman noted expansion of Maersk fleet and creation of additional SIU jobs. Secretary thanked galley gang for job well done. Educational director urged members to check Paul Hall Center's schedule of courses and upgrade whenever possible. Treasurer announced $350 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to clarify hazardous cargo pay. Crew also requested a new refrigerator for crew mess hall. OM/ COLUMBIA (OMI), August 22-Chairman Greg Hamilton, Secretary Dana Zuls, Educational Director William Behan, Deck Delegate Paul Sbriglio, Steward Delegate Donald Dwyer. Chairman asked crew to ti II out repair list, return all movies and keep noise down. He further advised members smoking is not permitted during union meetings. Secretary asked contracts department to clarify situation regarding pay. Educational director urged crewmembers to return to Piney Point as often as possible to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT November 1997 reported. Chairman reminded members smoking is not permitted anywhere on deck. Crew requested cleaner for new VCR. Members also noted two crewmembers are without refrigerators and one cabin needs new lock installed. Deck department asked for paper towels. Next port: El Segundo. PFC JAMES ANDERSON (Maersk Lines), August 24Chairman George Jordanides, Secretary Michael Watts, Educational Director Larry Cochrane, Deck Delegate Thomas Keenan, Engine Delegate Keith Neathery, Steward Delegate Duane Washington. Chairman and crew extended special vote of thanks to Chief Steward Watts, Chief Cook Roger Mosley, Assistant Cook Washington, and SAs Tofiq Kennedy, Robby Lapy and Ali Nasser for wonderful shipboard barbecue held on Paul Hall Day. Steward thanked entire crew for helping keep vessel clean. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Male, Maldives and Diego Garcia. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), August 31Chairman ·c , Secret Donna J. Clemons, Educational Director Brian Connell, Deck Delegate Frank Cammuso, Engine Delegate Ramona Gayton, Steward Delegate Mario Frime. Chairman announced estimated time of arrival in port of Oakland, Calif. Educational director discussed importance of crew attending Lundeberg School's tanker operation and safety course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun thanked steward department for good meals and special birthday cakes. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service}, August 24Chairman William Dean, Secretary Roger Linasan, Educational Director Baldev Singh, Deck Delegate Manolo Delos Santos, Engine Delegate George Phillips. Steward Delegate Jessie James. Chairman stressed importance of all members obtaining a training record book (TRB) from the union. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave "thanks and compliments" to galley gang for job well done. Next ports: Long Beach and Oakland, Calif.; Dutch Harbor, Alaska; and Yokohama, Japan. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), August 24-Chairman Rudy Santos, Secretary Vainu'u Sili, Educational Director Douglas Greiner, Deck Delegate Ron Sagadraca, Steward Delegate Efren Ancheta. Chairman reminded crew to work with safety in mind while at sea. Secretary reported smooth sailing. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $145 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), August 31-Chairman William Marsh, Secretary Stephanie Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Deck Delegate Mark Holman, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns. Chairman reported new chairs for crew lounge have been ordered. He announced payoff upon arrival in port of Jacksonville, Fla. Secretary reminded crew of new shipboard garbage disposal program. He asked crewmembers to return plates and silverware to galley. Educational director noted new movies will be purchased in port of Houston. He stressed importance of all members applying for training record books (fRBs). Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Bosun thanked galley gang for fine meals. Next port: Houston. new washing machine received in port of Corpus Christi, Texas. Bosun extended wishes for pleasant voyage to crew remaining on vessel and wishes for a happy visit to shore for those signing off. He gave special vote of thanks to Chief Steward Hays and steward department for making vessel "a great feeder." No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Bosun requested special hand cleaner for crewmembers. ember 15-Chairman Greg Hamilton, Secretary Dana Zuls, Educational Director William Behan, Deck Delegate Paul Sbriglio, Steward Delegate Donald Dwyer. Chairman noted response had not been received from contracts department concerning question about pay. He asked crew to identify themselves when adding items to repair list. Bosun reminded members to latch watertight doors when closing Stars and Stripes Adorn the Curtiss SULFUR ENTERPRISE (Sulpher Carriers), August 31Chairman Marvin Zimbro, Secretary Nee Tran, Educational Director Charlie Clausen, Deck Delegate Solomon Shields, Steward Delegate Rice Pham. Chairman advised crew that ship going into shipyard around September 20. He urged members to apply for training record books (TRBs} and upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward reminded members to clean rooms and change linens before signing off vessel. DUCHESS (Ocean Duchess, Inc.), September 15-Chairman Robert Eugene Allen, Secretary Tyler Laffitte, Educational Director Byron Elliott, Deck Delegate Vincent Damelia, Engine Delegate Michael Brennan, Steward Delegate Mariano Norales. Educational director advised members to apply for training record books (fRBs). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested relief crew in port and asked contracts department to look into reducing seatime to file for vacation. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. GUAYAMA (NPR, Inc.), September 21-Chairman Gerald R. Kidd, Secretary Richard Hicks, Educational Director Ronald Smith, Deck Delegate Tan Joon. Chairman reported payoff upon arrival in port of Jacksonville, Fla. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted letter from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez received and posted. Entire crew thanked galley gang and deck department for jobs well done. Steward thanked crewmembers for putting all plastic garbage in designated receptacle. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), September 28-Secretary Pablo Alvarez, Educational Director Larry Phillips. Secretary noted payoff in next port and advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. Educational director also stressed importance of upgrading; Lundeberg School course schedule is found monthly in Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), September 21Chairman R. Wilson, Secretary Catherine Hays, Deck Delegate Paul Wade, Engine Delegate John Parkhurst, Steward Delegate Pedro Mena. Chairman reported Following helicopter operation exercises off the coast of California, the USNS Curtiss sailed into Port Hueneme July 2 for a union meeting and payoff. Representing the AMSEA vessel's "phenomenal steward department" (according to AB Bruce Hosmer), are (from left) SAs Carol A. Lyon, Aloa Agostino and Mary Lou Lopez, who are all ready for a sparkling Fourth of July. LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Maritime}, September 14Chairman Neil Matthey, Secretary Frederick Washington Sr., Educational Director Walter Chancey. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port on September 17 and noted ship scheduled to depart on voyage to Russia. Secretary reminded crewmembers signing off to clean room and tum in keys prior to departure. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Bosun and crew discussed talking to captain about obtaining new washer and dryer for crew laundry. MAERSK CONSTELLATION (Maersk Lines}, September 11Chairman Mo Ahmed, Secretary Hugh Wilderemuth, Deck Delegate Frank Cottongin, Engine Delegate Edward Mancke, Steward Delegate Kathleen Lanahan. No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Crewmembers noted ship's antenna has not been replaced or repaired despite three separate requests. Steward asked crewmembers to please clean lint filter on dryer and keep recreation room tidy. Bosun noted crew is still waiting for news on relief in port of Long Beach, Calif. NUEVO SAN JUAN (NPR, Inc.), September 7-Chairman William Card, Secretary Ed Haber, Educational Director T. Prisco, Deck Delegate Jim Sanders, Steward Delegate Antonio Colon. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for clarification of rest periods in port and on weekends. OM/ COLUMBIA (OMI), Sept- them and put away all tools after using them. Secretary and educational director discussed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed reported. Chairman advised crew to wear safety equipment when working. Entire crew thanked steward department for excellent food. Next port: El Segundo, Calif. ar OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime Overseas), September 25-Chairman Roger Reinke, Secretary John Rapoza, Educational Director Edward Self, Deck Delegate William Burke, Engine Delegate Herman Bergeron Jr., Steward Delegate Antonio Pizzuto. Bosun advised crew to be aware of upper deck sandblasting and painting. Chairman encouraged members to have training record books (TRBs) before year's end. He also urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Educational director added that crewmembers must renew their firefighting endorsement every five years. Bosun informed crew of repair list being circulated and reminded them to give captain 48 hours notice if they do not want a cash payoff. No beefs or disputreported. Crew asked for ed new mattresses and lounge furniture. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for great meals. Next port: Drift River, Alaska. ar SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steamship), September 14-Chairman Bobby Riddick, Secretary Roderick Bright, Educational Director Emmett Neathery. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed reported by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers extended wishes for happy and healthy retirement to AB James Radaire and noted it was "good sailing with a great man." Crew thanked steward department for job well done. ar Seafarers LOG 19 �Maritime Briefs Sea-Land Challenger Fuels 'Volcano' Port of New York and New Jersey Awarded Federal Funding for Dredging Project Congress recently authorized nearly $1 million in federal funding for the dredging of the port of New York/New Jersey. The long-awaited project to deepen the port's shipping channels from 40 to 45 feet is slated to begin next fall. The plan to unclog the port's main channel, the Kill van Kull, to its container berths will be done in phases and is expected to take six or seven years. While President Clinton has yet to sign the legislation, White House officials say the president is committed to helping the port. The funding is part of a $60 million package awarded to the port of New York/New Jersey for a variety of projects defined in the recently passed energy and water appropriations bill. According to officials, the port of New York/New Jersey has lost nearly 10 percent of its container cargo in recent years because the clogged and shallow channels have forced large vessels to offload cargo before sailing to their respective berths. SIU-contracted companies such as Maersk Lines, Sea-Land Service and NPR, Inc., as well as numerous Seafarers-crewed tankers, regularly call on the port of New York/New Jersey. Runaway-flag Tanker Involved in Worst Oil Spill in Singapore's History A collision between two giant tankers in the Singapore Strait last month resulted in an oil spill of 25,000 tons (174.5 million barrels)the worst pollution accident in Singapore's history. The incident occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on October 15 when the Greek-owned, Cyprus-flagged Evoikos and the Thailand-flag Orapin Global slammed into one another about three miles outside Singapore's port limits. According to a report issued by the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority, Singapore port supervisors warned the captain of each vessel of the impending disaster for 13 minutes before the collision occurred. Press reports state that the runaway-flag Evoikos was carrying 840,000 barrels of bunker from the Middle East to Singapore when it hit the Orapin Global, which was in ballast and leaving the port limits. The accident left a hole in the port side of the Evoikos, causing the oil to flood out. The master of the Orapin Global was charged with navigating the vessel in a reckless manner and failing to take the proper action to avoid the accident. He faces six months in jail, a $630 fine or both, if convicted. A trial date has not been set. The first warning was issued to the Orapin Global at 8:41 p.m. The captain acknowledged the warning and crossed lanes. However, he returned the tanker to its original course after passing a nearby vessel. Press reports state the second set of warnings to the master of the Orapin Global was issued at 8:46 p.m., and at 8:48 p.m. he was informed of the imminent collision and urged to "navigate with caution." The tankers crashed at 8:54 p.m. According to the International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (lntertanko ), the warnings may not have allowed enough time for the vessels to avoid the collision since they were approaching one another at about 20 knots. The agency noted that it takes between 2.5 and three miles, or 15 minutes, to stop a very large empty tanker. It would take just under two miles, or 10 minutes, to stop a loaded 150,000-ton tanker, added Intertanko. (At the time of the collision, the Evoikos was 140,210 deadweight tons and the Orapin Global was 268,450 deadweight tons.) The cleanup of the 25,000 tons of crude oil in the Singapore is still under way. However, officials report that some of the oil has leaked into Malaysian and Indonesian waters. The Singapore spill is being compared to the Exxon Valdez, which dumped 35,000 tons of crude oil into Alaskan waters in 1989. #r_, . ~: "',. "° ~ K.~ On August 4, 1997, the sailing vessel Volcano called the Sea-Land Challenger on the VHF radio requesting assistance. Crewed by nine women from Orange Coast College in Newport Beach, Calif., the sailboat was bound for Santa Barbara, Calif. but had been rendered becalmed and was running low on fuel. Paul Skoropowski, captain of the Sea-Land Challenger, agreed to give the Volcano the needed fuel. The SIU-crewed vessel decreased its speed and set an intercept course for the distressed vessel. Once the Sea-Land Service ship came near the Volcano, it dropped to 15 rpm and the sailboat ran alongside at the same speed. The chief mate passed a hose line over the side to allow the Volcanos fuel tank to be filled by the students (in photo above), and the Sea-Land Challenger resumed its original course and speed. Union Continues Issuing TRBs to Seafarers All Seafarers who have not applied for a training record book (TRB) are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Jointly developed by the union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the TRB is accepted by the U.S. Coast Guard. It was designed primarily 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. 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 receip m tea ng received the booklet. The information entered by individuals into the book will be supported and verified by a database maintained at the training facility. 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 Seafarers with a TRB by the end of th , rs are. urged to apply for the books as soon as possible. In addition to the form below, applications also are available at all SIU halls. r-------------------------------------, Training Record Book Application First Last SSN _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date of B i r t h - - - - - - - - - - - Home Phone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address------------------------------~ Street City Height (inches) _ __ Zip Code State 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? LOG-A-RHYTHM Book Number _ _ __ Home Port _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Eye Color _ __ Department (where you want book sent to) You changed things around for some good, it seems, and those fancy desserts helped stretch our our jeans. You fattened us up, now you 're going away, and we have to deal with loud little Ray. We wish you the best, along your way, and hope to be shipmates again someday. [This poem was written by the SUP deck gang aboard the Mokihana (Matson Line) in tribute to Chief Steward Carol A. Grycko's cooking.] 20 Seafarers LOG 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:------------------ Date _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 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. L-------------------------------------~ November 1997 �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 and their families and will publish them on a timely basis.) Memories of SIU Life Remain with Cousins I read about the many wonderful things that are happening in our union in the September issue of the Seafarers LOG. As a retiree, I am glad to be a part of it, having waited 43 years for my honorable discharge as a result of my work during World War II aboard vessels. As an oldtimer, I can relate to brothers Angus Campbell and Ed Mooney, whose pictures I saw as guests to the SIUNA convention. I often wonder what became of "Jungle Jim" (Burt Hanback), whose whereabouts I have lost track of since my retirement from sea duty. Sometimes, in the middle of the night, I wake with a start, as if I overslept and, possibly, the standby forgot to call me for coffee before I go on watch. But now, it's just a fantasy, as it turns out. At other times, I have an occasional nightmare in which I dream about the times on lookout in the bow, in calm waters, when the torpedo I feared, as I closed my eyes and stopped up my ears, veered off the bow and turned out to be a friendly old porpoise. I also remember attending New London's Officers Training School, where I couldn't digest what they threw at me so fast, so I was glad to return to our union during WWII. My one good memory of that institution was the voice of Vaughn Monroe on the jukebox singing "Racing with the Moon." Intermittently, I think back to the good times and galley-cooked meals-and even air raids. On the George E. Hale, as I recall, we had a chief officer by the name of Dave Smith. While at the dock in Naples, Italy, we had an air-raid alert, and since there were no gun-tubs and Navy gun crews aboard at that time, the crew was signaled to gather in the messroom. I can just guess that the thought going through all our minds was "this is it." Then, with the sounds of bombs exploding while missing their targets (thank God), the order was given to move SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREATLAKES TUG AND Df!EDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension .Plan, EIN 13-1953878, Plan No. 003, for the period J~uary 1, 1 sso mrougb Qecer_nber 31, 1996. The annual report has been ~led With the Internal Revenue Service. as requ!red under ~e Employe,~ ,flelJ~ment Income Security Act of 1974 (ERtSA)., , , " , .ro 1',,.i , ,,, ~h·' .,.. Basic Financial Information Benefits under the pfan are provided tbrough a trust fund. Plan expenses were $1t'297,494. These expenses ineluded $176,494 in administrative expenses and $1.121,000 in benefits paid to participants and bft~ef19iaries. A total of 578 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the pfan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $22,322,968 as of December 31, 1996, compared to $21 ,377,532 as of January 1. 1996. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $945,436. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 beginnjng of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $2,242,930, Including employer contributions of $205,494, employee contributions of $89,902, realized losses of $51,215 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $1,998,749. 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 fundings 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 Board of Trustees of the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs. MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. The charges to cover copying costs wilt be $2.10 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MO 20746) and at the U.S. Department 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-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. November 1997 Kno-w- Your Rights out and drop anchor until we proceeded to the next port of call. Clarence L. Cousins Butler, Penn. ~ .. Top-notch Mariners Aboard Duchess I am presently wrapping up four months as second mate aboard the Duchess. During this time, I had ABs Johnny Rod- riguez, Pat Dillon, Rick Hindson, Jerry Joseph, Danny Cruz and George Pochuliya on my watch. QMED/Pumpman Byron Elliot assisted with cargo, docking and undocking. All of them are top-notch seamen. I was able to brag (and truthfully) about how I had the best watch on the ship. Especially Rick Hindson, who reminds me of the character of Deets in the movie "Lonesome Dove." When that character died, the captain wrote on his tombstone, '. . . he was cheerful in all weathers and never shirked a task.' Nice to know there are still merchant seamen around. James Hoban Second Mate, Duchess .. Dousing Shipboard Fire Elicits Master's Praise I would like to commend the crew of the Sea-Land Trader for their response to a fire at sea. On September 26, 1997, while the crew was engaged in a fire drill, the deep fat fryer in the galley caught fire. The crew responded in the best possible manner to this emergency. They did as they were trained to do. Each person went to his or her station where every member of the ship's company made a contribution toward putting out the fire. Two SIU members were wearing self-contained breathing apparatus, AB Salvador Villareal and Electrician Coy Herrington. They unhesitatingly went into the flames and smoke of the galley in order to extinguish the blaze. I would like to add that Mr. Herrington used good initiative to put a fire blanket over the burning fat in order to prevent flashbacks. I would also like to point out that while the fire lasted five minutes, the cleanup and repair work took five days. All departments helped willingly and worked long hours to put things right. The results of their efforts are amazing when you consider the original damage. A great deal of thanks goes to our steward department. Chief Steward Kevin Dougherty, Chief Cook Susano Cortez and Steward Utility Milagros Clark were able to serve hot meals within a day of the fire while working under the most difficult of circumstances. The successful extinguishing of this fire is a tribute to the training and dedication of the entire crew of the Sea-Land Trader. The post-fire efforts are a measure of the pride this crew has in their ship. I can honestly say that if another fire were to occur in the career of this vessel, there would never be a more capable group of people to deal with it than the crew presently serving. I am honored to work alongside men and women such as these. They are a credit to their union and to the American merchant marine. Capt. Kenneth J. Halsall Master, Sea-Land Trader 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 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 WG. 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 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 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. POLITICAL SEAFARERS 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 r:eceived 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. NOfIFYING 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 520 I Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ,•";\,, ·: ·~ 4 Trainee Lifeboat Class 568-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 568 are (from left, kneeling) Caleb Hines, Lewis O'Neal, Sean McDavitt, Davin Gillespie, Manuel Little, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Anthony Neathery Jr., James Hazelip, Randy Pasquarella, Janaro Jackson, Jared Lee, Michael Scheir, Keith Manzano Jr. and James Felhauer. Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of the September 17 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Mohamed Ahmed, Sergio Ayala, Yahya Ali, Carlos Rosales, (second row) Silverino Estigoy, El-Sayed Mohamed, Hanif Abdul-Hakeem and Ben Cusic (instructor). Tankerman Barge PIC-Completing their tankerman barge PIC training on September 3 are (from left, first row) Ben Cusic (instructor), Robert Hamilton, William Mathews Jr., Gary Dow, (second row) Robert Wooten and Robert Kirk. Marine Electrical Maintenance II-Marking their graduation from the marine electrical maintenance II class on September 17 are (from left) Ross Himebauch, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Gary Frazier, Gregory Thomas, Charles Dunnavant and Robert Richer. Not pictured are Charles Donley, Carlos Perez and Rick Kern. Limited License-Seven Seafarers completed the limited license class on September 17. They are (from left, kneeling) Jeffrey Russo, Casey Taylor (instructor), Chad Macaulay, (second row) Calvin Patterson, Lamont Lovick, Michael Cox, John Cincotta and Joseph Violante. Damage Control-Graduating from the damage control class on September 17 are (from left) Klaus Tankersley, Allan McCoy, Bobby Javier, Kenny Spivey, Roberto Flores and arter. Tanker Assistant DL-SIU members completing the tanker assistant DL course on September 3 are (from left, front row, kneeling) Laura Reed, Jose Constantino, Bernie lgot, David Dinnes, Michael Wells, Klaus Tankersley, (second row) Bobby Javier, Daniel Crawford, Donald Clatter, Gary Carter, Roosevelt Sampson, Sinclair Oubre, Kenneth Spivey, Christopher Mattair, (third row) Jim Shaffer (instructor), Thomas Hale, Hanif Abdul-Hakeem, John O'Shaughnessy and Ronald warrior. LNG Familiarization-Earning their certificates of achievement for successfully completing the LNG familiarization course in September are (from left, kneeling) John Smith (instructor), Suraredjo Sukirman, Jan Haidir, Johnnie Thomas, Glenn Toledo, (second row) Ronald Belcher, Thomas Guffey, Tony Kaplan, Huey Jackson Jr., Thomas Cyrus, Ronald Rizzuto, (third row) Scott Seiler, Hector Barnes, Richard Spence, Edwin Bonefont, Thomas Parisi and Jose Manandic. Tanker Assistant DL-Receiving their graduation certificates for completing the tanker assistant DL course on September 24 are (from left, kneeling) Alphonse Thomas Sr., Maris Seperis, Ismael Purganan, Mohamed Mahmed, Michael Duggan, (second row) Edward Lobb, Mark Smith, Paul Coursey, Latausha Roberson, Karriem Allah, Chris Stringer, (third row) Mark Jones (instructor), Paula Kaleikini, William Humphrey, Timothy Girard, Ibarra Mangaya, DeMont Edwards and Robert Haggerty. 22 Seafarers LOG Ice Carving-Hanif AbdulHakeen (left) is congratulated by Instructor/Chef Allen Sherwin for successfully completing the ice carving course on September 18. Upgraders Lifeboat-Certificates of lifeboat training were received by the September 17 class. They are (from left, first row) Jorge Mora, Alphonse Thomas Sr., (second row) Pedro Santos, Samuel Spears Jr., Tom Gilliland (instructor), (third row) Muhiddin Awale, Nellie Jones, William Thomas, Mauricio Castro, Romeo Azcarate, (fourth row) Larry Reed, Douglas Hall, Henry Jones Jr., Ibarra Mangaya, (fifth row) Jeff Stuart, Charles Abell, Claudio Romano and Charles James. Not shown is Bernie Pelingon. November 1997 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1991·98 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning between December 1997 and the first three months of 1998 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. AU 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 an.d-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 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler February 23 April 6 QMED January 12 April 2 Refrigeration Systems & Maintenance February 17 March 27 Diesel Engine Technology March 30 Mays Power Plant Maintenance February 17 March 27 start dates. Please also note: the courses listed for 1998 are tentative. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Lundeberg School may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. The staff of the Paul Hall Center is working on its full 1998 schedule of classes. As soon as it is completed, it will be published in the Seafarers WG. Deck Upgrading Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Assistant DL February 2 March2 February 23 March20 Course Start Date Date or Completion Tankerman Barge PIC February 13 February 20 Able Seaman February 9 March9 March 6 April3 Government Vessels March 9 March 27 Celestial Navigation March 2 April 10 Lifeboatman December 1 January 26 February 23 December 12 February 6 March6 Radar Observer/Unlimited December 1 March23 December 12 Aprill Radar Recertification (one-day class) December 11 Start Date ebruary 23 Bosun Recertification Start Date Date of Completion Special Able Seaman January 17 February 13 February 6 Marcb6 Additional Courses Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation January 12 April 11 Date of Completion English as a Second Language (ESL) January 26 March 6 April6 Lifeboat Preparation January 19 February 12 March 16 January 23 February 16 March20 Tanker Assistant Preparation January 26 Fe ruary 23 March23 January 30 February 27 March27 QMED Preparation January 5 January9 FOWT Preparation February9 February 20 AB Preparation January 26 February 23 March 23 February 6 March 6 April 3 College English January 12 February20 Steward Recertification January 26 March3 LNG Recertification February 9 February 13 Course Start Date Date of Completion Certified Chief C and Chief Steward December 13 December 27 January 10 January 24 March6 March 20 April 3 April 17 December 13 December 27 January 10 January 24 January 9 January 23 February 6 February 20 Galley Operations and Galley Operations Course Course Recertification Programs Q>urse Inland Courses Introdction to Computers Self-study __ _k: ________________________________________________________ _ 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-cdrd 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 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 S e c u r i t y # - - - - - - - - - B o o k # - - - - - - - - - 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 If yes, class# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? D Yes Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken-------------------~ Ro11ember 1997 SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE D No If yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - D Yes D No Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: 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: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 11/97 Seafarers LOG 23 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT A summary annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan may be found on page 21 in this issue of the Seafarers LOG. PaW Hall Center Galley Program Receives High Mar.ks The new steward department curriculum at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. is receiving high praise from galley gang upgraders who have completed courses since the program was revamped early this year. ''The courses are excellent and provide a unique learning opportunity for any member sailing in the steward department," stated Robert Wilcox, who recently graduated from the new certified chief cook class. In March, the center's Lundeberg School completed a comprehensive upgrade of its steward department curriculum, including new, modular classes and an emphasis on seatime requirements between . courses. According to Allan Sherwin, director of culinary education at the school, the restructured curriculum makes it more convenient for Seafarers to attend courses in Piney Point. (See sidebar for a list of courses.) Taught In Modules One significant change in the galley course structure is that the certified chief cook course is now offered in six, two-week modules, for a total of 12 weeks. Because none of the modules is a prerequisite to any other, eligible upgraders may enroll at the beginning of any of the six modules. In addition, after completing at least three modules (a total of six weeks), upgraders who have an opportunity to ship out may do so. They then have one year from their departure date to return to the Lundeberg School and finish the other three modules. (Of course, students also may complete each of the modules in succession.) While Wilcox completed the entire chief cook program in 12 weeks, he noted the new modules offer galley gang members "the option to complete their education and still get their seatime should the opportunity arise." Sharon Herner, who is taking the certified chief cook course, said of the courses, "The modular program is outstanding because it doesn't matter when you enroll; all of the topics will be covered in the cycle. I think it is a great idea and one that works well for every steward department member who wants to continue their education here in Piney Point." Sherwin, who has endorsements from a number of prestigious culinary institutions, explained, "The steward department program is very viable. It allows galley students to return for upgrading courses every two weeks or 26 times a year. The old structure was not as flexible. "We have received a lot of positive feedback from Seafarers as well as SIU-contracted companies who value the school's many benefits. The new steward department courses give upgraders more opportunities to return to the school and hone their galley skills. The overall purpose is to accommodate our members' work and shipping schedules more advantageously," said Sherwin. New Instructors Sherwin added that new culinary teachers who have joined the school's staff provide excellent instruction in shipboard cuisine and have played a vital role in the overall success of the new program. "The Lundeberg School's steward department curriculum is one of the best in the nation. We provide our students with top-notch, professional instruction. After all, the quality of a shipboard steward department affects the well-being of an Lead culinary instructor Eileen Hagar (right) instructs certified chief cook upgraders on the art of stuffing a turkey breast. entire crew. Their culinary skills are vital," Sherwin stated. "The instructors are excellent and provide a wealth of knowledge," acknowledged Herner who sails from the port of Mobile, Ala. "Chef Eileen Hagar, for example, really takes her time and helps each individual. I can't say enough good things about this program," she added. For more information about enrolling in the Lundeberg School's steward department courses, see the application on page 23 in this issue of the LOG, ask a port agent or contact the admissions office at (30 I) 994-00 I 0, extension 5202. Paul Hall Center Steward Department Curriculum Unlicensed Apprentice Courses Ginger is one of the ingredients for Michael Perez's main dish. Perez is studying to become a chief steward. Includes a 20-hour shipboard sanitation class and a 20-hour galley fammarization class. After students complete 90 days' seatime in the apprentice program. those who choose to sail in the steward depart· ment will return to the school for a four-week galley operations class. Galley operations features a pair of two-week modules. Carlos Suazo, a student in the certified chief cook course, dices carrots and onions for his cuisine. Judi Chester, who recently completed the new certified chief cook course, works on a special dish in the Paul Hall Center's lecture/demonstration galley. Galley Operations II Members must have 120 days' seatime to enroll after completing the unlicensed apprentice program. Non-graduates must have 365 days' seatime as an SA to enroll. The course consists of two, two-week modules (for a total of four weeks). Each module includes 35 hours, with additional time served in the school's galley operations. Certified Chief Cook Members must have 180 days' seatime after completing advanced galley operations to enroll. The course consists of six, two-week modules that are stand-alone (for a total of 12 weeks). This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. Advanced Galley Operations Members must have 180 days' seatime after completing certified chief cook to enroll. The course consists of four, one-week modules (for a total of four weeks). Chief Steward Members must have 180 days' seatime after completing advanced galley operations to enroll. This is a 12-week class. Recertified Chief Steward Trimming fat from a piece of meat for his next recipe is Gerardo Frederick in the certified chief cook class. This six-week class is the most advanced curriculum available to Seafarers sailing in the steward department. Seafarers must be fullbook members and must match the seatime and/or training as listed on the application to apply for enrollment. (A panel of three Seafarers from each year's final recertification course reviews the applications and selects the next year's class members.) During his certified chief cook training, Jorge Bernardez adds a touch of olive oil to the skillet as he prepares to work on a recipe. � 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 November 1997 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MSC’S PERKINS CALLS U.S. FLEET ‘VITAL’ TO NATIONAL DEFENSE HOWARD SCHULMAN, SIU COUNSEL, DIES AT 79 AGREEMENT WILL REOPEN PHILADELPHIA SHIPYARD SEAFARERS SIGN ON NEWLY ACQUIRED TANKERS SECOND ‘BOB HOPE’ RO/RO CHRISTENED IN NEW ORLEANS HALL CENTER DEVELOPING PROGRAM FOR ENTRY-LEVEL INLAND SEAFARERS U.S. CRUISE SHIP PROPOSAL OUTLINED TO SENATE BOATMEN COMPLETE HEALTH/SAFETY COURSE USCG RULE AIMS TO BOOST SAFETY ON TOWING VESSELS, TANK BARGES AFL-CIO STEPS UP CAMPAIGN AGAINST FAST-TRACK BILL FORBES’ BILL CALLS FOR VETERANS’ STATUS FOR ALL MARINERS WHO SAILED IN WARS SIU MANPOWER OFFICE PREPARES FOR ROLE IN SIMULATED RRF BREAKOUT THIS MONTH STRAWBERRY WORKERS’ FIGHT FOR FAIRNESS IS GROWING USCG’S MERCHANT MARINE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE TACKLES PROPOSED STCW AND TANKERMAN REGS SIU CREW PREPARES INDY FOR DRYDOCK SIU-CREWED PHILLY-CAMDEN FERRY FARES WELL IN 1997 IF SECURES $100,000 IN BACK WAGES AND OVERTIME FRO UKRAINIAN CREW ICEBREAKING PROCEDURES- PART 1 GREAT LAKES SHIPPING REMAINS CONSTANT AS ’97 SEASON WINDS UP PREPARATION ARMS SEAFARERS WITH CONFIDENCE TO DEAL WITH TERRORIST SITUATIONS SEAFARERS ABOARD BLUE RIDGE STRESS IMPORTANCE OF CABOTAGE LAW PAUL HALL CENTER GALLEY PROGRAM RECEIVES HIGH MARKS 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 11/01/1997 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. 11 1997 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/42f5285be9b48fd2b131a2d64b3ff6d8.pdf 3bd655574d898d308bf95f1d4d002e20 PDF Text Text Three new SIU-contracted "Double Eagle" tankers were christened in Newport News, Va. on October 3, marking additional job opportunities for Seafarers. The union joined with others at the ceremony in welcoming the Diamond Shoals and Nantucket Shoals (both pictured above) as well as the Cape Lookout Shoals. Two more SIU-crewed Double Eagle tankers currently being built in Newport News are slated for delivery in 1999. Page 3. ITF Ship Carries RunawayFlag Campaign to U.S. Thousands of Visitors Learn About Brutal Conditions on Foreign Vessels fl Cleanup _,perations Continue After Hurricane Georges SIU members in Puerto Rico and the Mobile, Ala. area are among the count u_s_ Maritim~ Admini~trator Clyde Hart among tM go_ooo visitors to the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) exhibition ~hip Globa Mariner. Hart (left, 5haking hand~ with SIU Executive Vice Pre:;ident and ITF Seafarers' Section Chairman John Fay) touriJd th9 ve$Sel in Baltimore and commAnd~d tM ITF fl)r undertaking this worldwide tour again5t runaway·flag ~hip· ping. M~ny Seafarers and SIU 6ffitial~ als~ visited the G/DbBI MarimJrat it5 initi~I ~top~ in the U.S. Pl!lge~ 11.14_ many U.S. and Caribbean residents still recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Georges. With 125 mph winds and torrential rains, Georges caused an estimated $2.5 biltion in damage to residences, businesses and other property in the Gulf states and the Caribbean. Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic were hit particularly hard. Above: Shipping remains disrupted in Puerto Rico, where shoreside cranes were wrecked by the storm. Page 2. �Reco11ery from 'Georges' Continues President's Report Thanks for Jobs Well Done By being part of the nation's fourth arm of defense, Seafarers know they may be called to action at any time. Our jobs do not require us to punch a time clock. We know that when a vessel has to tie up or leave a dock, when a repair has to be made, when an unscheduled safety drill is announced, there is no time to say, 'T II do it tomorrow because my shift is over." It gets done now because others are depending on it. Since details like these aboard vessels Michael Sacco can occur 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Seafarers look forward to their time at home to relax and enjoy spending time with their families. Being away from loved ones for an extended period is one of the biggest challenges facing all members-no matter if they sail deep sea. inland or on the Lakes. No one wants to be called back to work when they finally get a chance for some rest and relaxation . Yet, more than 500 SIU members did just that in September and early October to meet several unexpected challenges facing the union. During the month of September, the SIU manpower office received notification that more than 20 Ready Reserve Force vessels needed to be crewed immediately for a drill called Exercise Turbo Activation. This drill-like others in which the union has taken part-was designed by the U.S. Maritime Administration to see if the companies operating its fleet of RRF ships could fully crew and sail these ships at a moment's notice. Much as it did during the Persian Gulf War earlier this decade, the manpower office went into round-the-clock opcrntions. All SIU hiring halls were informed that ships needed to be crewed from Norfolk to New Orleans to San Francisco as soon as possible. In fact, the drill even called for three tankers docked in Japan to become operational, so crew members had to be flown to the Far East to fill these positions. As if this were not enough, Mother Nature stepped in. While union officials and staff at manpower and the hiring halls issued job cards and sent members to their assignments, three tropical storms threatened the U.S., including the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Several more vessels outside the drill had to be activated, crewed and sailed out of harm's way before the storms Hurricane Georges is long gone, but Seafarers in the Caribbean and in the Gulf states still are recovering from the devastating stonn. A number of SIU members in Puerto Rico lost their roofs or suffered other damage to their respective homes. Some members' homes in the Mobile, Ala. area also were damaged. The SIU halls in Mobile and San Juan, P.R. only sustained minor harm from Georges, which struck the Caribbean beginning September 21 and then proceeded to the U.S. Many Seafarers and members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) in the U.S. have donated relief supplies for Seafarers in Puerto Rico and UIW members in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, Seafarers in the areas of Puerto Rico that sustained minimal damage have collected, donated and delivered ~t ! .. ...T[. - ~·.,~ ···'('· .....l 1tt'r A dockside crane operated by Sea· Land Service in Puerto Rico was destroyed during the storm. AP/Wide World Photos Sailboats and debris clutter the lawn of a home in Mobile, Ala. following the high winds and storm surges created by Hurricane Georges. items to residents in the harder-hit sections. Overall, Georges- with 125 mph winds and torrential rainscaused an estimated $2.5 billion in insured damages to residences, businesses and other property. It is the costliest disaster ever for the Red Cross. which has spent more than $100 million in relief efforts. The hurricane killed at least 509 people in the Caribbean, including 283 in the Dominican Republic. More than 100,000 Dominicans were left homeless because of the storm, which struck in late September. Shipping remains disrupted in Puerto Rico, where many areas still are without electricity and 11,000 residents lost their homes. Several dockside cranes operated struck land. Once again SIU members answered the call without 1 question or hesitation. The SIU not only met the challenge of Exercise Turbo Activation. the union also fully crewed the additional vessels called up because of the approaching stornu. Seafarers went aboard and sailed a total of 31 ships with minimal notice during these campaigns. Each and every person involved in making these operations a success deserves praise. From the members who gave up their valued time with their families, to the port officials who worked well into the night and on weekends, to the manpower personnel who stayed on top of these ever-changing situations, all of you performed brilliantly and expertly. The SIU prides itself on being able to go anywhere at any time to crew and sail U.S.-flag vessels. That's what our government. our troops and our contracted companies c;ount on. Once again, Seafarers have shown this pride and belief is not simply bragging. It is fact. Vulum11 60, Numb11r n November 7998 The SIU vn line; www.secde1ren.org The Seafarers WG OSSN 1086-4636) is published mon~hly by the Sc~farcr~ Intcmatiomtl Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL--CIO; Sl01 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 207909998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WC, 5201 Auth Wa'I Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Ediror. Jordan Biscardo; Associate Elliror/Producrion. Deborah A. Hines; An. Bill Brower, Administrative Suppon, Jeanne Textor. Copyright 19 1998 Seafarers International Union, AP/Wida World PhOtos Winds of up to 90 mph battered houseboats in Key West, Fla., scattering debris across the flooded road. by Sea-Land and NPR, Inc. were destroyed. As a result, some vessels have skipped scheduled stops to the island. For those that have delivered goods there, off-loading that normally takes less than one day has lasted three days or longer. Longshoremen are using cherrypickers and other unconventional gear to get the job done. The SIU's hall in San Juan closed for a week (September 2128), first in preparation for Georges and then because of power outages and lack of running water. The Mobile hall closed for two days due to no power and downed trees blocking area roads. As in late 1995 and early 1996, in the wake of Hurricane Marilyn, the Red Cross is using the Mobile hall as a command center for local relief operations. Red Cross personnel arrived at the hall September 30 and probably will continue using it until sometime early chis month. While the Dominican Republic sustained the greatest loss of life, Puerto Rico absorbed the most monetary damage. According to the Associated Press, insured damage there totals an estimated $1 .7 billion. Other assessments included $325 million in Florida, $310 million in Mississippi, $15 million in Louisiana and $50 million in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The SIU hall in New Orleans avoided any damage when Continued on page 4 Work Begins on Fire Fighting School The first phase of construction has begun for the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School in Piney Point, Md. Pictured is some of the initial work that took place in early October. Seafarers will take basic and advanced fire fighting, water survival, first aid and CPR, damage control and confined-space safety training at the six-building complex, which is part of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The facility is designed to virtually duplicate shipboard environments, including types of fires frequently applicable to vessels. Completion is expected sometime next year. AGLIWD All Rights Rc«:rved. 2 Seafarers LOG November f 998 �SIU Crews Double Eagle Tankers 3 Christened at Newport News; 2 to Follow Call it a triple-header of new job opportunities for SIU members. Three new "Double Eagle" tankers were christened October 3 at Newport News (Va.) ShipbuikJin~ . Seafarers already have crewed two of them (the Cape Lookout Shoals and the Nantucket ShMls) and are scheduled to climb the gangway of the third (the Diamond Shoals) sometime this month. Two more SIU-crewed Double Eagle tankers currently being built at Newport News are slated for delivery in 1999. ''These ships represent new jobs for the membership and a chance for Seafarers to sail aboard the most modern tankers anywhere," said SIU President Michael Sacco_ "Naturally, we're glad co have the opportunity to crew new ships, and as always we're committed to providing the best-trained, safest mariners in the world_u Built with double hulls in order to comply with the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, the tankers 1 0 November f 998 • Length: 600 feet, 7 inches • Beam; 105 feet, 8 inches • Deadweight/Oraft 46,069 LT @ 40 feet, 1 inch · • Cargo capacity: 342,040 barrels • Tank/grades: 7 pairs of ·f'.Ort ::and starboard, 7 tf;ln~s. :. segregations Photo courte5y oi N~p;;rt N~ws Shipbuilding Seafarers are sailing aboard new "Double Eagle" tankers operated by Hvide Marine, including the Cape Lookout Shoals. Three of the ships were christened October 3 in Newport News, Va. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez attended the ceremony. are operated by Hvide Marine Inc. The essels will carry petroleum products along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts. Named after old U.S. Coast Guard light ships that basically served as floating lighthouses (until the early 1980s), the tankers "are a response to the mandate of Congress and the American peo- FMC Remains Independent Agency As President Okays Shipping Reform The Federal Mari time Commission (FMC) remains an independent agency under the conditions of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 (S. 414), which President Clinton signed into law on October 14. Some earlier versions of the bill, first addressed nearly four years ago either eliminated the FMC or ~allcd for it to merge with the Surface Transportation Board. The first hef\ring on whAt eventua11y became the Ocean Shipping Reform Act (which updates the Shipping A~t of I9B4) took place in February 1995. During that session of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Sub~om­ m.ittc;c;, &nd in subsequent talks, the SIU contended that maintaining the FMC-which wa~ e~tab­ lished in 1961- and preserving key clements of the 1984 act are vital to America's economic and security incerests. Numerous other maritime unions, U.S.-flag carriers, i;urrent and f6rmer members of Congress and more voiced their agreement. Last momh. Senator John Breaux (D-La.) commended the FivlC's work and point~d to the agency's continuation as a signiticant component of S. 414. "It's important to know that the FMC is u taxpayers' bargain because. with lt smnll :stnff nnd budget. it cffcctive}y oversees the shipping practice~ of more thun $.500 billion in maritime trade." he said. "Yet this small federal agency has saved shipping companies billions in import and expon costs. most recently by successfully (challenging] Japan~s~ port practic~s ." Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Mi~~ - ) ~aid the bHJ d~s much lo ensure that America's pre:scncc in the shipping industry Specs tor the . 'Doable Eagles' is not subjected to unfair foreign rules or discriminatory practices. The FMC's enforcement actions taken against unfair port practices in Japan illu:strntes the essential and unique mission that this agcm;y performs. Even more recently, issues concerning Brazil and China have come on their radar screen. This is a function that wi11 continue, a mission that I wholeheartedly suppon." The FMC enforces laws that ~All for fair rates and a nondiscriminatory regulatory process for the common carriage of goods by water in the foreign commerce of the United States_ The commission faces a March 1 deadline for rewriting tariff-fil· ing regulations so that the reform legislation can be implemented beginning May 1 1 1999_ Joe Scroggins, one of the FMC commissioner~, ~tated thar he believes "the most important change (brought on by the bill) is the introdu~tion of confidential service contracts. These are contrAct~ where a shipper guarantees to movi; " spcc;ific rut'lount of cargo with a particular carrier over a ccrtnin amount of time for a discounted price_ The difference now is that the~e service contra~ts will continue to be filed with the FMC, but several key provisions will not be made pub· lie- such as rates, service commitments, intennodal origin and destination points. "In short, the legislation marks the beginning of n shift from the current common carriage system-where all tariff rates are on file and made public-to n contract-based system where service contrncts cun be kept confidential___ _ It is hoped that the Ocean Shipping Reform Act will create a climate in which most cargo moves under negotiated contracts, mak- ing filed tariffs less important." Indeed, the bill retains the common carrier tariff enforcement provision of the 1984 act but deletes the requirement to file tariffs through the FMC's automated system. Tariffs instead will be publicly available by publication through common carrier automated systems (such as internet sites)_ Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater said the bill will benefit c.he maritime industry. "Sin~e the beginning of the Clinton administration, the Department of Transportation has been working to achieve in m~ritime transportation the benefits of deregulation that the airline, trucking, rail and freight forwarding industries already enjoy," Slater said ...Ocean carriers now will have the ability co set prices in response to the market. which will result in benefits for American exponers and importers." Meanwhile. Lott, Breaux and others described the bill as a reasonable compromise among many affected groups. "We've secured legislation chat is a good balam;e between deregulation to help our shippers and ports and the need co provide oversight of our U.S. antitrust laws," stated Breaux. Snid Lott, "The Ocean Shipping Reform Act represents true compromise. This legislative effort hrnught rogerher many divergent interests-parties who often do not ngrce with one another_The result is a consensus bill that received the ~6lid backing of all industry segments in~luding u_s_ shippers, American and foreign ocean carriers , ports nationwide, and u_ s_ labor_" u_s_ ple to build double-hull tankships that will transport chemical and petroleum products in the safest manner possible," remarked J. Erik Hvide, the head of Hvide Marine. "They are U_S_-buih in one of the finest shipyards in the world, U_S_-crewed and U.S.flagged, and their entry into the market marks a major step forward in the evolution of environmenta11y compatible marine transportation." Earlier this year, Hvide Marine and the shipyard restructured an agreement so that the company would acquire four double-hull tankers, instead of the originally planned five vessels. However, they subsequently announced that the Port Everglades, Fla_-based company wiH, in fact, take delivery of a fifth ship. r\ \.IEHIC-\:\ CU\S~IC VOY\ GE.S Co. . ~ This artist's conception shows what one of the two passenger vessels being built for American Classic Voyages will look like when it is ready for sailing in late 2002. Union Yard to Build Cruise Ships Ingalls Shipbuilding Selected to Construct Vessels for Hawaiian Trade The first two deep sea passenger ships to be built in an American shipyard in almost a half century will be constructed at union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., according to an annoum;ement made by American Classic Voyages last month. The two vessels are the result of the U.S.·Flag Cruise Ship Pilot Project passed by Congress last year. The ships are being builc for the Hawaiian Island trade and will be operated by American Classic Voyages· subsidiary American Hawaii Cruises, which already sails the SIU-contracted SS Independence in that trade. (American Classic's other subsidiary. Delta Queen Steamboat Company, operates the SIUcrewed inland riverboats Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen.) "The planning and construction of these ships show that the U.S.-flag fleet will remain :strong and vibrant in the new century," SIU President Michael Sacco said. "Of course, these ships also mcnn new jobs for Seafarers aboard what will be state-of-theart cruise vessels built by American workers_This is a winboth wi n proposition for American shipyard workers and American mariners." The first of the two vessels is expected to be completed by late 2002. Each will carry approximately 1,900 passengers and will measure 840 feet long_ They will be the biggest ocean-going cruise ships buil~ in the U.S. and will be designed · to transverse the Panama Canal. In addition to these two vessels, the agreement between American Classic Voyages and Ingalls Shipbuilding includes an option for the yard to build four more ships. Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) praised the announcement as proof that the u_s--tlag fleet remains vital to the nation's economic and security interests. "I am proud that Ingalls Shipbuilding has been selected by American Classic Voyages for the important venture of constructing the largest U.S. cruise ships ever," noted Lou, whose father was a union pipefitter in the yard before tetiring. "It is particularly pleasing to know that my home state will be spearheading the opportunity for American industry and workers to' share in the benefits of the booming world cruise market fueled by American passengers. Continued on page 5 Seafarers LOG 3 �School Takes Crowley Class Coast-to-Coast •• I The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently conducted its tankerman (PIC) barge course in Long Beach, Calif. and Jacksonville, Fla. Instructor Mitch Oakley led the classes, which were completed by SIU members who sail aboard Crowley vessels. Pictured at left is the Jacksonville class, including Seafarers Matt Formel, Albert Mercer Jr., Mike Getchell, Richard Wilson, Marlin Miller, James Haney, Michael Smith Jr., Paul Tyson and Roger Cadloni, as well as Crowley Senior Vice President Alex Sweeney. Shown below is the Long Beach class, consisting of Rick Barnhart, Marshall Novack, David Walblom, James Gray, David DelBuono, George Daley, David Breoning, Domenic Defeo Jr., Gregory Jarvis, Gary Burke and Michael Rudge. Sea Star's El Yunque will sail between Florida and San Juan, P.R. Seatarers Crew El Yunque New job opportunities for SIU members arrived last month as Seafarers climbed the gangway of the containership El Yunque . Operated by Sea Star Line, the ship will call on the Florida ports of Jacksonville and Port Everglades, and San Juan, P.R. A sister ship, the El Morro, will be crewed by SIU members early next year. "The union welcomes this new entry into the U .S.-flag maritime trades," stated SIU Vice President Conlra~ts Augie Tellez; during the Cktober membership meeting. Sea Star is a joint venture which includes Totem Resources Corp., Matson and Sea-Barge Line Inc. Recovery from liearges ta Take Months Continued from page 2 Georges veered uwuy from the city at the eleventh hour. (See related story, page 8.) Meanwhile, UIW members on St. Croix (the hardesi hit among the U.S. Virgin Islands) pl;').yed a key role in the cleanup of that island. Member~ employed by the Depanment of Pllblic works cteareo Clebris and helped prepare area schools to reopen, among many other relat- ed duties. Georges struck St Croix with winds as great ns 1 10 mph. It destroyed or damaged many roofs, sank dozens of boats and smashed wooden boardwalks and anchorage~ . It ruined crops, knocked down trees and tore up much of the territory'5 hmd~.;:aping . Many of the blue tarpaulin~ that had been in place, serving as roofs since Marilyn, were blown away. Hurricanes are fflirly ceimmonplace in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a fact that no doubt fueled the relative ~en~e of relief in the terriroty. Sc\ d~~pit~ lhe mmc recem damage. a V.I. newspaper headline summed up the prevailing mood: "Islanders thankful Georges was not Marilyn.'' read the banner in the St. Thomas Daily News, referring to the more powerful hurricane that hit the islands in 1995. More than 3,000 UIW rnembers live in th~ U.S. Virgin Islands, most of them govcrnmenr employees. At the SIU hall in Santurce. Seaforer3 gather needed !UPPlies to be distributed in nearby towns devastated by the hurricane. From the left are SA Angal O'Neill, SIU Patrolman Victor Nunez, (kneeli119) SA sa.mu~I Sotomayor. SA Eusebio Gonzalez, (kneeling) AB J~~v~ V@rgara a.nd Chief Cook David Ve.lie. 4 Seafarers LO& In photos above and below, Seafarers-including Capt. Roberto Candelario and Deckhand Joel Gonzalez-were on the move, delivering needed bottled water and other items to retugM ~enters in Jayaya and Utaudo, P.R. AP/Wide World Photo At a marina in Mobile, Ala., a boat has been blown over a dock by the power of Hurricane Georges. The boxes may say "vegetables"; actually they are filled with bottled water for the people of Utaudo, P.R., one of the most destroyed towns on the island after the hurricane. From the left are (kneeling) SIU Patrolman Victor Nunez, (standing) DEU Orlando Herrera and AB Anibal Matos. Left: From tM back of a pickup truck, Deckhand Joel Gonzalez gives bottled water to a resident of the town of Utaudo. The people of the community were very grateful that unions like the SIU remembered them in such devastating times. November 1998 �SIU Protests Proposed User Fee Increases The SIU strongly voiced its objections to proposed increases in the user fees charged to mariners for U.S. Coast Guard services relating to issuance of zcards, licenses and certificates of registry. Responding to a government notice of proposed rulemaking, the union urg~d the Dcp"rlmcnt of Transportation to forego the intended increases. SIU President Michael Sacco, while objecting to the existence of user fees in the ftm place, called upon the department Lo either maintain or de'rease the current fees. In a recent letter to the DOT, he also pointed out the Coast Guard's proposed changes would leave U.S. mariners paying "significantly higher fees" than those "imposed by the government for similar federally mandated licenses/documents." Sacco further stated the current proposal may lead the union to consider supporting either a self-certification program for SIU members, or the privatization of the certification process, or both. The SIU's i;ommcnts and any others received in response to the proposed rulemaking are being considered. Ex~erpts from Sacco's letter, sent to the DOT in September, follow. "The Seafarers International Union of North America (SIU), AFL-CIO ... wishes to express its unconditional dissatisfaction with the Coast Guard's proposed rulemaking (CGO 97-2799) revising user fees for agency services relating to the issuance of merchant mariner licenses, certificates of registry, and merchant mariner documents. We find the proposed revised fees ... unjustifiable and punitive. "As we reviewed the proposed rule, it became evident that although the agency has attempted to calculate and recalculate fees for this function, it has, in our view, been unsuccessful in its efforts to develop a fair assessment. In fact, we advance that the recalculation is not a true cost Congress Passes Extension for WWII Mariners' Veterans' Status Enactment into Law Awaits Presidential Signature In one of its last acts before adjourning, the Senate passed legislation to provide World War II veterans• status to merchant mariners who served from August 16, 1945 to December 31, 1946. The action by the Senate on October 20 foIIowed a 423-0 vote by the Hou~e of Representatives on October 10 for the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 1998. This measure contained the language to extend the veterans• status. It awaits President Bill Clinton's signature to become law. SIU President Michael Sacco saluted the efforts of merchant marine veterans' groups across the country to pass the extension. 'They deserve all the credit for this," Sacco said. ''They saw an injustice that had been inflicted upon their fellow seamen and fought for 10 years to correct this problem. "Just like those years when they braved submarine and air attacks on the world's seas, they never gave up and pushed on full steam ahead until the bill was passed." Long sought Reoognl Ion The battle to gain the extension started in 1988 after veterans' status was conferred upon mariners who sailed for the U.S. merchant marine between December 7, 1941 (when Pearl Harbor was bombed) and August 15, 1945 (when the Japanese surrendered aboard the USS Missouri). In fact, the 1988 announcement ended u 40-year struggle just to get some kind of recognition for mariners. Of all the American forces serving during World War II, only the U.S. Marine Corps ~uffered a higher casualty rate than the merchant marine. Despite the 1Mg fight to gain veterans' scams, the battle was far from over because of the August 15, 194.5 cutoff date established by the Defense Department The last date of recognition for other veterans was set at December 31, 1946, as deter mined by Presidf:!nt Harry Truman. Groups like the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) and the Mer~hant Mariners Fairness Committee worked with maritimcarclatcd unions, like the SIU, to lobby Congress for the extension. Each session of Congress included bills to redress the problem, but they would go no further than being assigned to a committee. However, the effort gained the strong support of Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R~Miss.) in this session of Congress. He reintroduced the extension legislation and worked for it. while a similar measure offered in the House by Representative Lane Evans (D-111.) garnered nearly 340 cosponsors. Lott amended the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to include the extension, but it was cut during a HouseSenate conference committee as long as the veterans· measure would be considered before the end of the congressional session. The legislation then was included in the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act. AMMV spokesman Joseph Katusa stated, .. We are all delighted. This has been quite an experience and we thank everyone who helped." What to Do When the measure becomes law, mariner~ will have to apply for their honornbk discharge by submitting U.S. Coast Guard dis~harges or other offidal records showing they sailed between those dates as well as form DD-2168. (The form is available through the Veterans Administration.) The completed applications for those who sailed in the merchant marine should be sent to Commandant (GMVP-1/12), United States Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20593-0001 . For those who served in the Army Transport Service, the completed forms should go to Commander, U.S. Army Reserve Components, Personnel & Administrative Center (PAS-EENC), 9700 Page Boulevard, St. Loui~, MO 63132-.5200. Finally, for those who worked with the Navy Transportation Service, their paperwork should be sent to Naval Military Personnel Command (NMPC-3). Navy Department, Washington. DC 20370-5300. New Cruise Ships on Tap for Hawaiian Trade Continued from page 3 This is a significant step towards the re-emergence of the U.S .- flag r,;rui~e industry.,, Aho :rnluting the announcemcnL wa! Senator Daniel Inouye CD-Hawaii), who ~crvcd with Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) as the primary sponsors of the U.S.-Flag Crni~e Ship Pih~t Project. "Todtw's annoufitement by Amcric;m Cla:s:sic Voyuges and Ingalls Shipbuildin~ is an impormm milestone cowards the revitaliz;:\tioo Qf the U .S .• ffag cruiK hip industry," Inouye stated. "We are beginnittg tD realize Na11ember 1998 the vision Congress had when it ertacted the U.S .-Flag Cruise Ship PilL>t Project last year1 a project I am proud to have championed. This project will further develop the Hawaiian tourism market, increase employment in support· ing services. result in thousands of jobs for Americans in the yards and aboard the cruise ships, and give us a better shipyard industrial base which is critical to U.S. n;:ltiomd !t:curity, "Only by promoting and encouraging a sound maritime indusrry can the U.S. remain a world economic and military superpower1" concluded the Hawaii Democrat. The cruise ships are the lated in lhe planned expansion of American Classic Voyages. Earlier this yeru-, the New Orleans-based company announced its intention to build five coastal passenger vessels. These ships would carry between 200 and 225 passenger~ each with the first expected to be ready to sail in the year 2000. The ccastAl vessels wilt be 300 feet long and diesel driven. They will be designed to look like the coastal steamers that plied the nation 1 s coastlines at the beginning of this century. The quintet will be operated by Delta Queen Steamboat. analysis or an economic time-test study but an exercise in justifying the Congressional mandate to impose user fees. We do not agree with many of the assumptions on which this study is based, which leads us to believe that the proposed fees are based on a flawed document. .. . "For example, a"ording to the agency's draft regulatory assessment, the average monthly salary of an able seaman, when employed, is approximately $1,541 per month in base wages and overtime while a third mate's average monthly base wage and overtime earnings are approximately $3,047. Even though the third mate makes twice as much as an able seaman-according to these statistics, the latter must pay 0.63 percent of his annual salary in user fees for a merchant mariner document while the former pays 0.30 percent of his annual salary in licensing user fees. The Coast Guard docs not justify this discrepancy and inequity. Instead, the agency opines that 'it is inappropriate to draw conclusions based on the comparison of fees as percentage of salary across professions.' We disagree. It is our contention that the agency is not comparing salaries across professions in this instance, but salaries between different levels of one professionthat of the merchant mariner. Therefore, user fees should fairly reflect that distinction. "Further, it has come to our attention that the fees proposed by the Coast Guard are also significantly higher than fees imposed by the government for similar federally mandated licenses/documents.... This demon· strates an inconsistency and disparity between federal ag.e ncies in the manner in which fees are assessed and charged, which leads us to ask why .... The SIU strongly recommends that any user fee imposed on the merchant mariner should be consistent with fees charged for the licensing process by other federal agencies. "Perhaps the time has come for the SIU to look toward minimizing these . . . fees for our members through the support of a self-certification program for seafarers working for SIU-contracted companies and/or the privatization of the process itself. The SIU believes it can provide this service to its members at a fraction of the cost the Coast Guard is proposing and looks forward to this opportunity. Unfortunately, the privatization of this function will take a number of years, as the agency proceeds through legislative and regulatory hurdles and procedures. Meanwhile, our members will still encounter the payment of unjust and inequitable fees for the opportunity to be employed on U.S.-flag vesselsun less the proposed fees are reevaluated, and are either returned to the status quo, or decreased. "Our views on the process used to assess user fees for licensing and documentation of merchant mariners in the past are part of the record on this issue and are contained in docket number 96053. Insofar as our concerns remain basically the same, we would ask that you review these previously submitted comments. "It is our hope that the proposed . . . increase in the user fee contained in the current proposal will be reevaluated and brought within the scope of fees assessed by other federal agencies for similar services. The SIU looks forward to partnering with you on this most important issue and offers its assistance in finding a mutually acceptable position." NAFTA Lawsuit Ruling Evades 'Treaty' Issue Believing the North American Free Trndc Agreement (NAFTA) to be unconstitutional, the United Steelworkers of America (USWA) last July joined the Made in USA Foundation in a federal lawsuit to have the treaty declared null and void. However, the government response to the lawsuit, handed down last month, evades the entire question of whether NAFfA is a treaty. If the answer had been yes, the lawsuit would have Asked the couns to declare the agreement unconstitutional. In a statement issued by USWA President George Becker, he said, "It Appears our government1s position is that no one can sue for redress, no matter how many U.S. jobs have been lost to Mexico or Canada since NAFfA's 1993 adoption, and no matter how many workers have been forced to accept lower wages or benefits under threat of Aplant moving across the border." When the lawmit was filed four months ago, Becker had stated, "We believe NAFTA is a treaty that should have been subject to a two-thirds ratification vote by the U.S. Senate as called for in the U.S. Constitution.1' The Justice Department lawyers insist that whether or not NAFrA is a "treaty," and thereby subject to the two-third's concurrence of the U.S. Senate, it is a matter for the U.S. president to decide as he sees fit, free of any judicial involvement. "I had always been taught that in our three-branch form of government. the job of interpreting the Constitution belonged to the judicial branch," stated Becker. "If the government is right, I think we've taken a giant step away from the principle of separation of powers and moved toward one-man rule." Joel Joseph, chair of the Made in the USA Foundation, said, ..The Made in the USA Foundation contends it is abundantly clear that NAFTA is a treaty. The Justice Department may claim it is not, but arguing that no one can sue to test the issue in court is ridiculous." The USWA's lawyers involved said the union will vigorously contest the government's motion to dismiss the lawsuit. Seafarers LOG 5 �Steel Imparts Spur Slowdown an Lakes Sunshine and Cement in Detroit Despite Cargo Dip, Season Is Ahead of '97 Winter layup still seems as if it is a long way off, as the Great Lakes region through midOctober enjoyed warm weather and SIU members continued sailing aboard many of the selfunloaders and other vessels that ply the trade. Overall. it ha~ bt:cn u very strong season on the Lakes, although August marked a rare dip in cargo movement. The Lake Carriers' Association reported that U.S.· flag lakcrs moved 13.9 million tons of cargo in August (the most recent month for which complete data is available), a decrease of 2.7 percent compared Lo Augusr 1997. The association and other groups-including the United Steelworker of America and numerous steel companiespointed lo "dumping" of foreign steel in the U.S. as the key factor in the cargo-volume decrease. In fact, more than a dozen stace governors have petitioned President Clinton, asking him to stop the influx of artificially low-priced foreign steel. A resolution has been intraduced in the House of Representatives addressing this same issue. The governors' letter cites "unfairly priced, dumped and subsidized" steel products from Russia, Braz.ii and Japan as harming the domestic steel market. Imported steel from those three economically staggering nations increased by more than 80 percent through July, compared with the first seven months of 1997. ..Our steel companies are facing a major crisis as foreign companies flood our markets with finished steel products at well below cost, violating fair trade laws and forcing layoffs, plant closures and production halts across the country," said the letter to President Clincon. "Our businesses cannot compete with unfairly priced, dumped and subsidiz.ed products from desperate foreign markets ." Despite the AugusL downturn, the Lakes season as a whole remains ahead of last year's pace. Through August, a total of 90,254,649 tons of cargo had been moved from Lakes ports, compared to 84,677,736 at that time last year. The SIU-crewed J.A. W. lglehan (above) has helped keep cement cargoes on the Great Lakes ahead of last year's pace. Pictured (clockwise, from right) during a recent docking in Detroit are Bosun Hert) sn111er, wnee1sman Bill Thomen, Wheelsman Randy Cummings and Wheelsman Willis Campbell, who at age 72 still sets a brisk pace on deck. Bernard Seaman, Former LOG Art Editor, Dies at 85 Bernard Seaman, who served as the art editor for the Seafarers LOG during the 1940s, '50s and '60s, passed away Septemher 7 after battling cancer. He was 85 years old. Seaman drew many of the editorial cartoons found in the LOG during the post-World War II era, The late Herb Brand , who served as the union's communi~ations dim;tor during th~t period, often reflected on the way Seaman could create just the right drawing when needed for a particular ~ituation , Besides his work with the SIU, Seaman also was arc ediwr for th' lntcrn~tion~l L~dics Garment Workers Union and the International Union of Electronics Workers (lUE). He & Seafarers LOG provided editorial cartoons for many years for the AFL-CIO News. His work appeared as well in PM, The New York Timfs and The Nation. The Stamford. Conn. native received numerous awards, including the New York Newspaper Guild Page One Aw"rd in 1952. He designed and painted murals for union halls around the country. Seaman attended New York City public schools, City College, the Art Students League and the University of Alabama. He retired from the IUE in 1978. He is survived by his wife Helen, daughters Judith and Laura and three grandchildren. New Bedford Port Agent Francois Appointed to Fishing Commissions New Bedford (Mass.) Pon Agent Henri Francois has been selected Lo represent the port's commercial fishing industry members on two vitally important commissions. The 1st District U.S . Coast Guard picked Francois to serve as an alternate to the Commercial Fishing Industry Working Group, formed in 1994 as a forum to discuss compliance and enforcement issues regarding fisheries regulations. New England's fishermen have labored under an increasingly strict regime designed to help rebuild troubled groundfish stocks such as cod and haddock. Such regulations, devised by the New England Fisheries Management Council, a body of federal and stale regulators. academic~ and industry members, sometimes lead to rules which make it difficult for fishermen to make a living. The Fishing Industry Working Group gives fishermen the opportunity to have input on these Coast Guard-enforced rules, suggesting Henri Francois improvements and pointing out those wh -ch do not accomplish the stated goals . Francois also has been named to the City of New Bedford's Fisheries Task Force by Mayor Fred Kalisz. The task force (which includes other fishermen, fish processors, a University of Massachuseccs professor and local port officials) is charged with coordinating responses to federal management recommendations and promoting better scientific information. ·· "SIU fishermen have sacrificed so much over the past eight years, serving in these positions will give me a chance to help them start getting the rewards," said Francois. He noted that groundfish stocks have been rebuilding, witnessed by the increased catch· es the union boats have been landing, but that government biologists have been slow to recognize this. "That's why industry-supported research is so important to our members." Restrictions facing SIU mem- . hers in New Bedford include limited numbers of days per year in which they are allowed to fish. Their fishing time will be increased only when the federal government, specifically · the National Marine Fisheries Service, declares the stocks of flounders, cod, haddock and other fish rebuilt. The fishermen believe that budgetary restrictions prevent the government from fully surveying the fish stocks, which is why the industry and city are looking for ways to aid in scientific research. November 1998 �The SIONA - An Explanation of Its Structure and Its Members Because of the several articles that have been published in the Seafarers LOG this year regarding a possible affiliation of the National Maritime Union with the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA), some confusion has arisen concerning the difference between the SIUNA and the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, commonly known as the SIU. The SIUNA is the parent organization of 17 different unions (listed in the box), including the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. It is anticipttt~d thttt th~ NMU WMld become the newest affiliate of the SIUNA. The SIUNA does not have any actual individual members. It docs not negotiate any contracts. Instead, the SIUNA serves all its affiliates by providing protection under the AFL-CIO charter from being raided by other unions, by being involved in political and legislative activities and by offering policy input to the AFL-CIO. Under this system, each affiliate represents its members directly. When Harry Lundeberg received the SIUNA charter from the American Federation of Labor in October 1938, it was to create an international organization for mariners and maritime-related workers. Lundeberg became the first president of the SIUNA, serving in that capacity at the same time that he headed the Sailors' Union of the Pacific Bosun McCarthy Featured In AFL· CID Publication SIU Michael rnc:mbc:r McCarthy is included in a group of artic1e~ appearing in the October (SUP), which became an SIUNA affiliate. Joining the SUP in 1938 as affiliates under the SIUNA banner were three separate SIU districts-one each for Atlantic Coasc, Gulf Coasc and Great Lakes mariners. As time went on, canaa1an Marine omcers union 9670 Notre Dame Street, East Montreal, H1 L 3PB. Quebec. Canada Seafarers Commercial Flsnermen·s Association 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 514 354-8321 301 -899-0675 criautteurs & IMustrial Workers, Loeal 5 4577 Gravois Avenue news magazine that the current families depend on the heretofore ~table income from Social Securicy. Additi0rt11ly, tM 36-y~1r-()Jd Seafarer stated that many Ame1kans probably cannot afford to pay into a high-risk, private retirement plan-not ofren enough to ensure a reasonably comfon:ab1e reriremenc, anyway. "S ~wing for any worlcing cla~~ ..... ,., .. >::-:,.:. ·.,·""":··· ...... '..... .... . ' I ".... . 11 I Pl 111 I . ChlnQOk C~nnery Workers Union, Local No. 12 PO Box 325 Chinook, WA 98614 Fishermen's Union of America, Pacific & Caribbean 529 w. 9th Street, Suite C&D San Pedro, CA 90731 Seafarers International Union - Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 301 ·699-0675 Seafarers International Union of Canada 1333 St. Jacques Street 310-833-3571 lndu,trial, Profe"lonal, Technical Workerto Montreal, H3C 4K2, Oueb~. Canada 514-931-7859 8700 Cleta Street Seafarers Maritime Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Spring$, MD 20746 Downey. CA 90241 800·686·2000 301-899-0675 Marine Firemen's Union 240 Second Street San Francisco, CA 94105 SIU or Pueno Rico. carlDe and Larin America PO Box 8899 41 5-362-4592 F@rnandez Juncos Station Santurce, PR 00910 787 -723-0002 Marine Staff Officers, Pacific District 170 Windsor River Road, Suite W Windsor, CA 95402 707·837-0423 Sugar Workers Union No. 1 M 1 Loring AVenue ProfMSIMal security Offleers Msoclation Auth Way camp Springs, MD 20746 5~01 301 ·899·0075 Sailors' Union of the Pacific 450 Harrison Street San Francisco, CA 94105 415-777 -3400 lot inv w~t'<lnli t1as1 i M1'Ull ii: n~ro cu11nu ir.m ' •s11vlr.~ ~ 11111~•. vwt~ t~m11y a11~1>1 umiu!lllr 10 @at mimt $ lllU mm i i •o~ing•. I. lot 11! poo910 ;11~ ' hnlnu n h1nl llmt lllllklno 110~1 ; uiRa~al'l raallty. 6111 me : nimow wno cu e uw uni u1m111 ! ll\l~l~I ~·~~rlty •ta bitter~" tn~~ i Ibo evcraua wmi.111. no !hoy dDll'l i h~v• u i60d ldau whot 9ou M < will! !hi Anraue Anlcrlc111.• 8Mun McCnrthy's photo and comments appear in the national publication of the AFL-CIO. person is hard during these times," he told the magazine. "You 're talking about whether to eat or put $100 into savings. A lot of people are having a hard time making ends meet-that's reality. "But the peop1e who make d~isions about Social S~urity ~¢ better off than the average worker, so they don't have a good idea what goes on with the Aver· age American." McCarthy's comments. along wtth tMse from ether trade unionists around the country, appear in the last of three articles f()rtn1ng th~ OtMber cover ~rcry. R . e···m·1nd·e·r· an PO Box 583 Crockett. GA 94525 510-787·1676 United Industrial, Service, Transportation, Professional and Government Workers of Nonh America 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 301-899-0675 s~u members ?i1h.•!·: :~he~\ m.u.1J:: ·rui1y:. '.;·~~m·PJY'::, wtt:M ·:. :aff<sn:1p~oard procedures ·.'.: i~V~l~i, 9S'. 9~S: '. ~yst~m~ par~.~l'.\n$1'.: Thi~. inefu~es everything '.-:trqn). rou~ine 'sign-offs fo room s~arches. Failure to adhere to ·tJt.OP$r . . Ou$t<Jtn$ pr9C~dure$ may ·result in substantial 1~nes Like the SIUNA and UFCW, the ILA also has affiliate unions. These unions inc1ude the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pi1ots and the American Radio Association. Such arrangements are not unique to labor. One specific example within industry is the CSX Corporation. Many Seafarers know CSX as the parent of SIU-contracted SeaLand Service. The corporation also includes such separate entities as CSX Transportation, CSX Intermodal, Customized Transportation, and The Greenbrier. 'Y2K1 Dilemma Looms Over Computer Users U.S. Coast Guard Web Site Tries to Head Off Difficulties Editor's note: This article was written by Russ Levin, an instructor at the Paul Hall C~ntu for Maritime Training and Education. . - -- labor movement with an overall structure that encompasses affiliated unions . Two examp1es include the United Food and Commercia1 Workers (UFCW) and the Internationa1 Longshoremen 's Associacion (ILA). Within the structure of the UFCW (best known for representing grocery store workers) are councils . The councils formerly operated as independent unions, but have affi1iated with the UFCW. Like SIUNA affiliates, they sti11 elect their own officials and negotiate their contracts. The UFCW council unions include the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union; the United Garment Workers of America; the Distillery, Wine and Allied Workers International Union; the United Textile Workers of America; and the International Chemical Workers Union. International Union .:<Bl~ .uni9(l~~ "~on.t.rMJ$. ~~P~rtmen.r.r~tn.irtejs November 1998 Seafarers Entenainment and Allied Trades Union 325 Market Street, Suite B Alton, IL 62002 618-462-3456 St. Loui!i, MO 83118 314-752-2200 Tne recenifieo bosun is quot- Social Security retirement pro· gram must be maintained. Privatizing the ~ydem will be too risky, he said, and many retired ries and government as we11 as aboard fishing vessels. As affi1iates, each of the unions within the SIUNA operates under its own constitution, e1ects its own officials, negotiates its own contracts and manages ics own budge ts . The SIUNA is not a]one in the Unions Affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America issue of the AFL-CIO's official publication, America@wark. ed in one of the articles about the pitfalls of privatizing Social Security. A smaJI photo of McCarthy also appears with the display quote, on page 16. An 18-year member of the SIU, Mi;Cwthy to1d the; AFL-CIO these three districts merged their operations to become today's SIU At1antic, Gu1f, Lakes and In1and Waters District. The SIUNA continued to grow. It now includes unions that represent men and women who work in canneries, tourism, facto- The year 2000 presents one of the most interesting challenges since the beginning of the computer age. It has significant implications for alt those who use computers. It is an absolute immovable deadline that must be dealt with to avoid the consequences. Computers record time and dates as just another number, and as time progresses, the "time" number gets bigger, so a future date is always larger than a past dare. In order to save space in earlier computers. some programmers interfered with this progres· sion by deleting the century digics from dates. Without the century digits, the last date of the millennium will be 99-12-31, and after the ball falls in Times Square. many computers will see January 1, 2000 as 00-01-01 , a sma11er number than the day before. Time will seem to have reversed-though it is unlikely that senior citizens will be young again (or unborn yet), and a few moments in the future will Lake a century to rn;cur. Most software has been written to handle the 1900s, and is able to process the years 1900 through 1999. Any year after 1999 or before 1901 may not be processed correctly. This is due co rhe face char many software systems use only two digits in representing a year. In addition to software problems, computers and equipmenc using compucer chips may very well stop working on New Year·s Day, 2000. These devices contain one or more chips which lack the first two digits and wi11 see the year as 0000. This problem is even greacer in scope chan the computer problem, as all computer based automation i5 involved. Even your coffee pot timer may quit. Multiply these sorts of difficulties by many thousands, times hundreds of millions of people around the world who would be inconvenienced (at least) and you start to get a feeling for the scope of the potential problem. To make things worse, what if your computer software and hardware have been fixed but your Mmputer regular1y exchanges data with someone else's computer that has not been fixed? How wi11 your C0mputer know that 1900 in the data coming from the other computer actua11y means 2000? It won't. It will accept the data as transmitted, causing some of your data to become meaningless. You would be wise to make a back-up on December 31, 1999. In an effort to help the marine industry deal with the huge potential for serious problems related to the Year 2000 (Y2K) computer problem, the U.S. Coast Guard is seeking public participation in planned ongoing discussions on Y2K prob1ems. Because of the impact of this problem, "the Coast Guard wi11 serve as a clearinghouse for all lessons learned and problems identified with the issue as it relates to the maricime industry," states che agency. Information on comments received will be retrievable from the Coast Guard Marine Safety Y2K web site at: www.uscg.mi1/hq.g-m/nmc/y2k.htm. In order to protect yourself, it's a good idea to contact the people with whom you do business and get them to send you confirmation in writing they will be fully Y2K compliant. Less than 60 percent of businesses contacted in a recent survey will be ready for the Year 2000. If you have a computer, you should have the hardware tested to verify it is Y2K compliant. You also wi11 need to contact the companies who wrote the software you are using and ask if your version is Y2K c~mpliant, and if it is not, is there is a fix. If your computer cannot use the latest form of the Windows operating system, you should start thinking seriously about replacing your equipment, but remember this is only one part of a three-part prob1em. The three parts are your equipment, software and the other people you do business with. Start now to assess your potentia1 for having Y2K problems and take the necessary steps for a timely solution. Then you wilLtruly enjoy watching the ball fall in Times Square and you will be toasting the beginning of the new millennium. If you have a maritime-related question about the Y2K situation, you may email it to Russ Levin at davidl@radi~.net. Seafarers LOG 7 �Away from Port in a Storm Regulus Sails Out of Hurricane's Path When Hurricane Georges appeared as if it were heading directly toward New Orleans, Seafarers aboard the Ready Reserve Force vessel USNS Regulus followed a simple plan: Get out of the way. SIU members quickly crewed the SL-7, normally in rcdu~cd operating status (ROS), and sailed it from New Orleans into the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, the hurricane veered away from New Orleans at the last minute. The Regulus sub ¢quently returned undamaged to its berth in New Orleans. "This is a fairly routine procedure around here during hurricane season-sending ships out co avoid the storm," observed SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, who met with Regulus crew members upon the vessel's return. "The Regulus crew, both the ROS personnel and those who came from the New Orleans area and other ports to crew the ship, deserve credit for a job well done. Remember, when these ships leave port, they know it's potentially bad news." Judd added that no damage was done to the SIU hall on Jackson Ave., nor to the new hiring hall at 391 t Lapalco Blvd. in Harvey, La. (which has not yet opened). Hundreds of union members, including Seafarers, rallied in Washington, D.C. in support of Avondale shipyard workers. Excellent maintenance of the Regulus enabled the ship to quickly leave port when Hurricane Georges threatened. Aiding the ship's operations are (from left) Chief Engineer Scott Agnew, Chief Mate Jan Genemans, Bosun Wilfredo Rice, OS Willard Bell and AB Juan Salgado. Aptly named Chief Cook Siu Chan scrubs a pan after lunch. Wipers Larry Lewis (left) and Eduardo Pereira formed part of the mew that ~ailed th!i! USNS R~gu/u$ awa.y from the hurricane's projected path. SA Billy Mitchell (left) and Chief Steward Wayne 1-foward keep the galley in top shape and the crew well-fed. Lummus Aids in Marine Carps Exercise The SIU-crewed 1st Lt. Jack Lummus recently assisted the U.S. Marine Corps with exercise Urban Warrior '98, serving as a platform for the Marine ~ommunications and supply delivery assessment. The prepositioning ship Lummus usually is based in the Western Pacific, one of four U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) ships that together carry enough equipment, supplies and ammunition to support a Marine Air/Ground Ta~k Force comprising up to 17 ,000 military personnel for 30 d~ys. However, in September the Lummus was anchor~d six miles off the North Carolina coast for biannual maintemmcc of the 3hip and equipment. Exercise Urban Warrior '98 is part of a larger e..x.pcrimcnt known as Sea Dragon, emanating from the M°'rine Corp~ Warfighting Lab in Quantico, Va. Its premise in pare is based on estimates that. by 2010, 80 percent M the world's population will live within 300 miles of a MMtline. Defense experts also anticipate that threats will no longer come from uclear enemies with known war-fighting capabilities; rather threats will come from smaller, unknown enemies who will use sub- The SIU-crewed 1st Lt. Jtick LUmmustook part in an important Marine Cori;Js exercise off the North Carolina tMSt in September. B seafarers LOG terfuge and terrorism to accomplish their goals. The recent American embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanz;ania illustrate the nature of this new threat," MSC noted in a report about the exercise. The agency further pointed out that "one goal of Sea Dragon is to maintain all logistic operations at sea rather than setting up a base ashore. This has profound implications for the MSC. As the Navy continues to downsize personnel and ~hips, MSC will increasingly pick up the slack. "MSC ships' noncombatant status makes them less costly to operate than combatant Navy ships. Traditional Navy ships are combatant vessels, meaning they have weapons aboard and are potential targets of enemy fire . As such, they must carry large crews to operate the weapons systems aboard and to protect the ships should they be damaged in battle. .. MSC ships are noncombatant vessels, operating behind the battle line, and are not considered likely targets of enemy fire. Their noncombatant status cMbles MSC ships such as the Lummus to maintain iln ilvernge crew size of less than 40 while Navy ships of similar size generally have crews in the hundreds .... The skill levels of MSC's merchant mariners also enable MSC ships to opcrnte with smaller crews [than Navy ships]. The net result of these cosc differences and Navy downsizing i:s to make MSC an attractive Marine Corps partner as the Corps explores potential sea-based operations." The event off the coast of North Carolina was the final trial in a series of four Urban Warrior experiments. In this exercise. the Marines dealt specifically with overcoming logistic communication and supply delivery challenges. Another part of Urban Warrior was to establish a timely, limited-risk means of delivering the supplies from ship co shore. Seat arers Show Support For Avondale Workers .,,... Seafarers were a presence in the rallying crowd, urging the U.S. Navy to stop using taxpayer dollars to fund union-busting efforts at Avondale. Dozens of Seafarers were among the nearly 500 union members and supporters who rallied at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. September 24 in solidarity with workers at Avondale shipyard. Five years ago, the workers at the New Orleans shipbuilding company vmed to form a union to improve their working conditions and paychecks. Today, they are still waiting for the company to begin negotiations on a first contract, even though the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) certified the election and ordered Avondale to pay $3 million in fines related to the employer's illegal anti-union tactics. Avondale workers earn 29 percent less, on average, than work- ers at other private shipyards with major Navy contracts. And Avondale has the worst health and safety record of any U.S. shipyard receiving Navy contracts . AFL-CIO President John Sweeney spoke to the demonstrators, decrying the shipyard's abysmal safety record and calling on the Navy to stop using taxpayer dollars to fund union-busting effort~ (Avondale gets 80 percent of its business from the Navy). In an emotional moment, Scott LaJaunie, the teenage son of a 38year-old worker killed recently at Avondale, called for an investigation into hazards at the shipyard. "I don•t want other families to go through what I went through," he said. Mike Boudreaux. a steward and member of the Sheet Metal Workers union, introduces Scott LaJaunie (right), whose father was recently killed at Avondale. Right~ SMfarers Thomas Larusso (left) and Roger Steward participate in the Avondale rally. November 1998 �Ability to Change Is Necessary, Stresses S-L Innovator Bosun A Crowley b~rge do~k~ at Pvtty'~ l~land, loi;ated near Philac:!Etlphia. Striving.for Sa,fety Seafarers Get Job Done At Petty's Island Docks It takes lots of behind-the· scenes work to maintain the busy pnce and smooth operations in the pore of Philadelphia. SIU members employed at the Crowley Petty's Island complex in Pennsauken, N.J. are part of that little-publicized operation. Nearly I00 Seafarers work at the Crowley facility, loading and unloading barges and ships, Bosun J. A. Wilson (left} talks with King's Point Cadet Carmelita Solomon and Chief Steward Jose M. Bayani at the conclusion of a meeting. , Y ... -.;;,~ti>t'ti.ifiWKff::tJN~*.J maintaining containers and handling other jobs at the site across the Delaware River from Phi lade Iphi a. One reason they are out of the '/_ _ _ _ , .: :.; .:+:rm<:r:.:::J , When the Sea-I.And Innovator docked in the port of Long Beach, Calif. for a payoff recently, after completing voyage # 176, Bosun J.R. Wilson conducted the shipboard meeting, giving his crew members the most current information on happenings within the SIU as well as an update on events in the maritime industry. Chairman Wilson (who also sent these photos to the Seafarers LOG) noted that one thing that never changes is change itselfreminding Seafarers that if they want to keep themselves competitive in the job market, they are going to have to keep up with changing skills and technologies. "For all of us," he said, "this means taking the necessary courses at Piney Point." Another way to maintain jobs and job security, he informed the crew, is to support SPAD. Contributions to this fund help keep the union's presence on Capitol Hill, especially during_ spotlight is that they work very legislation pertaining to the safely. Earlier this year, SIU members at Petty's Island were recognized by the company for maritime industry. SIU Wilmington (Calif.) Representative Frank Gill, who came aboard ship for the meeting and to answer any questions, reminded everyone to apply for their training record book (TRB) and STCW certificate as soon as possible-two more ways in which the union is keeping its members among the best qualified in the changing world. attaining 452 consecutive days without a lost-time injury. During a celebration marking that string, several Seafarers pointed om that frequent safety meerings help them do their jobs unharmed. "We're very safety conscious," summarized Chief Shop Steward John Wozunk. Wt Voyage #176 tool< the $ea-Land Innovator from Yokohama, Japan to Long Beach, Calif. It was a little eooler in Yokohama, where crew members dressed warmly for their chipping and painting tasks. From the left are Unlicensed Apprentice Mary A. Bado, AB Deck Maintenance Ramon V. Duran and AB Deck Maintenance Mousid S. Omar. At left, Shop Steward John Gallagher cheerfully reports for his shift at the Crowley Petty's Island complex. AB James R. Inskeep (left) and Chief Steward Jose M. Bayani enjoy a few moments on deck following a shipboard meeting. Awaiting the start of a meeting on the Sea-Land Innovator are (from left) AB Deck Maintenance Mousid s. Omar and DEU Ahmed Y. Hassan. In Support of the U.S. Merchant Marine f . Jim Bryan (left photo). Bill Mccorkle (center) and Chief Shop Steward John Wozunk were part of the recent ceremony oommemorating 452 i;;on~et;;utiv" d~y~ withovt ~ lo,t-time injury attained by Seafarer~ at the Crowley terminal at Peny·s Island. Na11ember 1998 The SIU recently announced it has been advised of the transfer of the management contract for the LNG fleet from Energy Transportation Corp. to a Hamburg-based company called Pronav. Pronav has agreed to honor the five-year contra.tt (ratifiM in 1996) already in place between the SIU and ETC. Two Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo show their support for the U.S. merchant marine by painting an American flag M the vessel's nitrogen tank. The flag was created by Bosun Charlie Kahl (right) and AB Don Peterson. Seafarers LOG -9 �. vmTING UI{ P.f1Ul .U.f1ll C{Nl{~ There's always something going on at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. It's no wonder that everybody loves visiting the facility-whether for upgrading, vacationing or just !;hnwing the pla~e nff to family and friends . On this page are photos of a number of Seafarers- both active Enjoying lunch with his family is John Gallagher, a visiting SIU member who works in the Philadelphia area at Petty'$ Island. He has been with the union since 1973. With him are his wife, Maureen, and their children: Allison, Daniel, Jacklyn, Megan, Michael and Brian. and retired-who recently spent some time there. Pensioner Talmadge L. Moss and his wife, Jo, had a memorable time vacationing in Piney Point over the summer. 'We t~ Mohamad M. Shibly, who ships from the Tacoma, Wash. hall, attended the chief cook upgrading cour~.;i 3t th.;i Lund~b~rg S~heieil eiver the summer_ He Wa$ Vl$ite~ "Y Ml$ wit$, A~i~ati and hi!; daugh- t(lr, Nadia Nahraa. Pensioner Carl Francum retired in 1993 at age 65 after many years as a bosun _ His wife, Dora, has been happy having him back home in North Carolina. With them in the Paul Hall Library and Museum are two future candidates for the Unlicensed Apprentice program-their grandsons Steven Tane and Jimmy Smith. had a great time, delicious food, and the hospitality was wonderful. All retirees should take a shot at it," Moss said. His wife added that the food was so good she's sure she gained at least 10 pounds. # Apply Now for 1 of 7 Scholarships to Be Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents in '99 tional school or community college. Four scholarships are uwurdcd in the amount of package includes letters of recommendation solicited from individuals who know the applicant's a higher level of education. $15,000 to the spouses and All Seafarcrs and their spouses and <;;hildren who plan to att<:nd dependent children of Seafarers. character, personality and career goals. Since the scholarship awards are made primarily on the basis of high school grades and the scores from either the College Entrance Filling out the coupon below is the first step toward pursuing your hopes, drc;ums und gouts for college are encouraged to send away for the 1999 SIU Scholarship Program booklet It contnins eligibility information, pro<;;edures for applying and a copy of th~ application form. (The program books also are uvnilable at all SIU halls.) Seven monetary grants will be awarded in May 1999 to three SIU member~ and four dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $1.5,000 and is intended ro help cover the cost of attending a four-year, collegelevel course of study. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary voca- (Sec article at right on Arie Knuth, a 1995 scholarship win· ner-) Once the scholarship booklet hn:s bten received, applicants should check the eligibility information to make sure that certain conditions are met. After checking for eligibility, applicants should start collecting other paperwork which must be ~ubmitted along with the full application by the April 15, 1999 deadline_ These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript requests, the sooner the reque~t i~ made, the better. Another part of the application Examination Boards (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT), arrangement~ ~hou1d be made to take these exams no later than February 1999 to ensure that the results reach the scholarship selection committee in time to be B.C. Buchanan and his wife, Mae, check out the cafeteria during their Formally with the SIU inland division, Buchanan is now retired although still very active in the community with the local Lodge and in helping sick and injured children. The couple resides In Gwynn, Va, near Newport News. ~tay at the Paul Hall Centet. '95 Scholarship Winner in Final Year evaluated. A photograph of the applicant and a certified copy of his or her birch certificate are two other items that must be included in the total application package. No one can be awarded a ~~ho1ar~hip without fi11ing out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15. r----------------------------------, eligibility Pprocedures for applying and a copy of application lease send me the 1999 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains the form. information, Arie Knuth (left) poses in the SIU Algonac hall with his father, David. The elder Knuth sails from that port as an AB Wheel/Watch, and it was through his membership in the SIU that Arie was eligible for the scholarship benefit provided by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. As one of four recipients of the Seafarers scholarships for Members Social Security Number dependents in 1995, Arie D. Knuth was awarded $15,000 in finan- Street Address cial assistance to begin his college career. This year marks his fourth and final one at the University of Michigan, where he is majoring in English with a sub-concentration in fiction writing. City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number This application is for: CJ Self L] writing abilities. Dependent Mail 1hi5 wmpleted form to Scholar.ship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Attth Way, Camp Springs. MD 20746. The $15,000 university scnolarship came in very useful, noted a grateful Knuth recently, especially with the high cost of living in Ann Arbor, Mich. 11198 L-------------------------------------~ 1O Seafarers LOii When he began his freshman year, Knuth' s interest was in the theater. He started writing plays and decided he liked writing better than performing. He already has published several articles in the campus newspaper and won a couple monetary awards for his play- Following his graduation, Knuth plans to continue his studies in a graduate program for creative writing. November 1998 �ITF Ship Brings Horrors of Runaway-Flag Shipping to .IC . n Vis•1tors Unit~~~~~t~~~;~~~~aeon~ Amer Brooklyn, N.Y. Councilman Steve Dibrienza cuts the ribbon to open the exhibit in the Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey. The Global Marin~rarrives in Baltimore, its second stop in the United State$. S everal thousand people in the U.S. already have gained a stronger under· gangway to view the Global Mariner's photos, videos and standing of the perils faced by Maritime Administrator Clyde Hart; SIU Executive Vice President and ITF Seafarers' Se~tion Chairman John Fay; lawmakers; staffers representing federal, state and local government officials; union members and their families; young people considering joining the U.S. merchant marine and many others foreign mariners sailing aboard runaway-flag vessels after touring the International Transport Workers' Federation {ITF) exhibition ship Global Mariner. Continuin3 an 1B-month voyage around the world, the Global Mariner made its first American ports of call in early October. The 20-year-old converted freighter spent Columbus Day weekend in Manhattan, where foul weather kept the number of visicors down. However, that was more than made up by a steady stream of guests when the vessel docked in Baltimore the following weekend. As of mid-October, more than 90,000 people in the U.S., Canada and Europe had come aboard the ship. Among those climbing the Clockwi~&, other exhibits were U.S. "1' .a..... In three photos directly below, """. ' visitors from the Paul Hall 'f.'~i~;§2~1£i}J$;itt~ii;i~ Center for Maritime Training f"~"""'.t'"';:,;.•??t· and Education eagerly climb . the gangway and then examine the displays. ~ ~"'""":_ , '""' fA interested in maritime and human rights. Most came away stunned at the photos taken by ITF im;~­ mr~ around the world as well as various newspapers showing some of the deplorable conditions endured by mariners on runawayflag ships. Among the graphic pictures, enlarged to the size of giant murals, taken aboard these Continued on page 12 from upp&r l&ft: .Assisting gu&Sts aboard th~ ITF G/Ma/ Marin~r are Seafarers Ed Ooruth and Tom Soreliii; Nabil Ahmed; Ni~hola~ CraddO';k; Melvin Ja.t~6t'\ (Mtt6M, l~ft) and c~uey FMter: aM Clifton Doonis. November f 998 Seafarers LOG 11 �of 50 years ago, when the runaway-flag campaign began in earnest, no longer are among the top nations in terms of ship registry. Continued from page 11 ships are insect-infested food, highly unsanitary areas for personal hygiene. injured mariners who wcrc denied medical care and sinking vessels. Exhibits aboard lhe ship show how the leading maritime nations The displays spe11 out how the runaway-flag program works: A shipowner, usually from a traditional maritime nation, registers his vessel in a non-traditional nation (such as Liberia, Panama, Belize, Vanuatu and others) to avoid his home nation's laws regarding safety, wages, taxes and more_ The crews for these runaway-flag ships typically come from still other nations (like Indonesia, the Philippines and Sri Lanka) where they receive a mini- mum of training-if any at all. These seamen are paid wages below international standards (in some cases, ABs make only a couple hundred dollars a month), often are refused wages for months at a time, receive substandard food allotments and practice little to no workplace safety skills, thus leaving the vessels to rust away. Captain Geoff Fowlger of the Global Mariner, who has seen in his voyages around the world the plight of mariners aboard runaway-flag vessels, described the exhibit as "like living in a neighborhood where there's a murder every week. It's one thing to read about it and it's quite another to actually witness it. This ship lets people witness what really goes on." The Global Mariner continues ics tour of American ports this month. After stopping in Savannah, Ga. in late October, it is scheduled to v1s1t Fort Lauderdale, Fla., October 27November 2; New Orleans, November 4-8; Houston, November 912; and San Juan, P.R., November 23-26. The vessel then will sail to South America and return to the U.S. Pacific Coast in spring 1999. The ITF comprises more than 500 unions-including the SIUrepresenting workers in transportation-related industries from over 125 countries. The organization is based in London. Three SIU officials serve as ITF inspectors~Edd Morris, Spiro Varras and Don Thornton. The Global Mariner. which sails under the British flag, is marking the soth anniversary of the ITF's international campaign against runaway-flag shipping. Und~r fgreign flags they can: Visitors on the ITF vessel may read basic information about the campaign flag shipping and see giant images depicting the often horrific conditi mariners on such vessels. Some of the images are shown across these p Among the first tC> tour the ship in New York are (from left) Spiro Varras. one of the SIU's ITF inspectors: BrooKlyn, N.Y. Councilman Steve Dibrienza; Jack Caffey, SIU vice president Atlantic Coast; and SIU Patrolman Jack Caffey, Jr. uaa GlarK. secretary at the SIU Baltimor~ hall, brought her family aboard the ship. Pictured with Clark are her nusband, Harry; and son~ Harry Ill (front) and Walter. 12 Seafarers LOG Discussing the exhibits are MarAd AssMia.te Admir'listrtttor Bruce Carlton (left) and Paul Hall Center Vocational Education Director Bill Eglinton. Commending the ITF for launching the worldwide tour are (1-r) Chaplain Jim Horan of the International Seafarers Center in Baltimore; Deacon Robert Balderas, national director of the U.S. Apostleship of the Sea; Burmese mariner Maung Aung Myint, whom the ITF helped take refuge from a runaway-flag vessel; and Edd Morris, one of the SIU's ITF inspectors. John Fay (center). SIU executive vice president and chairman of th ITF's Seafarers' Section, poses with Lundeberg School students Vila Keith (left) and Justin Vonsprecken. November 1998 �The Global Mariner's U.S. tour continues this month in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; New Orleans; Houston; and San Juan, P.R. MarAd's Hart Impressed with ITF Ship's Presentation "Very impressive" were the first words used by U.S. Maritime Administrator Clyde Hart after he toured the 11F exhibition ship Global Mariner in Baltimore on October 19. "The pictures speak for themselves," he added following an hourlong guided tour of the ship, which features photos, videos and other material demonstrating the dangers faced by foreign seamen aboard runaway-flag vessels. Along with several members of his staff from the Maritime Administration (MarAd), Hart stopped to view each exhibit and read the comments provided. He stated he was particularly moved by the photos of mariners injured aboard runaway-flag vessels who were denied medical treatment. "This is a graphic demonstration of what unscrupulous flag-of-convenience ships can do to people," Hart said. "It is necessary to have people like the ITF to police these situations and work to stop them." Although Hart has dealt extensively with the maritime industry prior to becoming the head of MarAd in August, he said the knowledge he gained from his tour of the Global Mariner will support him as he stands up for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "This shows why we need a strong U.S . merchant marine that's trained, efficient and dedicated to safety. This [exhibit] will help as we go about working for needed changes." U.S. Maritime Administrator Clyde Hart signs the guest book as he boards the Global Mariner in Baltimore. Taking part in a shipboard tour in Baltimore arG (from left) Woody Fon.vood, representing Baltimore Mayor Kurt S<;;hmoke, John Jefferies and John O'Connor. both from the Maryland Labor, Licensing and Regulation Dept. Philip Noto (left photo) and November 1998 Jo~hua Davenport help direct visitors. Continued on page 14 Seafarers LOii 13 �Continued from previous page Global Mariner Crew Already Knew About FOC Shipping SIU Members Embrace Il'F's Powerful Message Ship Stirs Strong Reactions from Sea/arers Dozens of students from the Paul HaJJ Center for Maritime Training and Education took a field trip o~tobcr 16 lo visit the ITF's Global Mariher in Baltimore. Some of the s~afarcrs already were familiar with the ITFs work while oLhers were less acquainLed wilh it. But they all agreed that the exhibition ship is a wonhwhile. eye-opening experience, albeit a somber one. "What really stands out are the pictures of the crewmen, close up. Their appearance really sticks with you," stated Glen Wilkerson. who is enrolled in the FOWT course. "When you sec ships in bad shape. that's one thing. But when you see people in bad shape. that's another. To me, s"iling on lhosc runawayflag ships is pretty close to going to a graveyard. It's a pitiful mess! ' 1 Levi Rollins. also taking the POWT class, said he hope:> the Global Mariner will continue arrraccing visicors from all walks of life, rather than only people from the maritime industry. "It's a very enlightening exhibit, and it's important co people all around the world," nored Rollins. LLThis isn't jusc abom American.fhg vessels or American mariners. Flagof-convcnicncc shipping hurts people everywhere." Understandably, Unlicensed Apprentices Misti Thornbrugh and Vargil! Rodriguez ~till a.re learning the busies ubout rum1wuy-Oag ship· ping and rh~ ITF ' ~ ~atttpaign against it. However, they said the Global Mariner quickly and vividly enhanced their education. ''This is only my second week in the program, bur I learned a lot from this ship/' said Thornbrugh. "It's amazing LhaL FOCs basically don't have any rules and regulations for their ships. People get hurt all the time on those ships, and everything's dirty on them." Rodriguez, while acknowledging the importance of the I1F campaign, said the Global Mariner's exhibits heightened his appreciation for the employment opportunities available for SIU members. "S~ing thi; FOC~ makes you want to sail on a good ship, that's for sure," he stated. Students weren't the only people who learned from the visit. Steward department instructor Shannon Twigg, after viewing the displays, described runaway-flag shipping as "a travesty. You would think in this modern day, such things wouldn't happen . ... rm glad the I1F put this together and is giving it worldwide exposure. We need to get the message to as many people as we can.,, Wilkerson agreed, and called on America' s lawmakers to turn their attention ro th1s multi-birnon dollar industry. "When you look at the extent of runaway-flag shipping, I believe the U.S. government, as a whole, can and should do a Joe more ro correct it." he declared. "It's not right chat some shipowners don 'c have to follow the rules and pay their fair New Zealander Glen Anderson lcnew plenty about runaway-flag shipping long before he signed aboard the ITF's Global Mariner as an AB. LLI lost my job because of flag-of-convenience companies," he recalled. "The company I'd worked for lost six ships directly as a result of FOCs." Anderson in many ways typifies the crew members working aboard the Global Mariner as the ship continues the North American segment of its 18month worldwide voyage. He supports the ITF campaign against runaway-flag shipping, and that is one reason he applied for a job on the Global Mariner. The other reason is equaJJy practical: He needed the work. And even though the Global Mariner's cargo is the exhibition, it is a working ship. "FOCs are wiping us out in New Zealand," added Anderson. "It's a bit like slavery, isn't it? And yet, because of them, we have no young people coming through (entering the industry). The youngest are maybe 35. "New Zealand exports a lot. but our people only man vesseb that carry not even 10 percent of those exports." Similarly, Third Officer Brigitte Weiler understands the depth of the ru~away-flag issue. ''The German OTV (national transportation union) has publicized this problem a lot, and that's why I applied for the job," she stated. "The public lives away from the sea, of course, but their awareness must be increased .. .. I want people to be shocked at this exhibit. Maybe not maritime union members, because they already know, but the general public." Captain Geoff Fowlger acknowledged that, at first, the nature of the Global Mariner 's voyage almost seemed incidental to him. "But once I joined the ship, I got into the spirit. Once you see the exhibits, you naturally become more interested and aware." Perhaps more than most of his fellow crew members, QMED Mohd Basheer appreciates the contrast between the Global Mariner as a working vessel and runaway-flag ships. Basheer has firsthand experience aboard FOCs. "Yeah, sure, the exhibits you see here are exactly what happens on those ships," Basheer said. "Anyone sending the message against FOC is blacklisted. Manning agencies don't like that, when you talk about ITF or against FOC. Many problems." Paul McGee is the exhibit manager aboard the Global Mariner. He points out that although "shock" has been the most common reaction among guests, "that is followed by people saying. 'What can we do?' The thing we want people to do is join the union." He added that the ITF's fight against runaway-flag shipping "is part of a wider campaign against globalization. When industry becomes global, unions must be global." Mohd Basheer (above) and Glen Anderson (below), currently composing part of the ITF Global Mariner crew, are among the many mariners who have been hurt by runaway-flag shipping. '1:dl·...... ,_ ' Seafarers gather around the union's display on the Global Mariner. ~ictured from left to right are Chief Cook Charlie DiCanio, Patrolman Jack Caffey Jr., AB Jimmy Nioti~. Bosun Tom soresi, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Jack Caffey, Bosun Ed Ooruth and Bosun John Natoli. AB Louis Morales serves as a guide aboard the ship in New York. share." Upcoming U.S. Dates for the ITF's Global Mariner Port Fort Lauderdale, Fla. New Orleans Houston San Juan, P.R. Dates October 27-November 2 November 4-8 November 9·12 November 23-26 Wgst Coast visits will occur in spring 1999. The Seafarers LOG will print tMs~ dat~s when they become available. For more information about the ITF Global Mariner, check http;//www.itf-ship.org/ 14 seafarers LOii Na11ember 1998 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C OCTOBER 15, 1998 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Piney Point ............. Monday: December 7, January 4 DECK DEPARTMENT Port ·:N~W:· York . .28 4 4 7 16 · Philadelphia · Baltimore Norfolk Mobil~ 10 0 5 8 4 2 3 5 8 17 16 7 9 9 3 14 19 31 . ·· i2 . 3 7 14 12 17 ll 26 14 3 9 7 2 6 7 2 5 9 3 3 2 3 6 3 8 8 24 _2 ,. 0 211 Totals 5 10 3 Il /sti~·. Fcin~is~9 . Witm.ingt9n Tacoma Puerto Rico Honolulu · Houston · st.Louis . Piney Point Algonac 3 4 21 21 4 . '. ) . 6 16 New Orleans . 18 9 13 ·.·:Jl Jacksonville ... 9 4 13 18 27 8 8 9 6 23 10 6 . 0 .. I 3 2 0 2 2 0 3 2 0 0 1 85 210 112 0 138 Port 8 0 3 9 9. IO 11 4 4 46 3o 7 6 13 23 3 6 25 45 · .. j3 44 44 14 10 18 11 17 18 11 20 16 5 14 39 15 I 1 5 1 5 0 0 0 1 0 61 75 352 190 Algonac .................. Friday: December 11, January 8 Baltimore ..•............. Thursday: December IO, January 7 A.e• ·· r · ;..PbH.#4~:1phi.o, Duluth ..................... Wednesday: December 16, January 13 6 4 15 · f.lonolulu ................. Friday: December 18. January 15 Houston .................. Monday~ December 14, January J 1 7 Jac.Jcs_onville ............ Thursday: December JO, January 7 2 13 Jersey ·city ..:~ .......... Wednesday: De.cernber 23, January 20 3 Mobile ................:.. ~ .\l{~nesday: December 16, January l3 5 8 New Bedford ........ ~~TueSd:ay: December 2~ January 19 6 New Orleans ........... Tuesday: December 15, January 12 4 · New York ................ Tuesday: December 8, January 5 2 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 10, January 7 0 86 -- Philadelphia ........ .,•. Wednesday: December 9, January 6 .,i: S.anfirancis~o ....-..... ........... •" ,i·. ..- ENGINE DEPARTMENT New-Yori{·· · ~-ahttimore December 1998& January 1999 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters ..... ' ·.·.·.~:·::•; ... ,i:.....Thursday: December 17, January 14 . 2 . 2 .· Norfolk 4 Mobile 7 New Orleans IO 4 3 5 I 3 Jacksonville · San Fr.ancisco ; Wltm.i.ng~on./:: Tacoma 5 1 5 2 6 11 l 6 6 5 3 17 10 4 6 12 6 6 9 10 5 11 8 2 4 0:~'k·'t7~~TI.;'.t'.".'.;~>/·~~YTIR~~?TuS 7 2 3 0 2 0 1 3 2 I 2. 3 2 4 10 14 8 3 7 1 7 9 12 2 3 13 4 2 4 31 13 8 2 0 7 6 7 4 4 7 6 .. ]. 1 0 Tacoma ................... Monday~ December 28*, Friday: January 22 *change created by Chrfrtmas lwliday Wilmington .............Monday: December 21, Tuesday; January 19* 3 · 1. ·· >·o 8 0 0 110 0 28 Personals LEON "BUCKY" FOUNTAIN Your old friend, Bob Hess, would like to hear from you. Please write to: Robert S. Hess, P.O. Box 840045, St. Augustine, FL 32084. 5 2 9 3 0 3 ERIC HOAG Please contact Linda O'Brien at (904) 855-0321 or write her at 1149 E. Fromage Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32225-4499. HERMAN ROGGE 32 3 18 10 3 4 115 150 Port 5 0 29 . I .l3});l.ri~9r~--- ,_., ........ I 2 l 2 Norfolk Mobile 0 7 9 New York .PhHaq~lphia 4 0 7 4· 0 3 0 0 Please contact your shipmate from the 1950s, William Parks, at 4232 Rachel Ave., Port Arthur; TX 9 77642. o·,. ;< 1 0 0 238 74 22 4 1 14 13 13 4 10 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 17 JO 0 2 0 0 0 1 9 8 0 11 3 l 8 2 4 16 0 6 6 2 ll . 17 6 9 2 8 5 9 IO 2 4 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 Ascension 3 5 18 30 15 5 ·9 0 50 0 184 1 13 16 7 4 1 30 10 0 .14 0 149 32 138 104 0 100 259 229 520 470 280 449 389 201 168 864 633 365 19 4. 5· 2 2 2 5 7 2 36 11 64 7 0 0 .l' 19. 0 2 ":''" ·* l· Totals All Departments 12 10 5 0 5 5 2 4 0 0 " . 0 ... 0 3 4 44 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 18 9 17 JO 14 3 0 3, 0 21 20 10 by Pamala Hagler And if I go while ~ou 're still here ... Know that I live on, vibrating to a different measure, 3 Behind a thin veil you cannot see through. You will not see me, so you must have faith. 6 5 49 12 2 17 1 97 22 1 14 1 I wait for the time when we can Soar together again - both aware of each other. Until then, live your life to its fullest. And when you need me, Just whisper my name in your heart. I will be there. *''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. November f 998 Pamala Hagler, who sails from the port of Mobile, Ala., wrote this poem while attending upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes SEPTEMBER 16 - .· <Micbael Sa(:co President ~ · John Fay . &ecutive Vice President ':g... David Heindel ..., Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellei CL - Company/Lakes OCTOBER 15, 1998 L-Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Clas.5 CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Clas.5 L Class NP ·:':'Nice .President Contra.ctS DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 33 ' ~· 7 Port .. Algonac 0 3 Port Algonac 0 19 16 0 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT '". 1 · O> ,,'>· 11 · STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 17 9~· b'· 7 6 ... 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 11 9 HEADQUARTERS · 5201 Auth Way .CllmJ'.Springs, MO 20746 .. (301)·899:.0675 Totals All Depts 0 85 42 0 39 16 0 46 *"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. . ALGONAC !l20 St. CJair River Dr. - 0 13 Algonac. MI 48001 (810) 794'-4988 . ANCHORAGE · 72l ·Sti$1.une·St., #IC . : · ,. , . Attchoraie. AK 99.503 " " (907} 561-4988 26 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C OCTOBER 15, 1998 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Clas.5 C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Clas.5 A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 28 I 4 2 3 U '·. 9 0 3 22 3 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 6 51 7 3 7 21 1 3 0 5 0 14 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 13 0 2 0 0 0 ... 6 0 3 78 8 13 3 42 62 5 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. 29 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST PIDLADELt>llJA 2604S. 4 SL Philadelphia. PA 19 I4& (215) 336-3818. PINEY POINT P.O. BQx 75 · . Piney Point, MD 20674 . (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S, Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale., FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 · SAN l?RANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco~ CA 9.4105 . . .. . . .· (415} 54~.-S85S . . ··. d0¥einmeni ser\iices·Division .. (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR (){)1)07 (787) 721-4033 .... • · .... ST; LOlJIS 458 I Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 34 l l South Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98409 ••' ' '' (253}272w7774 WlLJ\j]NGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 This photo was taken in the port of New York some time in the 1960s. Sent to the Seafarers LOG by SIU Representative Victor Nunez, it shows one of the union's first lifeboat classes. The tallest man in the back row is William Doak, a former union official who died recently. Also in the back row, second in from the right, is Pensioner Osvaldo Rios. The second person from the left in the front row is Angel O'Neill. Brother O'Neill still sails in the steward department as a steward assistant. 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. (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG November 1998 �- Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their 1 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. T hree recertified bosuns are among the 22 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Representing 115 combined years of active union membership, Recertified Bosuns Elex Cary Jr., Perry H. Greenwood and Antonios M. Trikoglou are graduates of the highest level of training available to members in the deck department at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Including the three recertified graduates, 11 of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, six worked on the inland waterways, three plied the Great Lakes, one sailed as a commercial fisherman, and one worked in the railroad marine division. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother Arvanites last sailed aboard the Overseas Philadelphia as a chief cook. He has retired to Houston. RUSSELL A. BELL graduated from the MC&S training school in 1964 and joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. During his career, he sailed from the port of San Francisco aboard vessels operated by American President Lines and Matson Navigation. He is a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. A native of California, Brother Bell resides in San Francisco. DEEP SEA MOHAMED . " S.ABDUL• :; LAH, 65, · t joined the SIU . · in 1969 in the , · port of San Francisco. Born in Yemen, he worked in the engine department, last sailing aboMd a. Sea-Land service vessel. Brother Abdullah calls Va11ejo, Calif. home. ~ I I ROBERT G. ALVISO, 65, grad· ua.ted from the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) training school in 1964 and joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). He sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School in Piney Paine, Md. Brother Alviso last sailed aboard the Manukai, operated by Matson Navigation. The California native makes his home in Santa Rosa. JOHNL. ARVANITES, 65, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York aboard the Orion Comet, a Colonial Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Greece, he sailed in the steward department ELEXCARY JR., 65, graduated from the Lunde berg School's entry level training program in 1966 and joined the Seafarers in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Mt. Vernon Victory. Born in Louisiana, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertifica· ti on program in 1987. Prior to his retirement, Brother Cary ·signed off the Sea-Land Enterprise. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. He makes his home in Milpitas, Calif. PERRYH. GREEN· WOOD,65, started his career with the SIU in 1950 aboard the Calmar. He = = = ==·=""'=" sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1973. Brother Greenwood last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Reliance. The Washington native has retired to Mountlake Terrace. CHARLES D. HOWELL, 53, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. His first ship was the Mount Washington. The Alabama native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Howell last sailed aboard the SeaLand Endurance. He has retired to Columbus, Miss. HARVEYW. MILLS, 61, first sailed with the SIU , in 1967. Brother Mills worked as a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Quality. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army and from 1957 to 1961, he served in the U.S. Navy. The Kentucky native makes his home in Manchester. PLURINSUS ORDANSA, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 from the port of Baltimore, aboard the Petrochem, a Valentine Chemical Carriers vessel. Born in Hawaii, he worked in the steward department. last sailing in 1992 aboard the Baltimore, operated by SeaLand Service. Brother Ordansa calls Glen Burnie, Md. home. MARVIN E. SMITHERMAN, 70, joined the MC&S in 1975, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He last sailed aboard a Crowley Maritime vessel. The Alabama native served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956. Brother Smitherman calls Tuscaloosa, Ala. home. r---===:;:-----, ANTONIOS M. TRIKOGLOU, 65, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963 and MC&S Retirees Enjoy Annual Picnic San Bruno Park, located near San Francisco, was the site for this year's annual Marine cooKs ana Stewards (MC&S) picnic, with the event taking place September 13. Retired SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney (pictured in both photos above) reported a good turnout and "a very enjoyable day. The company was great, and of course this is one group that knows how to cook a meal." Pictured with McCartney in the left photo is MC&S retiree Freddie Vidal. Shown in the other photo is MC&S pensioner Charlie ("Chino") Simpson. November 1998 joined the Seafarers in the port of Baltimore. Born in Greece, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1985. Brother Trikoglou last sailed aboard the Cape Washington, operated by American Overseas Marine Corp. He resides in Baltimore. INLAND JAMES A. BOURQUE, 62, first sailed with the SIU in 1967. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Bourque last sailed as a captain aboard the Dixie Courage. The Louisiana native served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1958 to 1965. He has retired to Ville Platte, La. .CLORAD. DOOM,67, joined the SIU in 1987 in the port of St. ,~ Louis. Sister ~ Doom worked ...in the steward ~--"-----·= ·,,-_ ___.department, last sailing aboard an Orgulf Transportation Co. vessel. A native of Kentucky, she makes her home in Paducah. VITALIANO R. MALDONADO, 63, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1978. Boatman Maldonado started in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the Towboat Operator Scholarship Program in 1984. He last sailed in 1993 aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. From 1958 to 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. A native of Puerto Rico, he makes his home in Catano. FRANCIS T. O'NEILL, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1957 from the port of . Philadelphia. A native of = = = == !2.''.:'c!J Pennsylvania, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Boatman O'Neill last sailed as a captain aboard the Eric M. McAllister. From 1952 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He resides in West Chester, Pa. RONALD J. RIGGINS, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of Houston. He worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the John Moran, operated by Moran Towing Co. The Florida native served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1955 to 1975. Boatman Riggins makes his home in Huntington, Texas. EMERITO RIVERA, 62, . started his · career with the Seafarers in 1976 in Puerto Rico. Boatman " Rivera sailed ~~==~~ as a captain and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He signed off the Seminole in 1997, a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. A native of Puerto Rico, he has retired to Levittown. 1 GREAT LAKES JOHNA. KELLEY, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Born in Illinois, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother Kelley last sailed in 1993 aboard the Challenger, a Cement Transit Co. vessel. He makes his home in Sanderson, Fla. , CLARKJ. ' KING, 64, joined the SIU in 1961 in the : port of 1 Chicago. Brother King worked in the ====== deck department, last sailing aboard an OLS Transport vessel. The Michigan native has retired to Sault Ste. Marie. ROBERT R. WILLIAMSON, 62, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1959 as a member of the deck department. The Wisconsin native signed off the Great Lakes Towing Co. tug Washington in 1987. From 1956 to 1959, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Williamson makes his home in Milwaukee. ARANTIC FISHERMAN JOSEPH GIACALONE, 64, joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1952 in the port of Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. A native of Massachusetts, he sailed as a captain. Brother Giacalone makes his home in Gloucester. RAILROAD MARINE ARCIIlE B. OWENS, 62, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department. Brother Owens has retired to Hudgins, Va. Seafarers LOG 17 �., . ·~nal Departures· ·, ·• DEEP SEA ROBERT 0. ADAMS Pensioner Robert 0. Adams, 71 , passed away September 12. A native of ~·· California, he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Adams sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1985. Prior to his retirement in April 1992, he signed off the LNG Libra, operated by Energy Transportation Corp. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1941to1946. Brother Adams was a resident of Madras, Ore. MARION J. AKINS Pensioner Marion J. Akins, 88, died August 6. Brother Akins started his career with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Tampa, Fla. The Georsttt native sailed in the deck department. From 1932 to 1936, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Nllshville, Ga, he began receiving his pension in April 1975. EUGENE BAKER Pensioner Eugene Baker, 92, passed away May 13. Born in Ohio, he joined the Marine Cook11 & Stewards (MC&S) in 1945 in the port of SC1lttle, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Distrkt (AGLI· WD). Brother Baker was a resident of Seattle amt reCirecl in October 1970. RECARDO BARCELONA Pensioner Recardo Bltrcelonll, 94, died August 21. He began his career with the Seafarers as a charter member, having joined ..::....:..:...J the union in December 1938 in the port of New York. Born in the Philippines, he sailed in the deck department and was active in union organizing drives. Brother Barcelona resided in Santurce, P.R. and began receiving his pension in December 1968. L...__ _ _ _ CLARENCE W. BENJAMIN Pensioner Clarence W. Benjamin, 76, passed away July 19. A native of Texas, he started his career with the MC&S in 1943, ===:;..:::;..;:::::::=::::.i before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Dallas resident retired in December 1972. BENITO M. BIANCHINI Pensioner Benito M. Bianchini, 68, died August 19. Brother Bianchini joined the MC&S in 1952 in the port of ====::..i San Francisco, before that union merged with the 'IB Seafarers LOG SIU's AGLIWD. He also was a graduate of the MC&S training school. The California native lived in San Francisco and began receiving his pension in January 1997. CHARLES F. BOYLE Pensioner Charles F. Boyle, 72, passed away September 8. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1951 in his '------'native New York. Brother Boyle sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1975. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of New Orleans, Brother Boyle retired in May 1992. Brother Davis started out in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification program there in 1987. He was a resident of Wilmington, Calif. ADRIAN E. DELANEY Ajrian E. Delaney, 60, died August 29. He graduated from the MC&S training school .,, in I 968 and ~ ~· joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Massachusetts native upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1980. Brother Delaney was a resident of Cottonwood, Calif. Norfolk, Va. Brother Gianniotis worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where _;.:;==i he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1975. Prior to his retirement in February 1978, he signed off the Brooklyn, a Westchester Marine vessel. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. Brother Gianniotis was a resident of Lefkada, Greece. L...__ _ _ PAUL J. GONCALVES Pensioner Paul J. Goncalves, 71, died June 22. A native of Philadelphia, he first sailed with the SIU in 1945 aboard the SIMON J. DEZEE IVERSON BURNS Pensioner Iverson Bums, 77, died May 27. Brother Bums began his career with the MC&S in 1947 .'." from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLlWD. He resided in Los Angeles and began receiving his pension in December 1977. Pensioner Simon J. Dezee, 83, passed away July 14. Born in Holland, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port = = = = = = = of New York. Brother Dezee sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in August 1980. He was a resident of Sunnyvale, Calif. CARLOS M. DIAZ GERMAN CASTRO Pensioner German Castro, 76, passed away Septem~r 12. He joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU 's AGLIWD. A resident of Rio Piedras. P.R .• Brother Castro retired in June 1975. ROBERT J. "BOBBY" CLINTON Robert J. "Bobby" Clinton, 65. passed away August 24. A native of New York, he began his career with the Seafarers in i=...~!........:::.....:.=:::;.__..:.1 1988 working at the Lundeberg School. During his career, he served as assistant to the vice president of the school. After leaving the facility, he sailed in the deck department, primarily aboard vessels operated by Sea-Land Service. During the Korean War, he served in the U.S. Army. He was a resident of Federal Way, Wash. ERNESTO CORTES Pensioner Ernesto Cortes, 84, died August 24. A native of Puerto Rico, he was a charter member of the Seafarers, having joined the union in November 1938 in the port of New York. During his career, he sailed in the deck department and was active in union organizing drives. Brother Cortes started receiving his pension in September 1976. MARK W. DAVIS Mark W. Davis, 42, passed away September 9. Born in Texas, he started his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of Houston. Pensioner Carlos M. Diaz, 76, died August 19. A native of Pueno Rk o, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother i=...--......;==-..;::...:::..:.J Diaz sailed in che steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1980. A resident of Tamarac, Calif., he retired in July 1985. PRIMO F. FERNANDEZ Pensioner Primo F. Fernandez, 81, passed away June 27. Brother Fernandez started his career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department and started receiving his pension in December 1981. A native of Puerto Rico, he was a resident of Cabo Rojo. CHARLES L. GARD ~ Pensioner Charles L. Gard, 71, died August 15. He · joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Yokohama, Japan. Born in Oklahoma, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1946 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Yuma, Ariz., he began receiving his pension in February 1987. IOANNIS S. GIANNIOTIS Pensioner Ioannis S. Gianniotis, 75, passed away August 22. Born in Greece, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 from the port of Cornelius Harnett. Brother Goncalves worked in the engine department, last sailing on the Westward Venture. From 1950 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. A resident of Houston, he began receiving his pension in February 1992. ALBERT C. HENKE Pensioner Albert C. Henke, 77, passed away September 16. He joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. . The Michigan native sailed as a member of the engine department and retired in December 1982. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943. Brother Henke was a resident of Eastpointe, Mich. DANTE V. JANOLO Pensioner Dante V. Janolo, 69, died September 9. Brother Janolo began sailing with the SIU in 1966 from the port of Wilmington, __::::=:;=.;:~__J Calif., aboard the Fairisle, operated by Panoceanic Tankers Corp. Born in the Philippines, he worked in the deck department, last sailing in 1986 aboard the Independence, an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. A resident of Orlando, Fla., he started receiving his pension in October . __ 1994. . MATHEW JONES Pensioner Mathew Jones, 82, passed away September 1. Born in Louisiana, he joined the MC&S in 1959 in the port of ...=.---===~-=1 New Orleans, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Jones was a resident of Altadena, Calif. and retired in July 1981. RONALD L. KARNS Pensioner Ronald L. Karns, 73, died September 5. A native of Pennsylvania, he started his career with the ' Seafarers in 1946 in the port of New York. Brother Karns sailed in the engine department and began receiving his pension in January 1974. He was a resident of Metairie, La. JOHN W. KELSOE Pensioner John W. Kelsoe, 66, passed away July 17. He began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Mobile, Ala., aboard the '-----== =-==-== Beauregard, operated by Waterman Ste~ship Corp. The Alabama native started out in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1984. Brother Kelsoe lived in Georgiana, Ala. and retired in February 1992. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. TOROLF J. KISMUL Pensioner Torolf, J. Kismul, 81, died September 7. Brother Kismul joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port .,, of New York. Born in Norway, he sailed in the deck department and started receiving his pension in June 1969. He was a resident of Spokane, Wash. JOSEPH A. LARITY Pensioner Joseph A. Larity, 82, passed away July 15. Brother Larity first sailed with the SIU in 1961 from the port of New York aboard the Alcoa Pilgrim. The New York native sailed in the steward department and retired in July 1984. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. He was a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. Pensioner Charles LaScola, 65, passed away August 30. Born in Illinois, he graduated from the Andrew =====~ Furuseth Trainjng School in 1963 and joined the SIU in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Venore. Brother LaScola worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Overseas Vivian . From 1950 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. A resident of Houston, he retired in October 1997. ROBERT G. LAWSON Pensioner Robert G. Lawson, 58, died June 16. He graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School '----=====------' in 1964 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Houston. The Del Monte, operated by Delta Steamship Co., was his first ship. A native of California, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1981. From 1959 to 1960, Brother Lawson served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He lived in Paducah, Texas and began receiving his pension in October 1989. Continued on page 20 November 1998 �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. INTEGRITY (Maritrans), July 30-Chairman Rodney Roberson, Secretary Jeffrey N. Beasley, Deck Delegate Nicholas Joyce_ Chairman announced repair of VCR. Suggestion made that after 8-hour period at anchorage, launch should be provided. If none available, restriction to ship should be paid to crew members_ Educational director urged all hands to take advantage of Lundeberg School programs_ No beefs or disputed OT reported. OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land Service), July 19-Chairman Russell F. Barrack, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director P. Kanavos, Deck Delegate David Denizac, Engine Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward Delegate James P. O'Reilly. Chairman thanked day men for enduring unfavorable conditions during shipyard period. He also thanked chief electrician for reorganizing ship's movie videos and Steward Doffoh for exceptional food preparation and presentation both in shipyard and during voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported _New freezer requested for crew messhall. NeM pon; harlescon. S.C. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Marhime Overseas Corp.), July 26-ChairtYtti.t\ Marro Go.llio.no. Secretary Raffaele Ascione, Educational Director Derrick tes. Deck Delegate James A. Jones. Ship headed to Greece for 21-day shipyard period_ Crew to remain on board_ As of August I , Training ReMrd Books (TRBs) required when registering to ship. Applications are aboard vessel for those who need them. Educational direi;;tor reminded members to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Two suggestions made to send to contracts department. The first: lower the age of requirement for the normal pension from 65 to 62. The second: for the welfare plan to cover the cost of prescription medicines for dependents. Next port: Sims, Greece. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), July 26-Chairman Perry H. Greenwood, Secretary Gene C. Sivley, Educational Director Amos J. Jarmillo, Steward Delegate Reynaldo C. Telmo. Chairman announced payoff in Tacoma, Wash. and wished all crew members continued safe voyage. This is last trip for Bosun Greenwood_ No beefs or disputed OT reported. New mattresses on order for all crew. Vote of thanks extended to steward department for fine job. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Osprey-Acomarit), August 27Chairman John Mendez, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director E. Hantsche, Deck Delegate S. Hamm, Steward Delegate Robert A. Wright Jr. Chairman noted receipt of movies and recommended that company send movies at least every 60 days. He stated copy of contract should be sent to ship and asked for clarifi- November 1998 cation of some items. Secretary reminded crew of necessity of applying for TRB and said he has application forms available. Educational director stressed importance of training available at Paul Hall Center_ No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to Chief Cook Wright for excellent job and SA Roland Peters for keeping areas clean_ Next ports: Diego Garcia and Singapore. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman), August 30-Chairman Theodore J. Bush III, Secretary John Reid, Engine Delegate Robert Steven· son, Steward Delegate Mulai B. Ismail. Chairman reported arrival in Morehead City, N.C. on or about September 5. Fresh stores will be brought on at that time. Treasurer Woodrow Smith Jr. announced $70 in ship's fund. No beefs reported in any of the three departments _ Some disputed ITT reported by engine delegate pertaining to weekend fire and boat drilL Communications about payoffs without union officials read to members and filed. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done, with special thanks to Brother Robert Sutherland for extra efforts in performance of his duties. HM/ ASTRACHEM (Hvide Marine), August 23-Chairman Tom Bankg, Secretary Juan Gonzalez. Engine Delegate Kevin Samuels_Chairman announced vessel awaiting word on charter renewal by Phillips Petroleum. Current charter ends in November_ Educational director advised crew to take advantage of upgrading facilities at Piney Point and make sure everyone has TRB with them when registering. No beefs or disputed OT reported_ Letter from Plans Administrator Lou Delma read regarding questions raised at previous union meeting. Next port; Freepon. Texas OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas Corp-), August 23-Chairman Clyde C. Smith, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Marshall J. Sanford, Deck Delegate Raymond J. Nowak, Engine Delegate John D. Lewis, Steward Delegate Fran· cisco Monsibais. Chairman said ship will pay off in Lake Charles, La. in three days. Discussion held on incentive vacation program. Boarding patrolman requested to clarify tour of duty certificate. Educational director suggested crew attend classes at Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported_ Steward department given vote of thanks. Following payoff in Lake Charles, ship heads to Houston, Texas. OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime Overseas), August 2-Chairman J. O'Ferrell, Secretary James E. Willey, Educational Director Willie Stan III, Deck Delegate Edward King, Steward Delegate Carmelo Dela Cruz. Chairman announced everything running smoothly aboard ship. Payoff scheduled for Portland, Ore.; ship then continuing to Long Beach, Calif and Japan_ Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No reported. beefs or disputed ar OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), August 16Chairman Daniel Laitinen Jr., Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John Trent, Deck Delegate Charles Foley. Chairman thanked crew for good job. Discussion held on numerous topics including new firefighting school at Piney Point, moving union hall in New Orleans and upgrading at Lundeberg School every chance possible. Also talked about letter from headquarters regarding paying off ships without patrolman. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Dryers in crew laundry making squealing noise and need to be checked. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. New microwave oven expected in next port. Steward department given vote of thanks for lots of great food and clean messrooms, lounge and decks. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), August 6Chairman Mark L. Lamar, Secretary Ernest Polk, Educational Director Herman Manzer, Deck Delegate Scott Grider, Engine Delegate Abdul H. Mohamed, Steward Delegate B. Habib_Chairman stated 28-day trip has been good, especially thanking GSU Joan Riley for work performed. Secretary echoed sentiments regarding good crew. 16-Chairman Angelo Urti, Secretary Lonnie Gamble, Educational Director Jerald Graham, Deck Delegate Robert E. Thompson III, Engine Delegate John C. Langley, Steward Delegate Americus Bell. Chairman noted ship will perform exercises with U.S. military off coast of Turkey. Operation should begin in early September and end around October 24. Educational director reminded crew members to check with him if they have not yet applied for TRBs. Some disputed OT reported in deck department; otherwise, everything running smoothly. Crew members said they appreciate hard work by union in After the Fire Drill PVT FRANKLIN J. PHILLIPS (Maersk Line), August 11Chairman R.M. Wiles, Secretary Tony E. Spain, Educational Director David R. Powers, Deck Delegate Derrick W. Hurth, Engine Delegate Ben Mathews, Steward Delegate James 0. Kidd Jr. Chairman stressed importance of safety aboard ship. He asked crew to report any safety hazards they were aware of. He also noted necessity of having TRB when registering for a ship. Educational director suggested all hands use free time wisely and take advantage of upgrading courses at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Diego Garcia. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), August 10--Chairman Mauro G. Gutierrez, Secretary Mike Fields, Educational Director G. Evosevich, Deck Delegate Jeffrey D. Mateer, Engine Delegate Stephen D. Walters. Steward Delegate Wayne Ballard. Co 1rmation received from SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox that QMED and electrician are not to handle lines. Captain Becker requested that in writing_ Chairman thanked steward depanmem for good food and for keeping ship clean. He also reminded crew members to apply for TRBs because they will be required to register after August 1. Secretary noted need for second dryer in crew laundry room as well as equipment for warm weather barbecues. He also commented that air filters in many rooms and public areas are clogged and need to be changed_ Educational director stated that best chance to improve one·s job skills is to go to Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reponed. Clarification requested from headquarters as to whether STCW certificates are required for unlicensed seamen who do not have lifeboat endorsement. Some members have been told 'no' by Coast Guard in Seattle_ Since there is no person in movie room to refile returned movies, everyone asked to pitch in. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Panama Canal; Colon, Panama; and Freeport, Bahamas. SEA·LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), August 19-Chairman Hayden Gifford, Secretary Franchesca Rose. Chairman reminded those getting off at next port to clean room for next person. Secretary advised all members to apply for TRBs and upgrade at Lundeberg School. Educational director repeated advantages of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center and said he was looking forward to new firefighting facility there. No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Letter received from headquarters regarding payoffs without a union official present. Following a four-day Coast Guard drill in which crew members had to don fire suits and carry heavy hoses in 95-degree weather, Seafarers aboard the USNS Algol are happy to have a few minutes to themselves. On the ship's deck are (from left) AB Romeo Azarcarate, Bosun Walter Loveless and OS Rodney Robinson. The photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by AB Arthur Machado. Educational director encouraged members to attend upgrading facilities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification of maximum dollar amount allowed for draws_ SEA-LAND KODIAK (Sea-Land Service), August 13-Chairman Gary Walker, Secretary Gregory Keene, Educational Director A. Bombita, Steward Delegate Fadel Abdulla. Secretary reported good trip with reliable crew and fine weather_ In addition to reminding crew members to upgrade, educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done and to all crew members for clean and safe ship. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), August 2-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Susano Cortez, Educational Director Michael D. Powell, Deck Delegate Ronald D. Rizzuto, Engine Delegate Rodney J. Pontiflet, Steward Delegate Romeo Manansala. Telephone service for crew in Hawaii located in longshore shack, which is very noisy. Crew requested phone booth be put back on dock by office. Chairman led discussion of Sea-Land's new nonsmoking policy. Also discussed high consumption of paper cups and proper disposal of plastic items. All crew members given key to lounge so as to be able to lock it in port, if necessary. Educational director stressed benefits to those who attend Lundeberg School upgrading classes. Treasurer announced $300 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members reminded of need to have TRB when registering. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Guam. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK (Waterman Steamship), August fight against Coast Guard user fee for seamen's documents_ Coffee machine on bridge needs repair. Next ports; Malaga and Rota, Spain; and Iskenderun, Turkey. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship), August 9-Chainnan Eugene T. Grantham, Secretary Paul P. Lopez, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan, Deck Delegate Gregory Hickman, Engine Delegate Apolinario Aquirre, Steward Delegate Mohamed Ghaleb. Chairman reported payoff upon arrival in New Orleans_ AB Kenneth S. Chinn injured aboard ship and will fly home. No beefs or disputed OT recorded_ Communications from headquarters received regarding necessity of presenting TRB when registering to ship. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into lowering number of days' seatime needed for retirement. Next ports: Morehead City, N.C. and New Orleans. LTC CALVIN P. TITUS (Maersk Line), September 6-Chairman Scott Heginbotham, Secretary Grant H. Armstead, Educational Director Donald Hastings, Deck Delegate Walter Ratcliffe, Steward Delegate Khamis Mageed. Chairman reminded crew to separate plastic items from regular garbage. All refuse placed outside should be double-bagged. Secretary noted new glasses and forks on order. Educational director spoke about building of new firefighting school in Piney Point and for everyone to be sure to get TRBs as soon as possible. Letter received from headquarters regarding need for TRBs when registering. Transformers ordered for each room. Electric irons needed for each of three laundry rooms. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone asked to help conserve air conditioning by closing doors. Crew asked contracts department about holiday pay concern. Seafarers LOS 19 �Final Departures Continued from page 18 graduated from the steward recertification program in 1984. A resident of Sarasota, Fla., he started receiving his pension in January 1987. LARRY E. LEE AARON D. LUTZKY ,., Pensioner Larry E. Lee, 66, passed away August 13. Brother Lee first sailed with the MC&S in 1958 from the port of San ---~=~~ Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. During his career, he sailed in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded his deck department skills at the Lundeberg School. Prior to his retirement in August 1997, he signed off the Sea-Land Pacific. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 to 1955. Brother Lee was a resident of Honolulu. Aaron D. Lutzky, 24, passed away April 9. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in ======= 1997 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. A native of California, he was a resident of Oakland. TOMMYW.LEE Pensioner Tommy W. Lee, 93, died July 19. Born in China, he joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, i before that ·ir -· ; •" t-· union merged • with the SIU's AOLIWD. Brother Lee, a resident of San Francisco, started receiving his pension in November I 971. CHUNGK.LEW Pensioner Chung K. Lew, 70. passed away August 15. He began his career with the MC&S in 1960 in the port of Seattle, before thar L_J~.:.....:_~~~ union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Lew upgraded to chief cook at the Lundeberg School and retired in O<;tober 1991. Born in China, he WM a. re~idenc of Sealtle. ARTHUR B. LITTLE P~nsioner Arthur B. Linle, 82. died August 8. A native of Michigan, he started his career with the Seafarers in 19.53 in the port '-"""'=::..-'!!..:=-=---J of Elberta, Mich. Brother Little sailed in the deck department and started receiving his pension in February 1977. He was a resident of Llano, Texas. LARRY L. LONG Larry L. Long, 59, passed away August 30. Born in Pennsylvania. he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Seattle. Brother Long sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1960 to 1963, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He was a residem of Federal Way, Wash. GEORGE W. LUKE Pensioner . ~ George W. Luke, 79, died August 2. Brother Luke started his career with the Seafarers in 19.53 in the port of Tampa, Fla. The Georgia native sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he 20 Seafarers LOG ZACHARIAS A. MARKRIS Pensioner Zacharias A. Markris, 80, died June 14. Brother Markris joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port " of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in September 1971. He continued to live in Mobile. DANNY J. McMURRAY Danny J. McMurray, 33, passed away July 23. A native of California and a resident of Sacramento, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1984 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Ogden Missouri. Brother McMurray sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. NATHANIEL MUSE Pensioner Nathaniel Muse, 76. died July 24. Born in Tennessee. he started his c;ueer with the Seafarers in 19S 1 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Muse sailed in the engine depanmem and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of San Francisco and began receiving his pension in July 1988. HURSHEL A. ORLANDO Pensioner Hurshel A. Orlando, 81, passed away September 12. He began sailing with the SIU in 1943 from the port of New York. Born in Cuba, he became a U.S. citizen and worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief steward. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. Brother Orlando, a resident of Capitol Heights, Md., retired in December 1983. WILLIAM M. PARKER Pensioner William M. Parker, 72, died August 11. Brother Parker joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of Mobile, Ala. .____ __.;;;;="'-------' A native of Illinois, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1975. Prior to his retirement in June 1986, he signed off the American Heritage. Brother Parker was a resident of Lacombe, La. WILLIAM J. PERRIDGE Pensioner William J. Perridge, 72, r--::;;r:;:;;;;;;;;~:=-:--, passed away July 19. He first sailed with the SIU in 1942 from his native New York. He worked in the deck department and .____ _ _ _ ___..upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army. A resident of Montrose, Calif., Brother Perridge started receiving his pension in December 1981. ARMOND RAMOS rr~··-~I Pensioner Armond Ramos, 70, died August 29. A native of Massachusetts, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1.-....i:o...--==::....-=-_.1 1946 in the port of Boston. Brother Ramos sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in February 1971. He was a resident of Revere, Mass. THOMAS A. ROSSI :--~~~~---,Pensioner Thomas A. Rossi, 72, passed away September 14. Born in Rhode Island, he began sailing with the SIU in 1971 ~-------' from the port of New Orleans. Brother Rossi sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. He retired in April 1997. RALPH SOUTH Pensioner Ralph South, 72, died August 23. Brother South joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of New York. Born in Tennessee, he started out in the deck department and later transferred to the engine department. During his career, he upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1941to1945. A resident of Federal Way, Wash., he began receiving his pension in December 1991. HELEN D. STRANGER Pensioner Helen D. Stranger, 78, passed away June 29. She started her career with the MC&S in 1962, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Sister Stranger was a resident of Concord, Calif. and retired in May 1975. joined the union in 1939 in the port of New York. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. A native of Puerto L - - - - = = : < , . _ _ . : _ _ _ J Rico, he sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in September 1975. ERIC E. HARMEL HOWARD WHITELY Pensioner Eric Pensioner Howard Whitely, 83, died August 5. He joined the SIU in 1948 in his native New York and sailed in the steward department. A resident of New York, he retired in May 1980. E. Harmel, 82, HAROLD S.W. WONG Pensioner Harold S.W. Wong, 82, died September I 0. Born in China, he graduated from the MC&S training school in 1965 and joined that union before it merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Wong was a resident of San Francisco and retired in October 1985. MALCOLM B. WOODS Pensioner Malcolm B. Woods, 72, passed away August 11. A native of Louisiana, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Woods sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1973. He last sailed aboard the ING Virgo, operated by Energy Transportation Corp. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Air Force. A resident of Alameda, Calif., he began receiving his pension in September 1988. JONATHAN N. YOUNG Pensioner Jonathan N. Young, 80, passed away August 9. Brother Young started his career with the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Nebraska, he worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Manhattan. He was a resident of Long Beach, Calif. and began receiving his pension in October 1983. SIDNEY U. STRATOS Sidney U. Stratos, 28, died July 29. A native of California, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1990 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the USNS Invincible. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of Yreka, Calif. JAMES C. ZACHARY Pensioner James C. Zachary, 72, died July 17. Born in Texas, he first sailed with the MC&S in 1957 from the pan of Ponland, Ore., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Zachary upgraded his skills at the MC&S training school. He was a veteran of World War II. having served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1942 to 1945. A resident of Portland, he retired in July 1995. INLAND RON DeGRANDIS LUISA. VILA Pensioner Luis A. Vila, 87, passed away August 5. Brother Vila was a charter member of the SIU, having McAllister. The Pennsylvania native sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1962 to 1964, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman DeGrandis was a resident of Philadelphia. Ron DeGrandis, 53, passed away July 17. Boatman DeGrandis joined the Seafarers in 1991 in the port of Philadelphia, sailing aboard the Eric died in May. He started his career with the SIU in 1960 in the port of Baltimore. Born in L..===~~-_J Germany, he worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard a Curtis Bay Towing vessel. A resident of Baltimore, Boatman Harmel began receiving his pension in July 1979. ROY S. LINDLEY Pensioner Roy S. Lindley, 69, passed away August 13. A native of Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Houston. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Lindley last sailed as a captain and retired in November 1986. He resided in Ingleside, Texas. ERNIE A. WOODS Ernie A. Woods, 35, passed away August 10. Born in Honduras, he started his caree with the Seafarers in 1997 in the port of Ne Orleans. Boatman Woods worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Apache, a Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessel. He was a resident of Violet, La. GREAT LAKES CHARLEST. MONTGOMERY Charles T. Montgomery, 44, died.August 5. rother Montgomery began sailing with the SIU in 1970 from the port of Duluth, Minn. During his career, he worked as a gateman and conveyorman. The Minnesota native lived in Duluth. CALVIN NIX Pensioner Calvin Nix 73, passed away July 4. A native of North Carolina, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Detroit. Brother Nix sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in June 1989. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. He was a resident of Henderson, N.C. RAILROAD MARINE HAROLD M. RAINIER JR. Pensioner Harold M. Rainier Jr., 61, passed away September 1. Brother Rainier began his career with the Seafarers in '----..;:;;...;:==---' 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department and worked primarily for the marine division of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Co. From 1960 to 1966, he served in the U.S. Air Force. A resident of Cobbs Creek, Va., he retired in January 1998. November 1998 �(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.) Retiring Seafarer Thanks SIU Staff As a retiree, I want to thank alJ the people in the SIU who have made my career possible. All of my shipmates have been the best. I thank all of the people in the port of New York. Jack Caffey and the staff at the hall do a wonderful job. I also thank all the workers at headquarters who keep the union running strong for all of us at sea. The SIU is the best, and all of us-sailing and retired-have to keep it that way. Tony "Popeye" Martinez Richmond Hill, N.Y. ~ ... Liberty Ship Brown In Great Condition The other day, I was reading my back LOGs in order to catch up with the SIU news. I noticed an anicle about the Whitbread yacht race. In it was a remark about the Liberty ship John W Brown that Jed me to think that some people believe the ship is going downhill. Acmally. the reverse is true. In fact. the ship is improving and estoration is ~ompkte. Main· tenance is now the only thing needed, and it gets plenty of that I sailed at>Q'1Td h6r last sum· mc;r as the 12·4 oiler on a twoweek trip to London, Conn. with ps in Greenport and Kings Point, N.Y. She performed perfectly. I recently have come off another two-week trip to Charleston, S.C. with a stop in Solomons, Md. This ship is a magnificent example of the more than 2,700 Liberty ships built during World War II. All SIU members would do themselves a favor to come aboard and visit when they are in Baltimore. (The ship is open to the public on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) All are welcome. Ted Vargas Princeton, W. Va. (Editor's note: Vargas has been a member of the Liberty Ship Project since its start in 1979.) ... .. Social Security History = Lesson in Skullduggery Back in the 1930s, when F.D.R. and Congress were trying to pass Social Security into law, they told John Q. Public that this money, by law, could only be used for the Social Security trust fund-that the federal government could never touch it. With those reassurances, it became law. Deficit spending by government was unheard of at that time. Then World War II was forced upon us. The road out of this catastrophic "day of infamy" would be long and hard. An outraged American public got behind the war effort I 00 percent_ While sons, daughters, husbands and loved ones went off to war, the robber barons in Washington saw the golden opportunity to get their hands in the till. They daimed that because of the "national emergency," the U.S. government had to pass a Jaw allowing it to borrow the Social Security trust funds. The last thing a patriotic citizenry would do is hinder the war effort. So the bill passed without much ado. The politicians even invented a new phrase to sell it: "an inexhaustible fund." Now, after 50-some odd years and more than $600,000,000,000 (yes, that's right, more than six hundred billion dollars) in IOUs, they have the unmitigated gall to tell the public that the "inexhaustible fund" is nearing exhaustion and must be fixed. But their idea of fixing it is to cut the benefits, privatization or some other nonsense-not start repaying the IOUs. That's after grabbing $70 billion out of the trust fund just last year and claiming they reduced the deficit spending by $60 billion. I don't know what kind of math that is, but I call it bamboozling the public. These unconscionable elected representatives in Washington have the younger generation believing their nonsense. None of the working people of today believes there wi11 be anything in the Social Security trust fund for them. If our elected representatives would do the job they were elected to do-get rid of the waste and fraud, cut deficit spending, keep out of the trust fund, start picking up all those IOUs- there would be more than enough money for many generations to come. I will not support any elected official who votes to balance the budget by robbing the Social Security trust fund and will do all in my power to get them out of Washington_ If you agree with me, send a letter to your elect se tatives. Bill Horne Hiawassee, Ga. Sea-Land Explorer Visits New Port On July 1 B. 1998, the Sen-Land !Explorer became the first American·flag ship to enter the new port of Kwan~ Yang in South Korea. The crew worked very hard to get the vessel ready for this occasion. A large reeeption we.s held, with the mayor of Kwang Yang and the South Korean minister of merchant services and fisheries amon9 those -in attendance. Following the ceremony on the dock, the captain invited 100 people on board to tour the ship and partake of some of Chief Cook Karen Fensel's hors d'oeuvres. The crew members are (from left, seated) AB Milton Caballero, Chief Cook Karen Fensel, SA Jaber Ali. (second row) Unlicensed Apprentice John Arguello, Electrician/QM ED Clarence Landford, ABs John Baker, Cesar Ramos and Edward O'Brien, (third row) DEU Robert Beckwith, Bosun Raymond Yager, AB James Morgan, Unlicensed Apprentice Phillip Troublefield and Chief Steward John F. Bass. Not pictured is QMED Walter Hutchinson. Day. World War I 11 Veterans ended on this day in 1918. 1903, the Women's Trade 19 InUnion League was formed to legend ever since. On the eve of his death , he wrote, "Don 't waste any time in mourning. Organ ize ." His words remain a rallying cry to this day. educate women about the advan- November tages of ur'lion membership, to sup- port women's demands for better working conditions, and to raise awareness about the exploitation of women workers. Labor leader and socialist Eugene V. Debs was born in Terre Haute. Ind _in 1855_"The strike is a weapon of the oppressed. of men capable of appreciating justice and having the courage to resist wrong and contend for principle," he said. S The Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) was formed in 1935 to expand industrial unionism . It merged with the American Federation of Labor (AFL} in 1955 to form the AFL-CIO. 9 November 1998 Industrial Workers of the 19 World (IWW) labor organizer and balladeer Joe Hill was executed by aSalt Lake City, Utah firing squad in 1915. Hill was arrested and condemned to death for a murder, though supporters claim no clear evidence existed to convict him. The IWW and others rushed to defend Hill, believing he was unfairly prosecuted because of his labor background. Hill died a martyr and has been celebrated in song and Birthday, in 1832, of author, abolitior'list, and nurse Louisa 29 May Alcott Known for her fictional work Little Women,Alcott also wrote Work, an autobiographical novel exposing the exploitation of women workers and the evils of industrialization in 1873. "Fighting Mary" Eliza Mc30 Dowell was born in 1854. A social worker, McDowell helped organize the first women 's local union of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters in 1902. Comprised predominantly of the low-paid women working in packinghouse canning and labeling operations, membership grew to more than 1,000. 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 violacions 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: Auguscin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 520 I Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly co 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 Che 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/are rs 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, bur not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime work· ers, 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 LOB 21 .l I II �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes HARRY SEAFARERS LUNDEBERG SCHOOL LIFEBOAT CLASS 580 ;~ ·'.ifoTi ;Jt· Trainee Lifeboat Class 580--Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 580 are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Anthony Jordan, Gregory Makowski, Antonio Cooks, Andrew Seabon Jr., Anderson Saco, (second row) Christopher Barrow, Lenard Mills, Sylvester Crawford Jr., Bernard Snead and Joel Encarnacion. Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of the September 18 lifeboat class are (from left, first row) Anthony Townes. James Pierce, Maronda Jackson, Anthony Simon, Tom Gilliland (instructor), (second row) Steven Manning, Troy Banks, John Mullett, James Nottingham, David Poree, Miles Janecka and Jerry Martinsen. Tanker Assistant DL-Receiving their graduation certificates for completing the tanker assistant DL cout'~e on Octob~r 2 are (from l~ft. kneeling) George Villalba, Adel Shaibi, Robert Kane, John Millward. Nigel .J~ffer~on, (second row) Harry Galdeita, Jose MajM, Richard Butch, Robert Des Marteau, Robert Bradberry, Robert Mensching. Thomas Flynn. Torrey Manning. Jim Shaffer (instructor), (third row) Cecil Edwards, Stephen Swinton, Robert Schindler, Shane Clarke. Eldon Palmer. Bill Osborn. Matt Harrison, Kendra Savage and K~n Abrahemson _ Basic Electronics-Seafarers graduating September 4 from the basic electronics course are (from left. seated) Tommie B. Davis, John Smith. Leonides Bacal. Randy Loque, Pompey Alegado, (second row) Russ Levin (instructor), Edward Louis, Matthew Ditullio, Ronald Hutchison and Paul Curtis. Not pictured are Frank Bakun and Richard King. Tanker Assistant DL--Earning their graduating certificates for completion of the tanker assistant DL course on September 4 are (seated) Jason Roberts. (from left, kneeling) Brian Kimbrough, Steven Chapin, Leopoldo Viernes, Burkley Cooper, Wilfredo Gatmen, Salvadore Lagare, James Fennessy, Matthew Laughter, (second row) Melvin Ratcliff Jr., Adam Des Rosiers, Matthew Delang, Robert Kennedy, Rickey Bronson, Al Seay, Marcus Ross, Donald Ippolito, Juan Rochez, Trawn Gooch, Albert W. Austin Jr.. Mark Jones (instructor) and Manolo V. Delos Santos. Able Seaman-Upgrading graduates of the September 4 AB class are (from left. kneeling) Jim Marchard, Walter Sainvil, Guy Butler, Brian Morris, Mark Gaffney, Kaled M. Saleh, Tom Gilliland (instructor), (second row) Jeffrey Lagana, James Duggan, Timothy Kotsis, Dwight L. King, Anthony Pacely Jr., James L. Davis Jr., Lambert Brown, Tom Kemper, Ronald E. Allen , Santos Antonio, Sangie Mohamed and David Rankin. 22 Seafarers LOG Crane Maintenance Electrician-SIU members completing the crane maintenance electrician course in September are (from left, kneeling) Louie Diesso, James Gray, Roger Cash, Tony Rosa, (second row) Maurice Baptiste, Bob Martin, Nathan Adams, Rick Crowley, George Cox and Eric Malzkuhn (instructor). Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading Seafarers earning their lifeboat endorsements on September 18 are (from left, kneeling) Abdul Alawy, Dawn Williams, Elpidio Toyco, William L. Mohica Jr., Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Josef Wouthuyzen, Tommie B. Davis, Tomas C. Robinson, Ali Akmar, Abdul Mosa, (third row) Jesse A. Osborne, Kelly Stanford and Duane Nelson. November 1998 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1998·1999 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning in December and running into tft.e<-~rst . few months of 1999 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship." located at the Paul Hall Ce11tet ·~for Maritime Training and Ecluc~ionin Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills · ·of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. pl~a,8e note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membe;~ljip, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. >.' :l·~tudents attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before ~;tll.~r·~ourse's start date·. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the mom- Becertiflcation Programs Course Start Date Date or Completion Bosun Recertitkation Marcb29 April 30 Steward Recertification February 1 MarcbS Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Familiarization/ January 11 February 15 January 29 March3 Basic Firefighting February 1 Marcb8 FebruaryS March 12 Advanced Firefighting January 11 February 22 January 22 March S Government Vessels January 18 March 1 March 22 February 5 March 19 April 9 . Assistant Cargo (DL) 'jiiig:: ()f~'tlie start date~~ · _:,~ ·:\f{°h:\i,~eafarers who have any 'questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the '>Cundeperg School may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion January 11 February 19 · .M.arcb 12 March 1 : March.12":. ,· JanuaryS February 5 March5 March 19 . March 15 April2 February 8 Febraury 12 February 26 April 2 February 22 March29 . . •.·.·.• ~-----------------_ UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ~~~~~~~~~----------~~~~~~~~~~~~ Address. _ _ -'-------------------------~--- .. .. ... . . . . ·-~ . - - - -· --------.. With 1his application, COPIES of the following must be senl: 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, USM MD (z·card) front and back, from page of your union book indicating your departmenl and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard rested. All FOWI', AB and QMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $135 with their applicalion. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone . ................................. . _,,. ......._ .......__. ,_. BEGIN DATE END DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Inland Waters Member D Lakes 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 Cl No Cl Home Port Endom;ment(s) or License(s) now held - - - - - - -- - -- - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? D Yes D No LAST V E S S E L : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) t a k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: Primary language spoken November 1998 D Yes D No CPR: 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: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, 11/98 D Yes D No The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and E.ducation is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otheiwise 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 23 �Early 1999 Upgrading Class Dates Announced See page 23 for the latest information on course availability in the new year at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime and Training's Lundeberg School. ITF Obtains $110,000 in Back Pay for Romanian Crew SIU's Morris Assists in Case that Spotlights Runaway-Flag Pitfalls The recent case of the Greek and Romanianowned, Malta-flagged bulker Tomis Faith once again demonstrates the SIU's effectiveness in its participation in the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) campaign against runaway-flag shipping. It also spotlights the inhumane treatment routinely endured by the people who sail aboard such ships. Thanks in large part to assistance from one of the SIU's ITF inspectors, Edd Morris, crew members aboard the Tomis Faith received $110,000 in back pay on September 25, while the ship was docked in Baltimore. Morris also helped arrange various shipboard repairs, ordering of adequate stores and adherence to the ITF contract by which the vessel is covered. "Many of the crew hadn't been paid in eight A crew member on the Nora stands by the small sink where he and his shipmates hand-wash all of their laundry, because of an inoperable washing machine. months," noted Morris. ''They were forced to work overtime, but weren't paid the corresponding rate .... Going that long without pay, it caused serious problems back home for many of the crew members. They have bills to pay, just like anyone else." The Romanian crew, which contacted Morris in September, faced other difficulties on the Tomis Faith, jointly owned by the Romanian government (through an entity known as Petromin) and Piraeusbased Ermis Maritime Corp. The ship's navigation equipment was defective. Steward department personnel were ordered to make three months' worth of stores last for five months. The crew had nothing but water to drink and no desserts. Preserving the meager stores also proved problematic due to malfunctioning freezers. Although the ship is covered by an ITF contract, its captain reportedly seized the crew's copies. Moreover, when several crew members strongly complained about not being paid for more than half a year, the company replaced them. (They eventually were paid, after the ITF intervened.) This is not isolated treatment on the part of the company. Morris also recently coordinated with fellow ITF inspector Adrian Mihalcioiu to assist crew members aboard the Nora, owned in the same joint venture between Petromin and Ermis Maritime Corp. They faced similar difficulties as the mariners aboard the Tomis Faith, eventually receiving their wages after the ITF stepped in. (They also had no washing machine nor dryer.) "In both cases, the ITF's obje~tive isn't to 'get' the company. Rather, we simply wanted them to pay the wages called for in the contracts they have signed and provide better living conditions aboard the vessels," explained Morris. "Imagine being forced to work overtime while you're not getting enough to eat or drink. Imagine having to wash all your clothes by hand and hang them on the deck to dry, all because che company won't supply a $100 part required to operate a washing machine." The SIU is one of che more than 500 affiliates of the London-based ITF. Foreign Mariners Visit Paul Hall Center As part of his duties as an ITF inspector, Edd Morris of the SIU regularly meets with crews from foreign-flag ships. Recently, when three such vessels delivered various cargo near the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point. Md., Morris used the opportunity to take some of the foreign mariners on unofficial tours of the school. 'The exposure is useful for them and for the SIU upgraders who welcomed them to the school," Morris noted. Pictured clockwise from top left: Filipino mariners from the Norwegian tanker Sibotessa pose in front of the school's entrance (Morris is at far right.), Filipinos from the Greek tanker Antiparos chat with Seafarers in the hotel lobby, and Polish and Indian mariners from the Asphalt Leader (Greek flag) visit the Paul Hall Center while their ship discharges cargo. Mariners aboard the Nora contacted the other issues. :n:;; � 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 November 1998 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES RECOVERY FROM ‘GEORGES’ CONTINUES SIU CREWS DOUBLE EAGLE TANKERS 3 CHRISTENED AT NEWPORT NEWS; 2 TO FOLLOW FMC REMAINS INDEPENDENT AGENCY AS PRESIDENT OKAYS SHIPPING REFORM UNION YARD TO BUILD CRUISE SHIPS SEAFARERS CREW EL YUNQUE SIU PROTESTS PROPOSED USER FEE INCREASES CONGRESS PASSES EXTENSION FOR WWII MARINERS’ VERTERANS’ STATUS NAFTA LAWSUIT RULING EVADES ‘TREATY’ ISSUE STEEL IMPORTS SPUR SLOWDOWN ON LAKES BERNARD SEAMAN, FORMER LOG ART EDITOR, DIES AT 85 NEW BEDFORD PORT AGENT FRANCOIS APPOINTED TO FISHING COMMISSIONS THE SIUNA- AN EXPLANATION OF ITS STRUCTURE AND ITS MEMBERS BOSUN MCCARTHY FEATURED IN AFL-CIO PUBLICATION ‘Y2K’ DILEMMA LOOMS OVER COMPUTER USERS AWAY FROM PORT IN A STORM SEAFARERS SHOW SUPPORT FOR AVONDALE WORKERS LUMMUS AIDS IN MARINE CORPS EXERCISE ABILITY TO CHANGE IS NECESSARY, STRESSES S-L INNOVATOR BOSUN SEAFARERS GET JOB DONE AT PETTY’S ISLAND DOCKS ITF SHIP BRINGS HORRORS OF RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIPPING TO AMERICAN VISITORS MARAD’S HART IMPRESSED WITH ITF SHIP’S PRESENTATION GLOBAL MARINER CREW ALREADY KNEW ABOUT FOC SHIPPING SIU MEMBERS EMBRACE ITF’S POWERFUL MESSAGE ITF OBTAINS $110,000 IN BACK PAY FOR ROMANIAN CREW SIU’S MORRIS ASSISTS IN CASE THAT SPOTLIGHTS RUNAWAY-FLAG PITFALLS 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 11/01/1998 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. 11 1998 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/102341f1600ce285d4a5d1cfed12ebe2.pdf 5787315176b503e814d973545ca62acc PDF Text Text United States Lines Reborn _ _ Page 4 Volume 61 Number 11 November 1999 MTD Charts Course For the Next Century New Ships Signal More Jobs For Mariners, Yards, Docks MTD (and SIU) President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes AFL-CIO President John Sweeney to the Maritime Trades Department biennial convention last month in Los Angeles. Sweeney and other guest speakers, including members of Congress, voiced strong support for the U.S. merchant marine to the delight of the delegates in attendance. Pages 3, 11-14. Jobs Gained as Ship Rellags U.S. The car carrier Tanabata recently joined the Seafarers-contracted fleet when it ... reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. The five-year-old vessel becomes part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Page 3. ~2""c'~""'"'°"~'',~~- Members Consider SIU-NMU Merger More details concerning the proposed merger of the NMU into the SIU-AGLIWD have been sent to Seafarers, including AB/Wheelsman Vladislav Pitsenko, pictured last month aboard the J.A. W Iglehart in Toledo, Ohio. Balloting begins December 1 in all SIU union halls. Page 2. �President's Report Looking to a Bright Future The SIU is a respected organization within the maritime industry and on Capitol Hill because this union has consistently stood up for its members, fought for what is right and needed in the business, and shown the foresight to prepare for future challenges. All three of these factors are involved as you begin casting your ballots next month to tell the executive board whether to continue merger talks with the NMU. Michael Sacco First, bringing the NMU within the ranks of the SIU AGLIWD will benefit members of both unions. As many of our experienced members can tell you, we've had our share of run-ins over the years with the NMU. Valuable resources that could have been better spent on strengthening the U.S.-flag fleet instead were used on trying to outdo the other union. For 62 years, we have opposed one another while the officials of both unions worked hard to improve the lives and working conditions for the men and women who sailed aboard their contracted ships. With a merger, we will stand together and continue the fight for better wages, good benefits and safer vessels. Companies will not be able to pit one union against the other. They will face a unified front of America's unlicensed mariners. The SIU has realized for generations that we have to work with the maritime community in order to ensure a strong U.S.-flag fleet. That is why the Seafarers, along with the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, for decades has held advisory board meetings with officials from deep sea, inland waterways and Great Lakes companies to develop legislative plans for the industry at large and a classroom curriculum for specific needs aboard vessels. By working together with the industry to establish a common agenda, the SIU continues to be a major player as the U.S.-flag fleet charts its course for the 21st century. The role the SIU plays in the decision-making process can only get stronger with the addition of the NMU. Finally, the SIU long has shown it plans for the future while looking out for the immediate needs of its members. When the union was created in l 93 8, it was composed of three separate and autonomous districts--one for the Atlantic Coast, one for the Gulf Coast and one for the Great Lakes. In less than two years, the membership realized this separation would not work. They voted to merge the Atlantic and Gulf districts rather than weaken the new union with jurisdictional disputes. This unified approach allowed the union to fight for benefits such as health care, pension and educational opportunities through training schools and a scholarship program. The creation of the A&G District made organizing efforts easier as they were handled by the combined force, rather than having two branches of the same organization expending resources for the same jobs. In the late 1950s, the Great Lakes District merged into the A&G, making the union stronger. In the next decade, a longtime vision of the union's president, Paul Hall, came into being with the creation of the consolidated training center in Piney Point, Md. Hall believed the strength of the U.S.-flag fleet required mariners trained in the latest methods and skills. He combined the several schools operating out of union halls into one site where members could study in an atmosphere favorable for learning. From its roots in 1967, the Paul Hall Center has grown and been an innovator. It has set the standard others have followed-the first with shiphandling simulators, the first with oil spill prevention and containment classes, the first with a Coast Guard-accepted training record book-and continues to do so today with the state-of-the-art fire fighting and safety school that opened this summer. As we all know, the earlier mergers set a precedent for making the SIU better and stronger by bringing more mariners into our ranks. However, the 1978 merger with the Marine Cooks & Stewards set the standard that still is being followed today. With the MC&S as part of the AGLIWD, the SIU became the first unlicensed union with jurisdiction from coast to coast. Because the MC&S already had a wellestablished pension and welfare program, the officials involved in the merger decided to keep those benefits separate from the ones available to AGLIWD members. That is still the case today. Matters dealing with seniority, training and hiring halls were worked out and brought to the members for their consideration. It was a multi-vote process that took about two years to implement. In each step, the rank-andfile played an active role. Just like each merger before it, the SIU became stronger. Members benefited through better job security. The industry benefited because the union spoke with a more unified voice. Now we are closer to doing something that will benefit all American mariners. This has been years in the making. The vote that begins on December 1 is the latest step in the process. Officials from both the SIU and NMU have met many times to see if a merger is possible. They have come to the conclusion that it is, and that it's in the best interests of the membership. Now, you must decide if this process will continue. Your vote tells the officials to continue their work and begin dealing with the specifics involving seniority, benefits and constitutional changes. The merger committee already has concluded it will be in the best interest of all to keep the pension, welfare and vacation plans separate. We already have witnessed how SIU and NMU members have studied side-by-side at Piney Point. We have seen the first contract covering SIU and NMU members working for ships operated by the same company. We have welcomed NMU offices operating in SIU halls. We are seeing that we can work together. In order to go forward, we now need to hear from the members. Both the SIU and NMU are conducting this election at the same time. The results will be known in early February. This is fitting because bringing the NMU into the SIU will set a solid course for the 21st century for job security for all members and a strong U.S.-flag fleet. I urge each member to think long and hard about the direction you want this industry and our union to head in the next century. With the solid foundation set by those who came before us, this merger can only build a brighter future for all. Members Start Consideration For SIU-#MU Merger Vote Initial response is favorable from many Seafarers who are considering next month's balloting on whether to continue merger talks with the National Maritime Union. From monthly membership meetings to discussions aboard ships, the merger is the hottest topic among SIU members. Recertified Bosun George Mazzola told those attending the October membership meeting in Piney Point, "When I first heard about that, I was real skeptical. But let's do it!" Mazzola, who has sailed with the SIU since 1972, added unity between the SIU and NMU should benefit all members when it comes to bargaining new contracts. On the Great Lakes, QMED Jay Linx has sailed with both the SIU and NMU. He believes a merger would be good for all. 'Tm very much in favor of it. I think it's going to help get us better salaries once the unions aren't competing against each other. It will create a stronger union with everybody being under one hat," added the 48year-old, who sails from the port of Algonac, Mich. During SIU President Michael Sacco's visit with members aboard ships in the port of Long Beach, Calif., Seafarers asked him how the merger would affect them. He told crews aboard the SeaLand Patriot and Matson's Lihue that a merger would help both unions. He reminded the crews how the SIU was strengthened through its previous mergers, including the one in 1978 involving the Marine Cooks & Stewards. Volume 61, Number 11 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org ~76 November 1999 c The Seafarers LOG (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: 1! ·2 Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way · Camp Springs, ~ 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. -Seafarers LOG In response to questions, Sacco said officials from both unions serving on the merger committee already have decided to follow the 1978 precedent to keep the SIU and NMU pension, welfare and vacation funds separate, should the merger be approved. However, the training and hiring hall funds probably would be combined, he added. Additionally, the SIU executive board mailed a letter in late October to further explain the merger process. The letter informed members about the three-step voting process that- will take place. The first is the election that will run from December 1 to January 31, 2000 to give the executive board permission to continue with the merger talks. (A similar election is taking place at the same time in the NMU.) Should the members of the two unions approve the continuation, talks on specific topics would begin. The letter stated Seafarers then would vote during the November-December 2000 general election to approve needed constitutional changes such as the addition of vice presidents and the NMU in the union's name. It specifically pointed out NMU members would not be eligible to vote in the general election as the merger would not be completed. Following the general election, a third election would be held for SIU members to vote for Galley gang members aboard the Lihue show SIU President Michael Sacco their support for the merger. From the left are Chief Cook Willie Madison, Sacco, BR Nunu Randle and 3rd Cook Neil Ball. or against the actual terms of the merger. Prior to that election, Seafarers would be given information on what the merger would mean and what changes would occur. The date for that election has not been determined. Copies of the executive board letter are being distributed aboard ships by patrolmen and are available in union halls to ensure all members have a chance to read it before voting begins November 1 Balloting will take place in all union halls between 9 a.m. and 12 noon local time Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. Members also may request an absentee ballot by following the instructions printed in the October issue of the Seafarers LOG. Learning more about the proposed SIU-NMU merger is AB Watchman Carlton Dorrance aboard the Charles Wilson. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Friday, December 24, 1999 for the observance of the Christmas holiday and December 31, 1999 for the observance of New Year's Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 1999 �U.S. Fleet Vital to National Security MTD Delegates Map Plans for Strong Maritime Policies Maintaining a strong American-flag merchant "What do they have in common? They fly the marine is vital to U.S. national and economic secu- U.S. flag, they carry American crews and they are rity, said speakers at the 1999 biennial convention built in unionized American yards," Sacco stated. of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department in "There are those who have said over and over that the U.S.-flag maritime industry is past its prime. Los Angeles on October 7 and 8. Among those voicing support of the~-------~ That's baloney! We're still here and U.S. fleet were AFL-CIO President John we're still growing. We're still a powSweeney; Rear Admiral Gordon S. See pages 11-14 for erful force because we deliver the Holder, head of the U.S. Military Sealift more coverage of the goods-just as we've done since the MTD Biennial Revolutionary War." Command; and U.S. Reps. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), Michael Convention. He also noted other activities by the MTD and its affiliates since the last Forbes (D-N.Y.), Martin Frost (D-Texas) and Max Sandlin (D-Texas). convention, including: Representing the MTD's 32 national and interna• Helping defeat the anti-worker Proposition tional unions as well as 27 port councils in the U.S. 226 and similar "paycheck deception" legislation in and Canada, convention delegates also examined more than 30 states and at the federal level. • Pushing for funding for the Title XI shipand approved numerous resolutions. Those statements called for a strong U.S. maritime policy; con- building loan guarantee program and for the muchtinued revitalization of American shipyards; fair needed dredging project in the Port of New York trade laws; retirement security; grass roots activities and New Jersey. • Providing American crews and sealift for in an array of issues affecting working families; federal backing of port maintenance projects; and end- U.S. military operations in Bosnia and the Persian ing runaway-flag shipping, among other pursuits. Gulf. • Contributing, through organizing, to an overOpening the convention, MTD President Michael Sacco (who also is president of the SIU) all increase in the number of union members nationpointed out that hard work has led to many new wide. opportunities within the U.S. fleet. Since the previ• Supporting brother and sister trade unionists ous MTD convention in 1997, new cargo vessels, at Kaiser, Avondale, Newport News and elsewhere. "We're a group that's committed to raising the tugs and dredges have been launched. Additionally, plans were confirmed for at least two new U.S.-flag, standard of living for working people all over this deep-sea cruise ships and five new American-flag country," Sacco added. "That's what we stand for: a coastal cruise vessels. fair share and a fair deal for the American worker." AFL-CIO Convention Approves Restructuring at Local, State Levels Rep. Richard Gephardt states global trade pacts often result in lowering standards. Delegates to the 23rd AFLCIO Constitutional Convention approved a resolution calling for the first major structural change in the national labor federation since the American Federation of Labor merged with the Congress of Industrial Organizations in 1955. Through a program titled the "New Alliance," the AFL-CIO called for the creation of "strong new state and local organizations fully supported by every union local and fully capable of effectively representing the interests of American working families." In his opening remarks to the convention, which took place October 11-13 in Los Angeles, Seal arers Gain Jobs Car Carrier Tanabata Reflags to U.S. New jobs were gained with the reflagging last month of the car carrier Tanabata under the Stars and Stripes. Seafarers were scheduled to crew the newly contracted ship October 31 or November 1 in northern Europe (after this issue of the Sea/arers LOG went to press). Operated by American V.Ships Marine, Ltd., the Tanabata is slated for the same run as the Seafarers-contracted car carriers Faust and Fidelio. That route includes stops on the U.S. east and gulf coasts and in Germany, France and England. The Tanabata will transport both government and commercial cargoes. It will participate in the Maritime Security Program Built five years ago in Japan, the Tanabata is approximately 625 feet long, with a gross ton- llovember 1999 nage of about 50,000. Its service speed is listed at 19 .4 knots. Additionally, the vessel will be included in the U.S. Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA), a 1995 federal program designed to make intermodal vessels available to the Defense Department in times of war or national emergency. Union officials remarked that the ship's inclusion in both the Maritime Security Program and VISA helps address a shortfall in roll-on/roll-off capacity identified by the U.S. Transportation Command. In late September, Seafarers climbed the gangway of another newly contracted (and newly built) car carrier, the Green Dale. That vessel, operated by Waterman Steamship Co. of New Orleans, also is part of VISA. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney stated the New Alliance would rejuvenate the labor movement by unifying unions and reconnecting its members to their communities. "Let us use our newfound solidarity to change our movement from one separated by industry and craft and sector to one bound together by determination to combat corporate greed and eliminate human need," Sweeney told the delegates. The New Alliance will be phased in gradually at the state and local levels. It will provide state federations and local central labor councils with the tools and resources needed to assist in organizing campaigns, political battles and other programs that will help working families. Sweeney also renewed the national labor federation's call to continue organizing new members. He noted the numerous campaigns in the last two years that provided for the first increase in the number of men and women carrying a union card in decades. However, many more battles must be won, he said. "Yes, union membership is growing, but too many working families are still being left behind in the greatest economic boom in our nation's history," the AFLCIO president stated. In her address to the convention, Labor Secretary Alexis Herman picked up on Sweeney's theme and thanked union members for standing up for such issues as raising the minimum wage. "Together, we raised the minimum wage and we're fighting to do it again,'' Herman declared. "You can't raise a family on $10,700 a year. And for 12 million Americans, raising the minimum wage still matters. "There were those who said that we would wreck the economy. They said the sky would fall. Well, the sky didn't fall, but unemployment did!" the secretary noted. When he spoke to the conven- Stating he would work to include worker rights in trade agreements is VP Al Gore at the AFL-CIO convention. AFL-CIO Pres. John Sweeney urges delegates to organize more workers. tion, Vice President Al Gore raised another concern unions have fought for over the yearsrespect for the rights of workers in international trade agreements. "Our president needs the authority to reach new trade agreements to open new markets to our goods and services," said Gore, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination. "But as president, I will also insist on the authority to enforce worker rights, human rights and environmental protections in those agreements. Trade should lift up living standards around the world, not drag them down in the United States." Trade also was addressed by Rep. Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.), the minority leader in the U.S. House of Representatives. He applauded the efforts of the AFL-CIO to stand up for the rights of working people around the world, not just the United States. Gephardt reminded the delegates that "globalization is all too often a race to the bottom" rather than an effort to boost workers' living standards. The convention delegates reinforced the AFL-CIO's solid sup- Continued on page 4 Seafarers LOG 3 �Union Starts Testing for Basic English Coast Guard Regs Require All Mariners to Understand Shipboard Orders The SIU .in conjunction with the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education will initiate, as of January 10, 2000, English proficiency tests to members in order to comply with SIU shipping rules and U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The multiple-choice exam is designed to ensure members understand basic English as it relates directly to their jobs. It does not include conversational English or any type of punctuation or sentence-structure. "The Coast Guard wants to make sure all mariners understand basic safety instructions and job requirements," noted Bill Eglinton, the center's director for education. "This is a very basic exam dealing only with items related to working on a vessel." (The Seafarers LOG first reported the union and center were developing such an exam in December 1998.) Among the questions included are identifying signs, symbols and equipment commonly found aboard ship. The regulations require all Seafarers to show they understand English, but not all members will have to take the test. Among those Seafarers who will be exempt are • those who graduated from the trainee or unlicensed apprentice programs at the center; • those who have upgraded at Piney Point; • those who graduated from a high school or college in an English-speaking country, or an New Cruise Company Acquires Honored Name United States Lines Reemerges for New Passenger Fleet A famous name in American maritime history is returning to the high seas. United States Lines is being resurrected by American Classic Voyages and will be used for the new fleet of ocean-going passenger ships for the SIU-contracted company. "For too long, America's proud traditions as a seafaring nation have been viewed more as a part of our nation's past rather than a part of its future," stated Philip C. Calian, chief executive officer for American Classic Voyages. "The name 'United States Lines' clearly signals our commitment to be America's cruise line and to fulfill our vision for success of an American-owned, American-crewed and American-built fleet of cruise ships." "This is tremendous news for the U.S.-flag fleet," noted SIU President Michael Sacco. "This truly demonstrates American Classics' commitment to provide the best in passenger service in the next century." The first vessel to sail under the new name will be the reflagged Nieuw Amsterdam, acquired recently from Holland America Line. That 1,214passenger ship will carry the name MS Patriot when it sets sail from the port of Honolulu in December 2000 for United States Lines. The company selected MS Patriot as the ship's new name to pay respect to those who came from foreign lands to build this nation. The vessel will begin renovations in October 2000. The new subsidiary of American Classic Voyages also will include the two new 1,900-passenger ships to be built in unionized Litton Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoufa, Miss. The first of these is expected to begin sailing in December 2003. The new logo for the United States Lines features a stylized American bald eagle surrounded by a field of stars. The three stars between the outstretched wings are representative of the three cruise ships. The six beneath the eagle are for the company's commitment to customers, employees, shareholders, community, the environment and the nation. American Classic Voyages already has two subsidiaries, both of which feature vessels crewed by Seafarers. American Hawaii Cruises operates the SS Independence, which provides seven-day voyages around the Hawaiian Islands. The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. has three paddlewheel steamboats that sail along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The fleet includes the Delta Queen, the Mississippi Queen and the American Queen. A fourth vessel, the Columbia Queen, is expected to begin service in the northwestern United States in the spring of next year. American Classic Voyages plans to launch a fourth subsidiary in 2001 when the first of five 226passenger coastal cruise vessels starts sailing. That company will be known as Delta Queen Coastal Voyages. Those ships will sail the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts. NDTA Honors Sacco with Top Award English-speaking school, or who has earned a GED diploma; and • those who served in the U.S. armed forces. Beginning January 10, all members when registering will either have to take the test or prove they fall into one of the exempt categories. Port officials will be able to see whether or not a test is needed because an English test line will be added to the registration screen. Members who already have upgraded or graduated from the trainee or unlicensed apprentice programs at the Paul Hall Center are being automatically exempted. They will not need to show proof unless an error has been made. However, those members who qualify for one of the other exemptions may provide proof to their port officials as soon as possible rather than waiting until January. Tests will be taken in union halls. Members requiring a test will have six months to pass it or show proof they meet an exempt category. Those members who cannot show proof of being in an exempt category will have to take the test prior to registering. Eglinton noted some people do have problems taking written tests, and the school will find a way to work with those members who repeatedly find this procedure difficult. A member who does not pass the test the first time may take it again during the six-month period until he or she does pass it. Tests will be graded at the Paul Hall Center and results will be relayed to the port official in the member's union hall. For those members who are at sea from January 10 to July 10, they will have six months from the time they sign-off to provide proof for a waiver. If they do not claim exemption, they must take the test immediately before registering. The Coast Guard regulations that cover this procedure are explained in Title 46, Part 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations. They relate to ship-specific familiarization. EXAMPLE of TEST QUESTION: Which number is twelve? (A) 4 (B) 8 (C) 12 (D) 16 Structural Changes Approved At AFL-CIO Convention in L.A. Continued from page 3 port for U.S.-flag fleet within a resolution entitled "The American Economy in a New Century." "The nation's need for a strong maritime capability for military and economic security remains undiminished Existing requirements for maritime equipment in the cabotage trades, as well as all government cargo preference programs and the policy of excluding U.S. maritime services from international trade agreements, should be continued," stated the resolution. The AFL-CIO also called for investment in domestic ship construction and a funding mechanism to ensure America's ports can be dredged in order to remain competitive internationally. Kaveh Sardari/Page One Labor Secretary Alexis Herman applauds union members for helping raise the minimum wage. American Cormorant Crew Praised for 'Flawless' Work The National Defense Transportation Association recognized SIU President Michael Sacco with its prestigious National Transportation Award during its convention last month in Anchorage, Alaska. Sacco is only the second labor official to be so honored in the more than 50 years the award has been given. (The late AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland was the other honoree.) The award was given to Sacco for the work he has done to advance the interests of the U.S.-flag merchant marine and create job opportunities within the industry. Presenting Sacco with the award is Jeff Crowe (left), NDTA chairman. Joining them at the podium is U.S. Army Major Gen. Kenneth L. Privratsky, head of the Military Traffic Management Command. 4 Seafarers LOB The president of SIU-contracted Osprey Ship Management, Inc. recently credited Seafarers aboard the American Cormorant for outstanding work in the United Kingdom. In a letter to SIU President Michael Sacco, Captain William B. Gibbs described a cargo operation in Southampton involving the American Cormorant as "a precisely controlled full submersion of the ship" that is "inherently risky and requires a highly trained crew. Ours responded with traditional professionalism." Gibbs noted that a number of senior U.S. Military Sealift Command personnel as well as high-ranking officers from the U.S. Army (the mission sponsor) were on hand for the operation. "Each was treated to a flawless execution of the load-out plan with all the watercraft (the cargo) safely aboard in a little over five hours," wrote Gibbs. "The entire ship's crew performed exceptionally, with noteworthy contributions from Bosun Vernon Huelett and AB Robinson Crusoe. Steward Robert Wright and his staff kept both crew and guests well fed throughout. "Overall, American Cormorants successful operation should serve as a testament to the training and professionalism of SIU and its membership." Seafarers aboard the Cormorant during this mission included Bosun Huelett, ABs Crusoe, Leo Estes, Eduardo Tomas, April Lachtara and William Hagner, QMED Tedd Avey, DEUs Ali Zaidan and Ricardo Alvarez, Chief Steward Robert Wright, Chief Cook Eddie Siplin and SA Patton Caldwell. November 1999 �Senator Calls for Action to Expand U.S.-Flag Fleet in Foreign Trade A leading proponent of the U.S.-flag maritime industry told the Washington, D.C. Propeller Club last month that it is time to consider hearings on where the merchant fleet will be headed 10 years from now. "A couple of years ago we passed the Maritime Security Program," declared Sen. John Breaux (D-La.) during the October 20 luncheon on Capitol Hill. ''Now, we we've got to start looking at the next step at what we need to be doing. "We need to be more competitive internationally. We need to focus not just on sustaining the U.S. fleet, but more on expanding the U.S.-flag fleet in international trade." Breaux, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which has jurisdiction on issues dealing with the U.S. merchant fleet, stated oversight hearings could be held as early as next year to begin work on what is needed when the Maritime Security Program expires in Fiscal Year 2006. He reminded the audience that it took several years of hearings to craft the measure that passed in 1996 to provide funding for 47 militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels. House Subcommittee Eyes Cruise Mishaps The Louisiana senator noted the difficulty faced by U.S.-flag companies when they try to com- "We need to be more competitive interna. lly ... " twna -Sen. John Breaux pete "with other flags of other countries when they operate with a different set of rules, a different set of financing, etc. I think we can compete anywhere, any time, any place as long as there is a level playing field." He carried this philosophy into his discussion of legislation being considered on Capitol Hill that would temporarily permit foreign-flag, foreign-crewed passenger ships to operate between U.S. ports. Breaux dubbed such a measure "reverse subsidy" if it would allow those vessels to sail in the domestic passenger trades without requiring them to meet U.S. laws and standards. "These laws are the same laws that are imposed on any company doing business in the United States. They have to comply with these laws if they are going to do business in our country. "I am in favor of legislation expanding U.S. cruise opportunities," he added. "I am not in favor of allowing foreign companies to operate domestically nor to provide them with the exemptions to our U.S. laws in order to operate domestically." In the area of shipbuilding, the senator repeated his concern about overseas countries offering companies subsidies to build vessels in their yards. He specifically Sen. John Breaux tells a Capitol Hill audience it is time to focus on expanding the U.S.-flag fleet in international trade. noted the Disney company received a $40 million grant to build its $375 million ship in Italy. "It is very difficult for a U.S. shipyard to compete with a foreign government that's going to unlevel the playing field. That's not right, that's not fair!" Before ending his address, Breaux reiterated his strong support for the Jones Act, the nation's freight cabotage law. 'Ship from Hell' Is Latest Coast Guard Modifies User Fees Runaway-Flag Calamity Prompted by recent calamities aboard runaway-flag cruise ships that call on United States ports, a U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee on October 7 examined the roots of the problems. The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Wayne Gilchrest (R-Md.), heard from representatives of the Coast Guard, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the International Council of Cruise Lines (a runaway-flag lobbying group). During the past five months, both U.S.-based Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines have received unwanted attention for mishaps involving their foreign-flag ships and multinational crews. Among the misfortunes, Carnival reported more than 100 allegations of sexual assaults on its vessels from 1993-98; and Royal Caribbean agreed to pay a record $18 million pollution fine stemming from its guilty pleas to 21 felony counts in five U.S. cities and Puerto Rico. Most recently, the Carnival ship Tropicale was stranded at sea for four days in September, following a shipboard fire that disabled both engines. According to news reports, the 660-foot ship was caught in a tropical storm in the Gulf of Mexico. Passengers described raw sewage accumulating in passageways and in cabins. Some reported contaminated drinking water and other plumbing problems. One passenger told the Associated Press that the runaway-flag was "the ship from hell." Others reportedly accused Carnival of publicly minimizing the crisis. "Right before the Coast Guard got on board, (cruise officials) opened all the bars, they started all the music, they filled all the pools, they started replacing the carpet, fixing the toilets and they were putting up brand new fire extinguishers that never existed," one customer told the wire service. That same article stated that passengers "reported panic during the fire and complained they received little direction from the crew and were confused about where to assemble." The vessel carried 1,700 passengers and crew members. It returned to Florida on September 22, guided by four tugboats. Carnival offered passengers a full refund and a free ticket for another cruise. At last month's subcommittee hearing, Rep. Peter Defazio (DOregon) remarked that most Americans probably don't realize that enforcement aboard foreign-flag cruise ships lies with the flag state. "God forbid if one of these ships is hijacked in the middle of the ocean. The U.S. is not obligated to respond," he said. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Robert North explained the narrow circumstances in which his agency as well as the FBI may investigate crimes committed on foreign-flag cruise ships. They may do so only if the incident takes place with 12 miles of the U.S. coast; or if the victim or perpetrator is a U.S. citizen and the ship calls on a U.S. port. NTSB Chairman Jim Hall identified fire as the primary safety threat aboard foreign-flag cruise ships. He reported that of the last 25 incidents investigated by the NTSB involving such vessels, 16 were fire-related. Hall further noted that the NTSB believes many foreign-flag cruise ships possess inadequate smoke alarms. The head of the runaway-flag lobbying group said they are trying to operate more safely. November 1999 The U.S. Coast Guard recently modified the final rule covering user fees for licenses, certificates of registry and merchant mariner's documents (also known as MMDs or z-cards). The rule-which took effect in October-initially was published in the Federal Register dated August 5, 1999. However, the "corrected" fee schedule appeared in the Federal Register dated October 1, 1999 (after the October issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press). The summary of the October 1 action reads: "The Coast Guard has revised its application processing requirements for original licenses, certificates of registry, and merchant mariner documents and no longer does a criminal record check on all original applications. The new policy does not specifically identify which applications will undergo a record check and the Coast Guard therefore cannot charge a fee for this part of the application process .... Fees for original documents need to be corrected to remove the charge for criminal record checks." Part of the corrected fee schedule is printed below. If you apply for ... And you need ... Evaluation Examination Issuance Then the fee is: Then the fee is: Then the fee is: Original without endorsement. ... .. . ........ $95* n/a $45 Merchant Mariner's Document: Original with endorsement. ................ 95* 140 45 Endorsement for qualified rating ............. 95 140 45 Upgrade or Raise in Grade ................. 95 140 45 Renewal without endorsement for qualified ratin~ 50 n/a 45 Renewal with endorsement for qualified rating .. 50 45 45 Renewal for continuity purposes ............. n/a n/a 45 Reissue, Replacement, and Duplicate ......... n/a n/a 45 *This fee originally was $110. Per the corrected fee schedule, it now is $95. Labor's 'Hall of Fame' Honors 3 More than 1,000 people, including representatives of the SIU, attended the recent induction ceremony in Detroit conducted by Labor's International Hall of Fame. The honorees were the late Teamsters President James R. Hoffa; Mary Kenney O'Sullivan, the AFL's first female organizer; and Emil Rieve, past president of the Hosiery Workers, which merged with the Textile Workers (now part of UNITE) in 1965. In this photo, SIU Vice President Great Lakes Byron Kelley-who is president of Labor's International Hall of Fame welcomes guests to the event. Seated from left to right are AFL-CIO President John Sweeney; Doug Fraser, president emeritus of the United Auto Workers; Richard Cordtz, chairman of the hall of fame and Service Employees International Union president emeritus; Edgar Scribner, secretary-treasurer of the hall of fame and president of the Metropolitan Detroit AFL-CIO; and Barbara Crancer, daughter of the late James R. Hoffa. Seafarers LOG 5 �merican Steamship Company (ASC), with its fleet of 11 vessels crewed by SIU members, continues a strong-and safe-season on the Great Lakes. ASC recently adopted a program to equip each of its ships with automatic external defibrillators, portable devices used to treat individuals in cardiac arrest (see related article and photos below). With medical research suggesting that many heart attack victims could survive if defibrillated early enough, these devices could mean the difference between life and death for crew members aboard Great Lakes vessels. Meanwhile, shipping remains fairly constant on the Great Lakes, according to SIU Representative Don Thornton, with no immediate signs of easing up. The only thing slowing the boats down at this point is low water. As with much of the country, it was a very dry summer. The lack of rain, along with winds coming out of the southeast, have lowered lake levels by about 18 inches, noted Thornton. A Safety h Primary Concern As American Steamship Crews Keep Lakes Cargoes Moving Wheelsman Jerry Nowak (left) and Bosun William Mulcahey, H. Lee White Second Cook Daniel Kane, Adam E. Cornelius Second Cook Abdo Alaway, American Republic Wheelsman Lawrence Dudek, H. Lee White Bosun Ronald Bochek, Adam E. Cornelius Wiper Hamid Hizam, American Republic OS Musid Musleh, American Republic Wheelsman Scott Krajniak, Adam E. Cornelius Watchman Ken Hager, H. Lee White Wiper Zaid Alderwish , Adam E. Cornelius Porter Haddi Ahmed, H. Lee White 6 Seafarers LOG Buffalo Crew Trains on New Defibrillators Deckhand Jason Pechette, American Republic Wheelsman Russell Brown, H. Lee White SIU-contracted American Steamship Company (ASC) earlier this year announced that its 11 self-unloading vessels plying the Great Lakes have been equipped with automatic external defibrillators-portable devices used to treat individuals in cardiac arrest. Seafarers aboard ASC's Buffalo recently attended a training class to familiarize themselves with the new life-saving equipment and be able to use it should an emergency arise. The crew members included: Bosun Michael LaFoille, Wheelsmen William Chartier and Gil Boilore, Watchmen Boyd Messer and Robert Wojtasek, Deckhands Ali Zawkari and Frank Farnum, QMEDs James Reilly, Timothy Wallace and Brian Gelaude, Wiper Abdul Saeed, Conveyorman Terry Pyrlik, Gateman Mark Macrury, Second Cook Julian Budnick and Porter Marvin Larson. November 1999 �1O Recertified Bosuns Impart Hard-Earned Wisdom to Trainees The 10 Seafarers who graduated as recertified bosuns during the October membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. expressed their thanks to the SIU leadership throughout the years for helping them reach this high point in their careers. They also gave advice and encouragement to the younger generation of Seafarers, those in the SIU's Unlicensed Apprentice Program. Completing the bosun recertification course of study, which will help them perform their jobs better and prepare them for leadership roles among their fellow crew members were Robert Bakeman, Andre Bennett, Steve Bush, William Dickey, Michael Eaton, Peter Funk, Robert Grubbs, George Mazzola, Edward Stoelzel and John Williamson. As each of the 10 was called to the podium to accept his graduation certificate, he addressed the audience of union members, officials, school instructors, unlicensed apprentices and proud family members, and told them of his feelings on this special day. Adversity and Pride Some spoke of the adversity they faced before joining the SIU and the pride they feel now. Steve Bush, 51, who sails from Tacoma, Wash., joined the union in 1978 in Piney Point and has often returned to the school to upgrade. He noted that he first worked as a Teamster, and every winter he would be laid off. He stated his pride at completing the bosun recertification program, expressed his thanks to the union and recommended that all Seafarers take advantage of the upgrading program at the Paul Hall Center "or else they will be left behind in these changing times." Andre Bennett, 47, joined the SIU in Norfolk, Va. in 1986 after serving in the U.S. Army and earning his GED. He has upgraded several times at the school. Bennett thanked the union, especially the health plan. He told those present at the meeting that five years ago he was in the hospital with a pre-cancerous condition and ''woke up with more tubes in me than you could believe." The union paid all his bills, for which he is extremely grateful, and had work for him when he returned to the job. "I think every one of you out there," he said to his fellow Seafarers in the audience, "should count yourselves lucky to be in the SIU and have this program." William Dickey, 56, began going to sea in 1967. He, too, expressed his pride at being a member of the SIU, an organization that stuck behind him during difficult times. "If there's anything to remember-or not to forgetwhen you go aboard ship, it's safety." -Edward Stoelzel, recertified bosun Dickey, who sails from the port of Houston, found the fire fighting training particularly useful in learning more about the complexities of shipboard fires. He described upgrading as a good approach to helping Seafarers obtain the skills to do a better job aboard ship. John Williamson, 45, said he was a high school dropout-"working deadend jobs, going nowhere." He applied to the school in 1971, and "the rest," he told those assembled at the meeting, "was history." He thanked the school and staff for giving him a direction in life when he most needed it and the many SIU officials who helped him along the way. Williamson, who sails from the port of New York and who has upgraded a SIU President Michael Sacco has an impromptu discussion with some of the recertified bosuns at Piney Point. From the left are Robert Grubbs, Andre Bennett, William Dickey, Sacco and Edward Stoelzel. November 1999 number of times, believes that what he learned in the recertification course will help him be better prepared to pass on the information to crew members during shipboard meetings. He also believes the computer class was very important since computers are now so much a way of life. Upgrading Encouraged Williamson urged the unlicensed apprentices to take advantage of the learning opportunities at the school and to return to the facility as often as possible. He also advised them to "always do good work when given a job aboard ship. It will be noticed one way or another." Peter Funk was another of the recertified bosuns who, before joining the SIU in 1976, had no high school diploma. The 45year-old, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, graduated from the entrylevel program at the Paul Hall Center and started sailing in the inland waters district. He thanked the SIU officials, his port agents, and the school's dedicated staff for all their assistance, especially in helping him get his high school equivalency certificate. "The good thing about this business," he said, "is that you can go anywhere you want." So after sailing almost all the navigable waterways of the U.S., he decided to see the rest of the world. "I've been to Italy, France, England, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Mexico, the Middle East, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia and sailed during Desert Storm and Desert Shield," he said. "I sailed as an OS, AB, tankerman, barge captain, bosun and fire optic cable splicer." Funk thanked the union for the good life it has given him and the financial rewards which have enabled him to send his son to one of the finest universities in the country. He also noted that the retirement benefits are some of the highest of any union and the medical plan is "second to none." Funk found the recertification course to be a great learning experience, especially the time the group spent with VP Contracts Augie Tellez, who explained "the how's and why's of contracts." He encouraged the trainees to study hard and not be deterred from asking questions. "When you 're at sea during phase 2 of your program," he told them, "listen to your supervisors and remember that you're working as part of a team. Safety instruction is an important part of the bosun recertification program . Fire fighting is one component of that curriculum, as can be seen in the photo above. From the left (kneeling) are Peter Funk, Robert Bakeman, Michael Eaton, George Mazzola, (second row) Andre Bennett, John Williamson, William Dickey, Edward Stoelzel, Robert Grubbs, Steve Bush and instructor Stormie Coombs. I'd also urge you to come back and upgrade." He told them that the sky's the limit at the Paul Hall Center. He also stressed the importance of personal safety aboard ship. "We have a lot of high-tech safety devices at sea," he noted, "but the best prevention for accidents is a well-trained crew." Safety Stressed Edward Stoelzel, 44, also stressed the need for safety. Speaking directly to the unlicensed apprentices, he said, "If there's anything to remember-or not to forget-when you go aboard ship, it's safety." Stoelzel joined the union in 1973 in Boston, Mass. and now sails from the port of Tacoma, Wash. He most heartily recommended the Sill's upgrading opportunities, stating, "The future of the union depends on the members. If they do not upgrade and keep up with the new rules and the changing times, they-and our union-will fall by the wayside." Michael Eaton joined the SIU in Baltimore in 1984. He was 23 . Now, at 39, he has upgraded several times and sails from the port of Jacksonville. The Paul Hall Center's educational training has kept him on top of his skills, he told the audience. Of special interest to Eaton were the classes in wire splicing, fire fighting and union education, which he believes will help him do a better job aboard ship. He encouraged the trainees, stating: "Don't give up before you give it a chance." Also sailing from the port of Jacksonville was Robert Grubbs. The 41year-old joined the union in 1979 in Piney Point and has returned to the school four times to attend upgrading courses. The educational courses offered by the union are very important to Grubbs. "Education is knowledge,'' he stated, "and knowledge is money." Leaming how the union works from the inside was especially interesting for Grubbs. He said that MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex (with back to camera) gives the upgrading Seafarers an overview of the AFL-CIO and how it works with the SIU. knowledge will help him explain to other crew members the importance of SPAD and why everyone should help in any way they can. His parting words to the unlicensed apprentices: "Make sure you take advantage of the school." Robert V. Bakeman, 51, noted that the school has changed a lot over the years and has done well in keeping up with the times. He joined the union in Brooklyn in 1980 and has upgraded five times. Bakeman is a third generation mariner and has worked as a dredgemate, small boat captain, mate and tugboatman before sailing deep sea. He spoke of his belief that the school is a place to get kids off the streets and get them into a program where they can provide for themselves, earn a good salary, get great benefits, and retire comfortably. Bakeman told the entrylevel trainees: "You have a 90-day trial period. This will prove whether you're capable of sea life or not. You have learned some rules already, but I have two more things to say to you. First of all, obey all the rules. Last, respect the flag." George Mazzola graduated from trainee class 107 in 1972 at age 18. Sailing from the port of Baltimore, the 45-year-old noted how the SIU keeps evolving and changing with the times. He said that in '72, the U.S. merchant marine was just about on the rocks. Few people believed back then that there would still be a U.S. flag in the year 2000. With the passage of the Maritime Security Program, the maritime industry was alive again. "Now at the end of the 20th century," he stated, "our ships are still moving, but the problem is totally different. Now we have so much work, we're scrambling for people. What a difference. The /future looks bright indeed." He also expressed his hopes that the proposed merger between the SIU and the NMU will help keep the industry united. He thanked all the instructors he has had over the last 27 years as well as union officials and shipmates. To the unlicensed apprentices, he just told them to try their best. "You'll eventually be where you want to be." Behind the Scenes In addition to their hands-on exercises and classroom work at the Paul Hall Center, the recertified bosuns met at the union's headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. with representatives from all departments. Through discussions with them about the health, vacation and pension plans, contract negotiation and enforcement, and the Seafarers LOG, the students enhanced their understanding of the many facets that must come together to make the union strong. The bosuns also traveled to Washington, D.C. to the Maritime Trades Department. There, they talked with Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex. On Capitol Hill, they met with Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) and Terry Turner, the SIU's director of legislative affairs. Seafarers LOG 7 �SIUMemben Help Maintajn Mili Ships In Guam, Saipan On Guam and Saipan, two islands in the Pacific Ocean famous for battles during World War II, the U.S. military continues to maintain a presence-in the form of fully loaded prepositioning vessels. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram recently Crew members aboard the Gopher State gather for lunch. visited some of these SIU crewed military ships to talk with the members and keep them updated on union activities and news from within the maritime industry. The vessels-Sgt. William Button, 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, Petersburg, Gopher State, Eric Gibson, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez and Ltc. Calvin P. Titus- are on stand-by alert, ready to sail at a moment's notice to provide ammunition, stores, vehicles and other materiel needed by American ground forces in times of rapid deployment, such as was the case during the Gulf War. Left: Chief Cook Wendy Fearing aboard the Petersburg keeps the soup pots simmering on the stove. Right: After meeting with SIU VP Kermett Mangram aboard the William Button in Guam, crew members pose for a group photo . Below: The Petersburg docks at a pier in Guam. Right and below left: The 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez sits at anchor in Guam. Crew members take a few minutes from their duties aboard the Eric Gibson for this photo. B Seafarers LOG November 1999 �LNG Crews Reassured About RetJagging Many questions were on the minds of Seafarers aboard LNG vessels in the wake of the application by PRONAV Ship Management Inc. to reflag the eight LNG vessels currently crewed by SIU members. SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram flew to Japan to talk with crews aboard the LNGs Taurus, Leo, Libra, Virgo, Gemini and Aries and help them understand how the possible reflagging will affect them in terms of jobs, job security, severance pay and seniority issues. PRONAV began submitting the series of reflagging applications to the U.S. Maritime Administration in mid-August. The compa- ny wants to transfer the eight LNG ships to the flag of the Marshall Islands. Agreements have been signed to ensure that the SIU will remain on board even if the LNGs eventually are operated by a different flag. The liquefied natural gas carriers load their cargoes in Arun and Bontang, Indonesia and discharge in the Japanese ports of Osaka, Tobata, Nagoya and Himeji, Japan. Mangram returned from Japan with the photos on this page of everyday life aboard the LNG vessels. \ Loading stores aboard the LNG Leo are Bosun Aubrey Davis (far right) and AB Mustari Lalong (far left). Maryann Schade and Michael Miller are steward assistants aboard the LNG Aries. LNG Aries' chief cook, Marty Buck, is ready to ladle out some soup for lunch. LNG Libra Crew Helps the Poor On August 17, 1999, the LNG Libra arrived in the loading port of Bontang, Indonesia and helped celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day. They also contacted Dr. Peter Durman, the ship's medical liaison and advisor at Badak Hospital in Bontang, and presented him with a $660 donation (from the ship's fund and private donations) for "Project Friendship," a worthy cause which helps poor families in need of urgent medical care and treatment. In a thank-you note to John W. Dorozynski, master aboard the LNG Libra, Dr. Durman notes that some of the money already has been used to help a number of people, including hospital care for two very young children from poor families who might otherwise have died without immediate treatment and surgery. ifA!fKIKG IJJKGEllODS CA NO Y/Sfl{IRS J(lJ SMOK/lli AB John Micklos stands gangway watch on the LNG Gemini. John Gibbons, chief steward on the LNG Libra, slices some cake for dessert. In photo at left: Bosun Mohamed Ragi stops to chat with Steward/Baker Oswald Stoiber (center) and Chief Cook Michael Amador on the LNG Virgo. In photo at right: The galley crew aboard the LNG Libra cleans up after lunch. They are (from left) Chief Cook John Bokowsky and SAs Chris Coston and Jimmy Laiff. November 1999 Seafarers LOG 9 �Great Work Aboard Sea-Land Performance From Data Ramsdell, chief mate aboard the Sea-Land Performance, come these photos showing some of the everyday life aboard the Sea-Land containership. Above left is a view from the bridge of the vessel as it approaches Hurricane Dennis. Above right: AB Judi Harrington sits in the bosun's chair as she gets to work on the ship's hull. Retiree 'Flattop' Passes Away A familiar face to the staff at the SIU hall in New York, headquarters and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, SIU retiree William "Flattop" Koflowitcb, passed away September 28. He was 74. Koflowitch joined the SIU in New York in 1952. His first ship was the Seagarden. He sailed in all three departments before eventually choosing the engine room. He frequently upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. A native of Canada and longtime resident of Brooklyn, N.Y., Koflowitch took part in many SIU organizing drives. He was elected to serve on the tallying committee in 1976. Koflowitch was a World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1948. He last sailed aboard the Courier (an Ocean Carriers, Inc. vessel) and began receiving his pension in September 1985. After retirement, Koflowitch often visited headquarters and the school, keeping in touch with longtime William "Flattop" friends and staunchly Kofi awitch supporting the U.S. merchant marine. Never one to tum down a friendly game of cards, he regularly attended SIU membership meetings even after retiring. At his request, Koflowitch was buried at Seafarers Haven Cemetery in Valley Lee, Md., near the school. A number of family members, Seafarers and Paul Hall Center employees attended the burial service. Above left: Bosun Jimmy Scheck and AB John Neil Jones pause for a photo. Above right: More cleaning to the ship's structure is being performed by AB Robert O'Connell (upper left), AB Judi Harrington (lower middle) and Bosun Jimmy Scheck. Chief Mate Ramsdell noted that it is a pleasure working with all the crew members. Editor's note: The Seafarers LOG welcomes your digital images (such as those shown above). When possible, please send them at a resolution of at least 300 dpi (at 3-by-5 inches). Resolution affects the size at which the images will legibly print. Brother Koflowitch is laid to rest at Seafarers Haven Cemetery in Valley Lee, Md. Still Time for Personal Holiday Greetings Orgulf Cooks Digest New Info As has been done in past years, this December's edition of the Seafarers LOG will include the everpopular holiday greetings from active and retired Seafarers and their families to other members of the seafaring community and their families. To ensure that your holiday message is published, please follow the instructions below: D PRINT or TYPE (in 25 words or less) the message in the space provided. Photographs also are welcome. (Please print-if we cannot read your message, it will not be included.) D Be sure your greeting is in the holiday spirit. D Do not send more than three entries per person. (This form may be reproduced.) D Be sure to include your name as well as the name of the person to whom you are sending the greeting. (Your name is necessary since the notices are listed alphabetically by the sender's last name.) Include your phone number in case there are any questions. D The holiday greetings must be received no later than Monday, November 15, 1999. D Send your entries to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. You also may FAX copies directly to the LOG at (301) 702-4407. Additionally, forms may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the official at the counter-or may be given to the boarding patrolman during a vessel's payoff. The holiday greetings section of the December LOG is a favorite feature for many, so be sure to get your message in on time. 11/99 HOLIDAY MESSAGE (Please Print) Six Seafarers from Orgulf recently completed a special two-week steward department upgrading class at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Much of the course focused on computer basics. Successfully finishing the class in Piney Point, Md. were Nancy Avery, Paul Christianson, Sally Goins, Martha Kell, Christine Kerr and Velie Thornton. The inland division members are pictured at the school with instructor Rick Prucha (top photo, far left) and SIU President Michael Sacco (below, third from left). To: From: Sender's Telephone Number: Message: Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D D Active Seafarer Retired Seafarer D D Family Member of Active Seafarer Family Member of Retired Seafarer Other:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 10 Seafarers LOS November 1999 �AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Conventio~ · I I I Legislators Support Strong U.S. Heet Legislators addressing the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention last month in Los Angeles emphasized the ongoing need to maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet. Their remarks on October 8 reinforced many of the declarations contained in resolutions passed by the convention delegates, who represented the MTD's 32 member unions and 27 port councils. MTD-affiliated unions represent approximately 8 million members. Speakers voiced support for U.S. cabotage laws, the Maritime Security Program, domestic shipbuilding, a revitalized U.S.flag cruise industry and other topics that impact working families. "The Jones Act has worked well. It provides employment and helps environmental safety," stated Rep. Max Sandlin (D-Texas). "It brings billions of dollars in tax revenue to the American government." (The Jones Act, part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, states cargo moved from one domestic port to another can only be transported aboard U.S.-crewed, U.S.built and U.S .-flag vessels.) Sandlin, who serves on both the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Banking and Financial Services Committee, added that U.S.-flag ships should not have to "compete with foreign vessels that don't have the same obli- gations, the same requirements." Similarly, Rep. Martin Frost (D-Texas) reiterated his support for strong domestic shipping policies. He also stressed the key role of the U.S. fleet in national defense. "I've been with you on making sure that cabotage laws remain (strong), and that we don't do anything to undercut the Jones Act," noted Frost, a member of the House Rules Committee. "I understand the significance of what the Maritime Trades Department does and I've tried to work very closely with you over the years .... "We want to make sure that our maritime industry remains strong and not subject to unfair laws. We need you in good times, and we need you if this country is ever threatened in terms of defense. Because you all are vital to our defense. Every time this country has been threatened, you've been there. And we cannot remain strong as a nation without a strong merchant marine." Focusing on the new U.S.-flag cruise ships being built for the Hawaiian trade, Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) urged delegates to seize upon that momentum. He lauded the planned construction of at least two new American-flag passenger ships as Reps. Martin Frost (left) and Max Sandlin (both from Texas) reiterate their strong support for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet during the 1999 MTD Convention in Los Angeles. well as the reflagging next year of a foreign cruise ship to the Stars and Stripes. "The first new ships coming into the cruise line business are going to be American-owned, American-built, American-crewed and American-flagged, and they're going to be based in Hawaii starting in 2003," Abercrombie observed. "And I don't want those to be the last ones. That should be the way that America goes all across the cruise industry as we go into the next century." A member of the Armed Services Committee and longtime backer of the U.S. merchant marine, Abercrombie also pointed to the recent problems aboard foreign-flag cruise ships that have been in the headlines. At the root of the incidents -which have included food poisoning, sexual assaults, shipboard fires and other dangerous events-is the unfair treatment of the crews, he said. "I'm not against the crews on these foreign ships. They're wo,rking men and women just like us," Abercrombie stated. Continued on page 14 AFL-CIO President: ' g And Politics Are Where It's At' Sweeney Urges 'Stronger Political Voice' To Benefit America's Working Families AFL-CIO President John Sweeney AFL-CIO President John Sweeney succinctly described the labor federation's main activities planned for the next year. "Organizing and politics are where it's at for the next 12 months," he told delegates to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention October 7 in Los AFL-CIO Political Director Steve Rosenthal November 1999 Angeles. The two go hand in hand, Sweeney explained. "Unfortunately, as it stands, too many workers who want to form unions to improve their lives will never get the chance. Every day in workplaces all across America, employers are interfering in a decision that rightfully belongs to workers by intimidating, harassing, threatening and even firing them," he noted. "But while the public overwhelmingly disapproves of.such anti-union tactics, most of America doesn't even know they're happening, and it's up to us to tell them." Sweeney mentioned that the federation is conducting a "Voice at Work" campaign that publicizes "the secret war in our workplaces" and exposes employers who violate the freedom to choose a union. "At the same time, we're mobilizing entire communities to stand with workers involved in organizing campaigns and building support for our long-term goal of reforming the laws intended to protect workers who choose to form unions," he said. "That's one reason we're intensifying our efforts to create a stronger political voice, elect workerfriendly candidates and promote a working families legislative agenda." It won't come easily, Sweeney acknowledged. This year and next, business is projected to outspend labor by at least 15-to-l in political activities. "But we're fighting back with our heads and our hearts," he stated. "We've set a goal of registering 4 million new voters from union households by 2000. And in 2000, we will meet another goal by having 2,000 union members running for public office all across the country." This is not a partisan effort, Sweeney noted, but rather one of principle. "We're educating and mobilizing working families around issues, not candidates or parties. When it comes to our political action, it's not about Republicans versus Democrats, it's not even about right versus left. It's about right versu wrong." Meanwhile, despite the challenging conditions, AFL-CIO member unions have made progress in numerous organizing drives. Sweeney recalled that in 1998, nearly a half-million people joined unions, with a net gain of about 100,000 new members. "But we ' ll need more growth on a larger scale to regain our strength in the 21st century," he said. Also discussing the need for a strong and active labor movement was Art Pulaski, executive secretary-treasurer of the California AFL-CIO Labor Federation. Pulaski detailed how union members last year defeated the anti-worker state proposition 226, a measure designed to silence workers in the political process. He also credited trade unionists in California - many of them members of MTD-affiliated unionswith helping earn several very recent and important victories, including legislation covering overtime pay, prevailing wage for construction workers, free speech on picket lines, and workplace safety. Additionally, Pulaski noted the importance of maritime in California. "Some 400,000 southern Art Pulaski, Exec. Secy-Treas., Calif. Labor Federation California jobs are tied to the freight and the transportation industries that emanate from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and their terminals," he said. "In the north we have the ports of San Francisco and Oakland and others that support well over another 50,000 jobs. AFL - CIO Political Director Steve Rosenthal reminded delegates that union families can play a major role in determining the outcomes of next year's elections. He presented data reflecting the importance of "union votes" in the congressional elections of 1996 and 1998. ''Your unions are leading this charge," he said. ''There's no letting up now." Seafarers LOG 11 �BIENNIAL CONVENTION • MARITI The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department is composed of 32 national and international unions as well as 27 port councils located in the United States and Canada. The unions represent approximately 8 million workers. F Michael Sacco (left) and Frank Pecquex were re-elected by unanimous acclamation as president and executive secretary-treasurer, respectively, of the MTD. Here, they take the oath of office. Also reelected by unanimous acclamation as vice president of the MTD was Jack Stewart, who was unable to attend because of a family illness. David Heindel, Secy-Treas., SIU Dean Corgey, VP Gulf Coast, SIU Ron Harris, Bus. Rep., Local 12 IUOE Kermett Mangram, VP Gov't Serv., SIU Michael Sullivan, President, Sheet Metal Workers Ken Paulsen, Dir. of Organizing, HERE Herbert Kaopua Sr., Bus. Mgr/Fin Secy, UA Local 675 Joe Winstead, Exec. Director, Calif. Pipe Trades Thomas Buffenbarger, Pres., IAM Mason Warren, VP, Laborers 12 Seafarers LOG Kurt Van Epps, Bus. Rep., Local 12 IUOE Moe Biller, President, Postal Workers Steven Alger, Bus. Mgr., IBEW 261 rom the opening gavel to the swearing in of the newly elected officers, the 1999 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Convention was two days of non-stop action. Meeting in Los Angeles October 7 and 8, the delegates from the MTD's 32 affiliated unions and 27 port councils heard addresses from the president of the AFL-CIO, members of Congress and the head of the Military Sealift Command. They considered resolutions dealing with matters that affect the daily lives of working men and women. They showed once again that union workers are "Making the Difference!" W.D. "Chico" McGill, Bus. Mgr., IBEW Local 733 Marcos Cordero, President, SIU of P.R. Gerald Owens, Asst. General Organizer, ILA Bill Ross, VP, SIU Canada Jim Cole, Gen. Secy, Iron Workers Wayne Wagner, Bus. Mgr/Fin. Secy, UA Local 811 Vivien Kawakami, VP, Mary O'Brien, lnt'I President, Laundry Workers Francisco Gonzalez, lnt'I VP, Laundry Workers Bonnie Heraty, Financ. Secy-Treas., Chicago Port Council Paul Krupa, Atlantic Coast VP, MEBA Larry Mauola, Bus. Mgr., UA Local 38 David B. Durkee, Secy-Treas., BCTGM Joseph Thibodeaux, Exec. VP, BCTGM Jim Rodgers, VP, Glass, Molders Vincent O'Reilly, Sr. Exec. Asst. to lnt'I Pres., IBEW Mike Mowery, lnt'I VP, 9th District, IBEW Lou Reed, Bus. Mgr., IBEW 595 Roman Gralewicz, President, SIU Canada Jim Rankin, lnt'I Pres., Glass, Molders Joseph Mitchell, VP, Glass, Molders Wayne King, VP, Glass, Molders A. L. Monroe, Gen. Pres. Emeritus, Painters Michael Sacco, President, SIU Michael Monroe, Gen. Pres., Painters Frances Brown, SIU staff; Rep. Neil Abercrombie; Sandra Huett, SIU staff; Bonnie Riley, MTD staff November 1999 �E TRADES DEPARTMENT, AFL·CIO I I I MTD President Michael Sacco formally opens the organization's biennial convention October 7 in Los Angeles. Delegates covered a wide range of topics during the two-day event, but the subjects had a common thread improving the lives of America's working families. Bud Jacques, Executive VP, MEBA John Conley, President, ITPE Jack Cox, Secy-Treas., IBT Local 572 James Williams, Gen. Secy-Treas., Painters Stuart Applebaum, President, RWDSU Ike Williams, Branch Agent, NMU Rene Lioeanjie, President, NMU Augustin Tellez, VP Contracts, SIU l~; Jack Caffey, VP Atlantic Coast, SIU Dean Girardot, Exec. Asst. to Pres., IAM Tony Gentile, Pres., Broward Teachers Union, AFT Howard Randolph, lnt'I VP, TCU John J. Barry, President, IBEW Al Monroe, Asst. to Gen. Pres., Painters John Baker, President, Cleveland Port Council Rep. Neil Abercrombie Richard Hughes, VP, ILA Baltimore DeWitt Clinton, Asst. to Pres., Steel Workers Jack Wurm Jr., lnt'I VP, RWDSU Ted Kedzierski, Pres., Wilmington AMMV Memorial Committee; Merchant Vet Floyd "Red" Hayes; SIU Port Agent John Cox; Rep. Neil Abercrombie, SIU Pres. Michael Sacco; Merchant Vet Clinton Melish Steve Edney, National Director, UIW lloflember 1999 Larry Barber, VP, BCTGM Anthony Bixler, VP, CWA Steve Demeroutis, Pres., Puget Sound Port Council Marvin Hrubes, Exec. Board, UFCW Nick Marrone, VP West Coast, SIU Larry O'Toole, President, MEBA Whitey Disley, Pres./Secy-Treas., MFOW Jake West, President, Iron Workers Michael Sacco, President, SIU Al Whitehead , President, Fire Fighters Warren Mart, VP, IAM Andy Abbott, Dir. , Marine Div. , Boilermakers Don Buchanon, Dir., Shipyards Sheet Metal Workers John Brenton , Secy-Treas., ITPE Richard Cortz, Pres. Emeritus, SEIU Gunnar Lundeberg, Pres./Secy-Treas. , SUP Pat Coughlin, VP, HERE Ted Jacobson, Secy, NYC CLC Michael Goodwin, President, OPEIU Dennis Lundy, Training Director, Operating Engineers 501 Walter Allen, VP, OPEIU Seafarers LOB 13 �I I I MSC Commander Sees Increased Role For Civilian Marinen on Military Ships The head of the U.S. Military Sealift Command sees a potentially larger role for civilian mariners aboard MSC vessels. U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander of MSC, told delegates to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention last month in Los Angeles that greater reliance on civilian crews may benefit all concerned. Holder also underscored sealift's vital role in U.S. national and economic security, while crediting the industry for fostering productive working relationships. MSC provides ocean transportation of most of the materials and equipment needed to sustain U.S. forces worldwide during peacetime and in war. SIU members crew a number of MSC-contracted vessels. 'Civilianize' Military Ships Speaking to the delegates on October 7, the admiral noted that "like everybody else in the world, Military Sealift Command is trying to find ways to better perform our mission more efficiently and at lower cost. It's a quest for best value, and that's not easy. Cheap does not equal value for our nation's security." As part of an overall effort to fine-tune its operations, "We must rely on our civilian mariners and our interactions together to make our Navy and, thus, our nation better," stated Holder. More specifically, the admiral said he has pushed for a Department of Defense task force to examine "the best way to crew the Military Sealift Command ships .... The first thing we're trying to do is see if I can relieve the military detachments, to 'civilianize' those [personnel]-not to put those (Navy) sailors out of work, but to put them in the places they joined the Navy to work .... "This is a huge cultural shift. We have committed the Department of the Navy to transition as many of our military detachments to civilian mariners as we can" Holder continued, "Why can't we have civilians providing hotel services on aircraft carriers? Because we can't have mariners go in harm's way? Well, who went to Murmansk? Who has the highest percent- age of casualties in World War II, other than the Marine Corps? It's the merchant marine. Somebody said the merchant marine is the 'other Navy.' My answer is, no, it's the rest of the Navy! It's vital and we must have it." To that end, he pointed out that the merchant marine as well as the armed services must aggressively recruit new members and "build a career development program" that helps retain qualified individuals. In fact, Navy recruiting "affects everybody in the maritime industry," he declared. "The problem is there are very few people outside or even inside the government who understand the industry well enough. "Indeed, many people leave the industry. We have graduates of federal maritime academies that don't even come to the industry, they go downtown (to other jobs). We need to change that. We need to find those people and bring them aboard as mariners-not to be career sailors, but to learn the industry and fully understand it and all its affiliations." President Michael Sacco for "making maritime the number one priority in the nation. He has been your advocate and my advocate." Effective Cooperation Assessing MSC's recent performance, Holder credited the industry for effective cooperation. "Your men and women, our ships, taking care of the nation's business. The partnering that has taken place between MTD and all of the affiliates of the AFL-CIO and MSC is strong and getting stronger because of our efforts," he said. The admiral also commended the U.S. merchant marine for its steadfast reliability: "Our merchant marine has always gone where our nation has asked, and because of men and ladies like you, they will continue to do so. The United States cannot do without these mariners." Noting the importance of a strong U.S. sealift capability, Holder said, "That ammunition that was prepositioned for Kosovo allowed the Air Force and the Navy, quite honestly, to get bombs on target when we decided to put bombs on target. That's the way we have to do business. Prepositioning, having the equipment forward deployed, is what our island nation does best." Finally, he recognized MTD and SIU Calling on delegates to the 1999 MTD Convention to continue their involvement in the political process are Reps. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii, left) and Michael Forbes (D-N.Y.). -.I. Rear Admiral Gordon S. Holder (left) applauds MTD President Michael Sacco for "making maritime the number one priority in the nation." · 14 Seafarers LOB Legislators Support Strong U.S. Fleet Continued from page 11 "They' re doing the best they can for their families. But they're being exploited, because they don't have an opportunity to have a union to protect their rights. They don't have the opportunity to collectively bargain to improve their benefits and their working conditions. "We can compete against anybody in the rest of the world, but we can't compete against wage slavery," he continued. "What you have to do with wage slavery is end it. The only way it's going to end is to get people in office who will back up the working man and woman." MTD President Michael Sacco thanked the speakers and delegates for helping strengthen the U.S. fleet. "I see new cruise ships, new cargo vessels, new tugs and new dredges all being built," he said. "And what do they have in common? They fly the U.S. flag. They carry American crews. They are built in unionized American shipyards. "We're still here, we're still growing, we're still a powerful force because we deliver the goods-just as we have done since the Revolutionary War." Maritime wasn't the only topic discussed by the guest speakers. Rep. Michael Forbes {DN.Y.), a member of the Appropriations Committee, urged delegates to support the "Patient's Bill of Rights" passed by the House on October 7 (one day before Forbes spoke at the MTD convention). The bill is designed to improve access to health care, give patients more choices and reestablish the provider's accountability. "We need to tum up the heat on the Senate and make sure that they do not kill that bill," Forbes said. "They have to take up the Patient's Bill of Rights. We've got to get that into conference, we've got to get it to the White House and get that bill signed into law. Americans want it." Along the lines of Abercrornbie's remarks concerning runaway-flag cruise ships, each of the congressmen also focused on an overall need for fair trade and fair competition. Sandlin spotlighted the current fight to raise the federal minimum wage as indicative of Americans' "need to decide what direction do we want to take the United States. Do we want to make sure that American jobs and American industry are protected from unfair competition from foreign governments that don't have the same requirements that we do? Or do we want to go in some other way? "We're talking about raising the minimum wage, we're talking about a small investment in the greatest asset that American business has ever seen and that's the American workers and American families," he said. "Yet we're fighting over pennies. While American business is willing to invest in big buildings and new computers and new cars and the highest technology, they worry about a few pennies every day to an American family that is the basis of every profit that they have coming into that company." Other issues examined included Social Security and Medicare, schools, and political action. Looking toward next year's elections, Abercrombie said, "The only organized effort that can come against the corporate takeover of this country is the American labor movement. We 're dealing with the question of adding up the votes as to whether or not we're going to have a pro- labor agenda in the United States Congress." November 1999 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans JacksonvilJe San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 22 13 7 8 18 14 4 4 19 37 20 27 37 10 5 23 11 4 8 15 6 13 8 2 8 7 2 I 8 5 25 2 13 15 27 6 9 19 0 3 3 0 4 2 2 249 121 79 1 DECK DEPARTMENT 9 4 1 1 6 3 4 7 14 6 5 11 4 Trip Reliefs 29 0 0 0 186 8 2 8 8 7 7 7 2 9 2 8 2 5 13 I 4 0 100 3 5 4 6 4 2 1 60 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 5 39 18 11 1 0 7 4 1 3 2 10 28 7 6 16 9 18 20 8 16 4 5 8 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 6 8 OCTOBER 15, 1999 9 5 5 14 4 0 13 0 0 72 7 17 27 56 38 42 51 19 14 37 2 3 2 389 26 9 5 6 14 9 14 9 2 IO 16 5 3 6 22 5 173 3 December 1999 & Jan11ary 2000 Membership lfeetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point ............. Monday: December 6, January 3 Algonac .................. Friday: December 10, January 7 Baltimore ................ Thursday: December 9, January 6 Du1uth ..................... Wednesday: December 15, January 12 Honolulu .................Friday: December 17, January 14 Houston .................. Monday: December 13, January 10 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: December 9, January 6 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: December 22, January 19 Mobile .................... Wednesday: December 15, January 12 9 8 New Bedford .......... Tuesday: December 21, January 18 2 New Orleans ........... Tuesday: December 14, January 11 2 New York................Tuesday: December 7, January 4 -- 104 Norfolk ................... Thursday: December 9, January 6 Port 7 New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville 4 6 7 11 14 San Francisco 12 Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac 10 Totals 8 3 6 7 7 7 3 0 1 1 2 2 4 0 4 0 45 2 Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Totals All Departments 0 1 0 3 2 3 0 1 11 2 7 9 2 4 2 0 2 0 0 2 1 127 52 24 8 5 3 24 27 13 11 7 11 1 2 5 1 1 0 0 0 21 37 T 8 4 1 6 0 6 18 22 14 11 DEP T 4 0 0 2 2 2 1 0 0 2 2 6 1 0 1 0 0 8 7 7 0 0 0 0 1 11 6 7 16 14 12 10 1 3 6 12 9 1 0 0 4 3 0 53 RAYMOND JONES 1 0 Please get in touch with Renee Wilson at (904) 9085323. 1 0 41 217 9 l 0 14 8 12 15 6 I 3 5 1 SUZANNE VANSCHOOR 3 5 0 102 33 36 l 43 2 2 24 10 1 4 24 0 6 8 20 0 0 0 0 IO 7 13 5 27 3 37 14 0 96 10 35 1 67 5 22 52 7 1 0 14 I 12 6 0 11 0 0 0 9 23 28 21 8 8 17 6 10 0 14 1 0 12 32 0 1 46 155 180 36 0 114 0 121 0 0 78 256 268 527 418 328 424 302 222 150 856 660 458 2 0 0 1 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. November 1999 Corrections 2 6 4 Antonio Orta would like you to write him at the following address: 760009, Rt. 3, Box 9800, Dayton, Texas 77535. Please contact Derrick Crummy at 27725 14Bth Way SE, Kent, WA 98042; or call (206) 679-6209 or (253) 638-0885. 6 8 2 SANDRA EVANS 9 2 2 5 7 3 8 5 NEAL S. CAIRNS Don Rundblad would like you to drop him a line at P.O. Box 7154, Tacoma, WA 98407-0154. 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 Personals 2 0 3 10 7 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 3 0 8 5 20 9 10 (*change created by Manin Lutherc King Jr. s birthday) 7 19 2 1 9 Tuesday: Januazy 18* 29 0 9 5 5 Wilmington ...............Monday: December 20 0 4 2 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 9 18 7 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 3 0 (*change created by Christmas lJay holiday) 2 0 6 Tacoma ...................Monday: December 27* Friday: January 21 0 0 0 St. Louis .................Friday: December 17, January 14 12 2 2 2 0 105 0 4 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 16, January 13 18 3 3 12 8 8 33 33 27 0 9 0 0 1 0 172 19 16 2 5 0 0 0 2 15 E T 1 2 2 19 0 69 12 0 3 15 0 2 0 2 6 4 0 3 2 5 15 4 7 4 5 0 8 2 6 0 129 5 18 3 5 4 I 2 2 97 0 5 0 3 6 0 2 10 8 4 8 9 19 0 2 5 4 9 5 0 3 6 4 5 6 4 4 3 6 90 16 5 13 14 0 6 7 12 0 105 24 2 4 1 7 San Juan ..................Thursday: December 9, January 6 15 8 7 7 1 5 1 27 8 6 Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: December 8, January 5 6 6 2 5 8 0 5 l 11 1 9 4 0 I 11 2 0 3 5 11 9 5 4 16 13 4 7 12 14 6 11 5 6 13 6 7 18 2 7 12 2 8 6 2 1 2 Port New York Philadelphia ENGINE DEPARTMENT 7 l 5 6 0 0 0 0 6 0 2 4 1 1 On page 24 of the October issue of the Seafarers LOG, the caption for the photo above was inadvertently omitted. It should have read: WELCOMING THE NEXT GENERATION: AB George Oberle (right) joined the SIU in 1967, while OS Randy Diaz finished the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center earlier this year. Here, the two share a laugh on the deck of the Global Mariner as Oberle demonstrates his veteran technique. On page 11 of the October LOG, the name of their ship was incorrectly stated. ABs Kathy Chester, Stephen Votta and Randy Senatore actually are painting aboard the LNG Aries. Seafarers LOS 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers lntematlonal Union Directory SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1999 Michael Sncco · President CL - .John Fay Executive Vice President Company/Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP .· l)a:Vid Heindel Secretary"Treasurer Augustin Tellez L-Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SIDPPED 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 !>resident Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone Vice President West Coast Kermett Mangram Vice President Government Services • )Ir HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 4800 I - Port Algonac 0 22 18 0 10 7 0 11 9 0 21 18 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac DECK DEPARTMENT 0 10 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 9 5 0 11 9 0 11 9 0 2 6 0 12 13 Totals All Depts 64 52 0 0 25 19 0 36 *"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. 37 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #lC Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters BALTIMORE SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1999 1216 R BaJtimore St BaJtimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DULUTH 705 Medi:caJ Arts Building TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVaLE . 33 l 5 Liberty St. Jacl<:sonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBU.,E 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478~0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (50&) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Btooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Region Atlantic Coast 0 Gulf Coast 1 Lakes, Inland Waters 42 West Coast 2 ' {) 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 12 2 0 8 7 45 2 15 28 Atlantic Coast 0 Gulf Coast 0 Lakes, Inland Waters 29 West Coast 0 Totals 29 0 Totals Region 0 0 0 0 0\ 0 0 0 0 Region Atlantic Coast 0 0 Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters 24 West Coast 0 0 0 Totals 24 0 2 Totals All Depts 98 2 17 Q 7 I 1 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Cf 31 0 0 2 2 19 31 0 0 Jl 'O 15 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 15 16 STEWARD DEPARTMENT .o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 14 0 0 0 5 1 14 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 l 0 14 I ~:· 0 0 I 48 0 'o '' O,, 0 0 0 0 0 0 ;.\;%; 1 ~::;; 7 61 ·:··-· ~'::: -:'.,;;;:; .;:; 0 0 0 2 3 2 35 '¥•} -1 . i *"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. 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) 861-340{) SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16!/i Santurce, PR 00907 {787) 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 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Ted Vargas of Princeton, W. Va. The picture was snapped in November 1947 aboard the boat deck of the SS Lebore, an Ore Steamship Co. vessel. The ship was in transit through one of the locks of the Panama Canal. In a note to the LOG, Vargas identifies the men in the photo (from the left) as: "Paul the P.O. Messman, Wiper Thomas Dodd, FOWT Paul Wright and Wiper Ted Vargas." He also notes that the Lebore became the Oremar after this trip and, years later, ended its career as the TransHudson for Hudson Waterways, Inc. Vargas, 69, sailed on three Liberty ships in the '40s and '50s. He presently volunteers aboard his fourth Liberty ship, the John W Brown, based in Baltimore. November 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 steward and one recertified bosun are among the 17 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Representing 69 combined years of active union membership, Recertified Steward Jose R. Coils and Recertified Bosun Thomas A. Trehern are graduates of the highest level of training available to members in the steward and deck departments, respectively, at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. Including the two recertified graduates, 11 of the retiring Seafarers sailed in the deep sea division, five shipped on inland vessels and one plied the Great Lakes. Ten of the retiring pensioners worked in the deck department, four shipped in the steward department and three sailed as members of the engine department. Eight of the pensioners served in the U.S. military - six in the Army and two in the Navy. On this page the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. 0 DEEP SEA RUSSELLL. CARUTIIERS, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Thetis, operated by Rye Marine. Born in Ohio, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Caruthers last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Developer. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Navy. He has retired to Federal Way, Wash. JOSE R. COLLS, 59, joined the SIU in 1961 in San Juan, P.R., first sailing aboard the Azalea City. The Puerto Rico native worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1980. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Sea-Land Consumer. From 1958 to 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Colls calls San Juan, P.R. home. BILL FINKLEA, 66, graduated from the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) training school in 1967 in Santa Rosa, Calif. and joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. Brother Finklea worked in the steward department, last sailing in 199 5 aboard the USNS Meteor, operated by American President Lines. The November 1999 Alabama native has retired to Mobile. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1959. JOSE A. GOMEZ, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1972 from the port of New York. His first ship was the Hoover, operated by Excelsior Marine. Born in Puerto Rico, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded frequently at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Sea-Land Integrity. Brother Gomez makes his home in Ridgewood, N.Y. KENNETH I. HARDER, 61, started his career with the SIU in 1964 in the port of San Francisco. He first sailed aboard the cable ship Long Lines. A native of California, he worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Sea-Land Enterprise. Brother Harder calls San Francisco home. BARBARAJ. JOVANOVIC, 65, joined the SIU in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. Sister Jovanovic worked in the steward department and sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises. Born in Missouri, she has retired to Laughlin, Nev. KONSTANTIN OS KOSTOUROS, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New York. His first ship was the Western Hunter. Born in Athens, Greece, he became a U.S. citizen in 1973. Brother Kostouros sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring, he signed off the Frances Hammer, an Ocean Chemical Carriers vessel. Fort Myers, Fla. is where he calls home. HELEY 0. MARENO, 71, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1976. A native of Alabama, he worked in the deck department aboard inland vessels and upgraded at the union's school in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the towboat operator course. Brother Mareno later transferred to the deep sea division and continued to upgrade at the school. He last sailed aboard the Wilson, operated by Wilson Shipping Co. From 1947 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Army. He has retired to Ocean Springs, Miss. BILLY J. MITCHELL, 65, joined the SIU in 1973, first sailing aboard an American Bulk Carriers vessel. The Texas native worked in the steward department and upgraded at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Mitchell last sailed aboard the Wilson, a Wilson Shipping Co. vessel. He makes his home in New Orleans. THOMASA. TREHERN, 65, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1951 aboard the Beauregard. Born in Alabama, the deck department member came ashore to become an SIU official in 1968 and worked in the San Francisco hall. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. He later returned to shipping and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1995. From 1957 to 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Trehern last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Explorer and has retired to Millbrar, Calif. DONALDG. VOLLUZ, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1970 aboard inland vessels. He later transferred to the deep sea division. During his career, he worked in all three departments. Brother Volluz last sailed aboard the Green Island, a Waterman Steamship Corp. ves- sel, as a member of the deck department. Born in Illinois, he has retired to New Orleans. INLAND JOHN J. BIEGALSKI, 50, began his career with the Seafarers in 1974. Born in Poland, he became a U.S. citizen. He started working in the deck department and later transferred to the engine department. Boatman Biegalski frequently upgraded at the union's school and last sailed as a chief engineer aboard a Hvide Marine vessel. Port Neches, Texas is where he cal1s home. VIBERT A. BODDEN, 62, first sailed with the SIU in 1965. Born in the British West Indies, he worked in the deck department, last sailing as a captain aboard a Sabine Transportation Co. vessel. During his career, he attended an educational conference at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Bodden makes his home in Woodville, Texas. From 1955 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Navy. MARVINR. CATES, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Cates sailed in the deck department and frequently upgraded at the union's school in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the towboat operator Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG course in 1973. Prior to his retirement, the Tennessee native worked aboard the Socrates, operated by Allied Towing Corp. He has retired to Hernando, Miss. EDWINC. POWELL, 72, began his career with the SIU in 1965 in Port Arthur, Texas. A native of the Lone Star state, he worked as a captain, last sailing aboard a Higman Towing Co. vessel. From 1955 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Powell calls Broken Bow, Okla. home. CHARLES F. PRUITT, 61, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Baltimore. A native of Virginia, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Falcon, an Allied Towing Corp. vessel. Boatman Pruitt makes his home in Tangier, Va. GREAT LAKES HOWARDE. BROWN,68, joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Detroit. Brother Brown worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Richard J. Reiss, an Erie Sand Steamship Co. vessel. From 1948 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. The Michigan native has retired to Saginaw. refresher school for SIU chief stewards as part of the steward department recertification program. Five veteran stewards are enrolled in the first class. The program, developed over the past couple years, is the result of a recommendation by a committee of rank-and-file members of the steward department. It features both classroom and practical work to upgrade the steward and teach him the skills necessary for a chief steward's rating. 1951 After many months of building preparations, the SIU moved into its new headquarters over the weekend of November 17. The building at 6 75 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, was acquired over a year ago and was made necessary by the fact that SIU outgrew the old headquarters building at 51 Beaver Street in downtown New York. The move was made by the headquarters staff, and the office staff, with many rank and file mem1977 bers assisting.... It is only a little m re than seven years since the move from the small and Moran of Texas has a new wgboat in its SIUdingy office at 2 Stone Street near South Ferry contracted fleet in Port Arthur. The Mary in downtown New York which used to house Moran, a new 3,300 hp., twin screw tug, the headquarters of the union. came out of the J. McDermott Shipyard of Morgan City, La. in September. 1962 She brings new jobs to four SIU boatmen who The latest in a series of important advances to will do harbor work in Port Arthur on the new assure all Seafarers the best possible food and vessel. The tug will mainly be involved in ship food service aboard ship is now undetway at docking. The Mary Moran is also certified for SIU headquarters with the launching of a new ocean towing. THIS MONTH JIV SIU HIS10 _y Seafarers LOG 17 �Anal Depa~ures DEEP SEA KENNETH DALE HAWKINS WILLIAM ROBERT CAREY William Robert Carey, 39, passed away July 21 . He graduated from the entry-level training program at the Seafarers Harry =~---l• Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1978 and joined the SIU in Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Pisces. Brother Carey sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the school. A resident of Jacksonville, Fla., he last sailed aboard Sea-Land Service's Nedlloyd Holland. JAMES E. CHRISTIAN James Everett Christian, 91, died August 21. Brother Christian joined the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. Born in i...:..;;....._____ Tennessee, he worked in the deck department, last sailing in 1973 aboard the Sea-Land Gallaway. __J_ AUBREY PRESTON CLARK Pensioner Aubrey Preston Clark, 81, passed away November 9, 1998. A native of Texas, he began his career with the SIU in 1966 in the port of Houston. His first ship was the Halcyon Panther. Brother Clark sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union 's school in Piney Point, Md. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1936 to 1957. His last ship was the LNG Aquarius. Brother Clark was resident of Corpus Christi, Texas. He began receiving his pension in March 1982. VALERIANO P. EMBERNATE Pensioner Valeriano P. Embernate, 92, died August 16. Born in the Philippines, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1943 in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member last sailed aboard the Hawaii Bear, operated by Pacific Far East Lines, Inc. Brother Embemate made his home in San Francisco and retired in September 1971. DOLLY M. FORD Pensioner Dolly M. Ford, 80, passed away July 10. She started her career with the MC&S in 1958 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Iowa, she worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Santa Mercedes. Sister Ford lived in Las Vegas, Nev. and started receiving her pension in September 1978. DOUGLAS M. HASSETT Douglas Macon Hassett, 75, died April 19. Brother Hassett ' first sailed with the Seafarers in 1951. A native of California, he worked in the engine department, last sailing in 1973 aboard a Seatrain Lines, Inc. vessel. He was a resident of Healdsburg, Calif. - 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Kenneth Dale Hawkins, 71 , passed away July 15. Born in Oklahoma, he started his career with the MC&S in .___.::;.;:.::;.....-.__.::::llo.......J 194 5. His first ship was the Fairland. Brother Hawkins worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the Oregon. He made his home in Portland, Ore. and began receiving his pension in October 1975. From 1950 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Anny. DAMON JOHNSON Pensioner Damon Johnson, 94, died September 10. A native of Georgia, he joined the MC&S in 1946 in the port of San Francisco, first sailing aboard the Brown Victory. The steward department member retired in April 1969. Brother Johnson was a resident of San Francisco. KEICHI KAKUDA Pensioner Keichi Kakuda, 78, passed away September 7. He began his career with the MC&S in 1949 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Kakuda sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in May 1989. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S . Army from 1942 to 1944. Born in Hawaii, he made his home in the Bronx, N.Y. CHARLES B. KELLY CharlesB. Kelly, 68, who was born in North Carolina, died July 9. Brother Kelly joined the Sea- farers in 1978 in the port of ~~D:J1 Norfolk, Va. He worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Keystone State, operated by lnterocean Ugland Managemement. From 1948 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Kelly was a resident of Faith, N.C. ERNESTC.KUNICKAS . - - - - - - - - - , Pensioner Ernest Casimer Kunickas, 77, passed away July 27. Born in Illinois, he started his career with the SIU in 1946. Brother Kunickas worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the SeaLand Defender. A resident of San Francisco, he began receiving his pension in February 1987. LESTER W. LeCLAIR Pensioner Lester W. LeClair, 76, died July 23. A native of Minnesota, he first sailed with the Seafarers in 1947, aboard the Leland Stanford, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He worked in the steward department, upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1980. Brother LeClair last sailed aboard the Overseas Natalie. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1946. He was a resident of Topeka, Kan . and retired in January 1988. EDGAR MARQUARDT Pensioner Edgar Marquardt, 87, passed away July 18. Born in Estonia, he joined the SIU in 1942. Brother Marquardt sailed in the engine department and started receiving his pension in December 1962. He made his home in Baltimore. CORBERT RAY MYRICK Pensioner Corbert Ray Myrick, 75, died September 9. Brother Myrick graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1962 and joined the SIU in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Emilia, operated by A.H. Bull Steamship Co. A native of North Carolina, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1947. The Danville, Va. resident retired in August 1989. .._...._ _:;::,,,.,.,.,,::...;:___.:;::.._J PEDRO SANCHEZ Pedro Sanchez, 46, passed away August 19. Born in Puerto Rico, he graduated from the union 's entrylevel training program in .___ _ _ _ ___, 1971 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. Brother Sanchez sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the school in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1988. He was a resident of Coral Springs, Fla. JULIO I. SANTIAGO F=~~===.;;:==~ Pensioner Julio I. Santiago, 82, died August 12. A native of Puerto Rico, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1941 from the port of t=:~====~==::1 New York. He worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Borinquen, operated by NPR, Inc. A resident of Catano, P.R., he started receiving his pension in September 1980. WILLIAM F. VANCALSEM Pensioner William F. Vancalsem, 91, passed away July 30. Brother Vancalsem first sailed with the MC&S in 1952. He was a member of the steward department and retired in July 1973. He made his home in Bay St. Louis, Miss. CHARLES C. P. OH YOUNG JOSE ZAYAS Pensioner Charles C. P. Oh Young, 80, passed away May 7. A native of Hawaii, he joined the , · MC&S. Brother Oh Young sailed in the steward department and started receiving his pension in July 1977. He made his home in Honolulu. ,...._,.,,..,...,............,,,.,,.,.,.,."""""='! Pensioner Jose SUN SIN PARK Pensioner Sun Sin Park, 74, passed away June 19. Brother Park joined the MC&S and sailed in the steward department. A native of Hawaii, he was a resident of Wahiawa. Brother Park retired in July 1974. DAVID CARROLL POLITE Pensioner David Carroll Polite, 101, passed away recently. Born in South Carolina, he began sailing with the SIU in 1943 from the port of New York. Brother Polite worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. A resident of Savannah, Georgia, he started receiving his pension in January 1971. WALTER LEE PRITCHETT Pensioner Walter Le Pritchett, 75, died September 10. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. Brother Pritchett worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Overseas Arctic. Born in Wyoming, he made his home in Denham Springs, La. and began receiving his pension in March 1986. Zayas, 67, died July 15. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in his native Puerto Rico. Brother Zayas worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard a Sea-Land Service vessel. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. He was a resident of Bayamon, P.R. and started receiving his pension in December 1995. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. INLAND EDDY CHEVALIER Eddy Chevalier, 50, passed away recently. Born in the Dominican Republic, he joined the Seafarers in 1977 in Puerto Rico. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, where he graduated from the towboat operator course in 1980. He last sailed in 1993 as a captain aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessel. Boatman Chevalier was a resident of Hatorey, P.R. Transportation Co. vessel. He made his home in North Port, Fla. GEORGE R. O'NEAL Pensioner George Randall O'Neal, 66, passed away August 21. He joined the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North Carolina native sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Boatman O'Neal last sailed as a captain aboard the Atlantic Tide, operated by Atlantic Towing. A resident of Chesapeake, Va., he began receiving his pension in November 1989. From 1949 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. LEONARD ARTHUR POLK Pensioner Leonard Arthur Polk, 69, died September 16. Boatman Polk began his career with the SIU in ! 1945 from the port of Houston. A native of Texas, he worked in the deck department, last sailing as a tugboat captain aboard a G&H Towing Co. vessel. From 1951 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Polk lived in Freeport, Texas and retired in December 1990. ....------~ KENNETH RICHARDSON Pensioner Kenneth Richardson, 93, passed away u t 2. Born in Tennessee, he first sailed with the Seafarers in 1940. ~Boatman . _ __ _.;"'-£............ Richardson sailed as 1l tugboat captain and started receiving his pension in July 1970. He made his home in Frankford, Del. ROY GILBERT WILLIAMS Pensioner Roy Gilbert Williams, 68, died August 6. A native of Virginia, he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Williams worked in the deck department, last sailing with Gellenthin Barge Co. A resident of Bloxom, Va., he retired in January 1993. GREAT LAKES JOSIE QUINONES TIO Josie Quinones Tio, 35, died August 17. Born in the Philippines, she joined the SIU in 1994 in the port of Honolulu. Sister Tio started out in the deep sea division, sailing aboard the SS Constitution, an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. she later transferred to Great Lakes vessels. A resident of Honolulu, the steward department member last sailed aboard the John Boland, an American Steamship Co. vessel. WAYNE THOMAS WANZER BARTOLO C. COLON Pensioner Bartolo Carrero Colon, 89, died September 7. A native of Puerto Rico, he began his career with the SIU in 1950, sailing as .____________, a member of the engine department. Prior to his retirement in March 1977, Boatman Colon last sailed aboard a Steuart Wayne Thomas Wanzer, 64, passed away June 26. After a 20-year career in the U.S. Army, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1974 from the port of Detroit. His first ship was the J T. Hutchinson. A native of Michigan, he worked in the engine department, last sailing in 1995 aboard the Charles E. Wilson. (Both his first and last vessels were operated by American Steamship Co.) Brother Wanzer made his home in Wichita Falls, Texas. November 1999 �- -~ - ----- 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 /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. EL MORRO (IUM), July 29Chairman Tommy Benton, Secretary Gina Lightfoot, Educational Director Brian Wilder, Engine Delegate Elieser Montalvo. Chairman announced payoff on July 31. He noted new movies purchased and TV antenna needs repair. Educational director reminded everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and be sure to update shipping documents. Treasurer announced $55 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun gave vote of thanks to Chief Steward Lightfoot, Chief Cook Kris Krause, GSU Jose Garcia and Unlicensed Apprentices Martin Vargas and Ramon Thomas for find jobs. He also thanked deck deparement for hard work. Next ports: Port Everglades and Jacksonville, Fla.; San Juan, P.R. EL YUNQUE (IUM), July 25Chairman Luis J. Ramirez, Secretary Francis Ostendarp, Educational Director Joseph Cirafisi, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Jimmie Graydon, Steward Delegate Charles Collier. Chairman noted two unlicensed apprentices aboard ship; everyone should help teach them good seamanship. He reminded crew members to contribute to SPAD for job security. Secretary stated cost to operate money purchase pension plan increased over past year and requested copy of expenses incurred as well as prospectus of investments. Educational director urged crew to upgrade skills whenever possible at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made and forwarded to contracts department for increase in pension. Steward department given vote of thanks. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), July 18-Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director Orlando Cancel. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Long Beach, Calif. and reminded crew members to donate to SPAD. He also noted it is never too late to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding Sea-Land Service aquisition by Maersk. Special thanks given to Steward Laureta and Chief Cook Susan Moe for good and exotic meals. Next port: Honolulu, Hawaii. CAPE TRINITY (Apex Marine), August 8-Chairman Tom Arriola, Educational Director Gabriel Arhin, Deck Delegate Gilbert Castillo, Steward Delegate Norman Evans. Chairman noted ship to enter Tampa Bay shipyard following payoff. Crew members to disembark and join Houston-bound Cape Taylor. Educational director stressed need for everyone to get STCW endorsement as soon as possible and make use of Piney Point facilities, particularly new fire fighting scho.ol. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for FOS and ROS wage structure. November 1999 GLOBAL LINK (Transoceanic Cable), August 26-Chairman Brian Isenstadt, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Franklin A. Coburn, Deck Delegate Lyle E. Davis, Engine Delegate Peter Littman, Steward Delegate R. Toro. Although Global link has no unlicensed apprentices, chairman spoke in detail about unlicensed apprentice program, describing schooling and time aboard ships, and duties of bosun and steward regarding evaluations and grading of apprentices. He also touched on STCW requirements and need for courses in fire fighting, water survival, first aid and personal safety-all offered at Paul Hall Center. Steward reminded everyone of move by front office of Transoceanic Cable to Baltimore from New Jersey. Company should be fully operational by end of year, working out of depot at Tyco pier. Educational director urged unlicensed mariners to participate in training offered at Piney Point, particularly courses required for STCW compliance. Treasurer announced $4,400 in ship's fund. Suggestion made to use some money for new radio antenna. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chief electrician requested signs be posted in crew lounge asking persons to not turn off VCR and other equipment themselves but to call on services of those who regularly handle electronic/maintenance issues. Crew gave vote of thanks to Baltimore port Agent Dennis Metz and Seafarers LOG for taking interest in Links stay in Virgin Islands and subsequent stand-by relocation to Baltimore. JES STUART (Waterman Steamship), August I-Chairman Thomas Temple, Secretary Stephen W. Roth, Deck Delegate Desiree M. Crockett, Engine Delegate Robert Richer, Steward Delegate Ali Hydera. Secretary reported that after unloading barges in Sunny Point, N.C., layoff anticipated. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade as often as possible at union's training center in Piney Point, especially to take courses to satisfy new Coast Guard regulations. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Everyone reminded that crew lounge is only smoking area designated by MSC for unlicensed members. Needed repairs include installation of door between messhall and crew lounge. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done during rough seas. LNG CAPRICORN (PRONAV), August 22-Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director John Knott, Engine Delegate Rene R. Rosario, Steward Delegate Glenn William. Chairman noted crew's concern with questions about reflagging. Crew hopes for clarification from boarding patrolman. Educational director reminded everyone of unique educational and upgrading opportunities available to Seafarers in form of Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck gang thanked for safe and productive tour. Thanks also given to steward department for great job. Next ports: Osaka and Himeji, Japan; Bontang, Indonesia. OSPREY (Osprey Ship Management), August 15-Chairman Robert M. Wiles, Secretary Felipe P. Orlanda, Educational Director Nicholas A. Vieira, Deck Delegate Albert Austin, Engine Delegate John M. Ledford, Steward Delegate Lawrence E. Winfield. Crew informed that bosun bought TV remote for crew. Outside TV antenna still not hooked up. Chairman read president's report from July LOG. He also talked about importance of safety when tying up ship. Secretary noted conventional oven not yet repaired. He thanked crew members for helping keep ship clean, especially in messhall. Educational director advised all hands to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Some disputed OT reported in deck and engine departments. Request made to find out why crew members cannot send or receive e-mail aboard ship. Burial at sea held July 12 for QMED Daniel Ficca, who died June 8. Officers and crew happy to be of help to Ficca family. Next port: Norfolk, Va. OVERSEAS JUNEAU (OSG Shipping), August 15-Secretary Thomas Wybo, Educational Director James Soto, Deck Delegate Roberto Flanta, Engine Delegate John Day, Steward Delegate Michel D. Hoeffer. Meeting called to elect new chairman since Jay Dillon got off sick in Singapore. Crew told of no confirmed load orders as of August 15 for arrival in Portland. Master will let crew know when he gets word. Crew members asked to turn in all linen, keys and uniforms and to clean rooms before signing off ship. Educational director stressed importance of attending upgrading courses at Piney Point training facility. Disputed OT reported in all three departments. Mail service needs checking into. Crew also would like to be able to communicate aboard ship by way of fax. Chief pumpman requested chill boxes for all unlicensed crew cabins. Steward gave vote of thanks to all for keeping messhall and house clean during grain operations and throughout voyage. Next port: Portland, Ore. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (Alaska Tanker Co.), August 8Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Dana Zuls, Educational Director Craig Croft, Deck Delegate Carl Larson, Engine Delegate Phil Greenwell, Steward Delegate Abdullah Baabad. Bosun announced no set company policy on coveralls and reported videos now located in officers' lounge. He noted captain ordered new couches for crew lounge and reminded crew to get official ship's stamp on application for extra day's pay for trip tours of duty. Secretary recommended upgrading skills at Piney Point and taking advantage of new fire fighting school there. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given for great jobs done by steward department and chief pumpman. Steward recommended riding gang fully participate in all fire, boat and emergency drills. Next port: Ferndale, Wash. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), August IChairman Richard L. Volkart, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Herman Manzer, Deck Delegate Frank Cammuso, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Henry 0. Wright Jr. Chairman announced new toaster received and installed in crew mess. Discussion held July 22 on announcement of Maersk acquisition of Sea-Land's international assets. Awaiting more information. Crew advised of relaxed assessment for STCW compliance as related in LOG arti- cle. Educational director stressed importance of regular upgrading and benefits of attending Piney Point. He noted that as more requirements and training are imposed on livelihood of Seafarers, it is more important than ever to remain up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made and forwarded to contracts department at headquarters to revamp Article V of stan- Delegate Dave Somers, Steward Delegate James Boss. Chairman reported payoff scheduled upon arrival in Tacoma. He asked crew members to keep crew lounge and gear lockers clean. Educational director advised crew members to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer announced $1,000 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship's com- Gazing on the Past While the SS Gopher State was in the shipyard in Southhampton, England last May, some of the vessel's crew members had an opportunity to visit Stonehenge. The worldfamous monument-an amazing feat of engineering built 3,000-5,000 years ago-is located on the Salisbury Plain in southern England. From the left are OMU John C. Steeber Jr. and AB Eden Latta. dard contract to better relate to a three-person steward department, which is now the norm. Request made to bring up at Wilmington monthly membership meeting issue of late standbys, requiring person being relieved to return to vessel to protect job. Inquiry needed as to lack of fans in cabins and common areas. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif.; Honolulu. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaLand Service), August I-Chairman Norberto Prats, Secretary Edgar Vazquez, Educational Director Oswald N. Bermeo, Engine Delegate Pablo Albino, Steward Delegate Ossie D~ Stratham. Chairman announced everything running smoothly, including new washer and dryer. Secretary advised all crew members to take opportunity to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director echoed this advice and also noted importance of contributing to SPAD. Some disputed OT reported in deck department; none in engine or steward departments. Chairman read and posted letter from SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding purchase of SeaLand by Maersk Lines. Crew expressed pleasure at reading about new cargo ships coming into the union as well as joining forces with NMU mariners. Vote of thanks given to steward department. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), August 8-Chairman Boward Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo Ombac. Captain announced payoff scheduled August 13. Educational director reminded everyone of upgrading classes in Piney Point. Treasurer announced $205 in ship's fund and $40 in crew's video fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All hands encouraged to work as a team and observe, maintain and enforce job jurisdiction in order to provide everyone with job security. Thanks given to steward department for great food and service. Next ports: San Juan, P.R. and Jacksonville, Fla. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), August 2Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Lorance D. Pence, Deck mittee reviewed president's report from latest LOG and requested clarification as to what they are supposed to do with it: acknowledge, discuss, debate, approve, disapprove. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. USNS SODERMAN (Bay Ship), August 7-Chairman Jeffrey Saxon, Secretary Ronald D. Jones, Engine Delegate Alan Nelson, Steward Delegate Thomas Johnson. Chairman encouraged crew members to attend upgrading classes at training facility in Piney Point and keep all shipping documents up to date. He also reminded those wishing to return to vessel to go through hiring hall, not call company. Steward thanked crew for helping keep ship clean while carrying supercargo. He also thanked his department for outstanding job of feeding 65 people three times a day. Treasurer announced $230 in ships fund. Some of money will go toward purchasing new videos; company also will supply videos. Some disputed OT reported in deck department; no beefs or disputed OT in engine and steward departments. Communications received from headquarters state pay raise effective as of August 1 and bonus checks should be received within three weeks. Request made for satellite dish for better reception aboard vessel. Clarification requested on wages for working more than 40 hours. Steward department given vote of thanks from crew. Next port: Newport News, Va. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), September 5Chairman Joseph Moore, Secretary Joseph Birke, Educational Director John Penrose, Deck Delegate Abraham M. Murray, Steward Delegate Julio Guity. Chairman noted payoff in New Orleans September 11. He requested all hands have rooms clean and ready for next person before arriving in port. Educational director reminded crew of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Some disputed OT reported in engine and steward departments. Request made for TV antenna and VCR rewinder in crew's lounge and repair or replacement of ice machine in crew's mess. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Seafarers LOS 19 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes PAUL HALL CENTER LIFEBOAT CLASS Oil Spill Prevention - With instructor Jim Shaffer (standing) are Penn Maritime boatmen who completed the oil spill prevention course recently. They are (in no particular order) Paul Sany, Ashby Furlough, Ken Graybill, David Wade and Skip Walsh. ~9~ Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 592 - Graduating from unlicensed apprentice water survival class 592 are (from left, kneeling) Reggie Donaldson, Erik Nappier, Tyler Laffitte Jr., Lyndon Ferreira, (second row) Joshua Walker, Dwayne Brock, Shannon Bonefont, Shannon Miranda, Keolamauloahawaiiloa Mowat and Europa Tuivaiti. Maintenance Electrician ( - Upgrading E Seafarers who on September 24 successfully completed course are (in alphabetical order) Robert Bouton, Peter Chodzko, Randy Clark, Cris Compton, Timothy Kosturko, Brian Lu, James McBride, Ryan Reedy, Edward Rynberg and Toney Smith. Their instructor was Eric Malzkuhn (standing center) . Upgraders Water Survival - Marking completion of the upgraders water survival class on September 17 are (from left, front row) Peri Drew, Kathy Pritchard, Louella M. Sproul, Shelby J. Rankin, Jonathan A. Paul, (second row) Russell S. Williams, Jimmy Tan, Tim Fernandez, Gregory Pratt, Matt Bjerk, Stevia Babers, Anthony W. Lowman , (third row) Jonathan C. Morgan, Pernell Fulford , David L. McKnight, Joseph R. Weller, Ondongee L. Pegram, Gregory Hendryx, Bryon A. Baker, George Barbour, Timothy B. Barker and David S. Rood. Their instructor, Tom Gilliland, is at far left. UpgratJing your skills at the Paul Hall Center is the best way to improve your mind, your knowledg,e, your rating and your job security. Check the upcoming courses listed on page 23. Chief Cook - Learning some of the finer points in cooking from chef/instructor John Dobson (right) is deep sea member Wilfred Lambey. Government Vessels - With instructor Stan Beck (far right in each photo) are students who completed the government vessels course at various times in September. Included on the course roster are (in alphabetical order) Daniel Borden, Michael Bragdon, Daniel Bratta, Jonathan Buffington, Noel Camacho, Alvin Clark, Brett Clark, Roosevelt Clark, Todd Conley, Allen Davis, James Demouy, Rally Espiritu, Carey Foster Jr., Jason Foster, Heather Frizzelle, Justin Germain, Geronimo Gonzales, David Gray, Hector Guity, Martin Josephson, Kristin Krause, John Levasseur, Manuel Oliveras, Senan Omar, James Porter Jr., Efren Redil, Wade Rudolph , Lisa Ruiz, Anderson Saco, Johanna Saul, Chad Schultz, John Shivers, Jevon Vontoure, Mark Wain, Dwight Ward and Mark Wertanen. 20 Seafarers LOG November 1999 �1 P-auI HaII Center Graduating CIasses Advanced Fire Fighting - Receiving their advanced fire fighting endorsements on September 24 are (in alphabetical order) Clark Brittingham, Howard M. Bryant, George Burgos, Brett Clark, James L. Clark, Jose E. Clotter, Herbert Daniels, Rolly M. Espiritu, Michael S. Gomes, Ronald Gordon, Eugene T. Grantham, Hector Guity, Alfred J. Galley Operations - Finishing one of the required two-week modules in the galley operations curriculum with (from left) Chef Ed White (instructor) are Nasser Hasson, Cesar Marcias-Ortiz, Reynald Gabaylo, Ernest Polk, Arsenic Gusilator, Arnulfo Lacayo and Willie Crear. Certified Chief Cook- Working in the steward lab are (from left), Janusz Smolik, Willie Grant, Dan Bin Rashidi, Chef John Dobson (instructor) , Dana Washington, Wayne Howard and Fernando Lopez. For their final dish, the students prepared grilled salisbury steak with hunter's sauce and duchess potatoes. Herrmann, Tomothy J. Horger, Rodney Jimenez, Albert C. Johnson, Geroge J. Keblis, Tomas A. Kennan Jr., Jerry D. Martinsen, Spencer Moxley Sr., Francisco Palacios, Scott Seuret, John A. Shivers, Richard H. Surrick, James E. Whalen Ill and Patrick Yarbrough Jr. Their instructor was John Smith. Certified Chief Cook - Upgrading steward department members Jerome Davis, Wayne Howard and John Palughi (third, fourth and fifth from left) pose in the steward lab with some of their instructors: Chef Romeo Lupinacci (left), Chef Shannon Twigg (second from left) and Chef John Hetmanski (right}. Galley Familiarization - Part of the unlicensed apprentice program includes learning one's way around the galley. From the left (kneeling) are members of class 593: Phillip Hartline, Steven Pollard , Michael Kachele, Derrin Juul, (second row) Chef Shannon Twigg (instructor), Steven Lamb Jr., Donald Davis Jr. , Carlton Hendley, Brian Guiry, Ryan Smith and Richard Huffman . FOWT- SIU and NMU members graduate from the FOWT course on September 17. Listed on the roster for the course are (in alphabetical order) Michael Baughman, Levy Calzado, Steven Campbell , Deronja Clark, Noel Corrales, Jennifer Cronin, Waseem Dhalai, Wayne Ellsworth, Wayne Evans, Roderick Frazier, Kenrick Graham, Kenji Hoffman, Latanya Jackson, Welton Johnson, Brian Kimbrough, Shane Landon, Maximo Loto Jr., Manuel Lulley, Benjamin Mathews, Mark McNabb, Eddie Miller, Miguel Medina, Sammy Montana, Deion Nguyen, Hamdanni Nurdin, Benign Padaoan, Carmus Peet, Joseph Sam and William Taylor. Their instructor was Mark Jones. November 1999 Seafarers LOB 21 �I.den to Keeping MarAd Up to Date the Editor (Editors 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.) Enjoying the Deep Blue And the Grassy Green Several years ago, you published an article in the LOG about me qualifying for a senior PGA tour event. Since then, I have been in about 13 events and have not fared too well. I entered six this summer and did not qualify. In an event not far from where I live, which is a regular PGA stop, I got the bug to go for it. I went to the Monday morning qualifying and got the fourth spot, with a score of 68. In the first and second rounds, I finished dead last, with scores of 87 and 82. So, in a field of the best players in the world, including most of the Ryder Cup teams, I was the worst of the best in the world that week. I went home with no checkbut with a wealth of experience. Now I'll go back to sea and try again next year. AB James Wood Upper Jay, N.Y. (Editors note: The article on Brother Wood ran in the January 1997 LOG.) Deputy Maritime Administrator John Graykowski (left) made a stop at the Honolulu hall recently. The Maritime Administration, among other things, provides loan guarantees for American Hawaii Cruises to build new cruise ships. Graykowski was very interested in learning more about the SIU's proposal to crew the new vessels and how the union's recruiting activities will meet those goals. From the left are Graykowski, SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz, and Clint Taylor of Sea-Land in Hawaii. ACamlval It Wasn't When I discussed the latest Carnival Cruise escapade with my good buddy, he simply shrugged his shoulders. He alludes to these revelations with a sort of one-line question/answer attitude: "Who didn't know that?" One of Carnival's so-called "well maintained ships" was powerless at sea in the path of one of the century's most destructive hurricanes [Hurricane Floyd]. Hundreds of passengers complained that human waste was backing into the ship's living and eating quarters, among other things. Not exactly a gala carnival atmosphere. The upside is that the conditions were not conducive to sexual impropriety by crew members, as has been charged on other cruises. When the vessel was finally towed to a safe harbor, a company spokesperson declared that all expenses would be taken care of and rain checks would be issued to anyone who cared to cruise with them at a later date. Really?? Anthony Notturno Villas, N.J. LOB-A-RHYTHMS Derelict John W. Brown by Harry T. Scholer by Bill Parks Like Noah s Ark it appears to me Coming out of the early morning mist. Three hundred cubits long, fifty cubits wide, Thirty cubits high, pitching and rolling in ten-foot seas. Ghostly white and faded gray With patches of rust streaking down her side. Deserted now, the crew long gone, A cabin door swings forlornly in the wind. Straining, resisting the final indignity Of being towed to her demise. The small tug huffing and puffing, But making little headway in wind and sea. Where did she come from? I know where shes bound To the breakers, to be made into razor blades. Silently we pass, her markings painted out Giving no clue. Her past a mystery, her future a certainty Which the struggles only delay. One more look and then farewell. For I am a sailor who does love the sea My ship is the Brown, shes an old Liberty I work down below in the heat from the steam Happy to serve as a part of her team For here I'm a sailor when we make this ship go When they ring from above and we start off our show We don 't have much speed and our wake is not much But wey down below she welcomes our touch The sweat and the heat we grin and we bear For this is our love and 0 how we care This engine is old but so are we too We give her our best, the best we can do The oiler who squirts as he makes his own rounds He listens andfeels to those wondeiful sounds The fireman who stands as his fires make the steam Proud of his part for this is his dream The tender of water as it rises and falls He knows from the bells how to answer their calls Shes now up to speed with excitement by all The throttles wide open, her pressure won 't fall The Captain above in the cool breezy air Must feel in his heart for the love thats down there From up at our bow and aft to our end From the bridge up above, this message I'll send To the Sailors who sailed and forever still roam Watch over this ship, her crew . .. and our home. (Harry T. Scholer of Orlando, Fla. sailed as an AB with the SIU. He has since retired his book and now sails as second mate with the American Maritime Officers for Maritrans.) She's D' Ship by Joel Molinos I love she, I love she not only for what she are, or what she have, but for what I am when I am with she. ,- (Joel Molinos sails as chief cook aboard the !TB Groton.) 22 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 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 th 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 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 meet[This poem was sent to the LOG by Ted Vargas (who ings in all constitutional ports. The also sent us this month's "Pie-from-the-Past" on page 16), an oiler aboard the Liberty ship John W. Brown. It responsibility for Seafarers LOG was written by a fellow volunteer crewmate, Bill policy is vested in an editorial Parks, who works as a wiper. Parks soon will become board which consists of the execuan apprentice fireman and e ventually get his MMD tive board of the union. The execuendorsement for FOWT. According to Vargas, "Parks tive board may delegate, from is an older man, as are most of us on the Brown, who among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. became fascinated with the old Liberty ship.] 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 disc · · d against because of race, creed, co , ational 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 es including, but no i · e 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. Naflember 1999 �. SEAFARERS PAUE HALl CENTER 1999~2000 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes from November through the end of the year as well as the first three months of 2000 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to impr~ve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industrY~ · · Ple~~ 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 rooming of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations $h;Ould be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Pau,!Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses ¥.hifeboatman Start Date Date of Completion January 24 February 21 February 18 March 17 January24 February 11 January 10 February 7 January 21 (pre-AB) Feb. 28 (pre-AB) January 17 March 6 January 28 March 17 January 10 January 31 January 14 .F ebruary4 November 1, 15, 29 (1999) December 13, 27 (1999) January 10, 24 Certified Chief Cook/ Chief Steward (Every other week) Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* January 10 January 10 March 6 January 28 January 28 March 24 Basic Firefighting November 22, '99 January 17 February 28 November 26, '99 January 21 March 3 Advanced Firefighting November 8, .' 99 November 29, '99 January 10 February 14 March 6 November 19, '99 December 10, '99 January21 February 25 March 17 Government Vessels November 1, '99 November 8, '99 November 29, '99 January 31 February 28 November 19, '99 November 26, '99 December 17, '99 February 18 March 17 STCW Basic Safety (refresher) November 8, '99 November 22, '99 November 29, '99 December 13, '99 Marcli6 November 12, '99 November 26, '99 December 3, '99 December 17, '99 February 11 March 10 January 24 . March 13 January 28 MarchJ7 February 28 March3 February 28 March 3 (*must have basic fire fighting) Eflglne Bpglatling Courses Welding· Start Date Date of Complepon Januaty 10 Februaryl8 January 24 April 14 January 10 January 28 January31 February 18 }(~)?ruary (*must have basic fll'e fighting) November: 8, '99 ,.De<=ember 17, '99 November 13, t99 January 10 February 14 December 3, '99 January28 March 3 LNG Familiarization* (*must have advancedfue flghtmg) ii pill Containment Academic Department Courses Stewa1d Upgrading Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, Course Start Date Galley Operations/ Advanced Galley Operations November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (1999) December 6, 13~ 20, 27 (1999) January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 (Every week) ? 1 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 (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 FOWT. AB and OMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard UPGRADING APPLICATION fee of $280 with their av.plication. The payment should be made with a monev order only. payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone END DATE BEGIN DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 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# - --.-'--- - - - - - - 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? b Yes DNo If yes,r class # - - -- - - - - - - - - " - - - - - ' - - - - - - - -- - -- - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes DNo "If yes, .course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ D No Firefighting: Primary language spoken November 1999 D Yes 0 No CPR: 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. REWRN COMP,LETEJ) APJ:UCATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admissio,,; Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? 0 Yes LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ __ 0 Yes DNo The Seafarers Hany 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 iri its prqgrams or activities. 11199 Seafarers LOS 23 �m . l n f m rt Holiday Greetings The December issue of the LOG will include holiday greetings to and from Seafarers and SIU members as well as their families and friends. See page 10 to send your message. Hurricane Floyd Aftermath Sea-Land Developer Rescues 6 Crowley Crew Handles Salvage Operation; Battered Humacao Survives Scary Episode SIU members found out-the hard way, in some cases-that Hurricane Floyd carried as much danger at sea as it did on the Atlantic coast when it struck in mid-September. The Sea-Land Developer rescued six people from a disabled sailboat off the coast of Cuba. The Crowley ocean-going tug Sentinel handled a salvage operation in Charleston, S.C. that initially had been bungled by a non-union crew. And the Humacao survived a frightening encounter with the storm off the coast of Jacksonville, Fla. Developer Rescue Captain Robert Lamb reports that on September 13, the SeaLand Developer had just passed ahead of the hurricane and was sailing toward the eastern tip of Cuba, approximately 125 miles off its coast. The vessel received a nearly inaudible distress call from a sailboat at 2100, but "we could see him, so I decided to stop and render assistance. The weather had improved since we had passed within 100 miles of the storm, but was still bad. Wind was from the southwest between 35 and 40 knots, and seas were still huge. We stopped the ship about a half-mile upwind and tried talking again." Lamb and other personnel on the Sea-Land vessel learned that the 50-foot wooden boat God Save had a broken sail and didn't possess an auxiliary motor. The sailboat trades between Port au Prince, Haiti and Nassau, Bahamas and was carrying plantains. The sailboat's captain requested a tow. "I told him that we are not in that business," notes Lamb. "He then asked if we could just do a distress relay for him. I agreed but didn't want him sitting alongside the whole time, as I was afraid we'd pound his side to pieces. So I started backing down, but by the time he got up by our No. 4 hatch, they changed their minds and decided to abandon. I think the crew probably threatened "We had 55gallon drums that were squished into the size of basketballs." - Recertified Bosun David Mu"ay, describing hurricane's impact on SIU-crewed Humacao mutiny! "Anyway, we got the ship moving ahead again and retrieved all six crew members from the sailboat with no problems. All disembarked in Panama two days later and were repatriated to Haiti from there. The total delay from this diversion was two hours." Sentinel Salvage Captain Eddie Williams and the crew of the Crowley tug Sentinel on September 23 safely retrieved a fully loaded, 732-foot barge approximately 90 miles off the coast of Charleston, S.C. A non-union company initially had been hired for the salvage operation. "They fouled all the gear when they towed it," observes Williams, who began Crew members on the Sea-Land Developer pose with Haitians whom they rescued from a disabled sailboat in rough weather. Pictured from left to right are (kneeling) DEU Tomas Robinson, AB Ronald Huyett, Bosun Paul Sbriglio, (standing) AB Cleofe Castro, Chief Mate John Kerwin, Engine Cadet Carlos Vallarino, survivors Lucia Pierre and Flaubert Mesidor, AB Charles Gordon, survivors Alcede Charles, Gerard Noel and Jozius lnniace, Captain Robert Lamb and survivor Donai Jacques. sailing in 1977. "They got lines in the wheel." Enter the Sentinel, which arrived in 12-foot seas. "There was a 2,400-hp tug (which had replaced the original would-be salvage crew) there about to sink," recalls Williams. "That little boat couldn't handle it. He had to [release the barge], and when he did, my crew rigged up a retrieval hook and brought it in. "It was pretty cut and dry." The barge was carrying containers bound for Puerto Rico. Assisting Williams on the 136-foot Crowley boat were Chief Mate Richard Workman, Second Mate Dave Massey, ABs John Holland and Les O'Hair and Chief Engineer Phil Robinson. Humacao Battered ,_ These four photos, provided by Recertified Bosun David Murray, show the SIU-crewed Humacao during and after the hurricane. Amazingly, no one aboard the ship was seriously injured, even though the vessel was exposed to Floyd's full force. Recertified Bosun David Murray credits Seafarers from the containership Humacao with remaining composed despite potentially catastrophic circumstances. On September 15 and 16, the ship endured Floyd's full bIURt, approximately 150 miles from Jacksonville. Miraculously, there were no serious injuries, and the vessel survived despite 60-foot seas, 100-mph winds, 45-degree rolls and a shipboard fire. "I'm sure everybody was scared, but the unlicensed crew handled it great. None of them complained, and all of them did a top-notch job," states Murray. "We're pretty lucky we survived." Navieras NPR, which oper- SIU halls were closed for about 24 hours fn Ft. Lauderdale (above) and Jacksonville, Fla. and in Norfolk, Va. due to the hurricane. None sustained major damage, although flooding occurred at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. ates the Humacao, sent plaques to all the crew members, citing their "gallant, heroic efforts" in surviving the hurricane. Murray says the Humacao left Jacksonville "and ran smack into (the storm). There was nothing we could do but hold on. We traveled about 30 miles in 36 hours." Dozens of containers were lost, drums of hydraulic oil were crushed, and a fire on the stem was ignited when a valve broke. Despite being hampered by displaced containers blocking parts of the deck, crew members quickly extinguished the fire. Finally, the worst of the storm passed, and the Humacao proceeded to San Juan, P.R., where it underwent repairs for three days. "There was a lot of damage, and they're still having some minor repairs done from time to time," notes Murray. "Everything was chained down, but it broke loose in the storm. We had 55-gallon drums that were squished into the size of basketballs." SIU members who were aboard the Humacao included Murray, ABs Thomas Grosskurth, Terry McKee, Kevin Gatling, George Perry and Thomas Russell, Deck Engineer Bruce Harber, Chief Electrician William Payne, OMUs Kenneth Biddle, David Ballard and Joseph Arch, Engine Utility Anthony Rosa, DEU Willie Smith, Chief Steward Raymond Jones, Chief Cook Pedro Rodriguez, and Utility Messmen Samuel Sotomayor and Catalino Diaz. Damage estimates for the hurricane in the U.S. have topped $1.5 billion and may increase. Floyd caused dozens of fatalities while prompting the largest evacuation in America's history. � 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 November 1999 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MEMBERS START CONSIDERATION FOR SIU-NMU MERGER VOTE U.S. FLEET VITAL TO NATIONAL SECURITY MTD DELEGATES MAP PLANS FOR STRONG MARITIME POLICIES AFL-CIO CONVENTION APPROVES RESTRUCTURING AT LOCAL, STATE LEVELS SEAFARERS GAIN JOBS UNION STARTS TESTING FOR BASIC ENGLISH COAST GUARD REGS REQUIRE ALL MARINERS TO UNDERSTAND SHIPBOARD ORDERS NEW CRUISE COMPANY ACQUIRES HONORED NAME STRUCTURAL CHANGES APPROVED AT AFL-CIO CONVENTION IN L.A. AMERICAN CORMORANT CREW PRAISED FOR ‘FLAWLESS’ WORK SENATOR CALLS FOR ACTION TO EXPAND U.S.-FLAG FLEET IN FOREIGN TRADE HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE EYES CRUISE MISHAPS ‘SHIP FROM HELL’ IS LATEST RUNAWAY-FLAG CALAMITY COAST GUARD MODIFIES USER FEES SAFETY IS PRIMARY CONCERN AS AMERICAN STEAMSHIP CREWS KEEP LAKES CARGOES MOVING 10 RECERTIFIED BOSUNS IMPART HARD-EARNED WISDOM TO TRAINEES SIU MEMBERS HELP MAINTAIN MILITARY SHIPS IN GUAM, SAIPAN LNG CREWS REASSURED ABOUT REFLAGGING AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION LEGISLATORS SUPPORT STRONG U.S. FLEET AFL-CIO PRESIDENT: ‘ORGANIZING AND POLITICS ARE WHERE IT’S AT’ SWEENEY URGES ‘STRONGER POLITICAL VOICE’ TO BENEFIT AMERICA’S WORKING FAMILIES BIENNIAL CONVENTION MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT, AFL-CIO MSC COMMANDER SEES INCREASED ROLE FOR CIVILIAN MARINERS ON MILITARY SHIPS SEA-LAND DEVELOPER RESCUES 6 CROWLEY CREW HANDLES SALVAGE OPERATION; BATTERED HUMACAO SURVIVES SCARY EPISODE 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 11/01/1999 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. 11 1999 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/bf109efdb751a0452d198e53f2f06cee.PDF 2f6caca361643296b74b23950f7064d9 PDF Text Text Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America Vol. VII. NEW YORK. N. Y.. FRIDAY. NOVEMBER 2. 1945 No. 44 SlU DEMANDS ISTHMIAN RECOGNITION No Ships Delayed As SIU Pushes Asks For Consent Election; Boycott Of WSA Medical Program Has Signed Piedges From The position taken by the mem­ bership in the Port of New York to boycott the WSA Medical Divi­ sion was having a telling effect as ship after ship left port manned by SIU seamen un-examined by WSA. All SIU branches have con­ curred in the motion which is designed to force the War Ship­ ping Administration's medical bureau out of business now, and forestall that government agency's attempts to continue into the postwar period. The action was taken after New York Port Agent Paul Hall recommended a discussion of the report that WSA Director Macauley was making speeches to the operators regarding the "value" of WSA medical examina­ tions and urging their support of legislation to perpetuate the agency. (Macauley's sales arguments as presented to the shipowners, ap­ pear on page 4 along with some of the obvious answers to his mis­ guided efforts to shackle the mer­ chant seamen.) ALL OPPOSED As seaman after seaman took the floor to voice his objections to the existing medieal set-up and express his wholehearted op­ position to its continuation, the meeting heard various tales of ridiculous and often costly (to was, in effect, a means of having seamen) situations created by the public foot the bill for the operators. this anti-labor agency. Admiral Land, fighting to pro­ • Not a single member voiced any tect the lucrative jobs these bu­ reason for the phony "medical reaucrats hold, protested the set-up" staying in business. Union's stand. He waved the Finally, on a motion presented b^ Deck "patrolrnVn" Jor Al^ina" I and seconded by almost every saying that the SIU was delaying man .in the hall, the membership the movement of ships and was put the New York Branch on holding up the returning of troops. record for the boycott. The records of the SIU—and • The meeting also instructed • the New York Dispatchers not to . . records of the Medical Disend any men for such examina-! ^ tfons. Officials were instructed show that the Seafarers have to notify all companies of the many times proven that the Med­ decision and to urge all ports to ical Program was responsible for shipping delays, and served as the concur in the New York action. 'The Sailors Union of the Pa­ chief bottleneck in the quick dis­ cific and other SIU affiliated or­ patch of vessels. As concurence with the union's ganizations were notified of the SIU decision and urged to pass views, the Seafarers has on file letters from its operators agreeing parallel measure. • SIU spokesmen declared thaf, with its statements that the Med­ inasmuch as agreements with the ical Program of the WSA was operators provide for examina­ holding up greatly needed ship­ tion by a company doctor, the ping. WSA Medical Division, like the The seamen's, refusal to submit WSA itself, was an unnecessary to the WSA examination has not expense to the taxpayers and resulted in any sailing delays. Majority Of Isthmian Men The Seafarers International Union has advised the Isthmian Steamship Company that it holds pledge cards from a substantial majority of its employees designating the SIU as their collective bargaining agency, and that the Union demands full recognition as the sole representative of the men in contract nego-twould make by becoming mem­ tiations. bers of the Seafarers. This announcement climaxed At the start of the drive the five-month long organizational drive by the SIU to bring the program ran into several major Isthmian seamen into the ranks difficulties. Among the toughest was the Isthmian system of hir­ of the organized seamen. ing crew replacements. The If Isthmian consents to a volun­ tight-knit operation of this sys­ tary election, it will be held im­ tem made it almost impossible to mediately. Should it refuse, the get more than a few SIU men Union will have to use the ma­ into the fleet. chinery of the National Labor Re­ Another obstacle to overcome lations Board to force an election. was the practice of members from The organization drive was a rival union who, instead of started with the avowed inten­ selling their own organization to tion of giving the Isthmian em­ the crews, were busy knocking it ployees an opportunity of win­ and, by implication, all unions. ning better wages and working Only constant educational efforts conditions by membership in or­ on the part of the SIU convinced ganized labor. these men that all unions are not alike, and that these men knock­ UNION EDUCATION The SIU plan called for first ing their own outfit didn't prove convincing these seamen of the that organized labor followed that advantages they would enjoy as union's pattern. union men and then, if they NEVER PETITIONED should favor unionization, con­ For five years, that organiza­ vince them of the gains they tion has been working within this fleet with the idea of bringing the crews under its banner. Not once during this time did they gather enough strength or courage to put the question of becoming Voting for the officers for the Atlantic and Gulf the bargaining agent to a vote. District of the Seafarers International Union for the year This, too, discouraged a number of 1946 began on November 1, when union seamen re­ of the seamen, because most of ported to all of the districts thirteen ports to cast their them figured that the rosy prom­ ises made to them were unob­ ballots, and will continue until December 31st, when tainable. the polls close. ' During the entire five months Thirty-one positions are to be to jog the memories of the mem­ filled this year, with 51 candi­ bership to whom, very often, the SIU has made the winning of dates in the files for posts rang­ names only are apt to be con­ these seamen to organized labor ts primary objective; selling the ing from Secretary-Treasurer to fusing. "The present officers of the Seafarers as the right union for branch Patrolmen. All means of publicity are be­ Union, stressing the fact that the them, became secondary in the ing used to assure the highest coming year will probably see campaign. In other words, great numbers possible, vote by eligible mem­ many important problems facing bers—the Seafarers Log. posters, the maritime industry, called for of pledges were signed because announcements at branch meet­ every member to cast his own the Isthmian men wei-e convinced ings, and personal exhortations vote and to constitute himself a that the SIU organizational drive : by union members to their broth­ committee of one to see to it that was not a purely selfish cam­ ers to "get out and say your his friends take advantageof their paign. Union rights and duties. Another winning Seafarers piece." Included on the ballot are two argument was the practice of Interest shown during the nominations period and the resolutions being submitted to a bringing Isthmian men to gen­ usually reliable conversational in­ referendum vote, to authorize the eral membership meetings where : terest presage a lively campaign purchase of Union halls in the they not only saw the Union's ports of Boston and Philadelphia. democracy in action, but took the with many ballots cast. A new feature this year is a The resolution for Philadelphia floor to discuss their own probpicture poster of the candidates. (ConHmtei on Page 5) (Continued on Page 12) Begin Voting For Officers �J.'' S'iw'; •,. Lv.-*;.'*- Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. November 2, 1945 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District Affiliated with tlx American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y." HAnover 2-2784 X. i, if X HARRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK -------- Secy-Treas. P. O. Box 25, 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 Goodbye, Dr. Chips The cries of wrath, indignation and despair eman­ ating from the offices of thescab-herding War Shipping Administration is testimony enough of the pinch those fink breeders are feeling these days. Their woe is the result of the niembership's action at the last meeting when they, through a unanimously adopt­ ed motion, ordered all members of the SIU to stay away from the WSA abortion factory, the Medical Division. Unable to make the public appreciate their "valued services" to the seamen, these parasites find themselves faced with the possibility of being forced to go back to real work. This not very pleasant prospect faces our bureau­ cratic comrades unless they can convince the Washington lawmakers that they are a boon to the maritime industry. Without a law being passed (even if one was enacted it would be impossible to enforce against any united op­ position by the seamen) they know that seamen every­ where will refuse their benevolent attentions. Doubtless the coming showdown will bring the ship­ owners to the side of their colleagues in the government "agericy, for where else could they find such a set-up? Be­ VANCOUVER, B. C. — The sides the control over the seamen's lives such an agency pro­ fight of the Seafarers Internation­ vides fGr the operators, the money they save by not having al Union to get clothing priorities their dwn doctors is worth some consideration. for seamen who lose their be­ Asks Socialization of Surprisingly enough, even though the SIU and SUP longings in ship sinking, fires, Nazi-Deserted Enerprises can win this issue anyway, no other seamen's union has etc., has been receiving support In a recent radio speech, Karl joined in the action. Can it be that some of them favor the from the local press. Frisch, president of the Vienna scab-herders of the WSA? Blasting the Wartime Prices Chamber of Labor, said, "One of Board (Canada's CPA) as regard­ the first problems which have to ing "itself as the eternal father be solved are the enterprises de­ The Isthmian organizational drive has entered its most of the Canadian people" one serted by their owners, the NazivltaT-stage with the Seafarers Internation Union call­ newspaper criticised the authori­ owned enterprises, the key and heavy industries, the mining, ore ing for an election. Under NLRB procedure the company ties for their prompt punishment smelting and electrical industries, now has two alternatives. First, they can concede the SIU for infractions of maritime code the production of vehicles, the demanded that the authori­ strength among their employees and agree to a consent elec- and ties be equally prompt "to succor power industry and the banks." ption, or second, they can insist that the matter is in dis­ them in distress." He continued, "Here only one uncompromising solution is pos­ pute and oppose an election altogether. Another paper stated, "two sible, namely state ownership as Ih-t^he first case, an election would then be held under crews are in the city trying, a prelude to final socialization." JNTLRB supervision, with all parties agreeing to show their through their union, to get new Frisch comes from the building clothes. Both lost all but what trades unions, and was an active istrength-at the polls. The second choice would merely be a delaying tactic they wore when their ships were leader before the Anschluss. wrecked." •—chosen as a general rule by those who fear that a vote at The two crews referred to are Frisch told his listeners, "We this time'would not favor them—because considerable time from the SS Westband Park, a are facing a terrible food crisis. is consumed going through the red tape of procedure, the freighter lost in a hurricane off It is our urgent duty together with the trade unions and other • appeals and finally waiting for the election date to be set. Mexico and the steamer Prince public bodies to assure the feed­ Under this arrangement, regardless of who causes the delay, George, destroyed by fire at ing of the people." Ketchikan. the seamen of the Isthmian company will be denied repreIn outlining the tasks of the Hugh Murphy, SIU Agent, is Chamber of Labor, he said that .sentation until the issue is settled. seeking authority from Ottawa I Any delay then, can only be useful to those who would to enable distressed seamen to one of the jobs is "to restart the disorganized and partly destroyed gain by keeping the men from union wages and union replace their , lost clothing. The industry, with a view to restor­ working conditions, and this does not mean the shipowners men were met by SIU officials ing foreign trade." Likewise he when they arrived in San Pedro. listed "tlie reintroduction of the alone. They were given money for cur­ eight hour working day, holi­ All of us. Isthmian men arid SIU alike, should enter rent expenses and other aid. On days with pay, collective bargain­ .this pluse of the drive with our weather eye open for any arrival at Vancouver they were ing, unemployment insurance, would-be saboteurs, any would-be disrupters of the or­ refused clothing priorities by tlie and a more effective form of shop Prices Board. ganizing program. stewards." Canadian Seafarers Fight Per Clothing For Shipwrecked Men The Isthntain Election Unable To Form Labor Council In Berlin Disagreement between the Western Allies and Russia over the form of trade union organi­ zation in Berlin has resulted in postponement of the establish­ ment of a central labor commit­ tee that would represent the 18 unions now in existence in the area. The differences are mainly caused by the Allies wanting to take their time to make certain that the central committee will be freely elected, whereas the Russians insist in organi; .jtion from the top and want the \. holQ thing over with quickly. A group of eight men, clanning to be a provisional comm ttee, asked permission to hold a meet­ ing at which a constitution vould be drawn up and presented to a soon-to-be-held mass rally of German workers. The commit­ tee was composed of four com­ munists, two Social-Democrats, one who claimed to be a Socialist and one who said he was non­ partisan and elected by workers to speak for them. Before the Allies' will allow the meeting, which will effect thousands of Berliners, they de­ manded to know how the men were elected, implying that they were, in fact, self-appointed. 'ti �Frrdaif. NOTember 2, 194S THE SEAFARERS LOG USES Will Not Furnish Scabs Page Three Shipowners Still Attempt To Chisel Steward Dept. WASHINGTON (LPA Exclu­ By J. P. SHULER sive) — The federal employment offices can't be used to provide Things have been going rather worked for the interest of sea­ scabs, or to discriminate against slow in this port the past week, men. But they have not yet ej?workers on strike. A directive with only 18 ships paying off and plained why men are kept wait­ ing for a period of two to 24 to this effect was sent out re­ cently to all regional offices of the 17 ships signing on. All of the hours before being passed; nqr U. S. Employment Service by beefs have been taken care of at why many men are being turned new USES director Robert C. payoff time in most instances, down, but later, when going to Goodwin. The agency has just and the men have collected the U. S. Public Health Servide By PAUL HALL been transferred from the War money. We have a few steward pass the U. S. P. H. cxaminatioits The Seafarers' unanimous action in boycotting the WSA's Manpower Commission to the dept. beefs that are hanging fire, with flying colors. Nor can they explain why thej/ Medical Program has caused much comment within the Maritime Dept. of Labor. but most of them will be settled call the Commissioner four days industry. First of all, of course, the shipowners are really howling The revised policy, which was in the near future. The men <,after a man has signed aboard a and making complaints ranging all the way from "The SIU is anti- made effective Oct. 1, is as fol­ involved should keep in contact lows: ship, and request the CommiaiGovernment" to "Breach of contract." This we expected and it "With the end of hostilities the with the 5th floor or the Seafarers sioner not to sign him on becausb can be taken for what is is exactly worth, which is NOTHING. policy has been revised to pro­ Log for money due them. of some communicable disease. The most interesting point, however, is the fact that not only vide that no referrals shall be One of the steward dept. beefs Regardless of the patting on thp members of our union are unanimous in the decision that our boy­ made that will aid directly or is in making up the purser's room back they give themselves, the cotting of this finky program is a good thing, but seamen from indirectly in filling a job (a) on a Moran tug. We have con­ members of the Seafarers are not other unions, and non-union seamen as well, have all expressed which is vacant because the for­ tacted this outfit and are now trespassing on their property an$ their approval,of the position taken by the SIU. mer occupant is on strike or is working on a settlement that all ships are signing on withoiit being locked out in the course should be favorable to the Union. the aid of the medical examiner?. All seamen, without a question, regardless of their union be­ of a labor dispute or (b) the liefs or their non-union beliefs, are unanimous in this otte thing. Since all stewards are supposed PLAIN CHISELING filling of which is an issue in the All of them feel, and justly so, that this is indeed a good beef to ship off the board, we are hav­ Another one is on ships leaving and must be pushed to the limit. The Seafarers are proud to have labor dispute. ing a little trouble with backdoor port with a steward complement been the first union to move against this finky set-up, and we "Regional directors are no of eight men, then picking up shipping, so delegates on all ships certainly intend to make every possible effort to break them and longer authorized to make ex­ military passengers, and that should be sure to check the ship­ ceptions in the policy, since the put them out of existence for good. ping card of every steward that wartime necessity for such ex­ makes the crew exceed 64 men. comes aboard a ship. Eastern SS Company, on this At the same time, we welcome all help from all unions and all ceptions no longer exists. ieeamen in our struggle against these well-paid, lard-bottomed "As part of the stabilization beef, would like to pay a. divi­ All men going on a ship should bureaucrats. Too long have we suffered being pushed around by program during the war it was sion of wages for three missing have their shipping cards checked these nincompoops and psuedo "Doctors." We have seen them the policy of USES to deny re­ men in the steward dept. while by the delegates, but especiaUy have young punks, fresh out of the WSA boot factory, pushing ferral to striking workers. The these passengers are aboard the so for the stewards as you may seamen around and shoving needles in them and treating them basis for that policy has now al­ ship, thus chiseling the men out wind up with a backdoor steward like a bunch of cattle. This, however, wasn't enough, but then the tered and the local officers of of what they should have coming if you don't make sure that be has a shipping card from the Sea­ professional bureaucrat, "Mister" McCauley wants to saddle the USES shall hereafter refer to as per agreement. farers hall. seamen with this thing permanently. We started this fight with other suitable jobs any striking The only possible interpreta­ these phonies and we are in it to the finish. workers who desire such re­ tion of the supplementary agree­ ferral." ment in this instance would be 4 4 4that 11 men are carried on a ship from the beginning of the voy­ The Strategy Committee elected here during the recent longage until the termination. On ishoremen's beef made several recommendations after observing the ships where the crew and pas­ SIU in action. One of these and perhaps the most important one sengers total less than 64 men was that one regarding the necessity of a la^er paper for the SIU, to increase the Seafarers' program of publicity and education. Although the SIU, SUP and and the ship signs on with a regu­ SAN FRANCISCO — Here is lar complement, this beef should This committee made good recommendations, and those which the AFL in general had voiced be paid for under the extra meal some good news for some of the were concurred in by the membership are being put into effect objections to his appointment, clause in the original agreements. guys of the SS William Prouse by SIU officials. Starting very shortly, our educational and pub­ former Representative Raymond We have two or three Eastern (South Atlantic) — some money licity program will be enlargened in scope, and, as soon as pos­ S. McKeough has been voted into ships with this beef pending now, due for overtime. sible and advisable the size of the paper will be increased once again. the Maritime Commission against (The names will be found on the recommendation of the Sen­ but we are taking action which Of course, even though the membership has gone on record ate Commerce Committee's that should make this company see the Bulletin Board, Page 11, un­ the light. for these things, we cannot rush into the job blindly and in over- he be rejected. der the ship heading.) enthusiasm handle these jobs in such a manner that we will not McKeough, who had been Mid­ SWEET PIE All of the overtime for the deck get full results from the actions. In other words, when we increase west Director of the CIO's Po­ our paper in size, we must see to it that the increased size carries litical Action Committee, was The staff at the WSA Medical dept. was handed in and settled valuable seamen's news and not just be a blown-up form simply confirmed by the Senate after a Examining Board on Washington before the payoff, with the ex­ Street has really been making an to comply with the membership's wishes. three hour debate. effort to hold on to its pie. Since ception of carpenter work done The Senate vote was 42 to 34 In the publicity and educational programs, we must be careful the Seafarers membership in this by the old man. This will have to see that the material we use will be of benefit to us and not for seating the ex-PAC man who, port went on record at the last to be settled later. There was one just something to put together in a hurry, and then sit back and take it is charged, knows nothing regular meeting to discontinue sheet turned in for the Deck En­ it for granted it will bring the results desired. Thfese things must about the maritime industry and patronizing this joint, they have be handled calmly and collectedly and shaped up with the is getting the Maritime Commis­ been bending our ears continually gineer; that was settled. And thought in mind to bring the very most possible benefits to our sion post as a payoff for his po­ telling us what good guys they that was turned in to the Pa­ litical work in the presidential are and how they have .always trolman. membership. elections. There is none for the rest of the One thing which is well to know is the fact that the Seafarers' black gang and none for the membership, at a time when other and larger unions are cutting BALTIMORE stewards dept. down on their educational and publicity programs, is just beginning WILSON BROWN The Company agent checked to make headway in these particular fields. It has been pointed FLOYD THOMAS out before that this particular lack of education, publicity, etc., has the stewards dept. overtime and WILLIAM RAJSKI scratched all overtime for passen­ long been a weak spot with the Seafarers, and it is indeed good PHIL H. ACREE gers, assuming she was manned to see that the membership of this union realizes this, and is now WILLIAM REEVES making good and clear plans to formulate such a program to cover for 80.- This has been reinstated these things which are needed by our membership. and is payable by writing to FORT STANTON Williams Diamond, Agents for A. McGUIGAN t 4 South Atlantic SS Co., 268 Mar­ N. GAMANIAN ket St., San Francisco, Calif. The shipowner and industrialist controlled newspapers of this E. T. HARDMAN country are aiming stories directly at the returning veterans for Once again I would like to ask H. LUTTLE the purpose of making them anti-union minded. all ships delegates coming in to J. KOSKINES the port of San Francisco EKid You have only to pick up an average daily paper to see the S. SHAKES dropping the hook in the bay thinking of these people who would have every veteran believe that R. LACOLLA to bring all of their disputed over­ unions are something to be hated by all of them. C. ABRAMAMSEN time and beefs ashore to the of­ K. JOHNSON We don't have to go into great details about how much of a lie fice as soon as possible. The P. D. ABBOTT this is. Every union man knows the answer. launches run on a schedule of Nevertheless, if these ex-servicemen are turned against organ­ NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL once a day, and it is impossible MOBILE ized labor the eventual outcome will effect us considerably. 10 or M. TEXADA for the Patrolman to get out 12 million veterans will carry much weight in politics and public M. E. CARDANA J. W. DENNIS there to pick up the beefs. Theseopinion. The ill-will of these men will prove a tremendous blow GLINTON MASON J. E. WARD overtime beefs are always dis­ against all sections of the trade union movement. R. A. (RED) SIMMONS S. PAPES puted by the skipper or engineer, The Seafarers are more fortunate than most other unions in F." VARELA J. SCARA so they .viU have to be brought TIM BURKE (Continued on Ftige 4) J. BUKETT ashore to be settled. Senate Over-Rides SIU Protest Men in Marine ttospitale This Week Frisco Reports On Overtime �Page Four THE SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers Break Macauley's Arguments Fer Centinuation Of WSA Medical Program Friday, November 2, 1945 Hershey Tries To Pit Vets Against Labor WASHINGTON (LPA)—A vio­ lent showdown between Selective Service Director Hershey and or­ ganized labor on Hershey's con­ In a speech to a group of not-quite contented shipowners, energy and contentment of the don't see what argument he has tinued attempts to pit returning WSA's Captain Macauley made the following eight points as working crew. A seaman may for continuation of the medical veterans against unions is in the reasons for peacetime continuation of the War Shipping Adminis­ not, like a soldier, travel on his set-up. Does he mean that the making. tration's medical set-up for (or against) seamen, and suggested stomach, but an easy and well- medics will see that the crew'is All sections of organized labor satisfied stomach increases his better fed? Or perhaps he's go­ agree that Hershey has deliber­ that the program be made permanent by law. ability, his efficiency and willing­ ing to get the WSA to spread its ately used the "superseniority" Below are two columns. On the left are Macauley's "reasons," ness to work, even when a very oil on troubled waters and settle idea in an effort to alienate un­ on the right the "reasons" are answered according to, the seaman's rough sea may reduce the effort the seamen's stomachs. Seamen ions and returning' servicemen. viewpoint. of the few who may have a ten­ are WSA-sick, not sea-sick. Hershey, whose firing has been SIU ANSWERS MACAULEY SAYS dency to be upset. demanded by several union pa­ 1. We have no argument with 1. Seamen have a right to be pers, climaxed his anti-labor the idea that seamen are entitled protected against physical and 7. Macauley should have stop­ career with the issuance of a 7. The whole program is bene­ mental weakness and communi'* to protection against disease and ped at the eighth word. 'The handbook for the guidance o^ cable diseases among their ship­ sickness. So are the rest of the ficial to the operator since by pre­ whole program is beneficial to draft boards. The handbook re­ venting or lessening industrial ac­ mates especially when confined people. That doesn't mean that the operator . . ." Through the flects Hershey's own peculiar in­ cidents and sickness, proportion­ to the close and narrow limits of they must submit to dictatorship medical set-up, they hope to run terpretation of the law, that a ate reductions may be effected in shipboard. A feeble-minded or of government bureaus. People a blackball system to eliminate returning veterans can oust a war the loss of time and money in the tubercular seaman or one af­ naturally want to be healthy and active union men. Another thing, workers with a greater seniority operation of a ship. By a prac­ flicted with V. D. or other in­ fit. Macauley should get behind the WSA plan would deprive tical program for the cure and re­ from his job. Hershey added fectious or contagious diseases the socialized medicine plan thousands of seamen of their habilitation of seamen, the oper­ something new to his anti-labor may endanger the entire ship's which would give all the people right to earn a living. It would ator is assured of having the best campaign by stating that union the right to proper medical care company. eliminate men who, through no qualified men available to do the membership may not be required and protection regardless of their fault of their own, are no longer job; it is hoped that by the con­ for regaining the old job. That ability to pay. In any case, agree­ as spry and nimble as they were tinuation and development of this would destroy both closed ments between the SIU and the operators provide for examina­ such a program and, in particu­ when they first started working shop and union shop contracts lar, by the continuation of the for the penny-pinching ship op­ was apparent to both AFL and tions by company doctors. job of pharmacist's mate, a saving erators. It would also eliminate CIO leaders. may be made on insurance rates handicapped war veterans. The violent showdown will 2. The crew of a merchant 2. The only savings under and in turnaround time by the probably occur in one of a dozen vessel has comparatively few Macauley's plan would be for court cases headed for the U. S. men and when unable to do his the shipowner. A bigger man­ institution of radio practique. Supreme Court. The first one allotted tasks it is necessary for ning schedule with a four watch 8. Sure, the feeling of security 8. The satisfaction and in­ that reaches the Supreme Court someone else to carry the sick system would provide adequate is a great thing. Seamen feel that this fall and is decided will set creased feeling of security af­ or disabled man's burden of work, manpower to take care of any they won't find it in dictatorial the precedent. forded a seaman by knowing that emergency aboard ship. duty and responsibility. care and cure and restoration to government agencies. That's one Both CIO and AFL spokesmen 3. The employer has a right 3. We agree that healthy com­ health and livelihood is available of the reasons they join the Sea­ have declared that Hershey's new farers International Union. union-busting endeavor stinks to to expect reasonably efficient petent seamen give, better service. to him is most important. high heaven. service from the persons he em­ Why doesn't Macauley insist that Expectations are that no final ploys. Healthy, competent sea­ shipowners remove all hazards Undoubtedly, Log readers can find many more arguments decision will be reached by the men will give the best service. liable to injure the health of sea­ against Macauley's absurd "reasons." We all know that, in ac­ Supreme Court until late fall. men? What about improved diet tual fact, the worthy Captain isn't interested in seamen's problems. Meantime, union leaders expect and elimination of the port stew­ dozens of superseniority fights in ard rationing system, which re­ If he were, he could assist in getting them real benefits. local unions and in lower courts. duces the quantity of food servec There's no reason in the world why the WSA medical set-up But the union conviction is that aboard ship? shouldn't come out in support of the SIU proposal for a four watch neither the returning veteran nor 4. We wonder if Macauley system. The reduction in working hours, the improved distribu­ the war worker will win com­ 4. For months ^at a time, a ship's crew is entirely dependent knows what he's talking about— tion of the work load, and the resulting reduction in health and plete justice and job rights until frankly, we don't understand his safety hazards, are reasons enough for any sincere medical Hershey's interpretation of the upon itself. law is defeated. point number four. agency's endorsement. Macauley knows full well that shipboard conditions, even with a powerful organization like the SIU work­ 5. If the American Merchant 5. Macauley, searching for ing for their improvement, are not the most healthful. He knows Marine, both in its vessels and in points to make, answers number too, that the ship operators have to be forced by the seamen's the men who man them, is not ef­ five with his own number six. unions to improve them, and that they fight us every inch of the ficient from both a technological Good food, good working condi­ way. By BLACKIE NEIRA and personnel standpoint, the tions, decent wages, union se­ MOBIBE —We've had several freight and passenger trade will curity and freedom from fear of beefs in Mobile last week. These be taken away from us by foreign bureaucrats will make healthy, so called engineers and mates competitors just as it was after happy and, therefore, competent who have come up during the the last war. This will reflect workers. The old flag-waving war, who if called upon could not Around the world, across the sea. on our national prosperity and on technique Macauley uses won't show you over three years' dis­ Or any port where I may be. the individual prosperity of every make efficient personnel nearly charges, have challenged several A sailor's life is fast and free. American. as quickly as the SIU proposals men on their experience and re­ His only home, a ship at sea. for improved working conditions, fused to accept them because without the aid of WSA medics. Life, as this can never be. they did not have enough experi­ Love is stronger than the sea. ence to oil a Victory ship. After 6. Good food, in quantity and 6. As we stated above, num­ As I felt that last caress. wrangling with the chief engineer jquality, both nutritional and ber six is the answer to point My heart sent out an S. O. S. off the Frestberg Victory, he fin­ tasty, can be provided to assure number five. Other than that we ally had to accept them and they War is hell. Who knows it more sailed the ship. Than 1 who left you on the shore. On the Mission San Jose the Off to cross the raging main beef was the same. I explained Not knowing when we'd meet again? to the chief engineer that they were just as capable as he was The sky again is overcast; (Continued from Page 3) when it came to oiling a T2 Tank­ That last caress seems years gone past. that they are placed in the strategic position of bringing these vets er, he refused to accept them, in­ I feel and yearn my love for you; home. Veterans returning aboard SIU ships can be shown the proof forming me that he was running Your love for me. I know is true. of union accomplishment and that the anti-labor papers are lying. the ship and he would hire who I wait the day that I can share Every member of the SIU should break out union literature, the he damned pleased. Three hours My love with you both here and there. SIU Constitution, the Seafarers Log and other union gear. These later the whole crew informed I love life, and I love to live. fhould convince them that not only have we done our share in this the captain that they were quitTo you my life and love I give. war but, more important, we have protected their future as working ing and would like to payoff. The men. We have raised the wages of seamen considerably, even while ship being in Drydock 30 more Someday, soon, your hand I'll hold we were defending the rights of our fighting brothers. days, he had to pay them off. The To put upon a ring of gold. Reports from many ships show that this job of acquainting the next day the captain came up to You'll know then my love was true; veterans with labor's role during the war is being well done. the Hall and told me that the The one I wanted, only you. Every ship's crew should discuss this issue at their meetings. Ships chief engineer had changed his Even though we're oceans apart. scheduled to pick up troops should not leave without plenty of union mind and would be glad to ac­ You're always close within my heart; gear aboard to pass on to these returning men. cept the men if we would send You are the one I'll always love. them down there. We did so, and Pai'llcular mention should be made of the Seafarers' program May God protect you from above. we don't expect any more trouble for the returning soldier, sailors and marines who wish to enter the Alfred L. Yarborough from that ship. maritime industry after their discharge. The Skipper Changed His Mind As Crew Acts Sailor*s Love Song Clearing The Deck �THE Friday, November 2, 1945 HEREIN MfHl ITHWK QUESTION: What is your biggest gripe ' while aboard ship? k <4 DREW McKINNIE, My biggest gripe aboard a ship is that the unlicensed personneL under the Chief Steward's man­ agement, don't get the coopera­ tion of the members of that de­ partment themselves. For the good of that department and, for the good of all men concerned, all men in the Steward's Depart­ ment must cooperate with one another and not lay in their sacks when there's work not done. We all know that we can collect overtime for any work outside the regular work. Such activities should be dealt with severely aboard vessels sail­ ing under SlU contracts. It's time they wake up before the crews SALVATORE FRANK, Jr., AB bring them up on charges for not My biggest gripe aboard any cooperating. ship is silways the purser. I've known for a long time that they always try and put the unlicensed personnel in the wrong, whether *it is for a draw or whether it is on overtime, or -whether it is when the skipper trys to log a man. Most of the pursers think they are running the ship, when in fact the ship always runs itself, with the aid of the crewmembers who do the actued work. The pursers should know that if it wasn't for the fact that sh^ run they wouldn't even have a job. Most of them, also, have large ideas and want to gel into the airplane business and fly high. RAY P. HANSON, OS I've been in the Union a year and think that we can be more unified. Aboard the Wm. Sturgis we had many beefs we didn't win because the crew didn't stick together as they should. In the deck dept. the Bos'n didn't run the deck as the agreements pro­ vide. I refused to work and the mate wouldn't stay off the deck. He threatened me with every­ thing from the Coast Guard to the "French Penal Colony" in the South Pacific Islands. A lot of fellows say let the beefs go at sea, and don't stand up for their rights. I think we should make any master or mate live up to what the sailors fought for before my time, and the only way we. as a union, can do this is to stick together. ROGER LAPP, OS My chief gripe aboard a ship is the Coast Guard {uid their actions against seamen. After a 104-day trip on the Cape Nome, the Coast Guard boarded the ship and, with their usual disre­ gard for the rights of seamen, proceeded to call the crew mem­ bers up to "explain" why they had been logged for taking a day off in Buenos Aires. They woiild listen to nothing, and declared that the "Master is always right!" They warned us all to be care­ ful as they would "take our papers away," if it happened again. Pointing out thait we had had no time off in all the time at sea, except for 14 hours in Cal­ cutta and Capetown, did no good. I wonder how long the Coast Guard is going to continue to hound the seamen with such threats? SEAFARERS LOG N. Y. MEETINGS IN WEBSTER HALL New York Branch meetings are held every other Wednes­ day evening, 7 P. M. at Web­ ster Hall, 119 East 11th Street, between 3rd and 4th Avenues. To get there take the 3rd Ave., Elevated and get off at 9th St., or the East Side IRT Subway and get off at Astor Place. No cards will be stamped after 7:30 P. M. NEXT MEETING WILL BE ON NOV. 6. Page Five The Seafarers Log Goes To A Payoff In a real true to Life fashion, the snoopy cameraeyed (f/II lens) Log reporter follows the boys of the Cape Comfort around as they go to the Calmar office for a payoff. READY FOR THE GREEN Anti-Union Higgens Enters A New Fieid NEW ORLEANS — The war­ time production-line smasher and selfcentered genius, Andrew J. Higgins, Sr., is again in the pub­ lic eye, and how he loves it. This time the Navy "E" and Army "Star" award holder is at­ tempting to enter the plastic building and construction field, which he terms is the only one of its kind—a new era in the industry. Little is said of the conditions and wages his workmen, will la­ bor under. Records show that he has ignored an NLRB ruling which stated that the Metal Trades Council agreement with his outfit would be in full force until differences between both parties could be ironed out. Recently in Washington, he walked out on that agency, ap­ parently indicating his idea that Higgins was bigger than the gov­ ernment. In Crescent City he refused to abide by union agree­ ments calling for union hall hir­ ing, and refused permission of union representatives to contact their members in various plants operated by him. Rumor has it that CIO men are being hired daily. Veterans are being brought in through the employment agency, with news­ papers and company stooges tell­ ing them that they can do any kind of work in the company without regard to unions. Higgins runs a newspaper, which operates as a mouthpiece for a company union set-up, tell­ ing the workers what a fine fam­ ily they belong to^—meaning of course, Higgins. Baloney is baloney, no matter how you slice it. Voting Begins For Officers (Continued from Page 1) mentions a specific building, at 127 N. 5th Street; while the one on Boston deals with a building in general. Each is to be voted on separately. Elsewhere (on page 9) will be found a facsimile of the ballot, and experts from the constitution defining! the requirements for voting eligibility. The SIU is known as the most democratic union on the water­ front. All power rests in the hands of the rank and file of the organization. They can keep it only if they exercise their rights as union members, the fore­ most of which is to elect officials who will truly represent them. f Crew members from Ihe SS Cape Comfort start to sign clear from the articles before Deputy-Commissioner Irving Johnson in the Calmar Line Office in New York. There were no loggings on the ship and all beefs on overtime were settled at the payoff. In the stewards department all the extra meal pay and differential in wages were settled. Everybody happy? SHAKING THE CAN ^ See the happy seamen around the paymaster's table? You'd be happy too if them were you. See that gal there giving the camera the GO? Yep. you guessed it—just one of the volunteers from the AWVS trying to glom nickles. dimes, and quarters from the happy seamen. The selling point for her can shaking was that the dough is to go to the USS. So what do you know? — Nobody gave any­ thing, which is why they are still happy. Trying to sell the USS to members of the Seafarers! Lady, what you don't know! One fellow gave her three cents and got a receipt that cost at least one-half cent—the dope! Look What He's Got! Robert E. Yordick, OS, from the Cape Comfort, compares his money with his pay slip after re­ ceiving the dough from the Cal­ mar Line paymaster. He knows his overtime pay and shows a top bill of a hundred. He better not come around to the Log office with that cabbage: the boys are hungry, and looking for another nickle so they can bang two of them together. So with the sun sinking below the horizon, bath­ ing dear old Calmar in romantic shadows, we regret­ fully take our leave of the happy boys, and sure as hell wish we had some of that cabbage. �THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday. November 2, 1945 SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Peter Zenger Was A Good Attention Members! if In Antwerp, See Hospitalized Brother Ship—But Not To Be On When paying dues, assess­ At a general meeting of the SS Peter Zenger it was decided that the Captain be brought be­ fore the meeting to explain why he had ordered the calling of a stewards dept. meeting and in­ Back from carrying troops, terfered with SIU business. The the Francis Walker crew reports skipper appeared with the chief that they were commended by mate and the purser when sent the Troop Commander of the for. He entered into a discus­ vessel for their part in carrying sion as to his acts and the mem­ troops from the theaters of war. bers demanded to know why he The crew members reported had brought along the other that the army group issued a two officers. The chief and pur­ daily bulletin and gave out a ser beat a hasty retreat when or­ final souvenier edition before dered out of the meeting. they docked. STEWARDS STORES The commendation from the The captain was told to take Troop Commander follows: note of the crew's beefs on the ABOARD THE stewards stores, since it was said SS FRANCIS WALKER that there were only enough OFFICE OF THE stores to last for approximately TROOP COMMANDER two weeks. 11 September, 1945 The meeting also decided that The Officers and enlisted men the delegate of each department aboard the ship during this trip join me in thanks to yourself would see that his respective and your crew for the whole­ department be kept clean and hearted cooperation in helping that he should inspect the quar­ to make for us a quick and ters at least once each week. pleasant journey. Negotiations for a new agree­ Fine food well served, the ment and a raise (since granted; ship's utilities kept in first class Ed.) were asked by the crew order aided by fine weather has at the meeting. prepared all of us for a fine re­ Earl Sherfield was elected ception to the States after a ship's delegate. long stay overseas. —James Rodenberry, Rec.-Secy. Leo J. Kraus At a deck department meet­ LI. Col. FA ing later a beef was brought up Troop Commander regarding the chief mate about topping booms. Again the cap­ tain was called iilto the meeting. He agreed to take up the mat­ ter with the mate and also The hilarious antics of the agreed to have the ship's dele­ Junior 3rd mate livened up an gate present at the discussion otherwise dull trip on the SS with the mate. Claymont Victory off the coast TO PLACE CHARGES of Dover, England. The Captain wanted a cluster light rigged This beef was also brought up over the pilot ladder, as it was at a further general crew meet­ dark enough for its use. ing and it was decided to bring The jr. 3rd went about with the beef to the attention of the a flashlight peering between Union Patrolmen when the ship the radiators and bulkheads ex­ was ready to payoff. This meet­ pecting to find one, contribu­ ing also instructed that charges ting to the Captain's ire and the be ready to be placed before crews' delight. The jr. 3rd used the Coast Guard against the to be an ex-cop from Brooklyn chief mate. and was still wearing a police­ The body also decided that man's suit coat and a golfers repair lists on the rooms, and tweed cap. All he needed was a details of the living conditions night stick and golf clubs. The be made out. As well as that, it skipper ordered him to go be­ was decided that the delegate low and put on a maritime of­ make up a list of the dates on ficer's uniform. which the crew was short on Having complied with that or­ linen, and to have the Union der, the poor guy came topside check on transportation money in time for a heavy downpour of for the crew. rain and the old man had him After some discussion the standing on the wing of the meeting went on record to boy­ bridge the entire watch. cott the master's liquor busi­ The jr. 3rd was also in the ness because of his action on habit of telling the ABs that the crew's cigarettes. they weren't allowed inside the —^R. J. Steele. Chmn. wheelhouse until informed that At the payoff after arrival, the they steered the rust pot. He Union Patrolman are said to also was very proud, when told by the good people in Antwerp have found a number of beefs that he looked "exactly like" involving the master of the ship. President Truman. PEEPING TOM In Boston, at South Station, he It was also said that the Chief was dolefully inquiring as to the Mate had a habit of "peeking direction to the Army Base through port-holes to see just while street cars properly label­ who was working on deck." His led were pulling up to the plat­ "spy" tactics did him no good, form every ten minutes. however, when the crew was H. SOMERVILLE paying off. After the Union Pa­ Troop Commander Commends Crew Of The Francis Walker Antics Of Junior 3rd Liven Up Duii Trip trolmen exposed both the cap­ tain and the mate before the Shipping Commissioner, all log­ gings were washed out and the disputes were settled. NEEOANV ^ ments, fines, donatiotu or any monies to the union, make sure that you pay it to an authorised representative and that you get an official re­ ceipt. No matter how much or how little you pay, follow this procedure for your own protection. Charles Parker Visits SS Richard Rush The delegates sent the follow­ ing letter to Agent Paul Hall from Mobile: At a stewards department meeting of the SS Richard Rush, Charles Parker a former trip card member of the SIU who is now a corporal in the Airforce Service Command, was welcomed by the crew members. He served with the 15th Air Force until the capitulation of Germany. Dear Brother: We would like for you to voice our appreciation to Pa­ trolmen Sheehan and Hamilton Some of the members, com­ for the way they handled our mented that they knew Mose beefs on the SS Peter Zenger. Parker, Charles' brother who Their actions brought compli­ was an oldtimer with the SIU ments from old and new mem­ and whose loss at sea in a tor­ bers alike. Please enter this ap­ pedoing was regretted by the preciation in our paper, the Log. Union. —Earl Sherfield, Ship delegate; Ship's delegates were: Don­ Dean Brannon, Deck delegate; ald Lund, Deck; W. L. Creech, R. J. Steele, Engine delegate; Eng.; and Frank Blanaro, Stew­ Jimmie Prestwood, Steward. ards. Returning from Antwerp the members of the SIU aboard the Cornelia declared they had had a swell trip for all concerned except for a few days of heavy weather, when this old rust bucket only did eighty miles per day of her usual two hundred and eighty. The ship is in bad need of fu­ migation and the Oilers declare they have to kick the rats out of their way when they walk down the shaft alley. The engine department mem­ bers say that they had the best delegate they ever had in Mate "Pop" Carson. There was not one hour of disputed overtime on the ship during the trip and at the payoff. Hard luck hit LeVerne Corn­ wall, Fireman, while trying to board a trolley in Antwerp. It was reported that he went un­ der the trolley after falling, and his leg was cut off. The ship's crew tried to get out to the Army hospital to see him, but found out about it too late to get transportation. They ask that any member getting into Antwerp in the near future to go and see this hos­ pitalized brother. A Cape Nome Crew Blasts Skipper A letter from the crew mem­ bers of the SS Cape Nome blasts many of the actions of Captain Jantze, master of this vessel, during their last voyage. It ap­ pears that his conduct is not that of any real shipmaster, but rather the conduct of a "Capt. Bligh." When approached by the deck delegate to question the fact that certain engineers and ca­ dets continually raided the crew's night-lunch and pantry, and asking him to tell them to stay out of the crew's pantry, Jantze replied: "Leave the of­ ficers alone." "Keep out of our ice-box," and "Go below where you belong." PRETTY PETTY It appears that the Captain took it upon himself to lock-up the officers' pantry during the day (except for fifteen minutes, morning and afternoon), to keep passengers out of the pantry, thus depriving the children of food and milk, the letter says. "This practice is petty in the eyes of the crew," they say, "and shows low character." When the draw lists were pre­ sented in Buenos Aires, the cap­ tain ordered that the stewards department would not be paid until 5 P.M., although all other departments made their draw at noon. At 5 P.M. the stewards depai-tment men could not get the amounts they asked for, be­ cause there was not enough money left. "What had happen­ ed was this," the letter con­ tinues: "Some of the passengers turned in African pounds for pesos, taking part of the money that was obtained for the crew's draw lists, although they, the passengers, could not get ashore for some time. LOST MONEY "Some of the fellows had to take money in African pounds to make up the amount they asked for," the letter goes on. "By doing this they lost money in the exchange ashore. For ex­ ample one man drew $56.51 worth of pounds. When they were exchanged ashore he re­ ceived $46.00 worth of pesos, losing $10.50 on the transaction." On the question of safety of passengers and crew, the letter cites the instance of one of the utility messmen alleged to have contracted a veneral disease in Cape Town, South Africa, who was issued a pass at the Cap­ tain's order to go ashore in Buenos Aires. He went to a doctor and received a letter tes­ tifying this condition. The Cap­ tain took no precautions to in­ sure the crew's and passengers' safety. The man worked for one month in this condition, af­ ter which orders were given that he stop work for one week. He was then given orders to start work again. The crew felt that he should have been given blood-tests and hospitalization. The Steward asked the Cap­ tain about painting the deck of crew's mess hall, which needed it badly. Captain's reply was: "I'm the master of this ship, and I will paint the mess hall when I get good and ready!" After leaving India some few cans of fruit juice were taken from the stores. Because of this, the Captain forbade the Stew­ ard to serve any fruit juices for ten days. And this while in the tropics where fruit juices are considered a necessity for the crew. The Steward submitted a seaorder to the Captain which would have been sufficient to bring the ship back to the U.S. The Captain cut the order to such an extent that they were out of necessary items five days from the U.S., the letter de­ clares. In addition he gave the Stew­ ards orders to send only ten bags of laundry ashore in both ports of dall. By doing so the crew ran short of hand towels. The letter was signed by deck, engine and stewards delegates, Elmer S. Lupkin; Ferdinand J. Bruggner, and Lawrence Wil­ liams, respectively, as well as nine more full book members: N. Yacishyn; Sylvester Knight; Svend Aage Smith; Walter Nel­ son; Joseph A. O'Neill; Richard Hungling; Herman Paul; Victor Shavroff, and James C. Battle. * �^ Friday. November 2. 1945 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven THE MEMBEBSBIP SPEAKS O REFUTE CHARGE J CONDEMNED SHIP WAS MAINTAINED Some of the Russians use the old Chinese bead board to count money, and when I asked why they didn't go in for cash regis­ ters like we had in America Editor of the Log: they said they didn't trust ma­ Some letters have arrived We, the undersigned members chines. The way it looked to at the Log office without the of the crew of the SS City of me, they might just as well have writers names or book num­ St. Louis, take issue with the counted money by weighing it bers. . statements published in the Log in bushel baskets, it was worth The Log must know, before of October 19, regarding the so little. it prints, the source of these mate of the same vessel, who One place did have a cash communicationa. was alleged to have given the register, and I asked the pretty All letters to the Log should order to "chip the deck on this cashier how she liked the ma­ clearly show the writers ship after she was condemned." chine (as they call it). She told name and book number if The letter is signed "Pecro any. me she got the job because she Contron," and apparently was It would be a great help if could play the piano and liked written by a member of the all names used in letters were it because of the way the num­ blackgang of that vessel who printed clearly in order to bers jumped up and down, the ^ was in reality a man named avoid misspellings. light flashed on and off, and the "Pedro Cintron," a probationary ringing bell, all by pushing a book member. single button. That's about how tial good union members among Since he never sailed on deck them so keep the educational he certainly is not qualified to material coming. speak for the men sailing in Edward E. Bletcher was the that department. Furthermore engine departipent delegate. his letter does not give the real R. Datson. deck delegate story, for he declares that the ship was "towed into Mobile" by two tugs," while in fact she TALISMAN CREW went into Mobile under her own COMMENDS power, and after she did hit a CAPT. SCHWANER reef, was towed into Vera Cruz, Mexico, where she dis­ To The Editor: charged cargo. The crew members of the SS From Vera Cruz the ship went Talisman wish to express a word to Tampico, Mexico, under her of appreciation for the fine at­ own steam, discharged more it goes, if you can play the titude of Captain Clinton W. cargo and left for Mobile under piano you're a qualified cashier, Schwaner towards his men her own steam again. too. throughout their recent voyage. •A The main point of this letter, The entire crew can say that Some of our smart salesmen however, is to point out that of cash registers better watch Captain Schwaner is a squarethe charge that the mate order­ out, and get good money and shooter and willing to meet ed the deck chipped "after she not roubles when they sell the them halfway. He conducted his was condemned" is not so, and ship on a manly basis, and if contraptions to the Russians. serves to bring the mate into Henry Prick we had more like him the ships dispute. We, and particularly and trips would be a lot smooth­ the deck men, realize that we er sailing. have few enough decent officers CREW BUILDS DECK We the undersigned express and certainly take exception to SWIMMING HOLE — our gratitude to a REAL skip­ making one of the decent ones per. (Editor's note: The failure look like a junior Captain SKIPPER'S IDEA of most signers to make their . Bligh. To The Editor: names legible makes it neces­ E. L. Patterson, WT After making a trip to the sary for us to omit even the Herbert Nadelberg. AB Pacific, the SS Coquille, a Pa­ few we could read. The orig­ John A. Tobin, OS cific Tankers scow, proceeded to inal is on file at the Log office, « Panama. All this with temp­ however. 36 crewmembers erature of 98 to 100 degrees in signed the letter.) RUSSIAN MONEY EXCHANGE MAKES focs'les without portholes. While at Panama the skipper SAYS LOG MADE CASH VALUELESS ordered a consignment of lum­ ber with which, on our return GOOD IMPRESSION To The Editor: I don't think there is another trip to the Pacific, we built a FOk SIU ON NAVY country in the world where a swimming pool between num­ To the Editor: seaman gets as bad as exchange ber seven and eight tanks. The I want to thank you for send­ of money as he does in Russia. free labor the crew put into its ing me the Log while I was in On the five month trip of the building was more than repaid the Navy. Take me off the mail­ Henry Lomb we called at Mur­ by the refreshing moments we ing list, as I was discharged last mansk, Venega, Bokeresk, and spent in it, even though it was week. It gave me great pleasure only 10 ft. by 20 ft. by S ft. It Malatov. was built four foot above the to read the Log and pass it on The Russians claim that 300 deck and supported by the sup­ to my shipmates, as it offset the roubles is worth 60 American bad impression made too often erstructure. dollars, but when you go out to by loud mouthed gas hounds At first there were several buy things you find out other­ and gold braided mess boys. let-downs, but now everything wise. It works out to about 5 Yours for a bigger and better roubles to a dollar in money, is ship-shape. The whole idea, Log. we are glad to say, was the old but its different in goods. John King man's and we hope that other For instance if you want a de­ water-loving sailors may be as cent meal it costs 60 to 80 COMPLAINS THAT roubles; drinks (Vodka only) are fortunate. The lumber used was 2 in. by MILITARY TREAT 10 roubles each, which makes 10 in. which was lined with No. SEAMEN AS LEPERS New York's Fifth Ave. living seem cheap in comparison. 5 canvas. We found that 5ft. 6 ($12-$16 a meal, $10 for 5 in. by 6 in. braces were needed To The Editor: to support it and when filled In the past five months of drinks.) There's no point in giving the within two inches of the top, the this trip aboard the SS Percy waitresses money for tips be­ roll of the ship did not effect it. E. Foxworth, we have had a few In closing I would like to say minor beefs in all departments, cause it's of no use to them. You couldn't buy a decent outfit that we have one of the best but succeeded in straightening of clothes for your 300 roubles. ship's crews lliat I've ever seen. out all concerned. Two and a half months of There's just no sense of value in Thanks to the SIU educational program there are many poten- these five we were not allowed the money,exchange there. When Writing Tn The Log seconds on chow because pf a serious shortage of food stores, due to the fact that we shared our grub with the Navy steve­ dores that worked our cargo for three weeks—seventy-five to a hundred men in all. We do not regret this, as they had no decent fresh food stuffs' for months previous (so they said). But we definitely do not appreciate their attitude tow­ ards us in return. Today, anchored here in Tok­ yo Bay, we were confined to the ship for reasons unknown to us. The Army and Navy still walks free. During this entire trip, putting into eight or nine ports, we were allowed liberty in only one place. We do not question the auth­ ority of the Military Govern­ ment in these ports, but why, pray tell us, are we being con­ tinually treated as lepers? A brass band to welcome us is not desired, only the privilege to go ashore fo^ what little recreation is to be found after five months of confinement aboard ship. Now that the war is won, if sailors are scarce for these far Pacific runs you may be assur­ ed that it isn't the sailing con- , ditions nearly as much as the conditions mentioned here. We represent the crew's at­ titude in this beef. A. G. Nelson T. A. Scoper H. J. Lanksler CATALINA COWBOY KIDNAPS ROW BO AT; GETS LOST AT SEA Dear Editor: While the Skagway Victory, an Alcoa scow, was riding at anchor at Eniwetok, one of the crew members decided to prac­ tice his rowing in the "Skagway Junior," a rowboat the crew used for minor excursions. This Catalina cowboy, in the hope of polishing up his Com­ mando Course training, rowed out a considerable distance. For some reason he couldn't get the boat back and drifted some three miles out. It was getting dark when he was finally miss­ ed by the crew who immediate­ ly lowered a boat and went to his rescue. While the "Skagway Junior" was secured astern for the night, the chief mate cut her adrift in order to keep any other Catalina-trained commandoes from repeating the performance. Incidently, when the rescue party got to the Catalina cow­ boy he had one oar out, rowing like hell in complete circles. Nicholas Fluetsch FOOD SUPPLIES AND MEDICAL CARE SNAFUED To The Editor: First I want it known that here aboard the SS Broad River we have one of the best skippers afloat. We arrived in Panama on the 11th of October. We had no flour, no fresh meat, and only a few canned goods for the crew and the 68 passengers aboard. On arrival, we dropped an­ chor and are still riding on it. About five days before we ar­ rived, the captain wired in that we would immediately on ar­ rival need food supplies and a doctor as we had sick men aboard. After five days we got food supplies and this was only after the captain had sent better than a dozen messages asking for food .supplies and a doctor. As the ship is under quarantine no one can go ashore, and they still haven't given us medical atten­ tion. We were told that we would have to wait until we dock. As this seems to be a common occurance according to the crews of ships anchored around us, we think there should be an investigation concerning this matter. The ship's delegates are send­ ing more extensive information on this matter into the hall. Eugene Lawson FIRST ARMY COOK ARGUES WITH EVERYONE ON SHIP To the Editor: On this 17 day trip on the Vassar Victory we had some first-trippers, several of them resplendent in their "high pres­ sure." Shortly after signing on, I discovered that I would have . to keep a padlock on my locker during the trip. Several of the first-trippers were just waiting for the Draft Act to expire, and had no in­ terest in Unions whatsoever. It was a pleasure to work with the GIs who did KP on the way back. They were right on the ball and did a lot less beefing than some of the crew. Something should be done about the guy who shipped as First Army Cook. Until he was transferred to the crew galley, he caused nothing but trouble arguing with the Army; with the Chief Steward, whom he ac­ cused of being a company man; and trying to push around the stewards' department personnel working with him. Otherwise, the trip was okay. "We brought back 2000 GIs, and some of them were the swellest guys I met in a long time. Edwin 'Westphal J �. •- THE Page Eight SEAFARERS • Friday, November 2, 1945 LOG Overtime Collected In Frisco By ROBERT A. MATTHEWS Come To Savannah, The Man Says NO NEWS?? By ARTHUR THOMPSON Silence this week from the Branch Agents of the follow­ ing ports: BALTIMORE PHILADELPHIA JACKSONVILLE BOSTON NORFOLK GALVESTON SAN FRANCISCO — Here are some notes and news for you fel­ lows who are interested in the West coast situation. The SS Halton (Range Line) paid off with about 700 hours disputed overtime, which was all collected. The skipper had the OS bringing him coffee to his room and also on the bridge. We collected about 120 hours for this. The skipper tried to log some of the men. ten for one for their first offense. Needless to say, the logs were scratched and, needless to say, this guy was taken off the ship. On this ship the Firemen claim­ ed overtime every day for wip- ing down boiler fronts, but they never turned it in to the engin­ eers until the ship got into San Francisco. This caused a lot of confusion that could be avoided. The deck delegate of the SS William Prouse (South Atlantic) came ashore and we squared th^ overtime for the deck dept. The other delegates did not come ashore before the payoff. When^ the ship paid off the steward^ dept. was short 609 hours over­ time for taking care of passengers. This was squared away the next day. A copy of the overtime coming to each man has been sent to the Log. I would like to ask all delegates who come into San Francisco to bring your disputes ashore before you payoff, so we can square the beef before the payoff. The SS Knute Nelson (Seas SS Co.) paid off here in -pretty good shape. She had a full crew from Baltimore. Over $4,000 in extra meals disputed in this ship along with quite a bit of disputed overtime. All settled in SIU style, and the boys are happy. The MV Farallon (Moran Towing) came in from a long trip. We got transportation for two Savannah is all prepared for her Navy Day celebration today and business is at a standstill, but by Monday it will be past history and maybe we can get some of our members to ship out. We hope so, at least, because we have the jobs and hate to ask anyone else to help us man our ships. We have no hospital cases or at least we don't know of any. This makes two full weeks with­ By BUD RAY out anyone in the hospital. May­ be the climate has something to SAN JUAN — Things have get something done. I have talk­ do with it. Come down and see slowed down somewhat here, ed to Waterman here about get­ for yourselves. We need seamen, with no ships out of New York, ting a shore gang to paint while especially with ratings. and most of the old crop of sugar their ships are in down here. moved already. There is about They talk favorably of it, when 150,000 tons left, and most of the WSA turns them loose, which that on the south coast; a little will not be later than next March. in Humacao and Fajardo, but they The Bull Line did this work here will start to cut the new crop in peacetime, so they should start late in December to start grind­ it again in the near future, and that is a big help to the mem­ ing in March. bers on the beach. The Cape Faro of Waterman We had the Coastal Schepper came in, the first ship to enter in, a West coast ship, and was San Juan with peacetime colors she a mad house. Capt's Bligh and the local papers gave it a big and Hornblower were timid be­ writeup. She was pretty, but side Salt Water Swanson, who is LUCKYI HAD THIS how are they going to keep this lord and master of all he sur­ SAFE type of ship up with the size crew veys. The engineers were all MY OVER-1 that they carry? gassed up and blew the hot water TIME ! It would be nice if these ships boiler up so the men couldn't get carry Quartermasters and put hot water to keep things clean. three more Maintenance men on The old man didn't want to pay By LOUIS GOFFIN deck; then the Boatswain could subsistence for - the men-^o eat ashore, but I got the Health Dept. men who joined the ship in New Some time ago we wrote about down. They said that present York. Then, when she laid here the immediate settlement expect­ conditions were unsanitary until over ten days after discharge, ed in some beefs aboard the SS the time that hot water was avail­ we got transportation back to Colabee. All of these are now able, so now the men are staying New Orleans for all men who settled, the final one, a deck de­ stood by the ten day period. Ma­ partment beef on beams and Now lhat Ihe war has finally come to an end, and the boys ashore until she is repaired. Shipping remains fair and a jor Locke almost had a baby hatches for voyage number 14, are beginning to return home, it is timely to sum up labor's part man can get out if he wants to in when we forced him on that one. was noted in the last edition of in the tremendous effort.- Here are some of the highlights: two weeks time, or after they The SS Francis Bursley (Water­ the Log. PRODUCTION—Munitions output was boosted 11-fold, from have had their fling with the man) paid off with all overtime The men involved can collect a half billion dollars' worth a month to 5'/a billion at the peak, dark-eyed damsels of question­ okayed. their money at the American greater than the rest of the world put together. No wonder Gen­ able virtue, and kicked the Old The SS Marine Dragon (Water­ Hawaiian Line in New York. eral George C. Marshall, army chief of staff, called the record Demon around a few days. Some man) paid off in Seattle wiiX Also to be collected at the same a "miracle." of the boys coming here are going transportation back to New York. office are unclaimed wages for up in the better part of town and All beefs settled to satisfaction three men. (See Oct. 26th Log.) TRANSPORTATION—Railroad workers did what prophets Various crew members from of gloom called "impossible;" they carried a load double prewar meeting the nicer people and the of crew. Joe Wread reports things going a little slow up there. the Josiah Bartlett have money levels, though short of equipment and manpower. Seamen de­ marriage rate is going up. due at Eastern Steamship in Bos­ livered the goods to far-flung military outposts and to cur Allies ton. The beef regarding serving . despite intensive submarine warfare which took the lives of meals in the skipper's room on thousands of AFL members and sank hundreds of merchant ships. the Alcoa Pointer, which paid off U STRIKES—Contrary to the campaign of abuse carried on in San Francisco, has been settled By E, S. HIGDON against labor during the war, losses due to work stoppages aver­ ! for 400 hours. Brother Casey, aged less than 1/10 of 1 percent of time put in by the nation's guy, was he not? NEW ORLEANS — We paid OS should get in touch with Cap­ workers on the job during the war. And even those insignificant off the John A. Dix, Shepard The Patrolman and myself tain Ackerman at Alcoa's New losses were more than made up by toil on legal holidays. York offices for final settlement Line (SUP). There was a won­ have been kept busy in this Port MANPOWER—^American virtually scraped the bottom of the of his beef. barrel to secure needed workers for indtistry and the armed derful skipper on this ship. His signing up a lot of NMU men From Galveston the beefs con­ custom was to have the four to who are turning over day by day. cerning Biscamp and Herrard, forces. Millions of housewives took war jobs. Vast nuniLbers of two Oilers on the SS J. Bartrum, workers were provided through facilities of unions, which time eight watch bring him coffee in have been settled; the stewards' end again sent members thousands of miles to break manpower his stateroom at 5:00 a. m. with­ beef is still being processed and bottlenecks, as for example, in the gigantic atomic bomb project. out the payment of overtime. He should be settled in time to ap­ PRODUCTIVITY—Efficiency of workers in munitions indus­ refused to okay the overtime, and pear in the next issue of the Log. tries leaped 72 percent during the war; on the railroads by even the watch finally refused to bring LISTS SEAMEN'S FOES more. him more coffee. Leaving beefs aside for the ARMED FORCES—Three million union men entered the moment, we want to again re­ He informed the boys that if military services, including 300,000 from the railroads and a quar­ mind the boys of the enemies ter million in the fabulous Seabees. Thousands of them gave they did not comply with his they face: Enemies of the SIU their lives in battle. wishes, he would lock them in and aU organized and unorganized One final note: The great record was not achieved withoul number one cargo hole and charge seamen. Reading from left to right and sacrifices. Workers toiled almost inhuman hours—often as much them with mutiny. He had a back again, they are the commie as seven days a week for long stretches. Millions shifted to con­ habit of carrying a rod strapped gested war centers, living in tents, trailers, huts and Hooverleadership of the NMU, RMO fink around him at sea. When asked They know the conditions in the halls, discriminating medical villes. Their wages were frozen while prices soared. They en­ centers. Coast Guard kangaroo dured many other hardships, but they did the Job, voluntarily, by the Patrolman why he car­ SIU are a hundred per cent bet­ ried a gun he stated he was carry­ ter 1 Most all of these men. courts and penny pinching ^ip- without a labor draft. ing it for protection. A swell oldlimers. owners. SAVANNAH — Shipping was good again last week in Savan­ nah. We had to send almost an entire crew to Charleston for the SS City of Alma; and the SS Gorge Pomutz of the Mississippi SS Co. paid off with almost the entire crew changing over. The Pomutz was a clean ship with all overtime squared away at time of payoff. I got a call from Brunswick asking for a crew for the MV Coastal Mariner, and it looks like a tough order to fill. Reports are to the effect that the Savannah Line is to resume operations in about a month or so, and this would mean jobs coming into Savannah regularly. As it is now shipping is very good down here and we are short of rated men. We shipped 39 men this week so far and have 23 jobs on the board, and considerably less than that on the shipping list. If any of you who read this want a nice warm place to wait for a ship come to Savannah. The weather is still fair and you can leave your overcoat at home and should be able to ship out within a week. Captain Bligh Was Only A Pansy Reports Many Beefs Are Settled Labor's War Record Just A FIstol-Packing Papa ±1 �Friday, November 2. 1945 ••• •• THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Sections On Voting Taken This is How The Candidates Wiii From The SlU Constitution Appear On The Officiai Baiiet (Editor's Explanation: Probation­ , the members' certificate of mem­ ary members and members bership in the proper column for more than three (3) months in the year and month of election, arrears in dues or assessments such stamp shall bear the word Included as part of the ballot, though not shown here, are two resolutions being submitted to a "voted" the initials of the voting are not eligible to vote,) seferendum vote. These, if passed, would authorize the purchase by the Union of halls in the Ports place and the date of the voting. Section 5, Members shall be If the member is not entitled to of Boston and Philadelphia. The resolutions are not related to each other: You may vote for both, entitled to vote upon presenting vote, the judge shall void his for only one. or against both. Read them carefully. their membership certificates ballot, the tellers shall count the showing that they are in good ballots as they, are deposited and standing, and have not previously voted at the same election. Each the clerks shall keep record of member shall sign for their bal­ the count. Seafarer's fntematioBal Union of Nordi Amerlea ATLANnC £ GULF DISTBICT 1945 EISCnON OF OFnCERS FOR 1946 VOTING PERIOD NOVEMBER 1st THROUGH DECEMBER 31. 1945 INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS — In order to vote for a candidate, mark a cross (X) in voting square to the left oi name. If you vote for more candidates for office than specified herein your vote for such office will be invalid. YOU MAY WRITE THE NAME OF ANY MEMBER WHOSE NAME DOES NOT APPEAR ON'THE BALLOT IN THE BLANK LINE PROVIDED FOR THAT PUR­ POSE UNDER EACH OFFICE. Do not use a lead pencil in marking the ballot. Ballots marked with lead pencil will not be counted. MARK YOUR BALLOT WITH PEN AND INK OR INDEUBLE PENCIL. ^ SECBETABY - TBEASUBDI Vole lor OM • • ASSISTANT SE^ETABY.rikASOBEB Veto lor One • JAMES T. BRADY, Na 15« • J. P. SHULER. Na 101 WILUAM (CUIUKY) RENTT; Na 36443 Vet* for OM Vote for CM Veto lor OM • • Yolo lor One • JOHN MOGAN, No. 316 • NEW ORLEANS DECK PATROLMAN BALTIMORE EN(HNE PATRCHMAN BOSTON .AGENT Vol. IM OB. J. STEELY WHITE, Na 56 BALTIMOBE DECK PATROLMAN R. E DICKEY. No. 633 DOLAR STONE, No^ 1996 • • • • • Vote lor One CHARLES H. BUSH, No. 127 PRANK SULLIVAN,-Na 2 PAUL WARREN, No. 114 SS Cecil Bean ERNEST B! TILLEY, NO. 73 Veto lor Oa* STANLEY GREBNRIDGE, No. 166) • • • J05EPH LAPHAM, No. 247 • CHARLES STARUNG, No. 6920 o JAMES E SWEENEY, No. 1530 NEW YOnX AGENT ^ • • • RAY WHITE. No. 57 NORFOLK JOINT PATROIMAN NEW YORK DECK PATROIMAN Vrt. lofTwo • JOSEPH ALGINA, No. 1320 I THOMAS (ROCKY) BENSON. No. 7297 I • • • C J. (BUCK) STEPHENS, No. 76 Vote for CM RICHARD W. BIRMINGHAM. No. 390 TEDD R. TERRINGTON, No. 68 ROBERT B. WRIGHT, No 226 KEITH (JIM) AtsOP, No. 7311 GALVESTON AGENT Vole lor On* LEON (BLONDIE) JOHNSON, No. 108 • • D. L. PARKER. No. 160 RAY W. SWEENEY. No. 30 SAVANNAH AGENT Vet* lor OM JAMES SHEEHAN, No. 904 A. M. (SANDY) SCIVICQUE, No. 43 Vet* lor OM Vet* for Two PAUL HALL, No. 190 • • Vote for Oae NEW ORLEANS STEWARD PATROLMAN NORFOLK A(»NT EDDIB PARR. No. 96 Vol. I.f On. BALTIMORE STEWARD PATROLMAN • SAN JOAN, PUERTO RICO AGENT ARTHUR THOMPSON, No. 2888 • Vet* for Oae NEW YORK ENCKNE PATROLMAN Vol. to, Tm • JAMBS DeVnO, No: 183 D JAMES H. HANNERS, No. 216 • • JAMBS PURCELL. 37124 JOSEPH H. VOLFIAN, No. 56 VM. to, Twr. 0' CLAUDE FISHER. Na 362 R. E. GONZALES, No. 174 FRED HART, Na 4U PmLADELPHIA AGBir VM.io,OB. • ,1 I HARRY COlUNSt Na 496 JAMBS (RED) TRUESDALB, Na 5517 • JAMES L. TUCKER. Na 2209 TAMPA AGENT Vet* for CM • • NEW YORK STEWARD PATROLMAN • • • • • LOUIS GOFFIN, No. 4336 CLAUDE (SONNY) SIMMONS, No. 368 MOniK AOENT VMB l« OB* • CHARUS M. KIMBAU, Na 52 MOBILE JOINT PATROLMAN V*M la, OB* • • • CHARUS E. BURNS. No. 7)7 ELVIS (EDDIB) HIGDON, Na 192 * LOUIS (BLAOUE) NEIRA, Na 2639) * A. Ramos W. A. Del Grande J. F. Clark R. H. Sullivan J. E. Jadwin L. M. Guam A. L. Hinde A. J. Brewster R. K. Block G. R. Moore 2.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 (Paid off in New York) S. Gelak $ 2.00 Geo. Seeberger 1.00 Harry C. Moore 2.00 J. McLeod 2.00 E. Cafferly 2.00 J. Kendig 1.00 Rudy Panasirk 2.00 S. Cole 1.00 W. Keller 1.00 T. W. Pation 1.00 Total $56.00 W. H. Bowman 1.00 SS Kelly D. Sweeney 1.00 (Paid off in New York) T. V. Logan 2.00 J. Connelly 5.00 G. Pugh $ 2.00 J. Redden 2.00 Leo F. Mills 2.00 O. O. Lawrence 5.00 F. W. Henderson 2.00 W. Hensen 2.00 P. Y. Spinney 1.00 R. H. Gangler 2.00 J. K. Shrzypkowski 1.00 J. Terraccian 3.00 Charles Archibald 2.00 F. A. Fannicaol 5.00 R. W. Kandal 5.00 BUD RAY, No. 647 Total JACKSONVILLE AGENT VoulorOM •IHCLO($ PERCY J. BOYER. No. 39 NEW ORLEANS ENGINE PATROLMAN BOSTON JOINT PATROLMAN Section 9. Mutilated or dis­ figured ballots, or ballots marked with lead pencil, shall be deemed invalid. Ballots torn in such a manner that part of the names of candidates or voting squares is destroyed are to be regarded as mutilated ballots. Where the choice of any member for any office cannot be determined with certainty, the vote for such office shall not be counted. This also applies where a member has voted for more than the desig­ nated number of candidates to be elected to any office. All ballots cast at any time, in any place and manner, except as herein pro­ vided, shall be deemed invalid. NEW OHIZANS ACBTt BALTIMORE AGSff VM. h, OB. JOHN HAWK. No. 3212 lot on the official tally sheet pro­ vided for that purpose. Mem­ bers shall mark their ballot with pen and ink, or indelible pencil and shall signify their choice of candidates by marking a cross (X) in voting square opposite names or by writing in the blank line the name of their choice if such name be not printed upon the ballot. Lead pencils shall not be used in marking ballots. When a member has marked his ballot; he shall deliver it folded to the judge, who after ascertain­ ing that the member is entitled to vote, shall tear off the num­ bered stub and deposit the ballot. The Committee shall then stamp SAN FRANCISCO AGENT - VoU far On* SS Cran.ston Victory (Paid off in New York) E. W. ElBott H. Gebbie E. Lowell E. Ganther E. Heady Paul Doyle P. Heady C. W. Barkley C. H. McQueen F. Jensen J. Gallagher E. Pettit, Jr. Read the instructions care­ Wm. White fully. If they are not followed, IE. B. Jensen your ballot may be voided and |R. Follett your vote will not count. Be E. McCollom sure to read the rules on elig­ |Luca Gentile ibility that are printed in the F. Neirdhardl J. Barnard adjoining column. R. H. Young J. I. Kuczer Wm. L. Wand H. D. Snyder ROBERT A. MATTHEWS, Na 134 ATTENTION! $43.00 Total $15.00 SS Cape Texas (Paid off in New York) 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 LOO 2.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 A. Quinones E. H. Tanna A. Miranda J. Flores P. F. Fernandez J. C. Evans E. Cortez J. Goglas C. Flores R. Encarnacion L. T. Alstrom G. Marbury L. Cepula M. Serine J. Reyes R. F. A. Berg N. Standras E. Razquez V. M. Eiscobar $ LOG 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 LOO LOO 1.00 LOO LOO LOO 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.00 2.00 Total $21.00 Total $120.00 i-i* �Pago Ten THE SEAFARERS LOG FridaT, Norember 2, 1945 0!^ TK WEEK'S NEWSm BEViEW A Sports And News Roundup For The Benefit Of Our Lnion Members In Foreign Ports, CURRENT EVENTS .. SPORTS SPORTUGHT By GRANTLAND Who is the greatest hitter that lead the league with 10 or 12 AT HOME baseball ever knew? It seemed home runs. The trick stuff had President Truman told the nation, via the radio, that industry to us that the best way to round ended before Babe moved to could well afford to increase wages without any raise in prices. out this argument was to go in the outfield in 1919. But told labor that it should modify its wage demands. Competent a direct line to one who was a "I've often wondered what Joe observers in both camps feel that he used a lot of words to say master at applying the ash. Jackson would have hit against nothing. Any agency established to handle his proposed progrey^ So I looked up Ty Cobb, author the pitching and the livelier ball would find itself swamped with demands and counter-demands. and producer of more than 4,000 that came in around 1920, The as I recall it, I picked up five base hits. The President took a blast at Congress for its failure to enact same might go for Nap Lajoie, home runs in two games. No, Ty didn't name Cobb. He another great natural hitter, who full employment legislation and its attempts to dissolve the USES "Walter Johnson was the great­ named Shoeless Joe Jackson. . A Congressional Committee advised "solving" the industrial didn't have as deep or as full a I'll tell you why Jackson be­ lash as Jackson used. With the est pitcher I ever faced," Ty went unrest by imposing drastic strike penalties . . . Also recommended, longs on top," Cobb said. "Back livelier ball Jackson and Lajoie on, "except Ed Walsh in 1908 was the repeal of the Smith-Connally Act (Slave Labor Law) to in those years we not only had would have had infielders play­ when he won 40 ball games and stop NLRB-conducted strike votes. to swing at a dead ball but also ing back in the outfield to keep saved 10 or 12 others. But when International control of atomic energy is being strongly urge$l a ball that was doctored in every out of hospitals. In one of the you speak of great pitchers, how by a group of 515 scientists, who declare there is no effective counterknown way. We had the spit ball. old-timer's games played in Bosweapon . . . British Premier Attlee is expected in Washington for can anyone overlook Cy Young? the emery ball, the fuzzed-up ball^t^n the lively ball, Lajoie's discussions with Truman regarding atomic energy developments. —a ball that would do a lot ofiii^e drive hit the center field "Cy had been pitching 15 years queer things that come at yon that was after Lajoie before I came to the Tigers, but The "U. S. is ready to crush aggression with irresistible force" with odd dips and breaks. So was through." reads a newspaper headline above a report of the unanimous House he was still a great pitcher. He the good hitters of that period vote for a postwar Navy greater than the tonnage of all other com­ won something like 510 ball bined fleets . . . How this was to to be accomplished if Britain, ABOUT HITTING had to choke the bat and go in for punch hitting. I asked Ty if he was ever games, which is more than most Russia, France and other countries decide to do the same thing "All except Jackson. Joe still tempted to become a slugger. pitchers ever worked in. Cy is unexplained . . . But the measure will provide great profits took his full swing and he was was a big, burly fellow and he the munitions makers in all countries . . . The War Dept. urged con-" often up there from .380 to .410. "Not with that dead, fuzzed-up solidation of Army, Navy and Air arms under a single department I knows I could never have hit ball," he said. "I always believed could hide that ball better than to be called "Armed Forces." above .300 with that type of in playing percentage, and the anyone I ever saw. He would Truman called for "universal military training" and argued swing. Only Jackson, old Shoe­ percentage was all against a free turn his back to you in the windswinger in those days. that this would not be conscription . . . Trainees would be enrolled less Joe, had the eye and the up and the ball would be on you as "civilians in training" instead of into any branch of the services smoothness and the timing to "Later on I tried a few times before you knew what was hap­ . A rose by any other name would smell just as well to the i do that. to go out for distance, but by pening. Cy had fine speed, a good conscriptees . . . PEACE IT'S WONDERFUL. I used to wonder why he didn't that time I had been around Butter rationing was reduced and shoe rationing abandoned, curve ball and perfect control. strike out at least twice a game, nearly 20 years and it was a as the CPA announced increased availability of those consumer taking a full cut at a ball that little late in life to change my He could pitch into a tin cup. He tems . . . The big Navy Day show in New York, at which Truman, flopped and ducked from the swnig or learn new tricks. You was also smart and game. C in C of the armed forces reviewed a seven mile display of fighting treatment it got, either by emery can't change the habits of 20 "The great thing about Walter ships, was part of the nation's tribute to the officers, men and or thumbnail or saliva. years in anything like a hurry. ships which fought from Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay . . . The New Johnson was that you knew a fast "Taking nothing away from if you can change them at all. York housing situation was unchanged, and a veteran was reported ball was coming—but it didn't Babe Ruth, the Babe never had But I remember a series in St. to swing at a slappery or fuzzed-j Louis where I decided to take a help. You never had to worry to have worn out his newly acquired civilian shoes in a week-long up ball. -In those days you could chance on the slugging side and about a curve in those days from pavement pounding hunt for an apartment. y Walter, or any change of pace. A new high was reached by the United States Steel Corporation Just speed. Raw speed, blinding as its assets were announced at 628million dollars . . . The com­ speed, too much speed. The pany has interests in Federal Shipyards, Isthmian Steamship, Ore answer is that Johnson still holds Transportation, Seas Shipping and numerous other maritime and the shut-out and the strike-out non-maritime companies. record. With a better hitting, bet­ ter scoring ball club, Johnson INTERNATIONAL would have had several 40 game The Japanese appeared to be defying the MacArthur order that seasons on the winning side. they liquidate their industrial monopolies . . . The Tokyo govern­ Some day look up the records ment, according to the General's headquarters, has not replied or and see how many 1 to 0 games commented on the order . . . The USSR was expected to join the he lost. I can see that long, rub­ Far Eastern Advisory Commission after a compromise measure was ber right arm unwinding now, UN/VERSITY GFALABAMA made which would provide for appeal. MacArthur's vote would with the ball on top of you be­ BACi^ WHO IS HAIUD/VS break any stalemate . . . The smaller countries were demanding the fore you could even blink. No AS A -PASSFR SUPERIOR To right to participate in the Commission . . . Moscow has agreed to wonder a lot of ball players used BAOGH,Lf CkTMAN, evacuate Jehol and Chahar Provinces in China as soon as Chunking to get sick on the day Johnson &ReAr IbSSFRS. ASAIHSr forces can relieve the Red Army troops. was to pitch." GBOPGIA MSrSATuRPAY 13 Four American soldiers and two Italian consulate members' OF H\S I9ACR;AUS CL\CKm>, arrested in a raid on Tokyo's black market . . . Allegedly the GI's 'CRAZY' STUNTS ^ 3 TOP-TOOCMDOWA/S. sold Army supplies to the black market operators . . . U.S. Marii^^ I asked Ty what was the great­ were said to be in a perilous position as fighting spread between est thrill he got out of baseball. Chinese government forces and the communists in North China . . . "On the bases," he said. "I A British General was reported killed by an Indonesian "mob" as liked to riin and at times try out he sought to confer with Indonesian Nationalist leaders under a pre­ a few crazy things, such as scor­ arranged flag of rtuce. ing from first on a single or scor­ South Africa's Premier, General Smuts urged the immediate ing from second on an outfield calling of an international peace conference beeause of the obvious inability of leading statesmen to find a solution to world problems HB "BocffaMl CHOCmiS SPEW fly. . lOASsm eTAHto "Every now and then I'd take . . Brazil's new President, Jose Linhares, declared that elections -Tfi& i-uacMAAj, a erazy chance where I actually would be held in'that country as per schedule. General Vargas, the had no chance at all. I knew "strong man" who ruled the country for fifteen years, resigned oms that. But I also knew that a cer­ the army and navy withdrew their support of his government . . . tain amount Of efdzy tuhhing The United States recognized the new Venezuelah government in QjoN^ueveD \^oifrcsF73-ro Q Q^ , would put more pressure on the what was considered in some quarters as the qv.^ckest action on 'BfATTWOGWtlS TiDfi defense and maybe start a little record for the recognition of a revolution-imposed regime . . . Pa^ raJSI^lMS SUMIVW, ^^8-14-. attitude of the U. S. has been to refuse recognition to such putehes. hurrying. �Friday. November 2. 1945 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven BUUJETIN Notice! Along with the list of unclaim­ ed wages, Calmar SS Corp. re­ quested that the following men be notified that they had "re­ ceived overpayments; John A. Ward $150.00 John W. Burrell 55.00 William R. Phillips 100.00 Frank F. Nevins 50.00 William Joy 40.30 f^arles Berner 100.00 Benjamin Richardson 70.00 Glen Curl 75.00 Wilard Watson 150.56 Wayne Harshfield 100.00 SS CAPE COMFORT Robert Anderson $ Joseph M. Crookes Steve J. Dedik Leon C. Loe Gordon B. La Rock John E. MacCormack Philip T. Meyers John E. Ross Moffett L. Wolfe 10.19 62.30 7.42 8.28 5.72 9.43 8.28 9.98 2.48 SS JAMES W. WHEELER ;;harles E. Wells -4.77 Tames A. Clark 35.85 Thomas R. Holland 35.26 ^ames Prestwood 4.12 James L. Donzey 4.52 John H. Thornton 4.52 rienry F. Reynolds 4.14 James R. Long 3.84 James E. Price 4.34 Howard Christionsen 2.88 John Reed 1.38 Wallace McGiff 83 James Bottes 3.17 David E. Crome 83 David M. Bova 3.67 James L. Cochran 2.30 James W. Barrett 4.23 Donald A. Palon 2.48 Macon Welch 68 William E. Wilson 10.00 Alfred Smith 3.39 J. W. Duffy 22.07 De Lau Rich .i 5.68 Vii-gil Zimmerman 32.32 —Unclaimed Wages— Calmar Steamship Company J. W. Calhoun Knut B. Cato Morris M. Cline James C. Flppo Wm. Gable Jr Antonio Gonzalves Willie P. Henton Walter F. Haas Hardy W. Henderson Stanley Kasmirsky Forrest J. Leeson Joseph Mickshaw Joseph J. Mayer Paul J. Muckredis Wm. J. Niewoonder Walter L. Smith Darel J. Stalnaker George Smith Hasel T. Thompson John R. Wagner Archie N. Wright John L. Williams John B. Wagner 12.12 3.92 3.12 1.88 3.92 3.58 3.58 20.69 10.46 4.74 2.28 4.74 3.33 1.78 10.62 13.74 43.27 11.51 78 1.68 6.33 17.73 6.72 SS ROY K. JOHNSON A. D. Bailey 9.26 Daniel Byrne 9.65 Cyril W. Cortez 5.05 John E. Conrad 28.93 Edward E. Gray 12.21 Edmund W. Manz 10.99 John P. Maynord 6.25 Dutsy Meeks 64 James T. Walker 18.18 Anthony Metalica Philip T M.yers John J. O'Keefe Clifford G. Perry Angelo H. Rauseo Nicalos Retrovato , . 2.52 10.87 1.68 13.38 2.52 5.07 Thomas V. Roberts 1.68 John H. Rosell 11.66 Frank L. Ryan 5.66 Nicholas A. Retrovato ...... 7.22 Louis J. Sangiola 4.21 Donald E. Yarbrough 5.94 SS BLUE RIDGE VICTORY Laurence B. Anderson 10.10 James F. Bender 4.02 Wm. Blessing 81 Ollie B. Blanton 6.73 Louis Bengal 9.85 Arthur E. Blair, Jr 5.05 Charles Burkhardt 2.52 Wm. Blessing 6.05 C. W. Christoffsen 87 Charles Coleman 33.37 Russell S. Dickerson 11.05 Eugene Farrell 84 ^^L0(S 2.00 J. Ducca 1.00 W. E. Ramsey DONATIONS TURNED INTO J. P. Frfuicaeur 2.00 R. E. Reid 2.00 NEW YORK BRANCH N. Swerla 5.00 F. Williams 3.00 A. Celentano $ 1.00 1.00 G. L. Boiter 5.00 J. Doyle 1.00 V. A. Pacinskas R. Hoey 2.00 P. Bistlini 1.00 Total $19.00 1.00 J. Koopman 1.00 F. Rothmeier J. McLeod 1.00 J. Moss 1.00 SS Hagerston Victory 1.00 F. Wood 1.00 J. Shaffer SS JAMES A. BUTTS 1.00 (Paid off in New York) G. C. Doyle 2.00 F. Carbone John H. Binney 9.81 A. Connick 1.00 D. A. Miles 1.00 $ 2.00 Albert J. Cassie 4.21 1.00 B. A. Ashmensky S. J. Rosczuk 2.00 A. Mullen E. A. Davis 2.00 Walter Cutter 2.11 P. Baughman LOO F. B. Rosenbaum 3.00 R. W. Rosencranz 2.00 Walter Cutter 10.87 P. Gilvany 1.00 J. Turek 1.00 2.00 James A. Creed 10.87 LOO D. E. Van Alstine . , . N. Botway 2.00 R. Besselman C. J. Johnson . 5.00 Leonard J. Dutra 4.90 J. HoUday LOO V. Mino ..._ LOO 2.00 Charles Gill 10.87 1.00 H. F. Weeks W. Worth 1.00 V. Tuttoilmondo R. N. Perry 2.00 A. Paesano 1.00 T. Aubert 1.00 M. F. Ellis 2.00 M. Masotte 1.00 F. laehetta LOO .. 2.00 J. Boyne 1.00 E. A. Prendergast D. Rubin 1.00 B. P. King 2.00 D. Mascia 1.00 G. Spangler LOO B. F. Nelson 2.00 AUGUST OSCAR SANDBERG E. PhiUips 1.00 G. Speehar 3.00 2.00 J. Ramos LOO J. R. Lathrop LOO Your testimony as to the corh- A. E. DeLosch 2.00 J. DeLeose 1.00 W. F. Erdeski SS HAGERSTOWN VICTORY LOO pletely disabling accident to Mack R. McCarthy T. Poldeks 2.00 C. Roy 1.00 Sebai^ino Amento 4.32 Bennetsen is necessary to his J. Trunbaur 1.00 2.00 L. Adamson 2.00 F. Newcomer George H. Bryan 1-20 case. Please contact him at 25 G. Landsman 1.00 A. Bodden 2.00 A. Ludington 2.00 Robert N. Brown 4.55 Soutli Street, New York City. S. Kauser LOO H. Sonkiasian 2.00 M. Nixon 2.00 Goerge W. Baker 1.19 M. Pariikos IJW Geo. Rousseau 1.00 J. Coyne 1.00 Allen C. Cochran ; 1.88 J. H. Green 3.00 1.00 M. Levy 2.00 W. Willoughby D. W. ShuUz 1.00 . 2.00 M. Nessenson 2.00 Harry B. Cress N. Benjamin 1.00 2.00 J. Ulser 1.00 G. Vesagas S. M. Zabawa LOO J. K. ELLIOTT 2.00 F. Harris 1.00 L. Pzelenka M. Schwartz I.OO LOO fl. Krizer 1.00 A. Pisani You have 34 hours coming for H. J. Gelsdorf NEW YORK 51 Beaver St. 1.00 Wm. B. Harrison 2.00 N. Madouros 1.00 30ST0N 330 Atlantic Ave. keying up the main engines. Col­ S. Moskowski 1.00 2.00 ^BALTIMORE 14 North Gay P. Mignano LOO M. Durpe lect at Mississippi. E. J. Blee LOO Telephone Calvert 4S39 A. Jasinski 2.00 1.00 R. Wilkes PHILADELPHIA 6 North 6th St, W. H. Green LOO ^ » W. E. Caddy 2.00 Wright 1.00 V. IfpORFOLK 25 Commercial PI. W. H. Trenche LOO SS WILLIAM PROUSE NEW ORLEANS .339 Chartres St. 2.00 R. Logan 1.00 D. G. McKenzie H, Serwen 3.00 SAVANNAH 220 East Bay SL Voyage No. 4 J. E. Dunne . 2.00 W. Daur 1.00 MOBILE 7 St. Michael St. P. Arthur LOO 2.00 E. Lorentz 1.00 F. Brescia SAN JUAN, P. R 45 Ponce de Leon Following is a list of overtime C. Majewski LOO G. H. Clement 2.00 H. Fitzsimmons 1.00 GALVESTON 30522nd St. due the men who payed off in C. Shaffer 2.00 RICHMOND, Calif. 257 5th St. 2.00 1.00 P. J. Campbell San Francisco October 17, 1945. R. Waters 1.00 J. Girouard SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St. A. J. Petti 2.00 A. Pelletier 1.00 SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. Thomas Wabolis, 150 hrs.; A. B. D. E. Riddle LOO 2.00 P. O'Brien H. Smith 2.00 PORTLAND Ill W. Bumsida St. Thommen, 148 hrs.; B. De Breuk, R. Floyd 2.00 2.00 WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. R. Rasmussen 1.00 C. Paeigger 88 hrs.; S. Bergquist, 56 hrs.; W. C. Thies 2.00 HONOLULU 16 Merchant St. 1.00 1.00 G. Parsons BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. Funk, 56 hrs.; W. Hightower, 4 A. Casano J. K. Schill 1.00 Total $70.00 CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Ave. hrs.; J. Kleissler, 6 hrs.; R. Hud- J. Branch LOO J. Curran 1.00 CHICAGO . . .9137 So. Houston Ave. dleson, 4 hrs.; P. Triantrafillo, 4 S. Seigenberg LOO CLEVELAND 1014 E. SL Clair St. SS Matthews (SUP) hrs.; I. Lowry, l%hrs*.; D, Smith, D. Clark LOO DETROIT 1038 Third St. Total $125.00 2.00 (Paid off in New York) DULUTH 531 W- Michigan St. 1% hrs.; A. Riebus, 1% hrs.; R. Andrew Boney VICTORIA, B. C 602 Boughton St. Adams, 12 hrs.; J. Kuzma, 33% B. Arnold LOO J. Merkel FROM MEN ON SUP SHIPS 4 2.00 "'/ANCOUVER 144 W. Haotings St. 1.00 hrs,; F. Blanco, 13 hrs.; W. Breier, W. Phelp TAMPA '...842 Zack St. E. Simth LOO D. Gillinkin $ 3.00 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St. 17% hrs.; C. Abraham, 13 hrs. W. Hopkins 1.00 Olf Olsen 2.00 Total $216.00 Collect at South Atlantic. PERSONALS MONEY DUE SlU HALLS -• �.I.-... Page Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG , Friday. November 2, 1945 Isthmian Seamen Want Union Conditions SIU Asks For Isthmian Vote THEY'RE LEARNING HOW Seamen of the non-union Isthmian Lines are turning more and more to the SIU and welcoming the Union's ororganizing efforts, on the East and Gulf Coasts as well as on the West Coast, organizers reported to the Seafarers Log this week. ' "Thousands of pieces of real!beginning to function as^ Union literature, have been sent ^nion crews. The ships are {Continued from Page 1) by the SIU to men sailing Isth-f^®'"^ "P' and unsafe lems. Coupled with the obvious mian ships," the organizers de- working and living conditions superiority of SIU agreements dared. "The Union's press is el^'^ated. The men are holdingij^ (the highest in the industry), widely read and well received, "meetings and discussing the merthe Isthmian men showed their Letter are received daily from its of the Union. They are con­ appreciation, signing SIU pledge Isthmian men anxious to join scious of their rights and feel cards by the hundreds. the SIU and bring the best con­ they are entitled to union rep­ ditions in the industry to these resentation. ASKS RECOGNITION "Most of the Isthmian men are non-union ships. Holding cards from a clear anxious for the collective bar­ "The Union is following the majority of the unlicensed per­ gaining election tc come about," policy of keeping not only the sonnel, the SIU has called for the organizers said. "They all membership^' but the seamen as recognition, convinced that these want a chance to vote." a whole well informed, and is seamen are overwhelmingly in continuing to widely distribute In every port on the East and favor of our organization. Hun­ our literature," the reports say. West Coasts the drive is being dreds of them have already be­ Ships' organizers for the Isthmian drive are instruced by Or­ I "Hundreds of clean-cut, younger intensified for this election. The^ come book members and hundreds ganizer Gene Dauber, preparing them for their task of bringing these more have become active workers seamen into the SIU. At this session they are going over the SIU's men as well as hundreds of the Union's organizing machine is in oldtimers who know the back­ full swing. Organizers for the in the organization drive. literature and comparing the better clauses of the Union's contracts ground of union conditions and SIU conduct instruction sessions The success of the, drive up till with conditions on NMU and other unorganized ships. the evil conditions as they ex­ for all the rank and file organi­ now is the achievement of the isted for years on the Isthmian zers sent to Isthmian ships. many rank and file members of ships aided and are assisting the Complete kits of Union litera­ the Union who are even now sail­ family obligations and other dis­ relax our efforts by any degree. drive." ture are distributed at these meet­ ing Isthmian ships and carrying advantages, because they are con­ In fact, we are now entering the Whatever efforts the NMU has ings and those boarding the ships most serious and most important the SIU message to the crews in vinced of the importance of their made have not been rewarded by as organizers are well prepared. phase of the entire drive. all parts of the world. work. The fruits of their labors any response because the Isth­ They are prepared to meet the To these men must go a vote will be an SIU victory in the elec­ Faced with certain defeat at the mian seamen are well aware of arguments advanced by non­ of thanks and appreciation. They tion and a step toward the im­ hands of the SIU, the rival union their phony sell-out poli­ union and company men. go aboard these Isthmian ships provement of their own condi­ can be expected to start its usual cies, not only with regard to the rule or ruin tactic by urging Instructions on how to meet with the advance knowledge that tions in the industry. seamen's conditions but inside such threats are given the ship's Isthmian been to vote "no union." they lose thirty to fifty dollars a the union. They know, too, the CANNjDT RELAX , This means that we must guard lack of democracy and absolute organizers. A full history of the month and must work under non­ union conditions. All of them The developments so far in this closely against any fouling up by communist control inside the SIU's fight to better the wages make this sacrifice, in spite of drive do not mean that we can them. It means that now, ipore outfit that completely wipes out and working and living conditions is outlined so that this know-j than ever, each individual in the any rank and file expression. ledge can be passed on. No SIU must consider this his per­ "Most of the conditions the points are being over-looked in^, sonal problem. This is the way Isthmian seamen do now enjoy, the drive to make Isthmian they now understand were we can push this drive to an achieved through the efforts of 100% SIU. early and victorious conclusion. the SIU," the organizers say. "This is the important drive in The SIU has promised these Isth- "They know the importance of marine history," the organizers say. They point out the years nian men the same high standards their own role in the industry. of anti-union background of the "They understand now the "NMU Patrolmen and their ap­ had told him that the NMU was a as we enjoy on the vessels of background of the fight over a company and compare the ter­ pointed ships' delegates are only communist - controlled organiza­ other operators. hundrea years for organization, rific task to that of the unions concerned with politics and not tion and that he would do himself The SIU does not make idle which brought the seamen up among the steel companies. His­ with the seamen," said James from, the role of serfdom and tory of those organizing efforts is promises. Moran, former NMU member some good if he quit it. well known. "But I had to find out the chattel slavery. when applying for membership in "They know that is was be­ "The day the Isthmian is put the Seafarers Int'l Union, re­ truth for myself," he declared. NMU was a 'political swindle'." cause of the Union's efforts and under contract the drive will be cently. . "And I know now that they were The delegates aboard the ships struggles on the waterfront that won," the organizers declare. He pointed out that his friends right when they told me the were there by communist ap­ crimps and sailor's boarding "But for the moment the probleni pointment and only made things houses were driven out of busi­ is to wind up the drive with j disagreeable for the crew mem­ ness." successful collective bargaining HE LEARNED HIS LESSON bers by handing out their reams The crews of Isthmian ships are election." of silly propaganda that had no­ thing to do with the wages and conditions of the workers. And PLANNING THE DRIVE all such delegates were directly appointed to the ships from the NMU's so - called "leadership" school, thus assuring that they were communists. Although they would have "la­ bor pains" on the political field in trying to convert seamen to their faction, they would do ab­ solutely nothing about wages and conditions, Moran said. When he heard about the way things were run within the SIU and the rank and file way the rr union is run, Moran decided that he'd had enough of the NMU and its political fakery and sabotage of the workers gains and condi­ tions. 'T'hat's why I'm turning in my NMU book and asking for mem­ bership in the SIU, a Union that fights for better conditions which will help me keep up my earn­ ings at sea. New York Agenl Paul Hall and Organizing Director Earl (Buli> Moran also asserted that the James Moran. who joined the NMU to find out for himself if ship's delegates are appointed , as Sheppard meet to lay plans for the Seafarers' organizing drive. In^ the stories he heard about the commie leadership were true, turns .<uch by NMU headquarters be­ telligent, workable planning., plus the efforts of hundreds of volun­ ftiK NMU book over to SIU Patrolman Jimmy Hanners and applies fore they even board ship, in vio­ teer ' organizers proved effective, when the Seafarers garnered pledges from the majority of the Isthmian seamen. lation of all democracy. for admission to the Seafarers. He learned, all right. Joins NMU To Find Out For Himself-He Does, And How! � 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 November 2, 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. 44 Description An account of the resource SIU DEMANDS ISTHMIAN RECOGNITION ASKS FOR CONSENT ELECTION; HAS SIGNED PLEDGES FROM MAJORITY OF ISTHMIAN MEN NO SHIPS DELAYED AS SIU PUSHES BOYCOTT OF WSA MEDICAL PROGRAM BEGIN VOTING FOR OFFICERS GOODBYE, DR. CHIPS CANADIAN SEAFARERS FIGHT FOR CLOTHING FOR SHIPWRECKED MEN THE ISTHMAIN ELECTION USES WILL NOT FINISH SCABS SHIPOWNERS STILL ATTEMPT TO CHISEL STEWARD DEPT. SENATE OVER-RIDES SIU PROTEST FRISCO REPORTS ON OVERTIME SEAFARERS BREAK MACAULEY'S ARGUMENTS FOR CONTINUATION OF WSA MEDICAL PROGRAM HERSHEY TRIES TO PIT VETS AGAINST LABOR THE SKIPPER CHANGED HIS MIND AS CREW ACTS SAILOR'S LOVE SONG ANTI-UNION HIGGENS ENTERS A NEW FIELD PETER ZENGER WAS A GOOD SHIP-BUT NOT TO BE ON TROOP COMMANDER COMMENDS CREW OF THE FRANCIS WALKER ATTENTION MEMBERS! IF IN ANTWERP, SEE HOSPITALIZED BROTHER CHARLES PARKER VISITS SS RICHARD RUSH ANTICS OF JUNIOR 3RD LIVEN UP DULL TRIP CAPE NOME CREW BLASTS SKIPPER THIS IS HOW THE CANDIDATES WILL APPEAR ON THE OFFICIAL BALLOT SECTIONS ON VOTING TAKEN FROM THE SIU CONSTITUTION ISTHMIAN SEAMEN WANT UNION CONDITIONS JOINS NMU TO FIND OUT FOR HIMSELF-HE DOES, AND HOW! Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11-02-1945 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/f13d91407b7e655bf8c0ca68a19fe4e2.pdf f991be52cc34763ae56ad22ca67d23fe PDF Text Text .  l^Sf  M  iikfoiaO  ^^aihl  BACKS  DOWN,  BTHHIAN  SHIPS  ,i:­ •   • ­v"­;^/­. it  :'m'm  ^  Harry  Bridges  ducked  out  on  his  long  threat­ ened  battle  with  the  AFL  on  the  West  Coast  this  week  by  ordering  his  men  to  unload  cargo  from  five long­immobilized Isthmian Steamship Company,  vessels." The  action  was  the  first  wide­open  break  in  the  three­month­old  dispute  between  the  SIU­ affiliated  Brotherhood  of  Marine  Engineers  and  the  CIO  Marine  Engineers  Beneficial  Association,  Officidt Organ, AtUmttc & Gulf  District, Seafarers International Union of  NA  a dispute in which  Bridges  intervened  and  became  the  standard  bearer  for  the  MEBA.  No.  22  NEW  YORK.  N.  FRIDAY.  NOVEMBER  2.  1351  VOL;  xm  The move  by  Bridges  to honor  his contract  by  furnishing  men  to  work  the  ships  was  viewed  as  Seafarers  Wins  Discharge  From Army For Drafled AB  abandonment  of  his  "tough  guy"t­ policy  to  avoid  any  out­and­out  showdown fight  with  the  AFL.  Earlier  this  week  Bridges  had  hinted  at  possible  violence  and  a  concerted  effort  by  his  group  to  "drive  the  AFL  oft  the  water­ ;.  A  member  ,of  the  SJ^U ,,,has^  front."  earned  the  distinction  of  being  Bridges  reference  was  to  the  Polls  in  all  SIU  Branches  on  the first  merchant'seaniah  to  be  International Longshoremen's  As­ the  Atlantic,  Gulf  and  Pacific  discharged from  the armed  forces  sociation  and  the  Brotherhood  coasts  opened  yesterday,  as  the  because  of  the  need  for  skilled  of  Marine  Engineers,  though  seamen  to :man , the  sWps, of  the  any  such  attempt  on  his  part  annual  election  of  officials  to  growing  American  merchant'  was  certain  to  bring  in  the  lead  the  SIU  during  the  coming  fleet.  ^  powerful  SlU­aftiliated  Sailors  year  got  under  way.  To fill  the  Seafarer  Eugene  Dore, 26­year­ Union  of  the  Pacific  and  the  29  elective  posts  in  Headquarters  old  AB,  who  ended  eight  months  West  Coast  Teamsters,  which  and  the  Branches,  37  men,  who  of  army  service  on  October  19,  have  pledged  the  BME  full  sup­ were  nominated  and  found  qual­ became  the first  concrete  result  port  in  its  dispute.  Two  weeks  ified,  appear  on  the  ballot.  of  the  Union's  long  campaign  to  ago  in  New  York  Bridges  met  The  qualifications  of  men  in  seek  the  release  of  rated  sea­ with  unions  expelled,  as  his  was,  nomination  were  examined  by  a  from  the  CIO  for  leftist  leanings.  Headquarters  Credentials  Com­ ' men.  In  Dore's  case  alone,  the  Un­ At  that  time  he  told  reporters  mittee  elected  at  a  special  Head­ ion  battled  government  redtape  that  any  attempt  by  the  AFL  to  quarters  meeting  on  October  18.  for  over  four  monthis  before  the  work  West  Coast  ships  would  be  The  Committee's  report,  read  proper  Army  channels  were  lo­ met  by  head­on  pierhead  battles.  and  accepted at the regulaf­ mem­ cated  and  the  Seafarer's  request  Bridges  change  of  heart  came  bership  meetings  of  October  24,  Seafarer  Eugene  Dore,  AB,  displays  his  army  discharge  stated  that  aU  men  who  had  for  his  discharge  began  its  slow  given  to  enable  him  to  resume  shipping.  {Continued  on  Page  3)  submitted­ credentials were foimd  processing  front  his  imit  to  the  qualified.  The  election  procedure  Pentagon.  »  was  also  outlined.  "DRAFT  CHAOS"  In  accordance  with  a  resolu­ "Since  the  beginning  of  the  tion  adopted  in  September  by  present  international  crisis," Paul  Crewmembers  of  SlU­contract­ Wage  Stabilization  Board,  on  SIU's  Negotiating  Committee  is  all  Branches,  the  posts  to  be  Hall,  SIU  Secretary ­ Treasurer  ed ships  began working  a 40­hour  wages  in  effect  on  January  15,  an  increased  room  and  meal  al­ filled  are  the  same  as  last  year  stated,  "we've  campaigned  for  a  week  at  sea  yesterday  and  so  1950,  at  which  time  ABs  were  lowance,  which  will  pay  men  $8  in  all  ports  and  Headquarters.  national  policy  of  deferment  for.  BALLOT  SET­UP  per  day,  as  compared  to  the  became  the first  seamen  in'mari­ receiving  i$233.51.  skilled  seamen.  .Apparently  the  time  history  to  sail  undef  the  The  overtime rate is  now  $1.29  former  $6  per  day.  The  Credentials  Coir­Jttee's  armed  forces  reali/je  now  that  new  work­week.  At  the  same  per  hour  for  those  men  receiv­ Electric  washing  macnines  to  report  provides  that  the  ballot  skilled  seamen  belong  back  on  time  Seafarers  began  working  ing  less  than  $277.30  per  month.  be  installed  aboard  all  SIU ships  list  the  ports  and  offices  in  geo­ the  ships,  carrying  vital  cargoes,  under  the  new  wage  scale  which  Men  receiving  $277.30  per  month  at  company  expense  is  another  graphical  order  following  the  but  leaving  deferrments  up  to  gives, them  a  6.2  percent  raise  or  more  will  be~  paid  overtime  new  feature  of  the  contract.  Headquarters office,  and  the can­ the draft  boards is causing  chaos.  in  wages  over  the  January  15,  at  the  rate  of  $1.63  per  hour.  Representing  the  Union  in  the  didates  are  listed  alphabetically  "Climbing  a  mountain  of  gov­ 1950  level.  This  is  added  to  the  Under  the  terms  of  the  vaca­ original  negotiations  and  in sign­ under  the  offices  they  are  seek­ ernment  redtape  to  get  men  out  wage  rate  .currently  in  effect,  tion  agreement,  every  Seafarer  ing  the  remaining  operators  dur­ ing.  Space  has  been  provided  of  .the  service  once  they're  in  is  won  last  October  when  Seafar­ is  entitled  to  the  vacation  bene­ ing  the  past  three  weeks  were:  following each  position for  write­ ridiculous,  but  that's  what  we  ers ' received  a  6.38  percent  in­ fits  pro­rated  on  the  basis of  two  Secretary­Treasurer  Paul  Hall,  in  votes.  have  to  do  until  National  Selec­ Specifically  the  ballot  calls  weeks  of  vacation  pay  at  the  chairman  of  the  Union's  commit­ crease.  tive  Service  Headquarters  issues  The  new  contract  negotiated  $140 figure.  Men  can  collect  va­ tee;  Cal  Tanner,  Mobile  Agent;  for  the  election  of  one  Secre­ a  blanket  deferrment  for  skilled  with  the  shipowners  three  weeks  cation  pay  due  them  after  90  Lindsey  Williams,  Gulf  Coast  tary­Treasurer,  one  Assistant  seamen." ; ­ Representative  and  New  Orleans  Secretary­Treasurer,  three  Head­ ago  also  calls  for  an  increase  in  days  of  work.  Dore,  who  was  drafted  in  Feb­ vacation  pay  from  $115  per  year  Eligible  Seafarers  get  the  va­ Agent;  Earl  Sheppard,  Baltimore  quarters  Representatives,  nine  ruary, ioUowing  his  return  from  to  $140  per  year.  cation  benefits  regardless  of  the  Agent;  Robert  Matthews,  Head­ Port  Agents  and  15  Port  Patrol­ Korea  aboard  a  ship  which  had  number  of  companies  for  whom  quarters  Representative,  and  men.  carried  supplies  to  the  UN  armT  Likewise,  SlU­contracted  ope­ they  worked  during  the  year.  Morris  Weisberger,  SUP  East  Voting  will  continue  straight  ies,  is  a>  veteran.,  of  sailing  rators  bpgan  this  week  to  pay  Also  improved  in  the  new  Coast  Representative,  represent­ through  for  two  months  tmtil  through  World  War  H,  .during  50  cents  per  man  per  day  into  agreement  negotiated  by  the  ing  the  International.  (Continued  on  Page  3)  the  Seafarers  Welfare  Fund.  which  he  lost  two  ships.  Formerly  their  payment  was  25  TWO  SINKINGS  cents  per  day.  He' was  a  crewmember  aboard  The  boost  in  vacation  pay  was  the  torpedoed  troopship  Dorches­ made  possible  by  the  upping  of  The  wildcat  strike  on  New  of  which  the  SIU  Atlantic  &  ing out  the  men  on  most  of  New  ter,  and  later  survived  the  sink­ vacation  payments  by  the  ope­ York's  waterfront  neared  the end  Gulf  District  is  a  member, pledg­ York's  piers.  ing of  the  Artemus Ward,  a lib­ rators  from  35  cents  per  day  to  of  its  third  week  today,  with  ed  support  to  Joseph  P.  Ryan,  The  wildcatters  were  unsuc­ 114  ships  idle  at  their  piers,  President  of  the  ILA,  in  his  at­ cessful.  however  in  spreading  erty  ship,  blown  up  by  coastal  50  centsi  guns  during  the  landing  at  the  The  new  contract  has  been  though  vessels  at  Army  piers  tempt  to  bring  to  an  end  the  the  strike  to  other  ports,  ­with  the  exception  of  Boston.  Normandy  beachhead.  signed  by  all  but one  of  the SIU­ were  being  loaded  with  defense  dispute.  The  contract  in  dispute  was  :i.  •  Dbre  also  was  a  crewmember  contracted  operators.  The  lone  cargoes.  PIER  WALKOUT  negotiated  and  overwhelmingly  The  walkout  involves  fewer  of  the  Swedish 5  ship  Gripsholmi  remaining operator, owner of  one  The  wildcat  walkout  began  on  endorsed  by  the  ILA's  125­man  than  half  a  dozen  locals  of  the  when  she  acted  aa; an, exchange  ship,  will  meet  with  the  Union  October 12th  when a  North River  wi^e  scale  committee,  which  in­ International  Longshoremen's As­ . _  ship  in. ,1942.; Fps,  , wartin^  shortly.  _  A  sample  of  the  new  wage  sociation,  AFL.  The  Locals  are  local  walked  out  after  working  cludes  representatives  of  every  effoi^i,  Dore  received'  e^i^  ser­ three  days  tinder  the  new  pact.  ILA  local  from  Portland,  MainCi  vice  ribbon nwarded to merchant  rate,  which  appears  on  page  5,  seeking  to  have  the  uYiion  re­ ,  seamen,  having  ^ived  aboard  .gives  ABs  a'boost from  $248.41  negotiate  a  contract  agreed  to  The  "dissidents"  spread­the  to  Noi&lk,  Virginia.  walkout  to  Brooklyn  dodcs  and  Later  in  secret ­balloting  the  oceansA He. also  re­; per  month, to $1^.89 wper month;  on  Oct<^r  8th.  ;  roving  squads  of  wildcatters  on  membership  approved  of  the >  of  continu*  The  new  6,2  .^centi incsease  X^st  week, four  AFL uniona  of  following  days succeeded  in  puU­ contract  by  a  two­to­one  margiiw  tphye  Maritime Trades  Department,  (^oniinued  on  It)'77  was^'flgured, ­  afrcording  to  Balloting  For  A&G  Officials  Gets  Under  Way  40'Hour Week, Pay Raise In Effect  Wildcat Longshore  Strike  ,  Up  New  York  Pien  �Pag* Two  i! MB  SEA F  ABB RS  tO G  SEAFARERS  LOG  Published  Every  Other  Week  by  the  SEAFARERS  INTERNATIONAL  UNION  OF  NORTH AMERICA  Atlantic and Gulf  District  Affiliated  with  the  American  Federation  of  Labor  At  51  Beaver Street,  New  York  4,  N. Y.  HAnovep  2­2784  Reentered  as  second  class  matter  August  2,  1949,  at  the  Post  Office  in  New  York,  N.Y.,  under  the  Act  of  August  24,  1912,  267  Clear  Policy  Needed  The discharge  of  a Seafarer  from  the army  to resume  aailing,  as  reported  in  this  week's  LCX^,  illustrates  clearly  the  complete  lack  of  a  selective  service  policy  covering  merchant  seamen,  a  matter  the  SIU  has  urged  vainly  since the  beginning of  the present  international emergency.  In  this  case  the  Seafarer  spent  eight  months  in  uni­ form  before  recognition  was  given  his  previous  sailing  record and  the need  for him  to help man  the ships vital to  fulfill  American  commitments  abroad.  A  plea  by  the  I  Union  and  his seven  years of  sailing,  including  the loss  of  two­ships during World  War II, met  deaf  ears at  his draft  board.  Belatedly,  however,  the  government  realized  the  man's  greater  importance  aboard  ship  and  gave  him  his  release.  In  the  meantime,  a  mountain  of  redtape  and  confusion  had  been  created  that  took  the Seafarer  months  to cut.  The  case  is  not  an  isolated  one,  however.  Skilled  sea­ men  with  long  records  of  service  have  been  and  still  are  being inducted  at a  time when  the need  for skilled  seamen  grows greater  every day.  The  Union  is  doing  all  it  can  to  see  that  the  ships  are  properly  manned. The  government  should  do  its  part  to see  that  the  important  cargoes  delivered  to  the  docks  will  have  seamen  available  to  see  that  they  reach  their  destinations. The proper  cooperation would  be the issuance  of  a  deferment  order ­covering  skilled;  experienced  mer­ chant  seamen.  To do  less,  is  for selective  service  to  com­ pound  the  chaos  that  is  hampering  the  use  of  skilled  sea­ AFL  MAPS  FIGHT  ON  CHEAP  LABOIt  AFL  federations  from  the southwest  bor­­ men where  they can do the greatest  good.  der  states  have  developed  a  program  of  close  cooperation  between  themselves  and  the  .  Secretary­Treasurer  Paul  Hall  has  termed  the  Union's  ree  Mexican  trade  unions  to  war  against  exploitation  of  Mexican  nationals on  big indus­ necessity to battle  redtape to get drafted seamen out  of  the  trial  farms  of  the  southwest.  The  committee dealing  with  the problem  blamed  the 82n(l  army  "ridiculous,  but  that's  what  we  have  to  do  until  Congress  for  passing  legislation  permitting  such  exploitatidn  against  recommendationii  National  Selective  Service  Headquarters  issues  a  blanket  made  by  President  Truman.  deferment  for skilled  seamen."  "Not  only  farm  workers,  but  the  interests  of  all  American  workers  are  jeopardized  An example  of  the  confusion  existing  was  the  reply  by  this  legislation,"  the  committee  said.  given  when  the  LCXJ  asked  New  York  Selective  Service  Headquarters  for  a  comment  on  the  Seafarer's  discharge.  The  bland  reply  was:  "There  must  be  an  error—no  men  MORE  ON  82nd  CONGRESS. As  1951 drew  to  a  close,  it became  apparent  that  Con­ are being discharged  to return  to sea."  gress  had  left  a  load  of  unfinished  business,  insofar  as  the  Welfare  of  the  nation's  work­ ing  people  was  concerned.  On  health  insurance and  aid  to medical  colleges. Congress did  nothing.  On  the  problem  of  helping  the states  meet  the  problem  of  badly  overcrowdect  g,­.,  A good  gauge  of  a  country's  alertness  is  the  percen­ and  understaffed  schools,  Congress  was  equally  lax.  On  housing,  price  control,  pluggihjg  teige  of  the  eligible  persons  who  turn  Out  to  vote  in  an  tax  loopholes  which  benefit  the. wealthy  and  large  corporations,  and  uniform  unemploy­ election.  In  an  organization,, the  same  is  true.  ment  benefits,  the story  was  the same—nothing, was done. Liberal Senators and  Congres^ .  The  Seafarers  International  Union  has  always  prided  men  will continue  their fight  on  these  issues  when Congress reconvenes in January. Mean­ Itself  on  the  large  number  of  members  who  have  taken  while,  the  National  Association  of  Manufacturers praised  the Congress for  having "labor­;  _  •  j  the  time  to study  the  candidates  and  visit  the  polls.  Ex­ ed  long  and  constructively."  Cast  Your  Vote  cept  for  the  men on  the ships  who  cannot  get  to a  Hall  during the  two­month  voting  period,  the  number  of  men  COMMIES  LOSE  IN  LATEST  MANEUVER.  The Subversive  Activities  Cohtrol  :^ho vote  is  almost  that of  the entire eligible  membership.  has  rejected  a  demand  by  the communist  party  that  it  start  allf  over  again  on  the  he^­ in  the  United  States  as  a  whole,  a  turnout  of fifty  ings  into  whether  the  party  must  register  as a Russian­directed  group. So the case^ whi<4»j .  has  been  in  progress  for  six  months,­Will  continue. Whether br not  the Board decides that^ ­ percent  of  the  eligible  voters  is  considered  excellent;  in  the  party  is  technically  directed  by  Russia  v/on't  change the  complexion  of  things.  The­ '  the SIU,  the figure  far  exceeds  that.  fact  of  the  matter  will  still  remain—directly  or  indirectly;  the  party  does  the  bidding^­ ;  ' •  Yesterday  voting  began  in  the  election  to  determine  of  the Soviet  Union  and  is, in effect,  an ann  of  Russian  policy.  the men  who will  lead  the Union in 1952. Again  the  time  •   The  commies  also  lost  an  additional  $15,000  in forfeited  Bail  posted fdr  three cbnvicfri •   i^Jias  come  for  Seafarers  to study  the  qualifications  of  the  ed  communist  party  leaders  now  listed as fugitives. The  three are Robert  Thompson, New  York  State  communist  party  chairman;  Gilbert  Green, Iliinois State party secretary,, and  pnen on the  ballot and  vote according to their choice.  Henry  Winston,  national  organization  secretary. They have already forfeited bail tptaljing  Regardless  of  whom  you  vote  for,  the  important  $60,000  for  failure  to  surrender  fo  begin  jail teims for violation  of  the Smith Act) wh^  makes  conspiracy  to  teach  and  advocate  violent  overthrow  of  the  govei'jiuneat  a  crittiekH  thing  is  to vote.  • .J  ^  •  . •  v.  I  �Kombw  mi  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  Page  Three  .­­ •   .'^m  •I'l    • m  fSSmmS  *  (Continued  from  Page  J)  cision,  the  MEBA  in  another '  Wednesday  when  California  Su­ chamber  of  the  Supreme  Court  M '  preme  Court  Justice  William  was  once  again  barred  from  r ?  Sweigert  gave  him  the  choice  picketing  the  Isthmian  ships  on  of  furnishing  men  to  work  the  the  West  Coast.  Isthmian  ships,  backed  up  by  a  The  events  in  the  dispute  ,  $25,000  guarantee­bond  from  his  which  brought  the  issues  to  a  union,  or  allowing  Isthmian  to  head  this  week  came  about  a  One. of  the  survivors  of  the  his  lifebelt] in  his  survival.  'The  the  company.  "Even several  days  use  AFL  longshoremen.  week  ago,  when  the  newly­char­ ili­fated  Southern  Isles,  which  lifebelt  pidled  me  up  when  the  later  when  I  ­^dsited  William  Wednesday's  coixrt  action  came  tered  San  Francisco  local  of  the  split in, half  sank 1^ mohth,  ship pulled me imder,  and having  Asble's  widow  and  children,  the  as  a  result  of  an  injunction  Tntemational Longshorem^'s As­ recalled  fhiis­jiveek  the  Ihst  min­ it  oh  tight kept  it from, slipping  company  still  had  not  contacted  granted  Bridges  last  week  bar­ sociation,  AFL,  signed  a  contract  utes  of.the  ship  and  the  hour?  off  me.  We  ptdled  loosely­tied  any  of  the* men's  families.  That,  ring  Isthmian  from  using  AFL  with  Isthmian  to  work  its  ves­ spent  in  the  icy,  shark­inlested  life  jackets  out  of  the  water  apparently,  is  how  much  they  longshoremen.  Isthmian'  imme­ sels.  waters  while  awaiting rescue.  "It  later."  thought  of  us."  diately  challenged  the  injunction  Isthmian  signed  with  the  ILA  was  a  night  of  horror,"  said  When . the  rescue  ship  put  the  At  present  in  New  York  to  re­ and,  on  the  basis  of  hearings  when  the  company  fovmd  that,  v:j;|  .Howard  Bastenbeck,  Oder,  one  men^to Norfolk,  they  were  met  cuperate,  Bastenbeck  has  been  which  followed.  Judge . Sweigert  despite  its  contract  with  Bridge^  of  the  six  men  who  survived.  by  newspapermen  and  the  SIU,  cautioned  by  his  doctor  not  to  made  his  decision.  an  "invisible" picketline"  existed  Still  a p p e a r i n g  tired  and  which  took  steps  to  see  that  the  work  until  he  is fully  recovered,  The  court  action  was  the first  before  its  ships  and  no  ILWU  strained  when  he  visited  SIU  men  were  well  taken  care  of.  so  he  intends  to  rest  up  indefin­ time  in  the  stormy  history  of  gangs  would  appear  at  the ships  Headquarters  this  week,  the  29­ Conspicuously  missing,  Basten­ itely.  "No  more  ships  for  me,"  Harry  Bridges  that  he  has  ever,  when  requested.  year  oljiJ  'Seafarer  tirmed  his  beck  noted,  was  someone  from  he  concluded.  been  ordered  to  work  ships,  or  Isthmian,  therefore,  withdrew  thoughts  back  to  the  early  hours  has  been  required  to  put  up  a  from  the  Pacific  Maritime  Asso­ of  October  '5th,'  when  the  con­ cash  guarantee  that  he  would  ciation,  an  employer  organlza^  verted  i.ST,  without  .warning,  furnish  work  gangs  when  re­ tion  which  deals  with  Bridges  split  in  half  and  in  less  than five  as  a  body,  and  signed  • with the  quested  by  a  company.  minutes  plunged  to  the  bottom.  This  week's  action  was  also  ILA.  seen  by  maritime  observers  as  The  beginning  of  the  BME­ TERRIFIC  CRACK*  the first  real  test  of  Bridges  MEBA  dispute,  which  has  de­ "I  was .  just  leaving  my  foc'sle  "stranglehold"  on  West  Coast­ veloped  into  a  struggle  between  . beloVr  decks,".  Bastenijeck  re­ operators,  a  hold  which  the  New  almost  all  of  the  AFL  maritime  called,  "when  I heard  en­ York  Herald  Tribune  described  unions  and  Bridges,  came  dur­ gine  stop.  Then  therfe ­ was a  ter­ as  "equivalent  to  telling  Pacific  ing  the  summer  after  the  AFL  rific' cracking  ndise—^that  was  it.  Coast  operators  which  unions  Brotherhood  of  Marine  Engineers  Later  some  of  the  newer  fellows  they  may  have  contracts  with  had  signed  a  contract  with  Isth­ told  me  they  didn't  know  she  under  pain  of  being  put  out  of  mian  covering  the  250  Engineers  ­ was  going  to  sink,  but, I  hneW  business  if  they  do  not  comply  of  the company's  37­ship fleet.  right  away .slie  was  going  down.  The  MEBA,  which  no  longer  with  his  orders."  I  went; in  rny  foc'sle,  but  ti)ere  The  showdown  stand  taken  by  had  a~  contract  in  effect  • with .  was  no  one  there.  AFL  maritime  imions  against  the  company,  threw  up  picket­ Bridges  hitherto  almost  unchal­ lines  and  declared  a  "strike,"  "I  went  up  on  deck  and  saw  lenged  control  is  also  seen  by  though  only  a  handful  of  En­ five  or­.six  other  men  standing  many  as  possibly  opening  a  new  gineers  walked  off  in  its  sup­ around.  They  seemed  unsure  era  on  the  West  Coast,  an  era  port.  The  so­called  strike  proved  whether  or  not. to  go  over  the  in  which  Bridges  will  be  forced  that  the  large  majority  of  the  side.  Someone  shouted,  'Did  the  to  move  cautiously  through  a  company's  Engineers  were  pro­ radio  officer  send  an  SOS.'  But  healthy  respect  of  the  potent  BME,  and  that  the  company  had  no. oho  ^wered  him.­ acted  ­within  its  rights  under  the  power  of  the  AFL.  "I  went  on "  the  starboard  side  In  the  LOG  office,  Howard  Bastenbeck,  Southern  Isles  law  as  relating  to  supervisory  At  the same  time  Judge  Swei­ toi xny. . lifeboat  station,,  but  just  gert  was  handing  down  his  de­ personnel  in  signing  with  the '  as I  reached  the gripes,  the ship,  survivdrT  writes  of  his  experiences  in  the  vessel's  sinking.  BME.  already  loyr  in  the  water,  was  The  BME  contract  with  Isth­ swept  by  a  huge  wave  that  mian  was  immediately  recog­  ' j  thr6w  me  into  the  Whter.'*  nized  and  supported  by  the  AFL  iBastenbeck  was  struck  on  the  Maritime  Trades  Department,  of  forehead  by  a  piece  of  debris  Testimony  by  a  navql  archi­ pany  officials,  former  crewmem­ morrow,"  though  a  former  Mate  which  group  the  SIU  Atlantic  &  when  the  ship  went  down.  "I  tect,  that  the  converted  LST  bers  and  ofiicials  of  the  ship­ stated  that  the  ship  vibrated  so  Gulf  District  is  a  member.  On ' .  was  right  imder  the  stem  when  Southern  Isles  was  overloaded  yard  where  the  ship  was  con­ much  he  could  hardly  stand  and  the West Coast, however, Bridges  he  left  the  ship  because  "I  was  made  the  matter  a  cause  for  I  was  dragged  down,  it  seemed  when  she  broke  in  half  and sank  verted  to  commercial  use.  about  30  or  40  feet,  then  I shot  on  October  5 th  with  the  loss­of  During  the course  of  the  hear­ afraid  of  the  thing."  militant  action,  possibly,  some  right  up  just  when  my  • wind 17  men,  climaxed  the  investiga­ ings,  the  brother  of  the  late  Milton  Jackson,  President  of  observers  feel,  because  of  his  J  tion  of  the  disaster  conducted  by  Skipper  of  the  Southern  Isles,  the  Southern  Trading  Company,  long  standing  feud  with  the ::  gave  out."  a  three­man  Coast  Guard  Board  George  F. Sadler,  stated  that  his  operator."?  of  the  Southern  Isles  West  Coast  SIU  airiliate  over  his > ;  THREE  TOGETHER  in  Norfolk.  The  hearing  ended  brother  had  told  him  that  "he  and  4  other  SlU­manned  con­ many  defeats  in  attemptini  to  u  on  October  26,  but announcement  guessed  if  he  got  caught  at  sea  verted  LSTs,  stated  that  the  raid  the  steamschooners,  a  tra­ in  the  water  Bastenbeck  found  Steward­Cook  Wilson  Deal  cling­ of  the  Board's findings  is  not  in  a  hurricane  she  would  sink  Captains  of  the  ships  were  ditional  and  court­supported  jur­t^>  ing  to a  piece  of  wreckage. Later  expected  for  several  weeks.  charged  with  complete  responsi­ isdiction  of  the  Sailors  Union  of  s  on  him."  Messman  Charles  Perkins  was  (In  another  action  resulting  The  Southern  Isles  sank  while  bility  for  operation  of  the  ships,  the  Pacific.  ^  swept  by  and  the  three  of  them  from  the sinking of  the Southern  battling  heavy  seas  and  gale­ including  the  loading.  At  the  Moreover,  maritime  observers^  began  their  wait  for  rescue]  Isleis,  the  six  survivors  and  the  force  winds  resulting  from  a  hearing,  logs  of  other  company­ feel  that  Bridges  assumption  and •  "i  knew  we  couldn't  stay  in  families  of  four  of  the  men  lost  two­day  hurricane  blowing  in  operated  LSTs  were  introduced,  direction  of  the  MEBA's  role  in  which  showed  they  had  exceeded  the  dispute  was  aided  material­  ;  the  water, too. long,  because  with  this  week filed  damage  suits  the  area.  load  lines,  too.  against  the  company.  daylight, the  sharks  would  be  ly  by  Lee  Pressman,  one  time  :  Testimony  by  crewmember  nut.  I  saw  the  lights  of  the  res­ (The  six  survivors  are  suing  Howard  Bastenbeck,  one  of  the  Testimony  was  also  taken  commimist  braintruster  and  noW  cug;. ship,: Charlotte  Lykes,  com­ for  a  total  of  $235,000  for  shock,  survivors,  disclosed  that  the ship  from  the  steanr.ship  inspector  counsel  to  the  MEBA.  Pressman,  ing  near  us.  I  also  saw  the first  exposure  and  injuries.  The  fam­ was  traveling  at  290  revolutions  who,  in  making  his  annual  in­ like  Bridges,  was  kicked  out  of  streaks  of  light  in  the  east  and  I  ilies  of  the  four  late  Seafarers  when  she  "suddenly  stopped  spection  last  March,  was  "satis­ the  CID  for  leftist  leanings.  began  to  sweat  bullets."  are  suing  for  a  total  of '$435,000.  dead  still"  shortly  before  break­ fied  that  she  was  seaworthy,"  When  the first  Isthmian  ships  ;  and  in  his  September  inspection  reached  the  West  Coast,  MEBA  Itie Lykes  picked  up ihe other  Action  in  behalf  of  the Seafarers  ing  in  half.  of  her  bottom  found  the  ship  in  pickets  appeared  before  the  ,  threeusurvivors,  Sam  Lynn,  Ray­ is  being  taken  by  the firm  of  The  Skipper  of  the  Southern  ships,  but  the  lines  were  quick­ good  shape.  '  mond  Holton  and  James  ChU­ iBenjamin  B.  Sterling.)  Counties,  whose  ship  carried  an  dress,  and  then  swung  around  to  James  B.  Robertson,  Jr.,  naval  identical  cargo  from  San  Juan,  An  official  of  the  Norfolk  ly  removed  by  court  order. V:  pick  up Bastenbeck  and  his ship­ architect with  Coast Guard  Head­ stated  that,  at  one  time,  while  Shipbuilding  and  Drydock  Com­ Bridges  then  put  up  his  "in­ mates,  who  by  now  had  spent  quarters  in  Washington,  told  the  making  290,revolutions,  his  ship  pany,  where  the  Southern  Isles  • visible  picketlin'es"  and  carried  ^  ]  thjee  hours  in  the  w:ater.  bo£u:d, that  the  ship's  4,000­ton  had  hit  a  heavy  sea  that  stop­ was  converted,  described  to  the  out  his  threat  to  tie  up  all  Isth­  '  "We  got  aboard  ail  right,  but  cargo  of  iron  ore  was  200  tons  ped  her  dead  "just  as  still  as  board  the  installation  of  hatches,  mian  ships  touching  the  West  ]  bulkheads,  cargo  tanks  and  four  Coast.  I  not  a  minute  too  sopri.  I  saw  a  over  her  limit,  and  exceeding  that  table."  straps. He  also  testified  as  to  the  Despite  what  appears  to  be  a  |  He said  his ship  made no  more  sh]Mk:  come  rijght  out  of  the  the  plihisoll  mark  with  ore  water  in  an  attempt  to  get  the  "might  possibly"  be  more  ser­ than  six  knots  during  heavy  vessel  being  in  "good  shape"' crystallizing  of  the  West  Coast  •   last: hian; .Perkins,  as: he  swimg  ious  than  a  lighter  cargo,  be­ seas,  such  as  the  Southern  Isle's  when  drydocked  in  September.  maritl|ne  situation,  it  is  felt  that ;  out­of  dhe  water.  cause  of  the  ienseness  of  the  was  encountering  at  near  full  In  the  October  5th  disaster,  Bridges  is  still  far  from  aban­  S  doning completely  his "fly  in  the  "We learned, on the  Lykes  tliat  cargo  which  increases  stresses  speed,  according  to  Bastenbeck,  eight  of  the  17  men  lost  were  Seafarers  and  the  six  men  who| ointment"  role,  that  of  attempt­ the  ship's  searchlights  had  pick­ and  strains.  He  reported  the  when  she  went  down.  ing  to  dictate  the  policy  of  the ^  ed  out 18  men  in  the­  water, so  ship  had  been  overloaded  on  her  One  former  officer  of  the  survived  were  all  men  of  the  Southern  Isles  stated  that  he  SIU.  Seafarers  who  perished  in  West  Coast  waterfront,  although  apparently  most  of  the  men  got  three  past' trips.  this  week's  events  reveal  that  clear  of  the ship.  I hate  to  think  Robinson's  testimony  conclud­ found  "not  a  thing  in  the  world  the  sinking  were:  Simeon  Dela­ he  is  not  above  resorting  to  the  ed  the  hearing  which  began  Oc­ wrong"  witli  the  ship  when  he  cruz,  Hal  Williams,  Marion  Gor­ what  happened  to  them."  counts  to  avoid  a showdown  test  trhinking  back  on  his  narrow  tober  8th,  during  which  testi­ served  aboard  hery  and  another  man,  Cecil  Vpughan,  William  J.  of  strength  with  the  AFL  wa­ Asble,  Joseph  A.  Miller,  Tolom  escape,  Bastenbeck  laid  strong  mony  was  taken  from  the  six  Engineer  stated  he  would  be  terfront  unions.  Shumake  and  Richard  Meeklns.  emphasis  on  the: importance  of  surviving  crewmembers,  com^'  ^'willing  to  go  back  on  her  to4  His  Story  Isles Disaster  Naval  Architeat  Calls  Ship  Overloaded  �Paga  Four  Fridky,  Movambet  2,  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  Savannah  Labor  Helps  Girl  bi  Fight  For  Life  REPORT  NUMBER  FOURTEEN  By  E.  B.  TILLEY  SAVANNAH,  Oct.  25 —Trade  By  PAUL  HALL,  Secretary­Treasurer,  SIU,  A&G  District;  CAi/nWi«»,  SIU  ^STelfare  Plan  Trustees  at/,  i­ unionists  in  this  port  have  been  coming  through  in  real  AFL  Each  week  the  Seafarera Welfare  Plan  will  make  its report  to  the  membership  of  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District  fashion  to  help a  little  girl  fight­ through the SEAFAAERS  LOG.  Included will  be the names  of  the men  receiving hospital  benefits,  the  amonnts paid,  the  ing  for  her  life.  hospitals in which  they are  receiving  treatment,  and the total  amount  paid; out since  the  inception  of  ^e Plu  on  jiilT  A  victim  of  the  dreaded  brain  1,  1950.  Also included  in the  report  will be  the names of  the men vrho have died and  the amounts paid  thisir bebi^tdkries.  disease,  encephalitis,  little  Sara  Faye  Wdson  of  Wayne  County,  Georgia,  can  only  be  saved  by  Period Covered By  Thit Report  a  highly  technical  and  delicate  brain  operation.  (Sara,  inciden­ Cash  On Hand  tally,  is  the  second  child  of  her  family  to  be  so  stricken.)  A  US Covemmenf  Bonds  brain  specialist  in  New  York  agreed  to  perform  the  operation  Estimated  Accounts Receivable  at  a  reduced  rate—stiU  $3,000,  (jferteWJ  S3,  which  is  a  terrific  amount  for  a  Hospital Benefits Paid in This  Period  workingman  to  raise,  would  be  $7S,761.0O  required  for  the  operation,  hos­ Total Hospital Benefits Paid  Since  July  1^  1950  pitalization,  transportation,  etc.  Death Benefits Paid  This Period  *  $5,500.00  UNION  AID  And  that  is  where  the  AFL  Total Death Benefits Paid Since  July 1«  1950  came  into  the  picture.  Mrs.  2(1.00  Mayrbafr,  John  USPHS  HOSPITAL  Kerr,  James L.  20.(H)  Blosser,  Edmund  C.  40.00  Louise  Griner,  a  member  of  the  STATEN  ISLAND,  N.Y.  20.00  McDcmald,  Sam  ......  .....  20.00  Bruno,  Matthew  Laney,  Thomas­D.  40.00  Retail  Clerks  Union,  Local  1604,  $20.00  Lopez,, Alejandro"  20.00  Mfurero,  A  1(K00  Burton.  Charlesv^ia  40.00  spearheaded  the  campaign  to  Atchason,  William  Barron,  Edward  20.00  Mitchell,  Paige  A.  .L.—  10.06  Mitchell,  Jsunes P:  20.00  Chalk,  Walter  60.00  raise  the  money.  Bumstine,  Maurice  L  20.00  Morrison,  Jack  D.  „—...;  Mueller,  W^ter  F.  —. 10.00  Dalton,  Jack  M.  20.66  20.00  The  SIU  here  was  one  of  the  20.00  Powe,  E.  L.  ^  Buttacavale^  Peter  10.00  Pou,  Oscar  G  —  10.00  Driscoll,  John  1  '40.00  places  where  she  placed  a  cup  10.00 ^ Randolph,  Claude  H.  ....—  10.00, Raana,  K.  20.00  Edwards,  John  T.  ..............  40.00  for  fimds.  The  Brothers  here  Camacho,  Domingo  ..:  20.00  Ray» Claude  A  10.00 jReier,  (3^rge  H  20.00  Espinoza,  J;  '   fO O®  responded  nobly,  as  did  other  Cantwell,  Charles  30.00  Sarandon,  B.  P.  .....  10.00 j Rivera,  Ruperto  ,....  10.00  Ferrer,  1  ' 40.00  AFL  members  throughout  Sa­ Cassidy  Warren  H  20.00  Gilbert,  I^bert;^;.  20.00  Schupstick,  John  10.00  Scott,  Amis  A  ­M.OO  vannah. At  this  writing,  the  fund  Craig,  Frank  20.00  Grimes,  ­  i^ed;  10.00  Datzko,  William  10.00  Sonnier,  Wiffr^  Tickle,  Lomie  R.  40.00  iraising  campaign  is  moving  sat­ 10.00  Hassan,  Raymond  Diaz,  Rafael  10.00  South,  Ralph  10.00  Vieira, Edwin  J.  30.00  iisfautorily.  Dixon,  Earl  R  20.00  Toro,  Edward  S.  10.00  Willis,  Louis  J.  20.00  Keenan,  John  W. %s.:tii.....s*.:f 40.00  But,  better  yet,  Sara  Faye  is  10.00  ZohU,  John  10.00  Young,  John  W.  40.00  20.00  Landry,  FredCTtek  now  in  New  York  Ciiy  for  the  Donaldson,  Fred  M.  ...i:  Ezzell,  Thomas  D  20.00  Larsen,  Robert  F.  40.00  operation.  All  of  us  here  are  $510.00  Feliciana,  Amando  10.00  $520.'00  Lawlor,  James  40.00  puling  real  hard  for  the  little  Gadinski,  Albert  10.00  USPHS  HOSPITAL  USPHS  HOSPITAL  Makris,  Constantine  ...  40.00  girl.  Jackson,  Robert  10.00  BOSTON,  MASS.  MOBILE,  ALABAMA.  Middleton,  Clifford  40.00  As  far  as  shipping  here  is  Katransky,  Michael  20.00  Olson,  Evaid  A  :  $20.00  Ankerson,  Thomas  L.  .:,^.; $20.00  Lazzo,  Vic  M  40.00  concerned,  we  are  doing  ^11.  Klauber.  Perry  10.00  Vourloumis,  George  20.00  Burke»  Tim  ­30.00  Moore,  George  40.00  Although  we  had  only  one  pay­ Kozar,  John  10.00  4O.00  Buckelew,  J.  L  ..l....,  20.0p  Muiphy,, B.  off  and  sign­on—the  High  Point  Kustas,  Thomas  J  20.00  $40.00  Champlin,  George  W.  ......  '30.06  Ratcliffe,  R.^.  . .1.^:..  40.00  Victory  (South  Atlantic)  was  Lamb,  James  10.00  USPHS  HOSPITAL  Cross,  M.  H  "20:00  Schumaker,  George  E.  ......  40.00  both  of  them—between  it  and  Lomas.  Arthur  20.00  40.00  SAVANNAH.  GEOHGIA  .  EUis,  M.  W  10.00  Sullivan.  Timothy  the  replacements  on  the  in­ McGuigan,.  A  20.00  Cohen,,  A F.  ...  40,00  $20.00  Peek,  Harry  G.,  Jr.  lOlOO  Thompson,  Albert  L.  transit  ships  the  job  totals  were  Mojica,  Thomas  20.00  Daugherty,  Pat  G  20.00  satisfactory  for  this  port.  Morgan,.  Robert  L  20.00  Gamache,  Ernest  R  30.00  $1110.00  $140.00  The  in­transits  were  four:  the  Muller,  Edwai'd  10.00  Graf,  Arthur  20.00  USPHB  HOSPITAL  DEER'S  HEAD STATE HOSP.  Steel  Vendor  (Isthmian),  Mon­ Nering,  Franlc  10.00  Loweiy,  Carl  D  20.00  GALVESTON,  TEXAB  .  SALISBURY,  MD.  roe  (Bull),  and  the  Fairport  and  O'Brien,  Eugene  P  20.00  McCance,  R.  H.  20.00  Drake,  John  C.  $20.00  Lucas,  Michael  $40.00  Phillip Barbour  (Waterman).  The  Osinski,  C.  20.00.  Piatt,  EUjah  C  20.00  Goings,  E.  C.  lOJlO  USPHS  HOSPITAL  beefs  were  of  the  usual  minor  Pepper,  William  E  10.00  Robbs,  Joseph  S  30.00  McCune,  L.  E  20.00  PORT  STANTON.  NAL  variety  and  were  quickly  cleared  Phillips,  Robert  E  30.00  Sharpe,  R.  A  40.00  Watson,  J.  T  10.00  Frennette,  Frederick  J.  ...:  $50.00  up.  Preussler,  Otto  10,00  iShively,  Clarence  D  40.00  However,  this  is  just  about  Raiford,.  Abner  J  20.00  $220.00  $60.00  $90.00  the  spot  to  let you  all know  that  Releford,  Harold  20.00  USPHS  HOSPITAL  USPHS  HOSPITAL  USPHS  HOSPITAL  we  expect  to  crew  two  ships  for  Riuttala,  H.  A  20.00  NEW  ORLEANS,  LA.  SAN  FRANCISCO.  CALIF.  PONCE.  Pj».  South  Atlantic  in  the  next  three  Salgado,  Jose  20.00  Arch,  J.  L  $20.00  Crabbs,  E.  E  $10.00  Cornier,  Francisco  ....  $l6;oo  weeks.  Both  will  take  full  crews,  Salgado,  Jose  20.00  Ashurst,  J  .*.  10.00  Dunn,  George  B  20.00  USPHS  HOSPITAL  I  in addition  to  whatever  sign­ons  Sanchez,  Charles  20.00  Burke,  R.  J. P.  20.00  Fifer,  John  P  —10.00  SAN  JUAN.  P.R.  ;  and  in­transits  we  get  duiing  Thompson,  Willis  10.00  Cara,  Wilson  O  20.00  Cheng,  Gee  20.00  I  this time.  Virgin,  C  20.00  Caron.  Milton  R.  10.00  Robertson,  C.  R.  20.00  Miranda,  Luis  Gil  ........—.,$26i66  Wagner,  Emil  20.00  Celestine,  Oliver  20.00  Shirley,  Conrad  20.00  Martinez,  Ernestp  F.  ........  30.00  GASHOUNDS  OUT  Wallander,  C  10.00  Cook,  Lawrence  D  20.00  Smallwood,  Ernest  KLOO  We  are  still  having  a  little  Watson,  Henry  "  $50.00  20.00  Cruz,  Rogelio  20.00  Smith,  Peter  20.00  I  trouble  with  a  few  gashounds  Wrona,  Tadeus  7.00  Everett,  Jesse  T.  USPHS  HOSPITAL  ......  20.00  Strom,  Roland  J.  20.00  every  now  and  then.  Somehow  Yanik,  Joseph  20!00  Goodman,  Paul  G.  LONG  BEACH.  CALIF.  10.00  Walker,  Silvester  40.00  they  think,  because  shipping  is  Lamb,,  James  F  ..g..:—^  $10.00  Gross,  E.  E.  20.00  good and  manpower a little  tight,  USPHiS  HOSPITAL  '  $677.00  Jessup,  Darwin  E.  10.00  $150.00  that  they  can  do  as  they  please.  MEMPHIS. TENN.  c  USPHS  HOSPITAL  Kelly,  D,  D.  1  10.00  USPHS  HOSPITAL  But  we  are  stai  teaching  some  NORFOLK.  VA.  $20.00  Kiiski.  Toivo  20.00  MANHATTAN  BEACH,  BKLYN.  Wilmqth,  Virgil  E.  of  them  the  SIU  way.  Those  Gaskill,  Horace  10.00  KrfeciunaSi  Wlncas J.  .. .....  20.00  Atmore,  Robert  20.00  $40.00  Hegarty,  John  B,  that  can  learn  stay  on.  Those  DuBeau,  Lawrence  10.00  Lang,  Leo  H  40.00  20.00  Blake,  Rupert  A  that  can't—or  don't  want  to—  $40.00  Mauomoto,  R  20.00  Blanks,  Claude  F.  40.00  1 quickly  find  out  that  we  mean  USPHS  HOSPITAL  '  $20.00  (business.  VINEYARD  HAVEN;: MASS.'  USPHS  HOSPITAL  There  was  not  meeting  this  BALTIMORE,  MARYLAND  Porter,  James  R  $30.00  I  week  for  the  usual  reason—^no  Clark,  Jessie  A  USPHS  HOSPITAL  $20.00  By  JAMES  SHEEHAN  J  quorum.  There's  hardly  any­ Cranford,  Percy  40.00  BOSTON,  Oct.  24—We've  been  minor  repairs,  which  are  going  FT.  WORTH.  TEX^AS  "  body  on  the  beach,  except  for  Carlson,  Charles  Wise,  Joseph  $40fj)O  10.00  having  poor  shipping  i­  in  this  to  be  taken  care  of.  la  few  Brothers  in  the  repair  DeLeonardo,  John  10.00  port  recently,  and  there  arc  We  started  to  crew  up  an  Ii«ENDORINO  STATE  HOSP;  jshop:  R.  H.  McCance,  C.^  D.  Delgado,  Roberto  10.00  plenty  of  men  around.  There  Ebstern  Liberty  today,  and  an­ CALIFORNIA  ; ;  jLoweryv  A.  F.  Cohen,  P.  G.  Goodwin,  Ernest  E:  30.00  was  only  one  sh^  to  be  paid  other one  is  due  to  follow  short­ FairclpUgh,  John  ..,..,^...„,.,,$2g^0.  iDaugherty,  A. Graf,  R.A. Sharpe,  Goude,  Joseph  P  30.00  off,  and  that  was  the  William  ly­  .  IE.  R.  Gamache,  E.  C.  Piatt  and  Green,  Patrick  J  30.00  Downing  (State  Fuel).  Among: those  on  the  beach  at  |H.  Harvey.  Hawkins,  Albert  ....  ,  20.00  Five  ships­ came  here> in­trans­ thia  writing  are  F.  DoribVan,  Dedth ienefiH;  $1,50(100  10.00  it:  the  Robin  Kettering  (Seas),  Stan Cieslak,  Bob  Lee; Bob  Mur­ Dclacruz;. Simeoii  J.  These  Brothers  are  kuiiTTf  Hilseth,  Sigurd  1,500.0(1  20.00  Chickasaw  and  Gateway  Cily  phy,  J.  Hanson^  J.  Beresford,  MiUer,  Joseph  A.  Irestricted,  so  if  you  can  get  House;  William  1,500.00'  10.00  (Waterman),  and  the  Steel  Age  Ried  Obriet^  E­  Dakin,  E..  Ham­ Asble,  William. J.  Ijaround  to  see  them,  or  write  Henricksen,  John  C.  —...  I,00a00f  ^  20.00  and  the  Steel  Maker  (Isthmian).  anty, B.dordy,  R;  Frazer,  Chris  OfReilly,  John  J.'  Ithem,  you'tt  be  keeping  up  with  Johnson, Harry  ....'.  10.00  The  Gateway  City  is  still  here.  and  Pete  Karas,  P:  Albano;  BUI  Ithe  tradition of  the "Brotherhood  Jone,c,  Okal  J.  Kabiska,  Anthony  ,  $3,500.01^  10.00  Tlie  only  beefs  concerned  CidBnon  and  E.  Misiosky,  ^  the  Sea."  OeimmiT ­. October  20  $f99,961.30  '  $754,023.44  Port  Boston  Runs  Into  Bad  Days  �I!]^7r Nwmsaber  Zi.'iBBl  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  W­  •  ^rrr  Page live  Freighters  And  Tankers  Under  New  Contract  Freight  Freight  Old  Bosun  !  Carpenter  AB  Maintenance  .• :i.  Quartermaster  Able  Seamw  Ordinary  Seam  n  '• "• • fvy­trr­r­ QS  Maintenance  'A  i.'.i  .|$315.35  ...  283.C1  260.99  248.41  • —­­rfei  248.41  213.79  New  $333.73  299.50  276.20  262.89  262.89  226.25  Tanker  Old  $321.80  321.80  267.01  254.25  247.87  216.48  242.01  New  $340.56  340.56  282.57  269.07  262.32  229.10  256.12  ENCIMEnDEPARTMENT  Chief  Electrlctan  .,..  $395.66  $418.72  2nd  Electrician  353.42  374.02  Chief  Pumpinan  •  Unlicensed Jr*  Hhgineer  (Day)  314.48  332.81  Eng.  Maiht.  2nd  Pumpman  Unlicensed  Jr.  Engineer  (Watch)  283.01  299.50  Second  Pumpman  ­ Plumber­Mtaddiinist  :"...  323.29  342.13  ]>eck; ^n^neer  283.01  ­  299.50  Engine  Utility  283.01  299.50  Et^pdrator­Maitttenance  26413  279.52  Oiler  248.41  262.89  Oiler­Diesel  270.75  286.53  $392.01  $414.86  332.97  352.38  332.97  352.38  294.67  311.84  267.01  282.57  247.87  262.32  Watertender  Fireman­Watertender  Fireman  .:  Wiper  Refrigerating  Engineer  (When  only  one  is carried)  Refrigerating  Engineer  (When  three  are  carried)  Chief  1st  Assistant  2nd  Assistant  Old  248.41  248.41  235.82  245.28  New  262.89  262.89  249.56  259.55  364.19  385.42  36419  323.92  300.00  385.42  342.80  317.48  Tanker  Old  New  247.87  282.32  242.01  256.12  STEWARDS  DEPARTMENT  Chief  Steward  Chief  Cook  Night  Cook  and  Baker  2nd  Cook  and  Baker  Second  Cook  Galleyman  Assistant  Cook  Messman  Utilityman  $307.70  $325.63  283.01  299.50  283.01  .  299.50  • .  257.84  272.87  245.26  213.79  213.79  259.55  226.25  226.25  $322.86  292.01  $341.68  309^8  280.63  27582  216.48  229.10  210.10  210.10  222.35  222.35  "  Overtime Rate:  $1.29 per  hour for ratings  receiving  less  than  $277.30  per  month;  for  ratings  receiving  $277.30 or  more  per  month,  the  overtime  rate  shall  be  $1.63  per hour.  (Note:  The 6.2  percent  increase is figured  on  the wage  rate of  January 15, 1950  and not on the old wage rate given above )  Balloting  For  '  A&G  Officials  Gets  Under  Way  Checking  On  Nominations  All  Is  Okay  In Old Seattle  By  JEFF  MORRISON  SEATTLE,  Oct.  25—We  have  (Continued  frotn  Page  1)  absolutely  no  complaints  about  the  end  of  December,  in  accord  shipping  in  this  port.  We  had'  ance  with  the  Union  cpnstitur  four  ships  paying  off  and  sign­ tion.  ing  on  again,  and  three  ship#  Photographs  and  .short  bio­ in­transit.  graphical  sketches  of  the  can­ The  payoff  ships  were  all  in  didates appear  on pages  7­10. The  bang­up  shape.  The  few  bee^  full  text  of  the  Credentials  Com­ were  easily  straightened  out.  it ,  mittee's  report  is  on  page  8.'  is  very  unusual  to get  four  good:  A  sample  of  tlie  official  A&G  ones  in  a  row,  with  everything.  election  ballot  appears  on  page  ship­shape,  and  good  crews  and  16.  officers.  That's  the  way  we  like  A&G  OFFICES  'em,  and  we  hope  they  keep  coming  in  the  same  style.  The  ports  listed  on  the  ballot  embrace  only  the  Union's  instal­ The  payoffs  were  the  Young.­ lations  in  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  America  (Waterman),  FranciS:  Coast  areas.  The  West  Coast  of­ Going  over  iha  credentials  of  men  seekinj  A&G  elective  posts  are  the  members  of  ihe  Warren  (Mississippi),  Irenestttr"  fices  are  operating  on  a  tern­.;  'Headiiuarten  Credentials  Committee.  Left  to  right: Melvin  Collins.  Alonzo MUeski.  John Santos,  (Triton)  and  the  Alaska  Cedarjj  jporat­y  basis  and  do  not  appear  Robert  Rogerson.  Jcneph  Farrell  and  William  Frank.  (Ocean  Towing),  where  it  wad  •   on 4he  ballot.  The  Lake  Charles,  a  pleasure  to  meet  W.  H.  Manr  ley.  ­'f  Louisiana,  office  was also  includ­ ed  in  this  category.  Brother  Manley  has  been  do^I  The  resolution  setting  up  the  ing  a  really  fine  job  aboard  thp  ]  pj;esent  election  procedure  pro­ An  experiment  to  detei­mine  success  with  the  Cantigny  will  position  of  the  antenna  on  the  Alaska  Cedar,  first  as  ship's  Qf­cj  vides  for  ihe  opening  of  addi­ the  feasibility  of  having  televi­ not  necessarily  assure  success  of  stern of  the ship  presents a  prob­ ganizer  and  now  as  Delegate.  tional  Branches  and  the  staffing  sion  sets  aboard  Cities  Service  sets  aboard  the  other  ships,  be­ lem,  too,  inasmuch  as  the  smoke  This  is  not  the  first  job  thaf^, |  of  such  offices  by  the  Secretary­ tankers  for  the  use  of  the  crew  cause  of  differences  in  the  con­ from  the  vessel  sometimes  cross­ Manley  has  done  for  the  Union.  Treasurer  should  they  be needed,  got  tmder  way  this  week  when  struction  of  the  vessels. Some  are  es  the  beam  and  interferes  with  Since  1938,  when  he  transferred  subject  to  the  approval  of  the  a  set  was  installed  aboard tiie  without  recreation  rooms.  The,  reception.  from  the  old  A.FL  Seamen's  Un­ SS  Cantigny  in  New  York.  membership.  ion  to  the  SIU,  Manley  has  beett {  The  Cantigny's  17­inch  RCA­:  in  the  forefront  of  those  BroF­:^  Victor  set  in  the  crew's  reci­ea­:  thers  v\ ho  undertake  the  difficult  tion  room  will  serve  as a  guinea  task  of  organizing  new  comf^.  pig  during  runs  from  New  York  panics  by  acting  as  volunteer :|  Seafarers  of  the  Cape  Mo­ to  Lake  Charles,  Louisiana.  The  shipboard  organizers.  S  hican.  Maz­Ancha  Corpora­ set  will  be  studied  to <ietermine  Most  recently,  he  contribirted  tion  ship,  solved  a  knotty  the  vessel's  reception  range,  the  h i s  experienced  services  t o  problem­  of  what  to  do  with  clearness  of  the  picture  and  bring  Isthmian  and  Cities  Serv­ whether  or  not  the  other  15  ves­ ice  under  SIU  contracts.  Clail­ $50  —  they donated  it  to the  sels  can  be  adapted  for  sets.  ing  Brothers  like  Manley  thp  SEAFARERS  LOG.  • The  project  is  being  handled  backbone  of  the  Union  is  no  The  problem  arose  aboard  through  funds  accumulated  exaggeration  at  all.  ship  when  it  was  learned  fi'om  the  sale  of  merchandise  to  To  clean  up  the  shipping  pic­ ture,  the  in­transit  ships  were  that  the  vessel  was  being  the  crews  through  the  ships'  slopchests.  the  Alaska  Spruce  (Ocean  Tow­  j  sold  to  a  non­sm  cbmpany  Other  oil  companies  have  in­ ing),  and  the  Calmar  and  Mary­ and  the  ship's  fund  had  to  Lstalled  TV  sets  on  coastwise  mar  (Calmar).  disposed  of.  The!  crbw  tankers,  and  have  reported  good  There  is  not  much  news  from;;  immediately  agreed  to  turn  reception  along  the  East  Coast  this  port.  There  was  no  meetii3®.|  held  yesterday  for  a  lack  of  »|l  bvbr  the  entire  fuhd  to  ihe  to. a  point  off  Miamir The pictui^  is  picked  up  again  in  the  Gulf  "quorum,  although  we  do  have a  |  SEAFARERS  LOG.  The  do­ ^ Cantigny  crewmembers  with  Keith  Terpe,  SIU  represen­ of  Mexico,  it  is  estimated  that  few  Brothers  on  the  beaeh»],  nation  was  'made  at  New  on  the  Cities  Service  ships  the  tative  (far  right),  watch  Wiper  Art  Langston  twirl  the  dials  among  them  M.  H.  Caton,  A.  E.J  Vbrk  SIU  Headquarters  this  crew  will  receive  a  picture  for  of  the  new  TV  set.  The  crewmembers  are.  left  to  right.  E.  Carlson,  R.  C.  Neblett,  W.  Thorn­ J  week.  Pridgeon,  engine  Delegate;  George  Pease,  ship's  Delegate;  ton,  Paul  Franks  and  .A.,f  four  days  of  the  six­day  trip.  The  company  reported  that  Louis  Santos,  Machixiist;  Langslon,  and  G.  Galliano.  Messman.  Strachan.  Ctties  Sendee  Installs  TV  Set  On  SS  Cantigny  No Problem  �Pag* Six  THE  SEA FA R E  R S  LO G  SIU Crewmen Of 'Red Trsamp'  Land  'Spies'  Into  Boston  Sign It, Brother  Be  they  prais*,  criticism  or  query,  the  SEAFARERS  LOG  wishes  to  receive  !*!•   ters  from  its  readen.  A  see«  tion  of  the  Union  newspaper  has  been  set  aidde  for  the  expression  of  opinions  ol in­ terest  to  the  membership,  and  all  are  invited  to  make  use  of  the  pages.  The  only  rule  contributors  are  asked  to  adhere  to  is  that  all  letters  must te  signed.  Anonymous  letters  cumot  be  printed.  A  writer's  request  that  his  name te  withheld  will  be  honored..  ^ i^da7^'N6>eniiBz> 2A' ISSl  Expert ­Foresiees  Autornatic^  Vessels  WUhtn  When  a  Seafa|:Ci|^i^j a.:re<^tfL  toresa^p:|fi^ d^s  of  atomic ship propu^^^aiid^t^  eng^^oopi,  little did  he know  that  marine engineers  already  had" part  of  hB drewn  in  the drawing*^„u^  merchenl  ship  was  an­ board stage.  nounced  at  the recent  convention  .  Seafarer  Bill  Luce,  in  a  recent  of  the "Propeller  Club,  where  the  LOG,"wrote  of  a  completely  au­ speaker,  Maurice  R.  Eastin,  noted  tomatic  engine  room  propelled  that  "even  today,  .it  would  be  by  atomic  energy;  this  week  a  possible,  under  ideal  conditions,  representative  of  automatic  con­­ to sail  a  ship|  from  port ft|d' ^jSrt  trol  device  company  fq|!j^w  the  completely  automatic  ^pr ai be­ ing  a  fact  within  ten  years,  "So  highly  developed,"  he  sta­ though  he  did  not  include  atom­ ic energy  as the  source  of  power  ted,  "ardt  automatic­navigation  devices, putc^aticpofi^^  in  his'forecast.  i"  The  prospects  of  a  robot­con­ and  master ­  controls  of •  propul­ sion  machinery  that  a  single  crewman,  sitting  before  a  spe­ <^ly  bnilt  cqj^trol  panel,  cqtild  S^erVise  the' ihip's  entire  vdy­ Voice  Of  Dk  'm  Mr.  Eastin reported  to  the  con­ vention delegates that marine  en­ BT  BftLTY  DICK  ^neers  are  stj­iying ;fprf.;a^r  aH­ aiiitomaticIghip to  develop greater  There's  a  Chief  Electrician  thing  lacking­  in  the  enterprise  efficiency  and  better  perxofm­ now sailing SIU  who  is a  former  is  that  the  subway  station  is not  ance,  which  will  rriake .possible  millionaire  who  lost  his  fortune  in  our  building. ... What  Chief  lower  operating  costs  peee.ssary  The  Chickasaw  while  she  was  Ihe  Prokiewicz.  a  few  years ago.  ^  .  . A bearitiful  Cook  sailing  out  of  New  York  in  foreign  competition.  picture  in  buttjpirfly  wings  was  "borrowed"  chickens  from  his  The  speaker  noted  that  even  A "tramp freighter  ^rom  behind  the  Iron  Cur­ donated  to  oiir  new  Headquar­ mother's  farm  in  order  to  play  today  automatic  controls  on  nevr  ships maintain  proper  living  conr  ,  tain"—manned by a full crew from the SIU—aided  ters  by  the  crew  of  the  Del  Mar.  Bolita?  Brother  Aluarex  has finally  Brother  Haggarty  was  telling  ditions  in  such  widely  different  in the smuggling  ashore of  two "communist  spies"  quit"  the  SS  Puerto  Rico  and  is  us about  the  sandboats  operating  areas  as  engine  ropm,  recreation  from  the  ship  recently  in  Bos­t  now  aboard  a  Cities  Service  out  of  Newark.  The  things^  he  rooms  and  sleeping  quarter.s.  ton,  the  LOG  has  been  informed.  successful,  having  to  he  content  tanker  working  on  his SIU  book.  likes  best  are  the  television  set  "Greater  efficiency  and  alert­ with  receiving  generous  over­ Anyone  with  eighteen  months  and  night  lunch.  These  ships  aire  ness  of  a  rested,  healthy  crew,"  But  before  you  yell  for  the  time  for  the  painting  task.  FBI,  read  on,  for  the  whole  The  ship  shots  took  place  in  seatime  on  SIU ships  with a  per­ always  near  Coney  Island  and  Eastin. stated,  "might  mean  ;th,e  mit  should  contact  Prenchy  Ruf  the  TV. is  something  wonderful  difference  between  safet.y  and  episode  was  what  will  shortly  he  Boston  in  September  and  will  in  order  to  learn  how  to  get  his  to  have.  disaster."  a  scene  in  an  anti­communist  be  the  introductory  and  closing  book<  film  being  made  by  Louis  De  scenes  of  the film  "Walk  East  John  Cole  is  hanging  aroiind  Rochemoht, creator  of  semi­docu­ On  Beacon,"  which  is  described  New  York  because  his  wife  has  as  being  based  on  the  FBI  offen­ ­mentary films,  among  them  the  sive  against  communist  espion­ been  ill.  He  is  a  yankee  who  went  to  a  southern  school,  the  ^"House  on  92nd  Street"  and  age  in  the  United  States.  University  of  Alabama.  .  .  .  Ho­ "Lost  Boundaries."  mer  "Rachel"  Ringo  formerly  of  RED  TRANSPORT  The  action  by  the  SIU  crew  Reyes  lamented  that  unfortu­ Louisville,  Kentucky,  is  up  in  aboard  the  tramp  freighter  —  nately  the  proud  SIU  ship  wiU  New  York  and  ready  to ship  out.  Eddie  "Frances"  HUl.  a  New  ' actually  the  SS  Chickasaw  of  be  seen  by  millions  of  American  Yorker  who  has  been 'sailing  the  Waterman  Steamship  Com­ moviegoers  not  as  a  faithful  car­ out  of  New  Orleans  for  Ihe  pany—was  primarily  to  paint  out  rier  of  American  cargoes,  but  as  past  several  years,  is  now  in  a  transport  for  Red  spies.  New  York  studying  the fin­ the  big  "W"  on  the  bow  and  Reyes  noted  one  complication  ancial  sheets  of  Ihe  local  pa­ substitute  the  Prokiewicz  for  the  that  resulted  from  the  ship  as­ pers.  He  is  one  smart  boy  who  ­ship's  name.  Following  the film­ suming  communist  identity.  The  has  invested  money  in  stocks.  ing,  the  men  replaced  the  Wa­ men  had  ordered  a  washing  ma­ .  .  .  One  of  the  most  famous  chine  but  it  hadn't  arrived  when  prize fighters  that  Tampa  ever  terman  emblem  and  name.  the  ship  sailed.  Later  the  crew  produced  is  Tony  Leto, •  now  'MOVIE  HEROES'  learned  that  the  machine  had  sailing  cut  of  'Mobile.  There  According  t d  crewmemher  been  delivered,  but  instead  of  are  also  many  other  former  Philip  Reyes,  who  reported  the  the  Chickasaw  "some  foreign  pugilists  who  have  turned  to  incident  to  the  LOG,  several  ship"  was  at  the  pier,  thus  the  the  sea  for  a  living.  "of  the  crewmembers  attempted  crew  wore  dirty  duds  until  the  There's  one  man  around  who  With  their  while  mugs  in'  hand  Del  .Sol  crewmembers  .  to crash  the movies but  were  un­ ship  hit  New  York.  is  always  bragging  about  his  strike  a  formal  pose  toy  2nd  Cook  Wiiiiam  Cameron's  camera.^  baby  and  he  has  a  reason.  I'm  Left  to  right:  J.  Reese,  2nd  Electrician;  W;  Andrews; •  Chief ^  referring  to  A1  Lopez.  .  .  .  Electrician; P. Corksey,  AB; R.  GOdsey,  AB; G.  Holland,  Wipet; ;  Frenchy  Michelet  deserves  a  big  L.  Corksey,  AB:  L.  Madina,  Engine  Utility:  D.  Miller,  AB:  J^  hand  for  his  supervisory  work  Copland,  Bosun;  J.  King,  AB  Maintenance;  J. LBfapie.rOS,  and  ,  on  the  new  building.  The  only  J.  E.  Michael.  Neafh Old Sol On The Del Sol  •  ;  _  Where American Libertys Get Their  Names  Director ­  Louis  DoRodiemonf / ^diirk  glasses)  directs  the  ­sh^sling  of  the  waterfront  gemneSi'  The  reasons  behind  the  names  thumbnail  sketches  of  the  per­ Revolution.  Born  in  England,  he  "  joined  the  medical  staff  of  the  borne  by  ships  are  sometimes  sons  whose  names  they  bear.  vague,  but  not  without  pimpose.  Francis  E.  Warren  (Missis­ (Continental  Army.  Became  priv­ Companies  usually  have  personal  sippi):  Politician  (1844­1929),.  ate  secretary  to ­  Washington  an4  reasons  for  naming  their  ships  Born  in  Massachusetts.  Governor  Lafayetia 'Member of  C)ontinei(?tal  the  way  they  do;  the  govern­ of  Wyoming  Territory  and  be­ Congress;  later  became  U.S;  Sec­ i  •   J  ment,  when  it  undertook  the  came first  governor  of  Wyoming  retary  of  War.  tremendous shipbuilding  program  in  1890.  Served  in  UiS.  Senate  "  James .  Caldwell  (Misrisisi]^!).  of  World  War  II,  named  its Lib­ 1890­1893.  Was  interested  in  the  Engineer  (1865­1925).  Born  in  erty  ships  after  famous  Ameri­ reclamation  of  arid  lands  and  Mobile  and  educated  in  South,  cans.  Many  of  these  war­built  was  termed  the. t'father  of  recla­ became  President  of  Troy  (,N,Y.)  TTust: (Company  and  vice­presi­ v  ^  ships  are  in  Mrvice  aigain.  Be­ mation,'­'  James  . McHenry  (Bloomfield).'  dent  of  Rensselaer' Polytfedinical •  P  low  are  the  names  of  'a: few  SlU­contracied  Libertys  and  Patriot  and figure  in  Arritrican  Institute,~  .­i  �99g»sm»  •  lOJiiWmi'iir.'iWitrJf'iiii'  •   'ii'nii  11^  "I'­Wi!...• ;v'i'ii'1'v'.'iM'i,' 11'  i' .v'l'.  .;• .  V  j,>  ss­  ­ .«­':•   •  '& '• :•   AaG  p5­­,­;x!;;S«T{>3;j  ­t'  l 1­7  qirig  iS'  .  iy. ia?  ""iiTrV Vi'ssa  m  .'  1 sjif­ • •   ­^qt­A'.  :^­ii:;v,. q\i  '7.'\:  7­• '^  for  A&C offices for 1952. Read it carefully  before ydu^ cast your ballot in this election;  77::­­  }it)ik.hC>q.  MUA/  ttiyv/ ,5'  f­)v.<':; • . • ­^,!\;'>• .5Vu'V­ ^^  ;  ^  .  .,  ,  n:^i£nO'r  7. ^  ­^­^­^^_rTjxari  • • fy­:krc: 'iv'­iliiKfU v  '  ­  "•   • :|­v  jJno:)  • !"• • •;, ­• • ,•v.^ ^­  ;  £  ­ .\^  .'•   fe­  '  "fiv  • i'­^q.;­i(jq.­/^  ^r,.  ,  |;;V '' if:r7'Vr.;:;;  • :­• '•"    ­O:':  • *  • • •   ­'­n  ••  I  I.­,; tfi.:.  lli^­ ••  lif  I ?Y'­ p­^ •  m.  IsS'.  N­i­ m:  ...  i  Secretary­Treasurer  Headiiuarters Representatives  (Vote For  One)  (Vote For Three)  I>AUL  HALL  —  N6.  ISO;  A  member  of  the Sea­ farers  International  Union  since  its  beginning.  Holds  clearances  for  all  strikes.  Sailed  actively  in all areas during late  war.  Fir s t  assumed  elective  office  in  1944  as  N e w  York  Port  Agent.  Was  Director  of  Isthmian  Organiz­ ing Drive. Was elected  Secretary­Treasurer in  1947,  1948,  1949  and  1950.  Has  served  as  a  member  of  SIU  Nego­ tiating Committee dur­ feg  all recent  contract  talks since  then, including  the  recently  successful , ones  with  Cities  Service  and for  the Welfare and Vacation Plans.  Has also  served  in  various ..capacities  in  practically  all  emergencies  and  strikes during  SIU's  history.  JOE ALGINA —  No. 1320: Transferred from AFL  Seamen's  Union  into  the  SIU  when  this  organ­ ization  was  formed.  Sailed  actively  during  the  war  until  going  to  work for Union  as Or­ ganizer. Has  served in  various capacities such  as New York Deck  Pa­ trolman  and  Acting  Agent. Was  elected  Agent  in  the  port  of  New  York  for  1948,  1949  and 1950.  Elected  Headquarters  Repre­ '  sentative for 1951. Par­ ticipated  actively  in  Longshore  and  Coos  Bay  beefs, 1946  General  Strike,  UFE  beef,  and  Isth.%  mian Strike.  Has  been  on  the Union  Negotiating  Committee for past  five years.  Assistant Secretaty­Treasurer  (Vote For  One);  i;­ LLOYD A. (Blacklo) GARDNER  — No. 36i97: Has  been  a  member  of  the  Seafarers  Iptemational  1 i­' •  •  Union since its formation. During the  war sailed  into  all  combat  areas.  Holds  clearances  for  all  strikes,  beefs  and  organizational  drives  of  the  Union.  Served  as  Dispatcher  in  the  Port of  New  York.  Worked  as  volunteer  Organizer  in  many  drives. Was elected  [; Agent for  the  Port  of  f:  ,  Philadelphia  for  1948.  i  Did  not  run  for  office  for 1949,  serving  as Head­ quarters Reprasehtative in  New  York. Was elect­ P  ir  ed ^si^^tSecretm^  for  1950,  serveii  as  West  Coast."Rapresentstive^,in .1951.,.  ­ ROBERT  MATTHEWS  —  No.  154:  Joined  the  SIU  when  it was first  formed.  Sailed  as  engine  and/or ship's Delegate on  many ships. Served  as  Patrolman  and  Agent  in  the port  of  Mobile,  and . later  as  Jackson­ ville  Agent  and  San  \  v>i. \  Francisco  Agent.  Was  assigned  by  the  1946  Agents  Conference  to  New  York  as  Head­  r,\  <  ­  vr  quarters  Representa­  f ^  tive.  Served  as  mem­ ber of  every  Negotiat­ ing  Committee,  from  1946  to  present  time.  Was  elected  Assistant  Sec­ retary­Treasurer  for  1948  and  re­elected  for  1949  and  1950.  Was  elected  Headquarters  Representa­ tive for  1951.  Participated  in  all SIU strikes  and  job;  ,  W  JOSEPH  H.  VOLPIAN —No.  56:  First  went  to  sea  in  1922.  Active  in  organized  maritime  lafomr  for many  years before  joining the SIU  in 1940 in  port  of  New  Orleans  Served  as  Engine  Pa­ trolman  in  Port of  New  York  from  194S  to 1947.  While  Patrol­ man,  he  served  as  Special  Services  Rep­ resentative  in  chargo  of  membership  prob­ lems  relating  to Coast  Guard,  immigration^  imemployment  insuct­ ance  and  other  matters.  Was  elected  Assistant  Secretary­Treasurer  for  1948,  1949  and  1950:  Was  elected  Headquarters  Representative  for  195L  Has  a  clear  record  for  all  past  SIU  strikes  and  beefs.  Boston  Agoitt  I  (Vote For  One)  EUGENE  DAKIN—No.  180:  Has  been  a  member­^]  of  the  Seafarers  International  Union,  Atla]:]^ipp  and  Gulf  District,  since  it  was  originally  chariH^I  ered  in  November,  1938.  Has  participated  in  all  the  major  strikes  that  the  SIU  has  engaged  in.  Was  an active seaman  dur­ mg the  war years and  sailed  throughout  the  conflict.  Acted  as  Pa­ trolman and Dispatch­ er  from  June,  1945  to  March,  1948,  in  the  port of  Boston^  and  again  as­Dispatcher  in  Bos­ ton from  June, 1949  to July, 1951. Is clear  for aft ]  beefs  that  the  Union  has  been  part  of.  �Page  Eight  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  THOMAS FLEMING —  No. 3821: Has been  going  to  sea  since  1929.  Joined  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District  in  1943  in  the  port  of  Boston.  He  sailed  y\,  ,  "1  all  through  the  war,  and  was  torpedoed  in  the  English  Channel  in  1945.  During  the  1946  Generail  Strike  was  elected  head  of  the  committee  to find  housing  for  the  men  on  strike.  Was  on  an  Isthmian  ship  when  the  Union  struck  that  company  in  1947.  His  record  is  clear  for  every  beef  and  action  since  he has been  in the Union. Has been  elected either  deck  or  ship's  Delegate  on  every  ship  he  has  sailed.  R^MMI  At  CredmAiak  IfcHP^ember ,2^1^  (V«^eF&r>TWd)  We,  the  undersigned  Committee on  Creden­ HOWARD GUINIER 44=, Nb. 478: Came into Union  tials,  duly  elected  at  a  Special  Meeting  as  per  at its  beginning. Was. Organizer! for the SIU from  the  action  taken  by  the  regular  membership  1938  to  19i41.  Represented  the  Union  before  the  meeting of  October  3, 1911, have  examined  the  National  Defense'Me­ credentials  of  the  candidates  for  the  election  diation Board  contract  of  the  officers  of  the  Seafarers  International  dispute  in  Washing­ Union  of  North  America,  Atlantic  and  Gulf  ton, D.C., in 1941.  Was  District,  for  the  year  1952,  and  submit  the  Chairman  of  'Head­ following  report:  quarters  Branch  Bon^­ We  recommend  that  the  men  who are  quali­ us  Strike  Committee,  fied  for office  be  placed  on  the  ballot  in  alpha­ and  Chei^rnan  N e w  betical  form  under  the  offices  for  which  they  York  Branchr  Food  run,  and  that  the  Ports,  following  the  Head­ and  Housing  Commit­ quarters  Offices,  beginning  with  Boston,  be  tee  during  1946  Gen­ arranged  on  the  ballot  geographically  as  has  eral  Strike.  Secured  been  done  in  the  past.  3000  berths for  members  during  the  action.  Was  Fraternally  submitted,  elected  Stewards  Patrolman  in  New  York  many  times,  serving  from  1946  to  the  present.  JAMES SHEEHAN  —  No. 306:  A  member  of  the  Melvin  Collins,  42972 William  Frank,  51113  John  Santos,  4783  Alonzo  Milefski,  49345  SIU  since  its formation  in 1938. Saw service as an  ^,Nd^4935:UWa^ ^ ^Uin­ Organizer  for  the Union  in  the  Gulf  area  during  Joseph  Farrell,  50361  Robert  Rogiersbn,  50607  FREDDIEi^3f  teer  Organizer  foi;  the  Seafarers  International  ,,  ;  1938  and  1939.  Was  Union  from  its beginning. Participated  in  aU  ma­ elected  to Union  office  jor  strikes  —  Bonus,  '  in  1944  and  has  been  (Vote For Two)  Isthmian,  '46  Generai  re­elected  to  various  TEDDY  BABKOWSKI  —  No.  7391:  Joined  the  —and  other actions  of  Union  posts  since:  SIU  in  1941  and  sailed  during  the  war  to  all  the  Union.  Led  direct  Deck  Patrolman  for  zones.  Served  as  a  volunteer  Organizer  in  the  action  to  secure  New  York  in 1947 and  Isthmian fleet  and  provisions  and  dec^t  1948,  and  Philadelphia  with tanker companies  shipboard  conditions  Agent  for  1949.  Re­ now  under contract  to  for  seamen.  Was  New  turned  to  sea  in  1950  the SIU. Served on the  York Stewards  Patrol­ and  sailed  until  July  New  York  Isthmian  man in 1947,  and Joint  of  this  year,  when  he  Strike  Committee.  Patrolman  in  port  of  was  appointed  Boston  Agent,  when  the  official  Participated  in  the  New  York  in 1948 and  there resigned. Began  sailing in  1924  and shipped  1941  Strike,  Coos  Bay  1949.  Was  elected  Stewards  Department  Patrol­ 'S  as AB  and  Bosun  since  then, holding  down  ship­ and  Shipyard  Beefs.  man for 1950 and 1951. Assisted in  the drawing up  board  Delegate  jobs.  Holds  clearances for  strikes  In aiding  the shipyard  >f  many  of  the  Union's  past  agreements.  and  actions  of  SIU  for  past  ten  years.  New York  Engine  Patrolman  workers and telephone  New York  Deck  Patreiman  (Vote For Two)  LOUIS  COFFIN  —  No.  4526:  Transferred  into  Seafarers  from  AFL  Seamen's  Union  in  March,  1939.  Participated  in  1941  Bonus  Beef,  1946  Gen­ eral  Strike,  and  Isth­ mian Strike.  Has been  Patrolman  and  Agent  in  Philadelphia  and  Jacksonville,  and  As­ sistant  Secretary­ Treasurer  of  the  At­ lantic  and  Gulf  Dis­ trict. Was elected Deck  Patrolman in  the  Port  'Z'M  ''  of  New  York  for 1947,  1948,  1949,  1950  and  1951. Has  clearances for  all Union  actions of  past  eleven  years.  Has taken  part  in  negotiating  new  contracts  for  SIU.  4  4  t  GEORGE  (Frenchy)  RUF  ­1­  No.  23724:  Joined  the Union in Mobile in 1942,  and has been in good  standing  continuously  since  then.  Served  as  vol­ tmteer  Organizer  '  laboard  Isthmian,  Cities  Service  and  'American  Trading  and Production ships.  Participated  in  the  1945.  ILA  Beef,  the  General  Strike  and  MM&P Strike in 1946,  the  Isthmian  Strike  in 1947,  the Garment  Workers  Beef  and  many  other  Union  actions. Has  worked shoreside  for  the  Union  at  various  times  since  1945,  work­ ing  in  the  Gulf  area  during  parts  of  1945  and  1946,  and  on  the  Atlantic  Coast  during  parts  of  1946  and  1947.  For  twenty  months  he served  as  Organizer  in  the  New  York  area,  concentrating  in the main on the successful Cities Service drive.  Was elected  Deck  Patrolman for  the port  of  New  York for 1951.  workers, ^he served  on  the  Baltimore  committees.  Has  held  various  ap­ pointive  Union  positions  and  was  elected  Joint  Patrolman for  the port of  New  York for  1949 an(i  Engine Patrolman for 1950  and 1951.  t  &  EDDIE (Deck) ERIKSEN —  No. 50495: Joined  the  Seafarers  International  Union  as  a  permit  mem­ ber in 1946, and received full membership  in Feb­ ruary, 1948.  Has act­ ed as department and  ship's Delegate  on  numerous  Ore,  Cal­ mar.  Isthmian,  Wa­ terman  and  Cities  Service  vessels.  Is  well­known  through­ out  the Atlantic, Gulf  and  West  Coast  Dis­ tricts,  and  is  consid­ ered militant  but fair  in  the safeguarding  of  the  Union's  working  rules  and  contracts.  Has  a  clean  Union  record'and  is  strike  clear  for  all  Union  strikes  and  actions.  %  CLAUDE  (Sonny)  SIMMONS—No. 368: Joined the  old  ISU  in  1935.  Went  to  work  with  the  Light  House  Department  until 1939, when he  joined the  Seafarers  Internation­  .1  al  Union.  Was  in  Mo­ bile  during  the  Am­ erican  Seamen  Beef.  Sailed  steadily  until  August  1,  1941,  when  he  was  appointed  Pa­ trolman  i n  Tampa.  Went back to sea Aug­ ust  1,  1942,  and  sailed  thro ;gh  the  war  until  February, 1945,  at  which  time he was  appointed  Patrolman  in  New  York. Remained  at that  post  until he  was elected  Agent  for  the  port  of  Tampa  for  1946.  Was  re­ elected for 1947  and 1948.  Resigned  in July, 1948,  and  went  back  to  sea  until  November  15,  1949.  Acted  as  Headquarters  Representative  from  De­ cember  of  that  year  through  1950.  Was  elected  Engine  Patrolman  for  New  York  for  1951.  phj|ade|phia  AgCnt  (Vote For  One)  S  STEVE  (Bladkie)  CARDULLO — No.  24599:  active  participant  in  all  SIU  strikes  arid ^  bdlfs  since  joining  the organization.,Served  as  Marcus  Hook  Agent  until that  port" was  closed.  Has  also  served  as  Patrol­ man  in  Philadelphia  and  as  West  Coast  Representative  and  as  Headquarters  Repre­ sentative  in  New  York.  During  the  war  sailed into all  zones of  action.  Holds  clear­ ances  for  all  Union  waterfront  actions.  Actively  participated  in  suc­ cessful  organizing  and  striking  of  Isthmian  SS  Compahy  in  1945­47.  Was  elected  Philade;lphia  Agent  for 1950  and  1951  and  is  presently  serving  in  that  post.  Baltimore Agent  (Vote For  One)  • ' ­!%•  ­ S :  EARL  (Bull)  SHEPPARD—No.  203:  Was  one  of  • ­  the SIU's original members. Active in P&O Strike i  and  other  early  actions  in  Union's  formative  years.  Appointed  by  I  Director  of  Organiza­ tiott  to  direct field  w o r k  f ,o r  Isthmian  campaign.  Also  parti­ cipated in Great Lakes  Drive. Was  director  of  waterfront  activities  in  New  York  diiring  19 46  General  Strike.  Was  appointed  New  Orleans Agent in sum­ mer  of  1947  by  meinbership  action.  Elected  New  Orleans Agqpt  for 1948, , 1949 and  1950.  Was elect­ ed  Assistant  Secretary­Treasurer  for  1951.  In  May, he assumed  the post  of  Agent  in  Baltimore,  replacing  the  official  who  had  resigned  becaiT^e  of  ill  health.  Sailed  all  through  war,  Is  strikdniiii^  clear  for  all Union Beefs.­  ­ �^­^1­ "|(Md«r/4fiM^«iflKiw^l|^  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  itsShHIlAif!^NVR'PatrilteM  Page  Nin*  Norfolk Agont  Tampa Agent  (Vote For One)  (Vote For  One)  ((VSte ^Pop  Olie)  LEON  (Blondie)  JOHNSON  —  No.  108:  Was  one  CHARLES O.  LEE—No. 70:  Has  been  a  member  of­the ^ first t  seamen'  to  join  the  newly­formed  of  the Atlantic and  Gulf  District of  the Seafarers  SIU in il039. Took  part in  the P&O Strike, Bonus  International  Union  since  its  inception  in  1938,  Strike, anti­commie  ""7,  .,  having  joined  in  the  Longshore  Beef  and  .  port  of  Jacksonville,  other major  actions of  Florida.  Is  thoroughly  the SIU, holding strike  familiar  with  the  Un­ clearances  from  each.  ion's  agreements  and  Was  Agent  in  Port  understands  the needs  Arthur  during • the  and  wants  of  seafar­ 1946  General  Strike.  ing  men,^  which  fac­ Has  served  as  Patrol­ tors  have  led  to  his  man  in  New  Orleans,  being  elected  depart­ Galveston,  New  York  ment  and  ship's  dele­ and  Norfolk.  Was  el­ gate  on  many  ships  ected  Patrolman  in  Galveston  for  1948.  Elected  that  he  has  sailed.  Has  taken  part  in  the  or­ Deck  Patrolman for  Baltimore  for  1949,  1950  and  ganizational  drives  of  the  Union  and  has  done  1951.  Sailed  during  the  ^ar.  picket  duty  during  SIU  beefs.  Is  clear  for  all  strikes  and  actions  that  the  Union  has  taken  part in.  RAY WHITE —  No. 57: Transferred into the Sea­ farers International Union  in 1938  from  the AFL  Seamen's  Union.  Helped  organize  the  P&O  Line,  Was  Patrolman  in the  port  of  New  York  for  six  months,  and  serv­ ed  as  Norfolk  Agent  for  three  years.  Has  served  as  Tampa  Ag­ ent  for  past  three  years.  Was  active  in  Isthmian  Drive  and  Strike.  Has  a  clear  record  for  all  Union  beefs.  Prior  to  his  election  as  Tampa  Agent  in  the  1948  balloting,  he served  as Headquarters  Representative, enter­ ing  negotiations  in  Deck  Department  matters.  BaitifflOFe Engine Patrehnan  (Vote For  One)  AL  STANSBURY  —  No.  4683:  A  member  of  the  BEN REES —  No. 95: Joined  the SIU in 1938. Ap­ Seafarers­ International  Union,  A&G  District,  pointed Patrolman­Dispatcher for  Port of  Norfolk  shice its  inception,  joining  the SIU  in the Port  of  , • in June,  1945.  Served  until  elected  Joint  Patrol­ Baltimore.  Has  taken  ' V  man  for  that  port  for  active  part  in  all  ac­ • • • • "Si  1947.  Re­elected  to  tions  of  the  Union,  post for 1948. Appoint­ both strike and organi­ ed  Agent  for  Port  of  '  zational.  Sailed  dur­ Norfolk  in  March,  ing  the  war  into  most  1948. Was elected  Nor­ active  war  zones.  H^  folk  Agent  for  1949,  served the SIU in var­ 1950  and  1951.  In  ,  _  ious  appointive  capa­ charge of­stewpot  and  ' :  cities  and  was  Dis­ publicity  for  Norfolk  patcher  for  the  Port  Strike  Coihmittee  in  of  Baltimore  in  1949.  1946  General  Strike. .  Aboard  ship  served  in  many  capacities  in  the  Active  for  Strike  Committee  in  Isthmian  Strike.  engine room. Also  served  the crew  often as black  Also  active  in  Wall  Street  Strike  in  1947.  Or­ gang  Delegate.  Was  elected  Engine  Patrolman  ganized  crews  and  signed  contract  with  Virginia  for the  Port of  Baltimore for 1950  and 1951.  Ferries  Corporation.  Baltunore Stewards Patroiman  (Vote For  One)  Savannah Agent  W.  PAUL  GONSORCHIK—No.  749:  Has  been  a  member  of  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District  since  1938,  when  the  Uriion  was  founded,  and  has  sailed  as Steward  and  Chief  Cook  and  Ba­ ker.  Was  elected  Dis­ patcher  in  the  port  of  New  York  in  1940.  Was  a  member  of  the  Negotiating  Commit­ tee  in  1940  and  1941.  Assisted  the*Constitu­ tional  Committee  in  drawing  up  the  SIU  constitution, *and  was  a  member  of  the  1941  Bonus  Strike  Committee,  going  to  Washington  as  one  of  rank  and file  group  to  negotiate  the  war  bonuses.  Went  back  to  sea  in  1943,  returning  to  New  York  when  he  was  re­elected  Dispatcher  there.  Has  been  stew­ ards  department  Patrolman  in  New  York  since  May,  1951.  (Vote For  One)  '  4,  i.  S.  EDWARD  V.  SMITH—No.  48961:  Has  sailed  for,  seven  years on  American flag  ships in  all  ratings  in  the  stewards  department.  He  has  been  a  full  member  of  the  Atlan­ tic  and  Gulf  District  of  the Seafarers Inter­ national  Union  since  September,  1947.  Has  acted  as  both  depart­ ment  delegate and  ship's  delegate  on  many  of  the  ships  he  has sailed.  He is  clear  for  all  strikes and  beefs  that  the  Atlan­ tic  and  Gulf  District  has  taken  part  in  since  he  has  been  part of  the organization.  At  the  present  time  he  is  serving  as  Steward  aboard  the  SS  Daniel  H.  Lownsdale,  Isthmian  SS  Company.  Mobile Agent  (Vote  For  One)  GAL  TANNER  —  No. 44:  Has  been  a  member  of  the  SIU  since  it  was  granted  a  charter  by  the  AFL. During  the war  was an  active seaman,  see­ ing  service  in  most­ combat zones. Was  ac­ tive  in  the  Isthmian  Drive,  as  both  ship  and  shoreside  Organi­ zer.  Was  elected  Ag­  ,  ,  """  i  ent  in  port  of  Mobile  for  1947,  1948,  1949,  1950  and 1951.  Partici­ pated  in  the  various  organizational  c a m ­ paigns  of  the  Atlantic  &  Gulf  District.  Was  active  in  all  beefs  of  the  SIU and  holds clearances for all strikes and  beefs  that  the Union  has ever  engaged  in.  Mobile Joint Patrolman  EARNEST B. TILLEY —  No. 75: Became  a mem­ (Vote For Two)  ber  of  the  Seafarers  International  Union,  Atlan­ tic and  Gulf  District, in  1939,  joining in the port  ROBERT  J. JORDAN  —  No. 71:  Has sailed  since  of  Baltimore.  Was  ap­ 1938,  always  in  the  engine  department.  Was  pointed Engine  Patrol­ appointed  Organizer  for  Isthmian  ships  and  the  " ^  man  for  Baltimore  in  tugs  in  the  Gulf  area  "  in  September,  19 4 5.  1945. In January, 1947,  he  was  appointed  Pa­ Appointed  Engine  Pa­ trolman in the port  of  trolman in port  of  Mo­ Philadelphia, and later  bile in  February, 1946,  that  year  served  as  and  also acted  as  Dis­ Agent for that  Branch.  patcher  and Organiz­ He  was  elected  Phila­ er.  Elected  Engine  delphia  Joint  Patrol­ Patrolman for the port  man  for  1948.  During  of  Mobile for 1947  and  that same year, in order to fill  positions that were  reelected for 1948. Has  vacant  due to  resignations of  the elected  officials,  been  active  in  all  he  served  as  Patrolman  in  Savannah  and  then  strikes and  is clear for  all SIU  strikes and  beefs.  as  acting  Agent  in  Boston.  During  1949,  served  Was  elected  to  Joint  Patrolman  post  in  Mobile  as  Agent  for  the  Wilmington  Branch,  before  go­ for  1949  and  re­elected  for  1950  and  1951.  ing to Savannah  as Patrolman.  Elected  Savannah  Agent for 1951. Is strike clear for all Union  strikes  ^  GEORGE  KIMBREL—No. 45925: Became a mem­ and  beefs.  ber  of  the Atlantic  and  Gulf  District  of  the Sea­ farers International  Union  in  March  of  1946.  Has  always  been  active  in  Union  affairs  and,  be­ cause  of  his  vigilance  in seeing  that the con­ tract  was  carried  out,  has  been  many  times  elected  Delegate  aboard  a  number  of  SIU  ships.  He  is  cur­ rently sailing as Bosun  on the SS David Starr  Jordan,  Mississippi  Shipping  Company.  Is cleared  for  all strikes and  "actions  that  the  Union  has  participated  in  since  he became  a  member.  Remember: In order  to vote  in  tin  eloitmas  for  1952  oHkials, you mint be in good  standing.  J  �. Pag» Tan  TME  SB AF4RMRS  L0C  ytbl9«l  rrsT  Win. J. (Red) MORRIS — No, 264: Has sailed since  ,  1939. In March 1945,  was appointed  acting  Agent  in  port  of  Jacksonville.  Was  Ihter  assigned first  (Vote For One)  (Vpte^For^Ohe)  to  New  York,  then  to  a J.  (Buck)  STEPHENS  —  No.  76:  Joined  the  KEITH  ALSOP  —  No.  7311:  Has  MtA fifteen  .Norfolk  as  Patrolman.  SIU  in  December,  1938.  Was  active in 1939  Isth­ years  of  sea  service,  most  of  if spent  lU' engine  /Was also  acting Agent  mian  Strike,  1939  Bonus  Strike,  1946  General  rdepartnw%^ Sailed  during  World  War II to'vat­ ,in  Charleston  until  Strike  and  1947  Isth­ ^  J  combat  zones ­ of  ­that  Branch  closed  in  mian Strike. Has serv­ tlie,.'• vyprid! Has .  bej^  February,  1947.  Went  ed  the  A&G  District  '  Vl, ^ Port Agent in Charles­ back  to  sea  until  ap­ in  different  capacities,  "'X  >ton  and  Galveston^  In  pointed  Patrolman  in  ranging  from  Dis­ addition^  has been  Pa­ 'port of  Mobile on Sep­ patcher  to  Agent  in  trolman  in  New  York,  "tember  1,  1947.  Was  port  of  New  Orleans.  Ne\v Orleans arid  N6r­ elected  Deck  Patrol­ Shipped  to ­ aU  areas  fplkr.  Was  pri  the Gfeh­ man  ior  port  of  Mo­ during  the  war.  Co­ eral Strike  Committee  bile  for  1948  and  Mobile  Joint  Patrolman  for  ch air man  of  UFE  for .  the  port  of  Nor­ 1949, 1950  and 1951.  Is J.ear  for all SIU  beefs.  Strike  Committee  in  folk  in 1946,  and  was  New  Orleans.  Holds  ehairriiian  of  the  Isth­ clearances  for  all  Union  strikes  and  actions.  El­ mian Strfife  Committee for  the port  of  GalVestpn  (Vote For  One)  ected  New  Orleans  Engine  Patrolman  for  1947  in  1947i  Hast been  elected  Agent  in  the  port  Of  ii  LINDSEY  J.  WILLIAMS  ^ No.  215SD;  Joined  and  was reflected  for  1948, 1949,  1950  and  1951.  Galveston: since  1948.  the  Seafarers  International  Union,  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District,  in  New  Orleans  on  January  26,  1942,  as a member of  (Vote For One)  the deck department.  ](Vote For One)  Sailed all during the  A. W.  (Andy)  GOWDER  —  No.  36884:  Became  a  CHARLES  !i^(MBALL—No.  52:  Has  been  an  kc­ war in  practically all  member  of  the  Seafarers  International  Union,^  war  zones.  During  Atlantic and  Gulf  District, in 1944 in  the port  of  tive  member  of  the  Seafarers  International  Un­ ion,  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District,  since  it  was  the  Union's  drive  to  Savannah. Since then  organized  in 1938. Has  organize Isthmian  has been active in all  always  s£^ed  in  the  Steamship  Company,  Union  beefs,  strikes  deck  dep^ment.  In;  he served as the Gulf  and  organization  19 44  was appointed  Area  Organizer.  At  campaigns,  among  Patrolman in  the port  the same time  he led  them  the  Isthmian  of  Mobile. W^as sent to  the attempt to organ­ Drive and Strike, the  ^n Francisco in 1945  ize  the  American  Trading  and  Production  Com­ 1946  General  Strike.  to  act  as  West  Coast  pany. He  was responsible  for  bringing many  new  Has  served  on  num­ Representative  of  the.  companies imder  contract  to  the SIU,  the largest  erous  shoreside  Union. Was elected, in  of  which  was  Cities  Service  Oil  Company—for  Branch  committees.  1946,  Port  Agent  in  which  drive  he  was  Director  of  Organization.  Has  also  served  as  Was  elected  Agent  for  the  port  of  New  Orleans  Delegate,  chairman  and  recording  secretary  Mobile.  In  1947  was  for 1951.  aboard mafay SIU vessels. Sailed in  all war  zones  appointed Patrolman  and Dispatcher in that  port.  during  World  War  H, and  to Korea  during  pres­ Has  been  sailing actively  since 1948,  and  is clear  ent  action.  for  all  strikes  and  beefs  that  the  A&G  District  (Vote For  One)  has  participated  in.  LEROY  CLARKE  —  No.  23062:  Joined  the  Sea­ farers  International  Union,  Atlantic  and  Gulf  HERMAN  TROXCLAIR  —  No.  6743:  Joined  the  4.  t  t  District,  in  New  Orleans  in  1942,  and  sailed  all  Seafarers  International  Union,  A&G  District,  on  during  the  war.  Has  March  12,  1941,  and  has  been  an  active  member  MERVIN  (MEL)  SHIPLEY—No.  36213:  Became  a  member  of  the  Seafarers  International  Uniop  served  on  numerous  since  that  date,  par­ of  North  America,  Atlantic  and  Gulf  District  in  Branch  committees  taking  in  all  strikes,  and  has  been  active  beefs  and  organiza­ November,  1944,  join­ in  New  Orleans  tional  campaigns  of  ing  the  Union, in  the  Branch activities. Has  the  Union.  Holds  port  of  B a 11 i m 0 r e,  served as department  clearances for  all  Maryland.  Brother  and  ship's  Delegate  strikes.  During  the  Shipley  sails  in  thb  many  times. Was  ap­ late  war  sailed  in  deck  department.  His  pointed  temporary  nearly  all  combat  record  is  clear  for  aU  Patrolman  in  New  areas. Has always sail­ strikes  and  organiza­ Orleans several times,  ed stewards depart­ tional  beefs  that  this  when  increased  Branch  activities  demanded  ex­ ment.  Was  elected  organization  has  been  pansion  of  the  local  staff.  Elected  New  Orleans  Stewards  Department  Patrolman  for  the  port  of  a  participant  of  since  Deck  Patrolman for  1951.  Has  been  active  in  all  New Orleans for first  time for 1948, and  was sub­ the  time  that  he  has  sequently  re­elected for  1949  and  1950.  strikes in  which  the SIU  participated.  been  a  member.  ;  J  New OrleaM  Engine fntrohnan  fidtimtteKAs«iit  New  Orteans Agent  New  Orleans Stewards Patrolman  Dalveiton Joint Patrolman  New  Orleans Deck Patrolman  '  / .J­,./­  fc­  • •   ; 'ti  I.  ­  ­  v.. ......I­ • ;  ;  .­i­.­v  .  From  *  •  •   ....  .  .,r^'  ''b  �'rzidaV.^ITbviihlilW  £^41^1  THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  Page Qaren  DigWit° Minutes  Of  SlU  Ship  Meetings  GATEWAY  CITY  (Waiarman);  Pept.  IS^'ChainnaiU/  J.  Buns;  Saqretary. >  It  ^uger^; Delegates  report^,  no  b^fs.  Night  lunch  situation  brought  up.  Last  step  broke  loose  on  ladder  back  aft.  Oct.  4 — Chairman.  J.  Biuns;  k  Sacretaxy,  It'Lauger.  Education­ al  talk  about: new  members.  No  information  about  strike.  Motion  made  to  have  ship  fumigated.  Poop  deck  full  of  broken,  cots  imd  mattresses.  with  the  exception  of five  hours  the Union  agreement when  work­*  disputed  overtime.  Steward  con­ ing  the  new  men.  Fruit  and  sulted  in  regard  to  receiving  no  vegetables  are  going  to  waste  fresh  milk  upon  leaving  Buenos  in  the  icebox.  Aires.  Steward  stated  that  the  4  4  4  milk  was  delivered  to  the  ship  TOPA  TOPA  (Waterman),  as  ship  was  leaving  dock.  Sept.  17—Chairman.  A.  M.  Bratt­ 4  4  4  coni;  Secretcury.  J.  M.  Melendez.  CATAHOULA  (Cuba  Distill­ Motion  made  and  carried  that  ing).  Oct.  13—Chairman.  Adolph  members  late  in  attending  meet­ Capote;  Secretary.  Steve  Grug­ ings  on  board  ship  should  be  gino.  Delegates  reported  that  fined  $5;  the fine  to  be  donated  everything  was  squared  away.  to  the  SEAFARERS  LOG.  Dis­ Suggestion  that  all  men  give  cussion  on donation  toward  Mer­ 24  hours  notice  before  getting  chant  Marine  Memorial  Chapel  PAIRISLE  (Waterman).  Oct.  6  off  in  New  York.  All  mattresses  at  Kings  Point,  N.  Y.  ,  ~  Chairman.  Larson;  Sec­ must  have  covers  and  all  men  retary,  James  Clinton.  Delegates  4  4  4  ^  are  responsible  for  their  mat­ reported  few  beefs.  Discussion  WARHAWK  (Waterman).  Oct,  tresses.  on  shortage  of  water  and  linen.  8—Chairman.  Tony  Ferrera;  Sec­ 4  4  4  Motion  made  to  write  a  letter  retary.  Ted  Thompson.  Delegate#  JOHN  S.  MOSBY  (Eastern).  reported  no  beefs.  Motion  made  to  Headquarlers  concerning  con­ Oct.  9—Chairman,  E.  A.  Bayne;  and  carried  to see  Chief  Engineer  ditions  aboard  Waterman  ships.  Secretary.  Frank  Steen.  Dele­ about  having  quarters  painted.  gates'reported  no  beefs.  Stew­ The  Captain  came  down  to  DOROTHY  (Bull).  Oct.  6  —  ards, department  was  asked  why  thank  the  crew  for  the  coopera­ Chairman.  G.  Miller;  Secretary,  food  "Was  not  up  to  par.  Crew  tion  he  received  from  them.  A  M.  McCarthy.  Delegates  reported  congratulated  on  the  way  they  collection  was  taken  up  for  a  ship's  fund  to  have  $30.  Sugges­ conducted  themselves  in  a  for­ memorial  for  merchant  seamen  tion  on  repair  list.  There  is  a  eign  port.  Strong  need  for  extra  fans.  Vote  lost  in  the  last  war.  of  thanks  to  stewards  depart­ 4  4  4  4  4  4  TIMOTHY  DWIGHT  (Eastern).  ment.  SOUTHERN  COUNTRIES  Sept.  30—Chairman.  John  Bren­ (Southern  Trading).  Oct.  7.  —  '4.  t  man;  Secretary.  Alvin  Carpen­ Chairman.  L.  E.  Blake;  Secre­ SEATRAIN  HAVANA  (Sea­ ter.  Delegates  reported  no  beefs.  tary.  Frank  H.  Knapp.  Delegate#  train),  Oct.  14—Chairman,  Reece  Discussion  to  have  each  depart­ : Oliver;  Secretary,  C.  R.  Gamer.  reported  everything  okay.  Ship  ment  keep  the  laundry  room  sailed  short  of  water  from  Gal­ Delegates  reported  everything  : okay.  Discussion  on  Texas  de­ and  night  lunches.  Motion  made  no  beefs.  Suggestion  bjt  \'arious  clean  by  rotating  work  each  veston  to  Jacksonville.  Motion  layed  sailing,  launch  service  and  and  seconded  to  get  a  new  re­ crewmembers  to  request  the  week.  Everyone  cautioned  to  made  that  proper  medical  equip­ Union  to  see  what  can  be  done  handle  the  washing  machine  ment  be  supplied  for  crew.  Di^  overtime  involved.  Suggestion  frigerator  for  the  crew  mess.  made  for  whol§­ gang  to  put  in  Oct.  16—Chairman,  J.  Kuchin­ in  the  way  of  medical  aid  for  carefully.  cussion  on  permitman  who  foul­ for  what  they  think  they  have  sky; Secretary,  Norman Kuekew­ seamen's families at  public health  ed  up  in  Puerto  Rico.  (Eastern).  coming  and  let  Patrolman finish  sky.  Delegates  reported'  $30  in  hospitals.  Library  to  be  changed  THOMAS  4  4  4  Sept.  25—Chairman.  James  Hic­ the  issue.  Discussion  on  coffee  ship's  fund.  Complaint  on  water.  in  Baltimore.  EVELYN  (Bull).  Oct.  7  —.  key;  Secretary.  Michael  Iwassko.  diortage.  4  4  4  There  is  no  cold  wash  water;  Chairman.  T.  Hinsh;  Secretary,  4  4­4  only  dirty  hot  water.  Pumpman  GREECE  VICTORY  (South  Delegates  reported  one  man  E.  C.  Dacey.  Delegates  reported  ALCOA  PEGASUS .  (Alcoa),  warns  crew  of  deck  department  Atlantic).  Sept.  30 — Cheurman.  taken off  ship  when leaving  Ant­ no  beefs  and  no  disputed  over­ Sept.  30—Chairman,  C.  W. Rags­ of  smoking  on  deck.  A.  T.  Arnold;  Secretary,  A.  A.  werp. He  injured both legs  slight­ time.  Each  crewmember  was  dale;  Secretary,  James  Braden.  Baum.  Delegates  reported  no  ly  but  reports  say  he  is  okay.  asked  for  $1  for  the  upkeep  4  4  4  The  Bosun  suggested  that  linen  The ship's  Delegate  was request­ AKTION  (Actium),  Oct.  13—  beefs  with  the  exception  of  the  and  blankets  be  stripped  from  of  the  washing  machine.  ed  to  see  the  Captain  about  se­ Chairman,  Arne  Hansen;  Secre­ actions  and  attitude  of  the  Chief  Sept.  31—Chairman,  T.  Hinslu  curing heavy  winter  clothing and  tary.  I.  J.  Torre.  Delegates  re­ Mate.  Steward  is  to  see  that  the  beds  and  stored  below.  Secretary.  E.  C.  Dacey.  Discus­ 4  4  4  assorted  brand  of  cigarettes.  ported  few  hours  disputed  over­ eggs  and  potatoes  are  condemn­ Several  men  requested  that  time.  Discussion  on  crew  Mess­ ed.  It  was recommended  that  the  GEORGE  A.  LAWSON  (Paci­ sion  on  buying  a  timer  for  the  members  of  the  crew  refrain  man.  Water  tanks  and  rooms  are  Union  look  into  the  mail  situa­ fic  Range).  Sept.  23—Chairman,  washing  machine.  It  was  sug­ from  loud  talking  in  the  sleep­ to  be  cleaned  for  the  next  crew.  tion  of  ships  sailing  under  Army  John  Murray;  Secretary.  Em­ gested  that  the  day  worker  manuel  Cottis.  Delegates  report­ make  his  own  coffee  after  the  ing  area.  charter.  4  4  4  ed  everything  okay.  Suggestions  watch.  4.  4.  4.  Sept.  2—Chairman.  A.  V.  Com­ made  on  how  to  keep  crew  SEAGARDEN  (Penin.  Nav.),  4  4  4  STEEL  INVENTOR  (Isthmi­ rie;  Secretary.  Amos  Baum.  Del­ messroom,  recreation  room  and  Aug.  23—Chairman.  Chet  Gaw­ PAOLI  (Cities  Service).  Oct.  2  an),  Oct.  7 —Chairman,  Harold  egates  reported  no  beefs.  It  was  laundry  room  in  good  shape  at  rych;  Secretary,  Joh|i  Molmar.  —Chairman.  Norman  Kirk;  Sec­ B.  Thomas;  Secretary,  Steve  suggested  that  a  ship's  fund  be  all  times.  Delegates  reported  no  beefs.  retary.  Herb  Goodfried.  Delc^  Shack.  Delegates  reported  no  started.  It  was  agreed  that  each  Each  Delegate  will  make  out  gates  reported  everything  okay.  beefs  and  no  disputed  overtime.  department  clean  a  certain  sec­ repair  list  and  turn  it  over  to  ANNISTON  VICTORY  (South  $64.22  in  ship's  fund.  Discussion  Toaster  too  small  for  crew  mess,  tion  of  the  passagewaj'  daily.  Atlantic).  Sept.  20—­Chairman.  L.  on  washing  machine.  larger  one,to  be  repaired.  Ship's  the  ship's  Delegate.  Chairman  4  4  4  E.  Harris;  Secretary.  Chamber­ Delegate  is  to  investigate  drink­ asked  ship's  Delegate  for  edu­ Sept.  29 — Chairman.  Edward  TAINARON  (Actium).  Oct.  30  layne.  Delegates  reported  every­ ing  water.  Suggestion  made  to  cational  talks.  Chant;  Secretary,  John  T.  Bow­ —  Chairman.  Jose '  Ortibuerra;  thing  running  smoothly.  Motion  4  4  4  return  books'and  magazines  to  man.  Delegates  reported  couple  SEATRAIN  NEW  JERSEY  Secretary,  Burnett.­ Delegates  re­ made  to  keep  stevedores,  dock  of  small  overtime  beefs.  Agreed  the ­recreation  room.  (Seatrain),  Oct.  16  —  Chairman.  ported  no  beefs  and  no  disputed  workers  and  unauthorized  per­ by  all  to  change  ship's  library.  4  4  4  overtime.  Chief  Steward  suggest­ sonnel  out  of  messhalls.  Steward  SEACOMET  (ZenUh),  Oct  14  C.  C.  Gautreau;  Secretary,  R.  ed  that  stewards  department  asked  crew  to  look  after  silver­ Discussion  on  soap  powder  is­ I—Chairman.  Jack  W.  Arellanes;  Adams.  Delegates reported  $19.48  sued  to  the  black  gang.  take  care  of  the  recreation  room  Secretary,  L.  WoUe.  Delegates  in  ship's  fund.  Motion  made  and  and  that  engine  and  deck  de­ ware  as  there  is  no  spare,  but  4  4  4  reported  no  beefs.  Motion  was  carried  to  have  meetings  every  partments  take  care  of  laundry  hopes  to  get  more  next  trip.  ALCOA  PLANTER  (Alcoa),  made  and  seconded  that  all beefs  trip  on  the  way  north.  General  Sept.  29—Chairman.  Andy  Gow­ room.  WILLIAM \uRDEN  (Western  Me  to  go  through  proper  chan­ discussion  oh  the  food  and  der;  Secretary,  A.  D.  Junkin.  4  4  4  Tankers).  Sept.  29  Chairman.  nels.  The  deck  gang  is  to  give  menus.  Delegates  reported  few  beefs.  SEABEAVER  (Colonial).  Sept.  Gene  Flowers;  Secretary.  Van  the  Bosun  more  cooperation.  The  membership  was  asked  to  Racks  to  be  made  for  the  crew  EDITH  (BuU),^Oct.  14—Chair­ 6  —  Chairman,  Bob  Brown;  Sec­ Sant.  Delegates  reported'  one  take  better  care  of  washing  ma­ man.  Vincent  Genco;  Secretary.  retary.  James  A.  Boykin.  Dele­ man  missed  s&ip  in  Naples.  Ste­ chine.  messhall.  gates  reported  everything  alright  ward  was warned  to comply  with  4  4  4  .  ^  Louis  Ruzzi.  Delegates  reported  4  4  4  MALDEN  VICTORY  (Missis­ DANIEL  H.  LOWNSDALE  sippi).  Oct.  7—Chairman.  J.  C.  (Isthmian).  Sept.  23—Chairman,  Wauchek;  Secretary,  H.  Pitkof­ P.  V.  Millican;  Secretary.  Ed­ sky.  Four  dollars  to  be  taken  ward  V.  Smith.  Delegates  re­ but  of  ship's  fund  for  purpose  ported  few  hour  disputed  over­ TOTAL  SHtPPED  SHIPPED  SHIPPED  TOTAL  REG.  REG.  REa  of  sending  telegram  to  Head­ STWDS.  SHIPPED  time.  Repair  list  to  be  made  up  REa  DECK'  ENa  ENG.  '  STWDS,  DECK  PORT  quarters  on  mail  situation.  Re­ before  arrival.  Discussion  on  91  12  35  47  28  16  9  14  —  :  pair  list  to  be  made  up.  Dis­ Boston  getting  pantry  and  messroom  536  135  160  .  93.  372  218  183  119  cussion  held  on  incident  that  New  York  painted.  97  43  56  20  29  21  32  104  happened  in  starboard  side  pass­ Philadelphia  4  4  4  394  132  98  71  178  118  98  301  agfiwayjy Vote  of  thanks  to  stewr  Baltimore  WARHAWK  (Waterman).  Aug.  133  415  153  139  143  104  384  9  127  department  fq;?­,!: the*^!igood  Norfolk  Chairman.  Joe  Bissonnet;  >  12  40  8  8  '14  7  23  Secretary.  Ferarra.  Delegates  re­ 14  c^w  iifid ,service.  v''  Savannah.,;!......,  '  NO  FIGURES  RECEIVED  Tampa  •  4  4  •  ported  this  ^s  a  good  trip,  no  55  65  74'  194  78  71  60  209  performers­ and  no  beefs.  Ship's  Mobile  :  ­ McKETTRICK  HILLS  (West­ 78  240  87  ­ 92  ;  70  75  69  231  Delegate  complimented  crew  on  Vtn  Tankers),  Oct.  2—Chairman.  New  Orleans...............  ,  .  30  50  :  37  117  29.  37  82  good  unionism,  and  reported  no  16  Galveston.........;..;,.——.......  C^ :  DeMarei;  Secretary,  John  J.  30  '45  128  54  ;  48  .45  147  West  Coast........i^,._..,  performers.  Stewards department  J^le|etiHsp  reported  no  bil^fs.  see  the  TOTAL  904  ­ 608  ­  2,252  756  ^  601  :  531  '  1,888  was  applauded  for  serving  very  good  food.  Stew^ dbout  variety  of  menu  A&G  Shipping  From  Oct  10  To  Oct  24  •  m  �• • • iyinf««ri­­{*:  .'1 ;•   Page  Twalve  Fridaj^  NoTfaiber  !^ul961  Only  SIU  Assists  Oldsters  Coffee And Corn In The Messroom  SIU Benefits Won  For Husband Help  In  Maritime,  Says  Farrell  Me Too, Says Wife  will  be  soon  getting  more  wages  To  the  Editor:  and  shorter  hours  and  you  will  I  rejoiced  wheiT I  heard  at  a  be  enjoying  the  life  of  eivUized  I  have  moved  to  my  husbahiFs  recent  membership  meeting  that  beings.  home  state  and  I  certainly  have •   something  is  in  the  wind  to  This  brings  me  to  another  epi­ missed  reading  the  LOG.  My  make  the  lot  of  the  oldtimer  a  sode  that  was so  ably  denounced  landlady  in  Houston  has  failed  little  more  secure  in  his  old  at  the  meeting.  That  was  the  to  forward  my  mail  to  me.  I  days,  under  the  SIU  Welfare  Steward  who  hid  the fresh  eggs  have  not  seen  a  LOG  in  over  a  Plan.  month and  I  certainly have  miss­,  and  handed  his  Brother  Union  It  is  a  tribute  to  the  STTJ  men  rotten  ones.  Oh,  yes,  years  ed  it.  and  its  officials  who  are  plug­ ago  that  was the  typical Steward.  With  my  husband  away  at  sea  ging  for  us  old  guys  when  we  I  recall  a  case  of  one  of  these  most  of  the  time,  I  feel  closer  are  not  wanted  by  the  shipping  bellyrobbers  coming  back  from  to  him  while  reading  the  LOG.'  companies.  It  is  tragic  that  when  Australia.  He  starved  us  and  Not  only  that  but  the  LOG'  a  man  is  around  sixty  years  old,  gave  all  the  fresh meat  and  veg­ keeps  me  informed  on.  every­ and  perhaps  disabled,  to  have  etables  to  the  Captain  and  the  thing  concerning  our  daily  lives­ nb  home  and  few  friends,  to  be  saloon  mess.  However  wq fixed  and  existence.  left  to  battle  through  the  world  his  wagon.  We  sailed  into  Ner­ May  I  pay  you  and  the  LOG  Sinunons  Viclory  crewmembers  lake  Iheir  morning  coffee  that  he  has  worked  to  make  mea.  New  Caledonia,  an  island,  a  compliment:  I  am  sincerely  break  and  prepare  lo dig  into  some  popcorn  sat  out  for  them.  better  for  others.  proud  to say to all  my associates:  to  get  a  cargo  of  iron  ore.  This  Left  to  right.  EUingsoh,  Chief  Electrician;  White.  2nd  Electri­ "My  husband  belongs  to  the  NO  CHARITY  was  a  God­forsaken  island  and  cian; Cooper.  Carpenter; Harris.  Engine  Utility;  Thompson.  AB;  finest  Union  in  the  world."  .  It  is needless  for me  to  inform  had  no  docks.  The  Captain  and  Russo.  Wiper;  Plyer.  AB; GrosMlose.  Bosun,  and  Moran.  Wiper.  I  realize,  too,  that  that •  is  ^a  you  that  charitable  organizations  the  brass  hats,  including  the  broad  statement,  but  no  word^,  do  not  even  give  you  a  little  Chief  belljTobber,  went  ashore;  no  matter  how  expressed,  csm  we  were  not  permitted  shore­ pity,  and  those  that  you  aided  tell  you  how  much  I  appreciate  leave.  It  happened  luckily  that  don't  want  to  know  you.  But  the  fine  Union,  the  SIU,  and !l  enough  of  that.  The younger  sea­ a  sister  ship came  in and we  saw  am  sb  grateful  for  everything  it  its  crew  pull  ashore.  We  knew  men  are  now  beginning  to  ac­ To the  Editon  a  shame  that  siich  men  are  sent  has  done  for  my  husband,  Wal­ quire  the  benefits  that  some  of  then  we  had  a  tyrant  for  a  aboard  ships  to  hold  down  im­ lace  R.  MUton.­  ,  us  old  guys  diligently  fought  Captain.  So  this  humble  soul  Just  received*  the  latest  issue  portant  positions.  of  the  LOG  and  it  comes  as  a  This is  the second  letlejf' of  this^'  for  through  strikes,  lockouts  and  with  the  rest  of  the  blackgang  I think  that if  all  the  Brothers  kind  I have  written  to  the  LOtf^  shot  in  the  arm,  but  after  seeing  job  actions  against  those  who  lowered  a  lifeboat  and  we  went  would,  write  or  send  telegrams  were  doing  everything  possible  ashore.  When  we  landed  on  the  all  the  reports  from  the  ports  on  to  their  Congressmen,  then may­ and  once  again  I  wish  to  thank  to  break  up  our  Union  and  island  there  was  only  one  gin  the  good  shipping  and  also  the  foe we  could  see  some  action.  If  you  and  aU  the  Union  for  what:  mill,  run  by  a  J[apanese  and  shortage  of  ratings,  it 'is sort  of  you  like,  you  can  change  my  it  has  done  for  me  and  my  hus­"  starve  us  into  subjection.  band.  Will  you  be  kind  enougli  Let  us  hope  that  these  young  guarded  by  natives.  We  told  the  disheartening.  mailing  address  from  Pvt.  to  to  send  hie  a  months  back­Is­ The  many  former  seamen  here  black  gang  on  the  other  ship  seamen  will  give  the  oldtimers  Cpl.  (big  deal).  sues?  '  I  their  personal  consideration.  how  we  were  being starved.  Our  at  Fort  Eustis  look  forward,  to  Cpl.  Casmier  A.  Kaust  Mrs.  Wallace  TRocky)  Millpa  the  LOG  with  hopes  that  it  con­ Captain  went  for  a  ride  on  a  Stand  together  one  and  all,  for  Ft.  Eustis.  Va.  (Ed. Note: The late  issues  ydu  unity  is  strength.  Remember  you  mule,  so  we  got  our  chance.  As  tains  something  on  letting  war­ Co.  I.  2nd  Bn.  TRTC  requested  are  enronte  to  you.)'  soon as we  pointed out  oiu: belly­ ime  seamen  out  of  the Army  to  robber,  the  black  gang  from  the  rdieve  the  shortage  that  now  sister  ship  went  to  work  on  prevails.  Or  is  the  government  ?Vv  him  that  night  in  the  dark,  and  going  to  open  up  the  Maritime  believe  me  it  was  pitch  dark.  schools  again?  We  have  rumors  that  there  arfe  men  on  the  ships  "REEDUCATED"  making  their  first  trip,  could  it  He  got  such  a  shellacking  that  he  that  they  are  of  draft  age?  To  the  Editor:  when  we  got  him aboard he  was  WRITING  CONGRESS  During  the  Good  and  Welfare  unable  to  resume  his  duties  im­ session  of  the  meeting  held  til  we had  him  in Baltimore,  Md.  The  seamen  here  are  now  aboard  the  SS  Kathryn  on  Sep­ The  Captain  came  aboard  all  writing to Congressmen and Rep­ tember  23,  it  was  suggested  by  gassed up.  He  tried  to investigate  resentatives  asking  why  they  Louis Guellenitz  that  we  endeav­ who  it  was  who  rendered  the  are  continuing  to  draft  wartime  or  to  interest  the  Union  mem­ beating.  He  cursed  and  swore  seamen  when  their  is  such  a  • bership in  a  hospitalization  plan  that  if  he  knew,  he  ­would  shoot  great  shortage,  and  when  are  • for  the  wives  and  dependent  them  on  the  spot.  But  we  had  they  going  to release  the  seamen  relations  of  merchant  ^amen.  a  good  hungry  gang  and  none  in  the  Army  to  go  back  to  the  Since  the  USPHS  hospitals  are  would  squeal.  The  Captain  got  ships,  where  in  case  of  a  war  at  present  furnishing  this  care  fired by  the  company,  as  well  as  they  will  prove  a  valuable  asset  for  dependents  of  members  of  the  bellyrobber,  when  we  in­ to  the  Government.  If  aU  the  the  Coast  Guard,  persons  in  civil  formed  the  company  that  the  seamen  in  the  army  were  releas­ service  and  veterans,  it  seems  Captain  and  Steward  were  sell­ ed it  would sa>%  the government  ­that  the  benefits  could  be  ex­ ing  our  food  to  the  gin  mill  on  millions  and  maybe  also  a  few  ­  5.  I  i'  the  island.  /  4ended  to  merchant  seamen.  lives.  Paddy  Farrell  .  The  suggestion  was  greeted  I  am  now  an  instructor  in  a  Three  Philadelphians  are  airsmiles  as  their  ship  the  Ben­  p^'  ^enthusiastically  by  everyone  harbor  craft school  and  we  ha­ve  jamin  Grierson.  Watmrman.  proceeds  up  the  Seine  to  Rouen >  |  ­present  at  this  meeting,  and  it  a  seven­week  course  in  seaman­ with  a  load  of  coal.  Left  to  right:  Frank  Metzler,  3rd  Cook; '  ­ was  decided  to  communicate  our  ship and  I  know  just  how  much  Villanova.  OS,  and  Pedro  Arteaga,  Crew  Messman.  Picture  '  desires  to  the  editor  of  the  LOG  you  can  teach  in  that  time;  it  is  by  H.  Rosenstiel.  ^  All  delegates  aboard  SIU  3n  the  hope  that  this  might  start  •   ­  ­  ­  ­  •   ­J  ships  are  urged  to  make  cer­ • the ball  rolling.  *•   tain  that  every  ship  is  fully  NEED  CARE  manned  before it  leaves pOrt.  So  far,  as  we  are  aware,  there  If  the conq>any  tries to vio­ To  the  Editor:  He  has  already  hit  me  once  the  agreement  reads.  P  :; ­ are  no  great  difficulties  standing  late  the  contract  manning  with  a  rubber  hose  which  was  There, are  a  few  of  us  in  thte  This  letter  is  to  inform  you ,  hooked  up  to  my  air  gun  which  in  the  way  of  this  plan.  There  scale  by  sailing  short,  the  deck  dbp^tment  who  try  tfo:  that  our  Captain  thinkf.  that  our 11  was  using  on" a  stage.  He  said  ere  possible  legal  stumbling­ ship's  delegate  should  caR  hold  up  the  agreement, and  agreement  is  a  'worthless,  scrap  I  wasn't  working  hard  enough.  get  the  ax.  blocks  to  overcome,  but  there  is  the  nearest  Union  Hall  im­ of  paper.  no  reason  why  we  cannot  make  mediately.  He  also  stopped  me  from  getting  The  biggest  reason  11 am'^writr; ?  known  our  need  of  this  care.  The  Union  will  take  im­ He  positively  does  not  want  to  overtime  and  the  deck  gang  ing  you  is that  two grewipembers,;  We,  therefore,  request  that  you  mediate  action  to  see  that  be  bothered  with'  the  Delegate.  backed  me  up  on  thiSi  The  Old'  i;ud  a fight  with  the  result  that  publish  this  letter  and  ask  other  our  agreements  are  observed  We  have  had  trouble  with  him  Man  really went  ­wild.  He  threat­ one  of  them  jumped  ship  in  Yo>  seamen  how  they  feel  about  it.  to  the  letter  as  it  does  since  the  ship—the  Greeley  Vic­ ened  to  cut  dtrwn.  on  bur  food  kohama.  We  have  been  an  Oiler  We  are  sure  that' the  response  whenever  violations  are  re­ tory—left  New i  York  last  May.  till  it  hurt  and  hot  give  us  a  short  since  September  3  but  the  would  be  overwhelmingly  for  it.  ported.  He  said  that  some  men  don't  do  draw  jn  any  of  the  ports.  Captain  refuses  to  replace  hia.  George  A.  Burke  Know  your  contract  and  ther  work;  and  when  you  ask  All  of  the  Union  ships  in  Yo­ There  are,  many  men  on  tbe.  A.  Oquendo  report  all  violations  to  the  him  what  .he  considers  a  day's­ kohama  have fresh  milk  but  us.  beach  in  Japan,  too^  ­'^.v  *0­ a  ,  Eiarisio  Jiminex  Uu CiS  right  away.  work  all  he  says  is  "get  out  of  He  daims  orders  from , thy;  coai­.  Comsliuii  ;Sprano  i,  Fidel  Coruachi  .  my  room  or  111  kick  you  out."  pany,  but  that's  not  the  way  ;  Ship's  Delegate  ;  To  the  Editor:  Sees  Saving  In  Discharge  Of  Skilled  Seamen  In  Army  Kathryn Crew  Urges Family  Hospital Care  No Market Street Over Here  Sailing Short  Greeley  Skiver  Ignores  Pact:  Delegate  �"r •'  ­  ­•   • ­  •  i­'­  • •   '•   ^  .  ••  .­  .• • • •: • ;•   • '• • •  •    THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  Page  Thirteen  DcHilt GetK ni Or 60 Ashwe  Pastry Architect  Vancouverites  Douse  Butts  A.S  Gasoline  Covers  Harbor  To  the  Ediior:  continued  their  regular  15­min­ "no  soap."  So  he  had ^to  return  Working  in  her  wonderous  ute  runs  across  the  harbor,  but  Well  we  have  found  out "that  to  the  ship.  way,  Old  Mother  Nature  erased  now  their  decks  were  constantly  the  Army  is  still  handing  out  I  went  with  him  to  see  the  a  man­made  blimder  in  the  har­ patrolled  by  guards  who  warned  the  old  runaround  to  the  mer­ Captain  and  he  said  he  could  bor  of  Vancouver,  British  Col­ commuters  against  flicking  cig­ chant  seamen  as  usual,  as  we  at  .give  him  an  armful  of  passes,  umbia,  on  July  10,  when  the  arette  butts  and  the  lighting  of  the.  Alaska  Cedar .have  learned  but  they  wouldn't  be  ­worth  a  outgoing  tide  carried  away  40,­ an  open  flame.  All  ships  enter­ ' bri  'our  trip  to  Alaska  from  damn  (I  think  the  Old  Man  has  000  gallons  of  gasoline  spilled  ing  the  harbor  were  alerted  to  Fri^o  pur  2nd  Cook  injured  the  same  opinion  of  the  Aj­my  the  possible  disaster.  toom  an  oil  barge.  himself  carrying  a  sack  of flour  brass  as  we  do)  so  I  told  him  Thus  the  river's  ebb  and  flow  The  gasoline  spill  threw  at  to  the ' galley.  He  came Uo  me  to  either  send  the  man  to  the  prevented  a  major  disaster  in  leasts  200  people  out  of  work  '  and  told  me  about  it,  so  I  went  hospital  in  Seattle  or  pay  him  that  city,  as  the  boiling  after­ for  24  hours.  The  M.  B;  King  to  the  Mate,  as  he  has  charge  off  and  he  would  go himself.  noon  sun  made  the  harbor  area  Lumber  Company  halted  all  op­ of  the  medicine  chest  onNiere.  a  wtual  keg  of  dynamite  for  erations,  as  they  were  right  in  PAID  OFF  He  examined  the man  and  found  the  path  of  the  gasoline  as  it  '  several  hours.  Well,  the  outcome  was:  He  that  he  was  deflnitely  injured.  eddied  from  the  leaking  barge.  The  entire  town  was  alerted  The  Master  wired  to  the army  paid  the  man  off  with  $629  and  Don  D.  Brown  as  the  gasoline  quickly  spread  hospital  for  instructions  on  how  he  left  the  ship  to  go  to  Seattle.  over  the  surface  of  the  water,  Well  I  thought  that  was  the  last  Eddie  Caudill,  Chief  Baker  to  treat  him.  He  was  advised  to  and  the  Harbor  Board  immedi­ put  him  to  bed  and  take  his  of  it,  but  wait  a  minute,  that  aboard  the  Puerto Rica  proud­ isn't alL  I  told him to  go straight  ly  poses  with  one  of  Us  crea­ ately  ordered  a  wharf  patrol  in  temperature  and  pulse  and  re­ to  the  hospital  to  turii  in  and  tions.  A1  Lake,  cfewmember  an  attempt  to  minimize  the  port  his  condition  to  the  Army  then  telephone  the  Union  agent  who  submitted  the  picture,  danger.  hospital  each  day.  When  we  ar­ in  Seattle  and  report  to  him,  Vancouver's  new  and  yet fin­ says  Eddie  is  an  architect  in  rived  in  Naknek,  Alaska,  he  was  but  he  didn't.  He  went  to  town  tested fireboat  was  ringed  with  pastry  and  his  stuff  is  tasty,  tdken  off  the  ship  and flown  to  bought  himself  some  clothes  and"  too.  gasoline  as  she  bravely  stood  by  Anchorage  to  the  hospital.  One  a  wrist  watch  and  then  started  for  instant  action.  doctor  examined  him  and  stated  Although  the  outgoing  tide  J  he had  a  position  rupture,  and  to  make  the  rounds  of  the  gin  mills.  washed  awaysmost  fears  of  dan­ ­I  He  got  involved  with  the  bad­ ger,  it  turned  out  to  be  days  he­ ger  game  and  a  fast  woman.  Re­ fore  the  danger  of flre  and  ex­ sult:  he  was  dumped,  lost  his  plosion  completely  disappeared.  money,  plane  ticket  and  his new  To  the  Editor:  WIDE  BERTH  wrist  watch.  The  next  day  one  I  am  ­writing  this letter  to  you  '71  Streets bordering  the docks  be­ of  the  boys  off  the  ship  saw  asking  that  you  will  send  me  a  came  deserted,  with  the  excep­ him  on  the  street  and  went  to  few  SEAFARERS  LOGS.  the  police  station  with  him.  The  I  was  getting  them  at  my  old  tion  of  curiosity­seekers  and  cops  succeeded  in  getting  back  place  of  business  and  now  I  those  who  were  forced  to  remain  for  him  two  hundred  dollars and  have  opened  up  a  new  place  by  as  the  gasoline fumes  spread  up­ lis  watch,  but  he  is  still  out  the  docks  where  the  Robin  Line  town.  Ocean  liners  and  freighters,  $280,  plus  his  plane  ticket,  plus  and  Waterman  ships  dock.  J. Ownes,  OS on  the Seatrain  fishing  boats  and  private  yachts  Havana,  lakes  a  serious  look  a  lot  of  skin  and  black  eyes.  Thcr  sailors  say  it  would  be  That  makes  four  of  our  men  good  to  have  a  few  LOGS  on  wore  rings  of  gasoline  at  their  at  his  shoes.  Photo  by  Lester  • 'i  waterUne,  as  they  rode  out  the  Moore.  who  have  been  beaten  up  with  hand.  blackjacks  since  we  have  been  Thanking  you  in  advance  for  coi^ant  swells  with  their  crews  • J  standing by.  The  period  of  emer­  ^  T*  ^  j_  up  here.  So  my  advice  to  any  whatever  you  can  do  for  me.  '• 7  gency  lasted  for  some  time  with  oailOrS  jKClTCEt  one  that  comes  to  Anchorage  is  H.  Bennett  the  harbor  officials  carefully  to  ,stay  aboard  ship.  Even  a  St.  John's  Inn  .­.'­J  group  is  unsafe.  Three  fellows,  2464  Talleyrand  Avenue  watching  the  patches  in  the  far  J'  reaches,  and  the  ­water  under­ all  good  men  in  a  beef,  got  Jacksonville.  Florida  (Ed.  Note:  You  will  receive  neath  the  wharves  remained  a  beaten  up  at  the  same  time,  so  beware. .Also,  don't  get  sick  up  the  LOG.  at  your  new  location  menace  for  days.  To  the  Editor:  shortly.)  Bill  Manley  North  Vancouver  ferryboats  Danny  Alvino,  Alaska  Cedar  here.  1 was  ship's  Delegate  on  board  crewmember,  ­baited  his  hook  this  ship  for  over five  months.  with  this  minnow  for  the  big  Some  of  the  boys  on  board  live  cme, .Bill  Manley  reported.  here  and  the  LOG  is  amiss  here  To  the "Editor:  If  you  didn't,  do  so  as  soon  as  beer  over  the  antics  of  our  three  unless  someone  goes  up  to  the  you  can.  .They're  still  on  the  prise  OSs.  told  hiin  to  come  back  in  three  I  came  to  New  York  as  I  us­ Galveston  Hall  for  copies.  I have  When  they  got  off  after  the  shopped  around  here for the best  beach.  days.  Monday  they  put  him  to  ually do and  among  other friends  bad  and  prepared  for  an. opera­ I  went  to  see  was  the  editor  of  But  the  prizes  in  our  cre­w  first  trip  we  figured  trip  numb­ place  to  send  the  LOG  to,  and  tion.  Then  On  Tuesday  they  de­ the  SEAFARERS  LOG  and  he,  were  the  OSs  on  our  first  trip.  er  two  would  be  a  bit  easier.  after five  months  of  the  Texas  cided  it  would  be ­dangerous  to  looking  at  me  reproachfully,  After  sailing  with  them  for  No  such  luck.  I  got  an  ex­Lakes  City  shipping  I find  that  the  asked,  "Why  do  I  ha­ve  to  wait  two  months  it  was  useless.  They  man  for  a  watch  partner.  To  most of  the ships'  crews hang  out  operate,  as  he  had  a  cold.  five  years  to  hear  from  you?"  tried;  they  earned  their  pay  in  him,  relieving  his  watch  part­ at  the  Sailors  Retreat.  It  would  He  returned  to  the  ship  and  ners  was  only  incidental.  More  be  the  best  place  for  the  crew  I  answered  demurely,  "I  had  effort alone.  turned  to,  but  then  complained  Don  Hall  was  our  Bosun  and  than  once  he  left  me  out  on  to  pick  up  the  LOG.  nothing  to  say."  This  didn't  about  his  stomach,  so  1  asked  lookout,  and  when  I  proceeded  I  never  saw  a  more  frustrated  seem  to  satisfy  him  and die  kept  the  Master  to  send  him  back  to  Reece  B.  Oliver  the  hospital.  The  army  was  con­! needling  \me,  until  I  promised  man.  Don  is  one  of  the  best  to  bawl  him  out  he'd  look  at  (Sailors  in  the  Retreat  will  tacted  and  sent  a  boat  out  for  to  sit  down  and  try  to  write  Bosuns  I  ever  sailed  with;  he  me and  ask, "How am  I supposed  has  more  patience  than  the  law  to  know?  I  never  sailed  on  salt  find  the  LOG  a  bar fixture  him.  This  time  they  reexamined,  something.  After  you  read  this,  allows,  but  he  used  to  cry  in his  water  before." Arthur  Thompson  shortly.)  him  and  foimd  more  severe  if  you  do,  you'll  wonder  why  signs  of  illness  but  refused  to  in hell  I  didn't  keep  going.  Any­ way,  for  what  it's  worth,  here  admit  him  to  the  hospital.  is some  dope  on  a  good ship.  NO  SEAMEN  It  was  the  'Taddei,"  a  Liberty  We  returned  to  the  dock  Tues­ ship  run  by  the Shipenter  Lines.  day ,^d the  ,Captain  and  I  went  I  didn't  want  the  ship  and  I  with­, him  to  the, hospital  to  see  wasn't  very  hungry,  but  I  threw  why.­th^y,  refusq<^  tqke  him  in  for  it  anyway  and  after  pass­ in.  , The  . doctor  was  , a,  public  ing  a  physical  and  getting  stuck  health  doctor,  and  he  said  that  in  the  arm  more  than  I  liked  I  "they  were  up  here  to  take  care  met  with  my  first  disappoint­ of  the  army  civilians  (that  is,  ment.  On  the  board  in  the  HaU  the  soldiers,:  plashes,  , I  think)  it  said  Italy;  on  board  on  the  and didn't have time  or space for  ship  they  said  Germany.  Ger­ merchant  seamen.  many  won.  Then  he  examined  the  mc .*  I  wanted  to  go  to  Italy,  pre­ again  and  told  us  that  he  had  ferrably  Genoa.  You  see  there's  not  responded  to  the  sulfa  treat­ a  girl  there—^but  that's  another  ment  so  he  would  send  him  to  story.  It  seems  (Germany  has  the  lab  for  another  specimen  girls,  top., WeU  anyway,'  in  due  and  change  the  treatment  and  course  of  time,  we got  underway  for  him  to  retmn  the  Ibllowihg  withr  about  the  best  .stewards  morning.  So  the'  next  morning  depa,rtment  I ever  sailed  with.  wheh  he  got  to  the  gate  going  GOOD  SHIPMATES  "in  the  hospital  the  MP  stopped  hiiti  saying­ he  had  an' improper  Harvey  Morris  was  Steward,  pass.  Now  the man  had  his  sea­ Joe  Thomas  was  Cook  and  Ber­ man's  papers,  a  slip  from  the  iiie  Feeley  was  Baker.  If  you  lab  and  a  Master's  certificate  for  tvcr  sailed  with  any  of  the;  the  hospita.',  but  the  MP  said.  above  you'll­  know  what  I  mean  "to  ifce Editor:  'Is That A Holer  St. John's Iim  Has Log On Tap  Wffl Have LOG  For Seatrainers  Board  Said  Italy,  But  Art's  Ship  Chose  Germany  Sailor Rags Visits The'Mew  N.Y. Hall...by E.  Reyes  �THE  SEAFARERS  LOG  Page  Fourteen  Laud Skipper  For Aid To  •D   ying Seaman  Dutch Brand Of Cheese(cake}  FFi#fyf£HfWW9lWi2fvlj|i5> ?  McGarve^s 'Gens!  To  the  Editor:  in  sty^­aboard  tl^,„  To  the  Editor:  • • '• ''  Yes,  friends,  this  i^^another  dencej'^"'' "  *'  '  The  second  tiip  was  to  Eng­ We,  the  entire  personnel  of  sea  story,  but  interestir®  never­ land  and'^tile' ­'voyege  b^er  was  the  SS  Barbara  Frietchie,  wish  theless.  The  first  trip  on  the  SS  uneventful.  However,  upon' leav­ tCk  extend  to  Captain  Franklin  Martin  McCarver  started •   out  Allie,  Master  of  the  SS  Barbara  quite  the  same  as  many  others,  mg  that  fair  land,  the: Second  Frietchie,  our  sincerest  praise  but  to  the  oldtimers  there  was  Mate,  sick  at  heart  and  filled  and  respect  for  his  untiring  ef­ something  ominous  in  the  • wind,  with  remorse,  dove  over  the  side  forts  and  leadership  during  an  a  lurking  unseen  evil.  Then  it  determined  to  remain.  Due  to  emergency.  happened.  An  Oiler  became  ill  the  quick  work  and  excellent  He  personally  applied  artifical  and  it  soon  became  alpparent  to  seamanship  of  the  crew,  the  respiration  for  hours  while  su­ all  hands  that  the  old  McCarver  Mate  was  quickly  rescued.  How­ pervising  all  other  rescue  opera­ was  ruiming  a  race  with  death  ever,  the  Captain,  believing  the  tions.  He  also  directed  all  radio  Although  she  tried  hard,  the  Mate  to  be  insane,  put  him  off  commimications  for  medical  ad­ McCarver  lost  and.  the  grim  in  Portiigal.  vice  when  he  realized  the  con­ reaper  claimed  it's  victim.  The  Now  for­  the  real  ­voyage.  It  dition  of  Brother  Walter  Lop­ body  was put  ashore  in Bermuda  defies  even  the  most  vivid  im­ A  good  reason  for  leaving  home,  is  Coraelius  Sprano's  shas,  now  deceased.  On  the  return­voyage  an  AB  agination.  note  accompanying  this  photo  of  a  Rotterdam  lass  named  took  sick.  Was  history  to  repeat  His  splendid  example  of  cour­ HTYAH  HE  COMES  age,  leadership  and  respect  for  Anoula.  Inasmuch  as  Rotterdam  |s most  frequently  visited  by  itself?  No,  friends,  this  i^anrwas  The  Old  Msurtin  M.  was  in  Waterman  ships,  Sprano  says  this  is  one  of  the  reasons  jobs  put  ashore*  at  Gibraltar,  recover­ Houston  loading,  grain  for  that ,  his  fellow  men  makes  him  en­ tirely  worthy  of  his  position  as  on  those  ve^els  are  usually  scarce.  ed  and  rode  back  to  the  States  mystic  port  of  the  East:  Bpih­ • Master.  bay.  The  Old  Man  was  calmly  These  are,  the  expressed  sen­ watching  the  new  men  come  timents  of  the  entire  ship's  per­ aboard.  Suddenly  he  let  out  a  sonnel.  Crewmembers  yell  and,  sinking  to  his  knees^  SS  Barbara  Frietchie  h^ head  buried  in  his  hands,  he  To  the  Editor:  ate  into  a  medical  prison  camp,  tion  and  they swap  crews.  As  an  muttered,  "Oh,  no,  not  hinil'?  LOG  Service At  and  I think  a  lot  of  credit  Is due  ex­brakeman  I  was  interested  in  For  there  coming  up  the  gaiigV'  I  broke  off  my  cruise  on  the  to Dr.  Hanchett  and his Staff  tha :  the  operating  procedure  em  this  way  was  "Wingy  HortoUj"  re­^.  54th  voyage  of  the  SS  Puerto  Blackie's  Place  this  hasn't  happened  at  San  single  track  lifte.  Noticed  that  splendent  in  his  high  pr«sure'.  Rico  to  spend  a  few  days  in  the  To  the  Editor:  Juan.  San  Juan  Hospital.  Nothing more  they  didn't  have  to  put  out  a  cap.  "Wingy"  Horton,  Seff­s^ledi  I  would  very  much  like  to  in­ serious  than  a  severe  belly­ache,  ifiagman  and  that  the  ,  brakie  hero,  advisor  to  the  PresideUf,  TOURED  ISLAND  close Triend  of  J.  Edgar  Hoovefi  •   form  you  and  the  Brotherhood  but  it  afforded  a  nice  opportun­ On  the  day  I  was  discharged  didn't  wear  overalls  or  a  blue  fastest  man  in  the  World  with  a  that  a  short  time  ago  my  Dad  ity  to  get  a  little  rest.  uniform.  He  had  on  sport  slacks  and  I  opened  a  bar  here  in  New  I  want  to  go  Oil  record  as  from  the  hospital  I  took  my  and  a  gaudy  shirt,  which  would  gun,  was  no  stranger  to  the  Old  Orleans;  ancl  that  all  my  SIU  saying  the  treatment  I  was  giv­ gear  down  to  Pier­No.  3,  check­ never  have  worked  on  the  old  Man.  He  knew  Horton  was  a  Brothers  and  friends  wiU find  a  en,  both  medical  and  personal,  ed  my  excess  gear  into  the  bag­ coal  burners.  The  only  thing  phony  from  the  word  go^ and  strictly  square  deal  at  Blackie's  could  not  have  been  better.  The  gage  room,  made  a  draw  and  like a  uniform  was  the  cap  worn  would  bear  watching.  Then  a  few  days  out  a  grand  Place,  located  at  717  St.  Charles.  staff  is  a  little  overworked,  but  took  a  "publico"  to /  Ponce.  by  the  conductor.  surprise  was  sprung  on  the  crew  A  lot  of  seamen  have  been  All  • will be  • ^Velcome at  all  limes,  hasn't  allowed this  to make  them  In  San  Juan  I  was  sent  to  the  —the  grand  opening  of  the  ex­^  making  the  Puerto  Rico  run  for  as  we  maintain  a  24­hour  a  day  irritable.  From  the  orderlies  Kathryn.  She  was  a'surprise  to  policy.  So  please  have  severjd  right  up  to  the  Surgeon  in  years  and  have  never "made  the  me;  the  passenger  quarters  were  otic  Blue  Room.  Friends,  the  in­'  copies  of  the  LOG  sent  to  me  Charge,  every  one  of  them  is  trip  across  the  island.  Believe  more  attractive  and cleaner  than  comparable  Blue  Room^is  uiiex­ celled  in  its  luximious  lounge  at  the above  address.  pleasant,  agreeable,  and  willing  me,  the  ride  is  worth  your  time  on the Puerto  Rico  and  the crew  Blackie  Fleishman  to  go  out  of  his  way  to  make  and  money. It  only costs  a deuce,  quarters  were  far  superior.  Of  and  excellent  service.  takes  about  four  hours,  and  you  course,  the  PR  is  a  20­year­old  Now  the  scene  changes.  It  lis  (Ed.  Note:  The  LOG  wiU  bo  things  better  for  the  patient.  midnight  and  the  Third  i^Sistr!  available  24­hours  a  day  at  It's  a  very  easy  thing  for  a  will  see  some  of  the  nicest  rustbucket  which  explains  its  ant  decides  to  go  down  to  the  scenery  you  will  ever  lay  an  Blackie's  Place  shortly.)  sub­standard  focsles.  Government  hospital  to  degener­ eye  on.  From  now  on,  my  advice  to  engine  room  to  see  how  his  neW  I  got  up  early  the  next  AM  anyone  wanting  to  take a  trip  to  Fireman  is  doing.  As  he  ap­ and  got  the  train  for  the  return  the  Island  is  to  get  on  the  Ka­ proaches  the  fireroom,  he  Is  trip  to  San  Juan.  The"  railroad  thryn.  They  won't  have  to  put  startled  to  see  ft  shadowy  figure  runs  one  passenger  train  a  day  on  silly  paper  hats  on Saturday  bent  over  the  biuner  table  mut­ from  Ponce  to  San  Juan'  and  night  and  theyH  be  spared  the  tering  imintelligible  words.  Moy­,  vice  versa.  First  class  fare  is  ordeal  of  listening  to  "Accord­ ing  up  closer he  gasps,  in  horror,  $2.20  and  the  trip,  taking  a  ian  Andy" and  his Tortured "Trio.  for  the  figure  is  sticking  pinS  little  more  than  ten  hours,  gets  Slim  Iliff  and  a  sharp  pen  knife  into  a  small  doll  that  is  a  perfect  like­ pretty  tirei^ome.  ness  of  the  Chief  Engineer. Then  However,  if  you  want  to  see  Late Brother^s  Kin  he  recognizes  the  Fireman.  It  is  more  of  the  island  than  you  can  the  ; notorious  "Mayor"'; 4, Jay  Thanks  King  Crew  from  the  deck  of  a  ship,  it's  a  Cohen,  a  yoodoo  ­witch  doi^c  bargain.  Instead  of  cutting  To  the  Editor:  and  black  magic  artist  of' toe  nrough  the  backbone  of  moun­ Please  extend  my  thanks  and  first  water.  vi s  'ns  in  the  interior,  the  RR  ipreciation  to  the  crew  of  the  The  rest  of  the  crew  and;Sof  :irts  along  the  coast,  touching  3S  Steel ICing  for  their  spray  of  course,  myself  included  can  bmy  'I  the  major  towns  and  cities,  lowers sent  to  the funer^d  of  my  wait  and  pray  for  a  speedy  end  t  Aguadillo  the  train  meets  the  ate  brother,  Benjamin  R.  Mears.  to  this  vpyage, so as  to forget  the  • >6  going  in  the  opposite  direc­ Thanking  everyone  for  your  horfors  we  saw  on  the  Martin  kindness,  M.  (for  mysterious)  McCarver.  Mrs.  Ruth  Fox  H.  J.  Ridgeway  After  Fifty­Four  Trips  To  Puerto  Rico  Slim  Discovers  There's  Land  There,  Too  A Long Way From Brooklyn  Hiding  behind  those  furs  are  six  crewmembers  of  the  SS  Binghamton  Victory,  Bull,  which  made  a  recent  run  to  Green­ land.  Pat  Ryan,  who  submitted  the  photo,  had  little  to  say  about  the  trip,  except  to note  thai  the  beer  flowed  freely  when  the  ship  returned  to  Brooklyn.  Left  to  right^^rear:  King,  Lulu,  O'Neil,  Galvin.  Front:  Lane,  2nd  Cook.  Seeks To Thank  Men Who Gave  Husband Blood  'Casino Vic'  Co­WoriceK  To  the  Editor:  I  wish  you  would  print  this  letter  in  the  SEAFARERS  LOG,  so  that  I  can  thank  the five  fel­ lows from  the SIU  Hall  in Phila­ delphia  who  donated  blood .  to  To  the  Editor:  John  (Ski)  Klemowicz  when  he  some  effort  to  give  our  sons  was near death  at  Cooper  Hospi­ I  am  a  constant  reader  of  the  clean  living  quarters  and  treat  tal  in  Camden,  New  Jersey.  •   LOG  and  appreciate  the  effort  them  as  human  beings.  My  son  He  is  home  now  after five  that  everyone  puts forth  to make  is  aboard  a  Cities  Service  ship  it  possible.  I  was­­greatly  ­im­ and  may..I  say_i,hank,?.  to  that  ^eks,  but  still  not  recovered.  pressed  with  the  article  written  company  and  may  they  continue  He  is  sorry  he  doesn't  know  •   by  Mr.  Thomas  F.  Oliver  in  re­ to  treat  our  sons  with  kindness.  the  names  of  the five  men,  but  gard  to  the  Cities  Service  ship,  May  I  say  thanks  to  all  who  thanks  them  with  all  his  heart  SS  Abiqua.  I  have  a  son  who  are  connected  with  the  LOG.  and  will  make  it  his  business  to  has  been  a  merchant  Seaman  for  Mrs.  Fisher  find  them  and  thank  them  per­ seven  years,  aiid  it  makes  (Ed.  Note:  Brother  Oliver's  sonally  when he  is. able to do  so,  The  source  of  zniucli  good­aalured  kidding  aboard  the  MV  mothers  happy  to  know  their  pr,f,inoH  to  the  now­ which  will  be  some  time  yet.  Brightsiar  is Victor  (Little Maceo)  MichelettL  the  fellow  In  the  sons  sail  such  ships  as  Mr.  Oli­ liveable  conditions  in  the  CS  Thanks again,  fellows, for  yotu*  white  coat  end  fedora.  Vic's  taking  his first  trip  to  sea  and  Is  ver  describes.  fleet,  bronght  abotn  by  the  unselfishness.  May  God  bless  you  a  willing  Worker  as  his smiling  co­workers  will  attesti  Left  to  It  makes  one  feel  happy  to  recent  contract  won  ^by  the  and  t^e care  of  all  of  you.  right  are:  Tampa  Red  Gonn^  3rd  Cook.  W.  Vlckenu  Chief  .  know  that  some  companies make  wmun.)  Mm.  John  Xlemowici  Cookr  in  badeground.  and  Frank  Nlgzo,  Steward.  ^  v  Seafarer's Mom Liked Pay Story  �• y­/,v­v7';­"s,Tjr­'v,i .• J  ''­?^, ;• '  Tiii«T/^iw^«HBep  rHE  SE AF'Atrejts  L^G  '  HBS  Maritime Flag  tc  ­ • • ^r  To  Committeo  kO '­  •  •   PaneFiftMn  Everything  Is  Running  Smoothly in New Orleans  BY  LINDSEY  WILLIAMS  NEW  ORLEANS,  Oct.  26  —  "  . r  ^  .  V  By SAM  COHEN  Considering  the  Wildcat  strike  / • I  WILMINGTON,  Oct.  25 ­r­ Orie  of  the  East  Coast  longshoremen,  this  port  is  running  along  very  •  lone  payoff:  and  sign­on,., plus  smoothly,  with  only  the  usual  eight  in­transits.  constUuted  the  run  of  minor  beefs,  which  were  •  activity  of  this  port  for  the  past  settled  to  the  satisfaction  of  all  two  ­weeks,  giving  ns  a  "fair"  hands.  irating  in  the  shipping  depart­:  tnent.  Since  the  last  report  we  The­  payoff  and  sign­on  was  haven't  had  too  much  in the  line  the  Fairisle. (Waterman).  The  in­ of  sign­ons  and  payoffs,  with  the  tfansits  were;  Sea  Comet  (Sea'­ latter  represented  by  the  follow­ traders),  Barbara  Frietchie  (Lib­ ing  ships:  the  Alcoa  Puritan  •  N I  Thi^  proposed flag  for  the  American  merchant  marine  has  (Alcoa),  Del  Monte,  Del  Norte,  erty  Navigation),  Bienville,  Yaka  (Waterman),  Lawrence  Victory  12  horizontal  red  and  white  stripes.  The  union  is  blue  and  Del  Oro  (Mississippi),  and  the  the  anchor  white.  (Mississippi),  Calmar  and. Port­ Tuskegee  Victory  (Coral).  mar  (Calmar)  and  Martin  Behr­ Signing  on  were  the  Alcoa  man  (Alcoa),  Puritan,  and  the  Del  Norte  and  Our  only  beefs  were  on  the  Cape  Horn  (Mississippi).  Sea  Comet,  in­tralhsit  to  Italy,  In­transit  ships  were  by  far  By  GAL  TANNER  where  the  Wipers  ­were  npt  co­ JOHN  SCHUPSTICK  the  most  numerous.  We  had  the  operating  with  the  crew.  Then  MOBILE,  Oct.  24 — Shipping  Fritz  Widegren  is  not  the  only  sorhe  of  the men  insisted on  pay­ continues  'to  be  good  in' this  one—there  are  many  Seafarers  Alcoa  Patriot,  Alcoa  Corsair,  ing  "off  in  Vancouver,  liot  realiz­ port,  w.hat'with  14  ships  paying  who  hold  the  same  View—^who  Alcoa  Runner,  Alcoa  Polaris,  Al­ became  an  American  citizen  in  ing  that  it  was  a  foreign  port  off  and  taking  replacements,  and  believes  that  there  is  always  coa  Cavalier,  the  Seatrain  1944.  He  has  been  an  SIU  mem­ Georgia,  Seatrain  Texas  and  ber  since  1941,  and  has  great  and  working  a  hardship  on  the  ten  vessels  signing  on.  room  for  improvement.  Fritz  has  Seatrain  New  Jersey,  the  Cape  praise  for  the  way  our  Nego­ tJnion.  The  payoffs  included five  Wa­ been  a  member  of  the  SIU  since  Horn,  the  Steel  Scientist,  Steel  tiating  Committees  go  about  get­ Ji  •  We  also  had  to  straighten  out  terman  ships,  the  Beauregard,  its  inception  (he  holds  book  Vendor and  Steel Surveyor  (Isth­ ting  raises  and  better  conditions  a  crewmember  who  had  been  Morning  Light,  Warhawk,  Iber­ No.  19)  and  has  always  sailed  as  mian),  Iberville,  Morning  Light  without  a  bunch  of  fanfare  and  giving  the  Captain  a  bad  time.  ville  and  the  Monarch  of  the  Cook  or  Steward,  but he  is  anx­ and  City  of  Alma  (Waterman)  bull.  • 'M  The  crew  decided  it  would  Eeas; five  Alcoa  ships,  the  Run­ iously  awaiting  the  opening  of  and  the  Lucille  Bloomfield  The  SIU,  says  Big  John,  also  straighten  put  its  own  affairs,  ner,  Polaris,  Patroit,  Pennant  the  Stewards  department  school  (Bloomfield).  leads  the  way  in  benefits  for  and  not  bring  in  a  beef­laden  and  Clipper;  three  from  Bloom­ in  the  new  Hall  in  Brooklyn.  its  membership.  John  says  when  ship  when she  returns from  Italy,  field,  the  Mai'io  Hammil,  Anne  There  is  always something  that  PROTECTIVE  GEAR  We  didn't  have  sufficient  men  Butlef and  ihe  Alice  Brown.  The  you  can  learn,  he  says,  and  On  the  in­transit  ships  there  you  sweat  it  out  in  the  hospi­ here  to  hold  a  regular  meeting,  StrathcSpe  (Strathmore)  com­ every  member  of  the  stewards  were  very  few  beefs  and  no  tal  broke,  you  know  how  much  though  we  did  hold  a  special  pleted  the  payoff  list.  department  should  take  advan­ hitches  involved  in  their  coming  it  means  for  the  Delegate  to  meeting  to  discuss  the  Negotiat­ The  present  shipping  tempo  tage *)f  this  wonderful  chance  in  and  going  out  of  the  port.  make  his  weekly  visit  and  bring  you  the  weekly  benefit.  ing  Committee's  .report  on  the  should  be  maintained,  as  ten  to  learn  something  new  from  All  were  in  good  shape.  increase  in  wfeges,  vacation  pay  vessels  are  scheduled  to  payoff  guys  who  really  know  the  score.  WHEN  NEEDED  and ^ipowner  welfare pajunents.  in  the  next  two  weeks,  and  Fritz  is  right,  of  course,  as  Recently  we  had  a  beef  on  The  entire  membership  went  crews  supplied  for  two  Lib'ertys  anyone  with  even  one  head  on  the  MV  Del  Viento,  regarding  That's  really  when  you  can  be  the  men  being  burnt  from  clean­ proud  that  you  are  SIU,  says  on  record  to  endorse  the  work  out  of  the  boneyard," the  Frank  his  shoulders  knows.  ing holds  where caustic  soda  was  John,  when  the  Delegate  comes  of  the  Negotiating .  Committee  C.  Emerson  (South  Atlantic)  and  Nothing  much  else  to  report  out  and  gives  you  your  ten  and  to  give  them  a  special  vote  the  Richard  Upjohn  (Waterman).  from  down  here.  Tony  Pisanc  carried.  of y^anks  for  a  job  well  done.  240  members  were  present  at  has  forsaken  the  North  now  that  This  led  to  meeting  with  Mis­ bucks  without  having  to fill  out  The  winning  of  a  washing .ma­ the  regular  Branch  meeting,  the  weather  is  changing  —  he  sissippi,  and  having  them  put  a  dozen  forms  and  wait  un^  chine on  every ship hit the  mark,  which  accepted  the  Secretary­ came  down  on  the  back  of  a  rubber  boots  and  gear  on  ships  you  are  well  in  order  to  colledl  for  this  has^ been  a  sore  spot  on  Treasurer's financial  reports  and  Canadian  goose  —  and  keeping  carrying  caustic  soda  for  the  the  dough  that  you  really  need  the  ships.  Headquarters  report  to  the mem­ him  company  are  M.  J.  Danzey,  use  of  the  crew  when  cleaning  while  you  are  in  the  hospitaL  That's  when  you  need  it,  and  ­ One  of  the  men  to  give  his  bership.  The  report  of  the  Cre­ W.  Knapp,  F.  Drozak  and  J.  holds.  endorsement  to  the  new  gains, is  dentials  committee  on  the  can­ Graves.  In  the  futiu­e,  on  these  ships,  that's  when  you  get  it  tmder  Hussell  D.  Roberts,  who  sails  didates  for  1952  offices  was  also  Before  we  sign  off,  however,  the  crew  will  be  well  protected  the  Welfare  Plan.  AB  and  thinks  the  SIU  is  the  concurred  in.  a  listing  of  the  Brothers  in  the  when  doing  this  work.  John  is  ready  to  go  back  to  best.  A  Seafarer  since  1947,  The  membership  unanimously  local  USPHS  Hospital  is  in  or­ Just  out  of  the  hospital  is  sea  and  is  waiting  on  a  bauxite  Rpberts  prefers  running  to  the  ratified  the  report  of  the  Ne­ der.  Visit  these  men  if  you're  Brother  John  Schupstick,  better  ship,  as  that  is the  run he  usual^  East,  preferably  Japan.  He*s  gotiating  Committee  on  the. new  in  town—drop  them  a ­ line  if  known  to  all  that  have  sailed  ly  goes  on  and  likes.  To  heH  contractual  gains  made  by  the  you're  not.  They  will  appreciate  with,  him  and  have ­known  him  with  ships  carrying  caustic  soda,  SIU,  and. ­  passed  a  vote  ot  hearing  from  their  friends  and  as  a  good  shipmate  as  "Big  says  Big  John.  I'll  eat  the  baux­ (thanks  to  the  Committee  for  a  Union  Brothers:  T.  Burke,  J.  John."  ite,  it  don't  put  you  in  the  hos­ Bucklew,  T.  Anderson,  M.  Cross.  John  was  born  in  Latvia  and  pital.  job  well  done.  Sh^ipiiig  At  High  Level  1  Seafarers  Gets  Experienced  AB  Released From Army  He  was  interviewed  by  his  While  waiting  his  discharge  at  stated  that  he  intended  to  ship  (Continued  from  Tage  1)  Division  Inspector  General,  who  Fort  Jackson,  he  was  asked  by  out  as  soon  as  possible  and  he  ous  service  given  by  the  Presi­ agreed  that  he  possessed  a  mer­ other  former  seamen  how  he  had  intends  to  keep  sailing.  'That's  dent  to  seamen  who  had  demon­ chant  marine  record  worthy  of  managed  to  get  out.  "They  Were  all  I  ever  did  for  a  living,"  he  strated  full  service  during  the  consideration.  umated  men,  though,'.'  he  noted.  said.  war.  Three  months  after  following  "I  didn't  see  any  other  seamen  As  to  the  importance  of  the  Dore'swar  record,  accompanied  Washington's  instructions, he  was  getting  discharged,  and  no  one  Union's  assistance,  Dore  rmnark­ by  an  appeal  from  the  Union  notified  that his  request  for  dis­ down  there  knew  of  any  others  ed  that  he  had  no  doubt  but  that  he  was  necessary  . in  the  charge  had  been  approvd.  He  who  had  been  discharged."  that he'd  still  be  in  the  army  if  maritime  industry's  present  de­ was  discharged  a  week  later  un­ Now  in  New  York  where  he  it hadn't  been for  the  work  done  fense  effort,  made  no  impression  der  Army  Regulation  615­365.  has  registered  for  a  ship,  Dore  In  his  behalf  by  the  SIU.  on  his  draft  board  and  he  was  sent  to  Fort  Jackson, South (Caro­ RUSSELL  ROBERTS  lina,  to  train  as  an infantryman  one  giiy  who  really  gets  a  kick  with  the 31st  Division.  out  of  sailing  and  is'well  liked  Shortly  after  Dore  entered  the  By  LEROY  CLARKE  rivals at  Port  Arthur,  Texas,  and  into  this  port  during  the  past  by  his  shipmates.  service,  he  began  his  attempt  to  »were  contacted  from  this  office. .few days  via  Cities Service  tank­ With  shipping  slowed  down  secure  his  release  and  requested  LAKE  CHARLES,  Oct.  26—  On  the  Republic  we  ran  into  a jers,  amrnig  them  D.  Garner,  Red  here,  the  bulk  of  our  payoffs  This  is  the  land  of  Golden  op­ Mate  who  found  peculiar  reasons  the­ assistance  of  the  SIU.  Farthing,  Mike  Schock,  L.  Lar»  having  been  diverted  to  Seattle  pdrtunity,  political  aspirations  for firing  men.  After  a  talk  with  The  Union  dispatch^  letters  onde,  F.  Lamberti  and  I. Bridges,;  and Frisco,  we aren't rushing  the  and  port  of  missing  rated  men  the  Delegates  and  the  Captain,  the  last  being  a  refugee  from  men  in  and  out  in  the  same  to  Washington  and  to  his  com­ (they're, misssing  from  here).  we convinced  him that  the  Union  the  peissenger  wagons.  breath,  though  ABs  will  have  manding "officer—as  the  SIU has  no  trouble ­sMppi­ag  frcm  hers,­ done  in  hundreds  of  other  cases  We  have  jobs  for  rated  men  did  not  want  performers  and  Having  just  shipped  Brothers  'on  deck  and "in  the~engine  de­ foul­ups "labdard"  the  shi^  biif  I^rohde'ahd LamKiftFtb  waiting  Frankly,  the  weather  is  still  —^seeking  his  release.  perfect  and,  with  Southern  Cali­ Other  letters  followed  over  a  partment  with  no  takers,  a  boom  that  he  was  way  off  base  in  his  tankers,  I'll  have  to  report  that  these  two  oldtimers  are  no  long­ fornia  boastlrigonO  Of  the finest  period  6f  weeks,  until  Army  caused  by  the  aiTl^Wil.  of  the  reasons  for  firing  men.  fOotball  teams;  in  the  country,  headquarters  in  Washington  no­ Royal  Oak,  Fort  Hoskins,  Can­ While  the  big  waterfront  beef  er  among  us.  who wants  to ship when  there's a  tified  the  Union  that  he  was  to  tigny,  Lone  Jack,  Bents  Fort,  has  been  on  the  east  coast  the  I  might  add,  for  those  rated  write  his , immediate  superior  of­ Winter  Hill,  Chiwawa  (Cities  past  two  weeks,  there  was  a  men  interested,  that  for  the first  big  game  every  Satiurday?  three­day  strike  here  of  the  ILA  half  of  November  we  expect  . Some  of  the  fellows  Who  ap­ ficer,  giving  his  record  and  how  Service),  Republic  (Trafa  Trinity  (Garras)  and Wanda  barge  men  which  was  settled  in  good  shipping  here,  so  come  it  was: "important  to  the  health,  parently  agree  with­me  are  jEted  phany  Tankers).  favor  of  the  Union.  down  and  grab  a  nice  coastwisd  safety and  security of  the nation"  Braunsteiiii­Roc  Moran,  G.  Iteidr  The  last  three  ships  were  ar­ Several  oldiimers  have  drifted  ship.  that„he  be discharged,,  Cal Wilson  and  Max  Byeis..­i ;  1  Lake  Ckarks  Is  The  Land  Of  Opportanity  • m  �4^­  .  • •   Page Siicteea  TBE  S  EAE ARERS  LOG  Official Ballot  for  Seafarers Inl  Sample  A&G  Ballot  Pictures  And  Records  Of  Candidates  Appear  On  Pages  Seven  To  Ten  'fe  •^  AnJtNIKi ^  1951  ELECmON  YOUNG  PERIOD  NOVEMBER  !st  '  .V;.«'•   I fpfee.  Union of  Hforth America  INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS—hi  order to  vote for  a cdndidctte^ ihchle a ctbse  (X) in voting square  to the left  of  name.  If  you vote for  moi^ odndiddtes for  office than ^ledfied herein your vole for such office will be invcdid.  YOU MAY  WRITE THE  NAME OF ANY MEMBER  WHOSE NAME DOES NOT  APPEAR  ON  THE  BALLOT  IN  THE  BLANK  SPACE  PROVIDED  FOR'THAT  PURPOSE  UNDER  EACH  OFFICE. ^  ^)  Do not use a lead pencil in moddng; tl^ ballot Ballots marked  will not be counted.  MARE YOUR  BAUOT WITH  PQf  AND INK  O 1)1  afi­ • ­.  SECRETARY­THEASUHER  PHILADELPHIA  AGENT,  Vote lor One  Vote for One  pi.:^  r  O  Paul HaU. No. 190  ^  MOBOE  JOINT  PATROIMAN  a  Steve (Blaclde) CorduUo, No. 24599  Votei for Two  g  • Robert    Jordcm, No. 71  • George BmbreL No. 45925    ASSISTANT  SECRETARY­Ti^SUHER  BALTIMORE  AGENT  Vole for One  Vote for One  O  Uoyd (Blaclde) Gardiner, No. 3697  HEADQUARTERS  REPRESENTATIVES  Vote lot Three  Q  Joseph Algina, No. 1320  • Wm. (Red)    Morris, No. 264  n  Earl (Bull) Sheppard, No. 203  ».i i  ••  BALTIMORE  DECE  PATROLMAN  Vote for One  ^­TTC. V  ^  Q  Joseph Volpian, No. 58  BALTIMORE  ENGINE  PATROLMAN  Vote for One  NEW  ORLEANS  DECE  PATROLMAN!  j  • A1 Stansbury, No. 4683    Vote lor One  O  Thomas Fleming, No. 3821  Q  James Sheehan, No. 306  NEW  YORK  DECK  PATROLMAN  Vote lor Two  BALTIMORE  STEWARDS  PATROIMAN  Vote for One  • W.PaulGonsorchik,No.749    a  Edward V. Smith, No. 48961  NORFOLE  AGENT  j '  N^ ORLEANS  ENGINE  PATROLMAN}  ­V  m%r..  Vote for One  Aiai!  Q  C. J. (Buck) Stephens, No. 76  Mi'>/. Mi  • ^ /  NEW  ORLEANS;  STEWARDS  PATROLMAN  Vote lor One  • Louis Goffin. No. 4526    Q  George (Frenchy) Ruf, No. 23724  '^VMefor'bne  ^  Q  LeRoy  Clarke,  No.  23082  BOSTON  AGENT  • Eugene Dakin, No. 180    "..Vote^for One  Vv  •   • LindseyL Williams,    No. 21550  f  |  I  • L (Blondie) Johnson, No. 108    • Robert Matthews, No. 154    .1  V  NEW  ORLEANS  AGENT,  n  Chailes O. Lee, No. 70  Vole for One  • BenRees,No. 95    • A. W* (Andy) Gowder. No. 36884    O  HennanTroxclalr.No. 6743  HEW  YORK  ENGINE  PATROLMAN  SAVANNAH  AGENT  Vote lor Two  Vote lor One  • Teddy Babkowsld, No.    7391  —————.f  < ­  •   ;  ­;r.­  ir/'ir!  • •>'•   ­'!>  ­(.iPft •  '  O  Ernest Tilley, No. 75  (lALVESTON AGENT ­ ^  • Eddie (Deck) Eriksen, No. 50495    VotoferOno  •  • Claude (Sonny) Simmons, No. 368    • RayV7hite,No.57    P:V­ ! ff; ii •   "• " '.'>(• >/(  'v':/  NEW  YORE  STEWARDS  PATROLMAN  ..jQ­f;}  •  • KeahAtoep,No.7311    TAMPA  AGENT  Vote for One  6  ­rtl.  i  Y.k"  •   Sy'4  ;fi  Mpf<  ­',1  Vote lor Two  ­.fltVi/'y,'  P  Howard Gumier,Nb. 478  MOBILE  AGENT  Q  Freddie Stewart, No. 4935  Vote for One  G/U.VESTON  J<NNT  PATROLMAN  'IfeVT/*  '  til'lOl'i  • nan:­ Vote for One  •  'hi  G  aiailes KiinbalL No. 52  «S.  ''  • CalToQaer,No^44    •  O  Merfte (Mtd) ^^sisde^Now S02IS"'•  •  •  "I"'  '  ;  I/".'"  I,.  i.ii  I  II,,I  "liiSI  � 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 November 2, 1951 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 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. XIII, No. 22 Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: BRIDGES BACKS DOWN, WORKS ISTHMIAN SHIPS SEAFARER WINS DISCHARGE FROM ARMY FOR DRAFTED AB BALLOTING FOR A&G OFFICIALS GETS UNDER WAY 40 HOUR WEEK, PAY RAISE IN EFFECT WILDCAT LONGSHORE STRIKE TIES UP NEW YORK PIERS CLEAR POLICY NEEDED CAST YOUR VOTE SURVIVOR TELLS HIS STORY OF SOUTHERN ISLES DISASTER NAVAL ARCHITECT CALLS SHIP OVERLOADED SAVANNAH LABOR HELPS GIRL IN FIGHT FOR LIFE PORT BOSTON RUNS INTO BAD DAYS CITIES SERVICES INSTALLS TV SET ON SS CANTIGNY SIU CREWMEN OF 'RED TRAMP' LAND 'SPIES' INTO BOSTON EXPERT FORESEES AUTOMATIC VESSELS WITHIN TEN YEARS PICTURES AND RECORDS OF ALL A&G CANDIDATES EVERYTHING IS RUNNING SMOOTHLY IN NEW ORLEANS PORT WILMINGTON VOTES THANKS TO COMMITTEE MOBILE SHIPPING AT HIGH LEVEL LAKE CHARLES IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/02/1951 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1951 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/3b2327399cce62ad3bd4f555660ebbdc.pdf e7bad6bc920c6579f2b6cdf812499e77 PDF Text Text •   ?­ *• **, „  ­• ,*'•   SEAFARERSALOC  1  •  OFFICIAL  ORGAN  OF  THE  SEAFARERS  INTERNATIONAL  UNION  •  ATLANTIC  ANCf  GUIF  DISTRICT  •  AFL­CIO  •   RUNAWAYS  ASK  STATE DEP7 TO  'STOP  UNIONS'  •  r'^"'  • K^^o.­ m  • • '4^  M  Story  On  Page S  ^c­  .  M:  C#E#A#w  Clipper ship's fund is  ^OJCWy  RvWraro*  $250 richer as passenger ves­ sel  has  gone  700  days  without  lost  time  accident.  At  check  presentation  are  (standing, 1.  to r.)  R. Vaughan,  bosun; G. Stauter, 2nd mate; J. Garvey, oh. engineer; C.  Blalack, deck; W. Egan, elect,; Capt. Thomas  Pederson;  S. L. Gibson, oiler.  Kneeling  (1. to  r.)  F. Pastrano, 3rd  cook; O. Lehman, chief  cook, R. S. Cutty, pantry.  I  Predict  5fep­Up  In Surplus  Cargo  Story  On  Page 16  Order Sale  4 Unions  Of Vessel  To Affiliate  in Pay Beef  With MID  • '<A\'^­ Story  On  Page 5  I)  p •  •  If;, ­p..  T ife­ Ad On Runaways  Exploitation  of  WeSt  Jndian  seamen by runaway operators  and program for  dealing with  problem  is  discussed  at  head­ quarters  meeting  with  Trini­ dad seamen's union head, Sam  Worrell.  At meeting  (1. to r.)  are Herb  Brand,  LOG  editor;  Worrell;  SIUNA  President  Paul  Hall;  Joe  Algina,  ass't  sec.­treas.  (Story on  Page 3.)  Eighf  Lives  Lost  rx  '  'is  Tanker  A^oco  Virginia  still  blazes fiercely  at  Houston  oil  terminal  after  fire  and  blast  took lives of  seven crewmem­ bers and officers on the NMU­ jnanned ship and one Houston  firefighter.  Blaze  caused  the  closing  of  the  Houston  ship  channel  for  .  several  days.  (Story on  page 5.)  Story  On  Page 10  ­,'3  • ;s  • • !  .rii  �SEAFARERS  LOG  PSH» Tw»  Norember  29, 19M  Union Clinics Plan  Diabetes Check­Up  On SiU Families  IDS Rate  100% Clean  The  medical  clinics  of  the  Seafarers  Welfare  Plan  have  taken  part  in  the  national  drive  on  diabetes,  November  15  to 21,  known  as  Diabetes  Dietection  Week.  The clinic's  par­ ticipation  in  the  campaign  will  continue  beyond  the  content  and  blood  sugar  If  neces­ sary, with the result that a  number  formal closing, with Seafarers  of  cases of  diabetes  among  Seafar­ urged  to  bring  members  of  their  ers have been  picked  up In the ear­ families  in  for  physical  examina­ ly  stages  and  referred  to  Public  tions  which  cover  diabetes  detec­ Health  Service  facilities  for  treat­ tion.  ment.  The  standard  physical  examina­ Since January 1, 1959, more  than  Now  retired  under  the  SIU  disability­pension,  Mrs. Edna  Johans­ tion  given  Seafarers  on  an  annual  3,200  seamen  have  been  examined  son  is  shown  indulging  in her  hobby while  Mrs. Laurence  Chopin  basis Includes  tests for  urine sugar  at  the  New  York  cUnlc.  Of  these  looks  en  in  photo  token  when  both  were  working  on  Delta  Line  3,200,  14  were  found  to  have  dia­ ships.  Mrs.  Chopin  was  the  first  woman  to retire  under  the  SIU  betes  and  were  referred  to  the  benefit.  "  Public  Health  Service  for  Imme­ diate  treatment  enabling  them  to  continue  sailing  and  keep  them­ selves  In  good  condition.  Consequently,  family  members  who  may  not  have  received  these  examinations  are  the  chief  targets  of  the campaign. Dr. Joseph Logue,  medical  director  of  the  Seafarers  NEW  ORLEANS—^The  second  woman  member  of  the SIU  Welfare  Plan  noted  that  there  is  to  retire  imder  the  SIU's  disability­pension,  Mrs.  Edna  Johansson,  66,  is  now  taking  life  easy  at  her  home  in  New  The  traditional  Thanksgiving  a  family  pattern  to  diabetes;  that  Orleans.  Mrs.  Johansson  fol­­*  ^^^  Is,  a  tendency  toward  diabetes  can  dinners  for  Seafarers  and  their  be  Inherited.  lowed  Mrs.  Mary  Chopin,  a  touch  with  several  of  the  Delta  families  will  be  served  In  all  SIU  Line  regulars  including  Mrs.  Cho­ shipmate of  hers on  the Delta  For  this  reason,  he  urged  any­ ports  and  If  the  menu planned  for  the  New  York  hall  Is  any  Indica­ one  who  has  a  record  of  diabetes  Line, Into retirement  late last sum­ pin, LeRoy  Rinker, and  chief  stew­ mer.  ard  Kaiser.  She finds  that  sewing  tion,  nobody  will  be  going  away  In  his or her family  to be  tested.  and  knitting occupy  a  good  deal of  At  the  time  of  her  retirement,  hungry.  "Early  detection  and ,treatmen>"  her spare  time when  not  busy  with  Mrs. Johannson  had  been  going  to  Dr.  Logue  noted,  "minimizes  the  The  New  York  kitchen  staff  will  her  seven  grandchildren  and  three  sea for ­over 30 years.  Her husband  begin  cooking  the  25  turkeys  and  sons.  Her fourth  child, a  daughter,  died on December 28, 1927,  and she  4  prime  rib's  and  4  Virginia  hams  I am a diabetic  shipped  out In  1928 supporting  her  passed  away  In  January; 1936.  on  Monday.  All  preparations  will  I AM NOT  INTOXICATKD  four  children  and  subsequently  a  bf  carried  out  In. addition  to  the  granddaughter.  cafeteria's  usual  duties  of  prepar­ She  sailed  on  numerous  passen­ ing  breakfasts  and  lunches, during  ger ships  and  Army Transport  ves­ the  week.  Dinner  will  be  served  sels  and  survived  a  torpedoing  on  from 10  AM  to 2 PM.  June  12,  1942,  l)ut  shipped  right  The  menu  for  New  York  is:  out  again  on  an  ATS  vessel.  Appetizer: Garden  celery tray, rose  Subsequently,  Mrs.  Johannson  radishes, olives, green  endives In  became an  SIU member and  sailed  vinaigrette  saUce,  grapefruit  regularly  on  the  Delta  Line  pas­ supreme,  shrimp  cocktail.  The  chaos  in  the  maritime  industry  concerning  accident  senger vessels out of  this city.  Her  Soup:  Chilled  tomato  jOice,  potage  and  safety figures  on  merchant  seamen,  as  reported  in  the  last  ship  was  the  Del  Norte.  a  la  relne,  consomme  Julienne.  last issue of  the SEAFARERS LOG, has  given  everyone who  Mrs.  Johannson  still  keeps  in  Entree:  Roast  Western  Tom  Sample 'of  cord  carried  by_  wanted  one a  big stick  to  use  Turkey,  with  glblet  gravy,  sufferer from  diobete$ in event  Chestnut  dressing,  cranberry  on  the  seamen—the  favorite  steadily  producing  concrete  resuilta  to  cut  down  accidents,  especially  sauce.  Roast  ribs  of  beef,  au  of  on ottock.  whipping boy; of  the industry.  disabling  (lost­time)  acclden^.  .  ,  jus,  baked  Virginia  ham,  with  ravages  of  the  disease  and  makes  :  The confusion  on figures  is com­ A  Coast  Guard  spokesman  who  pineapple garni.  for  more  effective  treatment."  pounded  this  week*  with  a  report  addressed  last  month's  Chicago,  Salad:  Tossed  green  salad  with  from  the Coast  Guard on  a  limited  convention  of  the  National  Safety  The  examinations are  simple.  A  French  dressing.  number  of  ships.  The Coast  Guard  Council's Marine Section  staged the  specimen  of  urine  is  tested  for  • Vegetables:  Green  June  peas,  sugar  content  and  if  there  Is  any  figmes Indicate  very  few  accidents  situation  this way;  '  mashed  yellow  turnips,  kernel  indication  of  diabetes,  a  blood  The  New  York  Dlstrict'offlce of  resulting  from  physical  or  psycho­ "We  are all  continually hammer­ com,  cauliflower  with  mornay  sugar  test  is  conducted.  the  immigration  Service  has  an­ logical  deficiencies.  ing  at  individuals  to  think  and  act  sauce,  candled  sweet  potatoes,  Lacking any  creditable  yardstick  safely  and  of  course  we  cannot  af­ There  are  two  general  types  of  nounced; the. moving  of  Its .offices  whipped  potatoes,  rissole  pota­ diabetes:  Infantile  or  juvenile  dia­ from  Columbus  Avenue  and  West  to  measure the  safety  perfgrmahce  ford  to relax  this pressure.  Human  toies.  betes,  which  Is  serious  since  it  62  Street  to  30  West  Broadway,  of  seamen, critics have  grabbed  on  nature  bepig  what  it  Is,  however,  Dessert:  Hot  minced  meat  pie,  shows  that  there  is  something  In  the  downtown  section  of  the  to  every figure,  real  or  imagined,  we  can  never  expect  to  see  the  pumpkin  pie,  apple  pie,  chiffon  wrong  with  the  body  structure  of  city.  The  move  was. caused  by  to make seamen  the villains  In  the  day  when  accidents  are  eliminated  4)le,  rum flavored  fruit  cake,  the  patient.  The  cause  of  the  con­ plans  to demolish  the old  building  safety picture.  but  If  we are ever  to  approach  the  assorted  cheese  tray  with  crack­ dition  Is  Insufficient  Insulin,  which  to  make  room  for  a  building  proj­ This  can  be  a  convenient fiction  irreducible  nllnimum  we rniist  con­ ers,  Ice  cream.  for  ship  operators, since  Insurance  tinue to  strive to  Increase the  mar­ is  manufactured  by  the  pancreas.  ect  In the area.  Beverages:  Coffee,  tea,  milk,  The adult  type of  diabetes Is less  News  0#  the  move  to  lower  costs help determine  the amount  of  gin  of  safety  by  improving  mate^  orangeade,  assorted  fresh  fruit  serious, since usually  it only marks  New  York,  closer  to  the  district  Government  subsidy.  Because  no  rials, methods,  equipment and  con­ basket,  assorted  mixed  nuts,  the  slowing, down  of  the  pancreas.  called  Shipping  Row,  means  less  Government  or  private  agency; has  ditions."  hard  candles, after­dinner  mints.  Nevertheless,'  it  demands  care­ traveling  for  Immigration, Inspec­ anything' approaching a  complete  The  speaker,  Cmdr.  John  H.  ful apd  prompt  medical  treatment  tors who  have to  travel to  the Bat­ or.reliable set  of figures  on  safety,  Hawley  of  the  Casualty  Review  at  the  tip  end  of  New  York  insurance is a cost item  that is  dif­ Section, USCG,  also cited  some figi  SfiAFARERS  LOG  Until  recently.  Insulin  by  injec­ tery,  City,  to  reach  the  Coast  Guard  ficult  to  challenge.  ures • h  is  agency  had  compiled,  a  tion  was  the  only  effective  treat­ It  follows  from  this  that  when  summary,  of  which  has  just  been_  Nov. 20, 1959  Vol. XXI, No.24  cutters  which  ferry rthem  out.  to  ment  of  diabetes.  In  juvenile  dia­ Quarantine  wheh  they , have  to  in­ costs are high, they  have to be  jus­ published.  betes,  this  method  Is. still  neces­ spect  an  Incoming  vessel.  It's also  tified  by making the. seanian out  as  The summary  covered  the causes  sary  but in adult diabetes,  diet and  much  more  convenient, for  alien  an  unstable, accident­prone, feeble,  and  factors  that  produced  a  total  oral medication  Is sometimes  effec­ seamen.  sick  and  claim­happy  individual  to  of  242  fatalities  and  1,243  injuries  ­  ­ PAUt  HA£I  SecTetary­Trtasurtr  tive.  judge  , .from  descriptions  : placed  in  the  last fiscal  year,  but  it  does  Although  closer  to  the 33tottery,  •   HSBBABT  BRAND,  Editor.  BERNARD  SEA  MAH  Art  Editor.  HERMAN  ARTHUR,  IRWIN  'Although  diabetes,  if  discovered  the  change  in  quarters  does  n^  upon' him.  / •   npt  cover  all  ships  nor  all  acci­ SFIVAK,  AL  MASKIN,  JOHN  BRAZIL,  ARTHUR  and  controlled.  Is  not  too  serious  mean  more  vessels  will  be  in­ ..One  basic  fact  about'seamaii  all  dents.  It  represents, all  accidents  BERGER,  CHARLES  BEAVMET.  Itaff  Writers.  BILL  MOODY,  Gulf  Area  Representative.  an  illness  today,  if  not  treated  it  spected  at  Quarantine  because  the  of  his'detractors  try  to  bypftss  is  reported  to  the  CG  involving  PuDlished  biweekly  or  me  tteaaquarrers  can  do  tremendous  damage  to  the  tendency  in  recen^ years  has  been  this; His  work aboa^ imip and  his  ability  of  72  hours  or  more.  How­ '  of  the  Seafarers  international  Union,  At­ body.  /  to  have  passengers'  Immigration  exposure  to  .potential  accidents  ever, many  vessels  are not  inspectr  tanfie &  6uif PIstrict, AFL­CiO,  47S Fourth  Avenue  Brooklyn  32,  NY  Tel  Hyacinth  All  Seafarer^s  should  make  sure  papers  checked  while  the  vessels  while  <011  a;; ship  can  produce, ait  ed  by the Coast  Guard  and  thus It  MMO.  Secohd  class  postasa  paid  • t the  Post  Office, in  Brooklyn, NY,  under  that  they  and  their  families  have  are  enrpute  to  New  York,  Air  aeCideni/ah^  bpor d* the  day .  pr  basi  no figures  regarding  injuries  Ite Act  of  Aug  24,  1912.  been  tested  for  diabetes.  All  it  passengers'  papers  are  examined  p^hP—whetbeir'at sPh O'  at a  doch>  pn toese  vessels.  .  .  takes  Is' a  phone, call  to  the  clinic  at  foreign  terminals, .before  the  "Ihis Is theMlSon for  a safely  pros­ In  terms  of  the  1,485  caseg  to  set  up  ah  appointment  (Continued on  ppge  planes  leave for J^ew  '^ork.'  ,  gran^  and  the  SIU's  program  Is  Set Holiday  Dinners in  SiU Ports  Stewardess  Retires;  Sailed  30 Years  am uncenadMwmyMMVtorliRKulir.PinM  rgfaf  t* amarga  thiacaid.  CG Figures Add New  Element To Safety issue  Immigration  Moving  NY  Part Office  " 'r­ VS:  HOUSTON—Crewmembers  and  shoreslde  staff  of  the  Bloomfield  Steamship  Company  ai:e  aiming  at  a fleet­wide  100  percent  record  in  the  annual  US  Public  Health  Service  sanitation  Inspection.  If  the  company  is  successful  in  this  regard  It  will  be  the first  time  any fleet  in  the  US  merchant  marine  has  received  a  perfect  score.  Thus far, three  of  the company's  four  ships,  the  Margarett  Brown,  Alice Browq and  the Lucile Blooni­ field,  have  racked  up  100  percent  ratings  In  vessel  inspections,  and  crewmembers  of  the  Neva  West  are  polishing  her  up  in  anticipa­ tion  of  a  check­up  in  New  Orleans  later  in  the.  month.  It  is  a  rarity  for  any  ship  to  receive  100  percent  In  vessel  In­ spections.  The  inspections  cover  168  items  involving  such  matters  as  food  stowage,  refrigeration,  waste disposal, cleanliness in  living  quarters  and  galley,  drinking  water,  wash  wgter,  vermin  control,:  ratprooflng  and  similar  matters.  The  Public  Health  Service'  awards  citations  to  any  vessel  which  achieves  a  95 percent  rating  or  better  in  these  inspections.  Normally,  only  a  handful  of  ship­ ping  companies achieve  records  of  95  percent  or  better  on  all  their  ships.  Bloomfield  company  officials  apr  plauded  the  achievement  of  the .  Seafarers and  other  crewmembers,  with  the copipany  president,  B.  M.  Bloomfield, wiring congratulations.  �IfoteMb«r St.  IfSt  SEAFARERS  LOG  Home Again After Long Trip  Ending  long  shuftle  run  on  the  Orion  Comet,  Seafarer  Benjamin  Mignano  (right)  receives  vacation  check  from  SlU. Assistant  Sec­ retary­Treasurer  Ed Mooney.  Mignano  grossed  $421.75 in  vaca­ tion  pay  after  trip  of  a  year  and  three  days.  Pace ThfM  'Save Our Cuf­Rate  Wages/  Runaways  Beg  State  Dep't  /'• a  '  ' '  Evidently  alarmed  by  the  headway  being  made  by  US  Maritime  unions  in  winning  recognition  of  their  jurisdiction  over some  American­owned  runaways,  the  political  arm  of  American  runaway  shipowners  is  trying  to  get  the  State  Department to upset the application  of  US labor law on  runaway ships.  In  addition, the  runaways' lobby which  calls  itself  the  "American  Committee  for  Flags  of  Necessity"  has  gone  directly  to  the  general  counsel  of  the  National  Labor  Relations  Board  pending  before  the  Labor  Board  pete  with  foreign  vessels  in  th»  asking  him  to  override  or  the  US  courts,  with  the  US Su­ bulk  cargo  trades."  previous board  actions and  preme  Court  scheduled  to  act  on  US  unions  have  consistently  throw  out  union  proceedings  some  of  the  most  important  issues  involved.  Consequently, the  Union  against  the  runaways.  The  feels  that  the  State  Department  committee's  intervention  in  would have  no business  interfering  maintained  that  the  real  concern  of  the runaways  is that  they might  have  to  pay  their  foreign  crews  decent  wages  comparable  to  what  US  seamen  earn  on  American­flag  ships  and  that  all  the  pious  refer­ ences  to  navigation  treaties  ar»  simply  cover­ups  for  wage  and  tax  evasion.  Wages  on  runaway  ships  range  between  $75  and  $125­ monthly.  The  runaway's  concern  has  un­ (Continued  on  page  15)  pending  board  cases  is  unprece­ dented  as  it  is  not  a  party  to  any  in  these  legal  proceedings,  since  the  courts  and  the  NLRB  fully­ disputes.  consider  all  aspects  of  law  and  Among  these  proceedings  are  treaty in dealing  with the matter.»  the  unfair  labor  charges  maae  by  "The runaways'  complaint is clear­ the  SIU  against  the  P&O  Steam­ ly seen as an  effort to get  the State  ship  Company,  owners  of  the  Department  to preserve  their  prof­ SS  Florida;  against  the  owners  of  its, tax  exemptions and cheap  wage  the  runaway flag  SS  Yarmouth  levels.  and  against  the  Sea  Level, another  Once  before,  back  in  March  of  runaway flag  operation,  formerly  this  year,  a  similar  move  by  the  The  governor  of  Georgia  has  intervened  on  behalf  of  the  Seatrain  New  Orleans.  runaways  was  rumored,  with  the  domestic  shipping  to  get  the  Interstate  Commerce  Commis­ In  effect,  the  runaways,  al­ result  that  the  State  Department  American  corporations,  are  was  reported  as  "looking  into"  sion  to  set  fair  freight  rates  on  shipments  out  of  the  port  though  seeking  "diplomatic  immunity"  NLRB  and  court findings  involving  of  Savannah.  Governor  Ern­"^  from  the  application  of  US  law  to  union  jurisdiction  over  runaway  est  Vandiver  led a  delegation  all­rail  rate  cut,  Seatrain  had  an  their  operations.  ships.  At  that  time,  a  joint  letter  edge  of five  to nine  cents  per  hun­ The  Union's  position  is  that  all  by SIUNA  President Paul  Hall  and  of  Georgia  officials,  including  dred pounds  under the  all­rail rate.  of  the  matters* involved  are  either  NMU  President Joseph  Curran  de­ the  mayor  of  Savannah,  to  Wash­ nounced  any  State  Department  in­ ington,  to. confer  with  the  ICC  on  tervention.  They  told  the  Under  its  latest  action  which  would  de­ Secretary  (now  Secretary)  of  State  Christian Herter  that. . . "it would  stroy  the  service  rendered  by  Sea­ be  most  inadvisable  for  the  State  The  problem  of  runaway  activi­ train  Lines,  C.  G.  Willis  and  other  Department to  intervene in  what is  ties in  the Caribbean  and  plans for  domestic  carriers  to  the  Georgia  essentially  and  simply  a  labor  dis­ dealing  with  them  through  co­ port.  pute  between  American  maritime  operative  efforts  under  the  Carib­ As  a  result  of  the  intervention,  bean  Federation  were  discussed  Plans to increase  the effectiveness  of  the Union's adminis­ unions  and  American  maritime  during  Seatrain  has  now  resumed  service  a  visit  to SIU  headquarters  management  .  .  ."  They  noted  that  to  Savannah,  reactivating  the  Sea­ trative and organizational operations so as to better deal with  the  runaways  and  the  countries  of  by  Sam  Worrell,  president  of  the  train  Savannah  for  that  purpose  its  growing  responsibilities  have  been  approved  by  the  last  Panama  and  Liberia  "have  abused  Trinidad  Seamens  and  Dockers  and  will  continue  the  service  for  New York headquarters mem­^  the  navigation  treaties  by  selling  Union.  at least  two  months.  bership  meeting  and  will  be  ant  secretary­treasurer;  Earl  Shep­ wage  discount  cards"  to  American  The  Caribbean  Federation,  a  grouping  of  trade  unions  con­ Protest  Pulpwood  Rates  acted  on  next  Wednesday  in  pard,  Baltimore  agent;  Lindsey  shipowners.  (Just  two  weeks  ago,  the  United  cerned  with  shipping  in the  Carib­ all  other  SIU  ports.  Williams,  New  Orleans  agent  and  The  issue  arose  when  the  ICC,  The plans  call for the  creation of  A1  Tanner,  coordinator  of  Mari­ States  Canal  Zone  was  the  target  bean  area,  has  been  sponsored  by  ever  bitter  Seatrain  objections, ap­ time  Trades  Department  activities  of  an  apparently  Communist  in­ the  Maritime  Trades  Department,  proved  long­haul  all­rail  rates  on  a  district  ­  wide  on  the  Great  Lakes.  Herb  Brand,  spire  riot  by  2,000  club­wielding,  AFL­CIO,  and  is  scheduled  to  be­ pulpwood  and  paper  products  committee  which  gin  functioning  on  problems  in­ editor  of  the  SEAFARERS  LOG,  rock­throwing  Panamanians.)  which  are  far  below  the  combined  would  undertake  The  latest  runaway  gambit  con­ volving  US  unions  and  the  sea­ over­all  supervi­ will  work  closely  on  the  coordina­ rail­Seatrain  rate.  At  the  same  tion  Of  organizational  activities,  sisted  of  a  145­page  document  men  and  maritime  workers  in  time,  the  ra|lroads  continued  a  sion  of .such mat­ which  seeks  to  prove  that  the  run­ Caribbean  countries.  high  short  haul  rate  to  the  dock,  ters  as  organiz­ aways  are  not subject  to  American  The  Trinidad  union,  which  is  making  it  impossible  for  Seatrain  ing,  inter ­ union  labor law.  Application  of  the  labor  affiliated  with  the  International  relationships  and  to  lower  the  combined  rate  so  as  laws,  they  claim,  involve  violation  Transportworkers  Federation,  had  to  be  competitive  with  the  all­rail  the  Union's  far  of  navigation  treaties.  distinguished  itself  in  the  past  in  flung  activities  service.  However,  the  memorandum  be­ the  course  of  the  strike  by  the  up  and  down  the  Should  these  rates  continue,  the  trays  the  real  reason  for  the  run­ Canadian  SIU  against  ships  of  the  Hall  railroads  would  take  all  of  the  coasts  and  on  aways'  concern  in  another  section  Canadian  National  Steamship fleet.  pulpwood  and  paper  products  traf­ fresh  water.  when the  giant oil,  steel, aluminum  At  one  time  during  the  course  of  and  other  combines  which  control'  the strike,  the  Canadian owners  at­ fic  putting  the  competing  shipping  The  committee,  chaired  by  SIU  companies  out  of  business  in  Sav­ Secretary­Treasurer Paul  Hall,  will  runaway shipping  complain that "it  tempted  to  transfer  the  ships  to  is  not  economically  feasible  for  Trinidad registry.  But their scheme  annah.  Then,  the  railroads  would  consist  of  Cal  Tanner,  Mobile  Al  Tanner  Simmons  American­flag  ships  ... to  com­ be  in  a  position  to  set  any  rates  agent;  A1 Kerr,­secretary­treasurer  was  foiled  when  the  Trinidad  they  pleased  ­on  this  traffic  and  o^ the  Union's  various  corporate  public  relations  and  Union  educa­ unionists  informed  CNS  that  they  other  commodities  formerly  car­ tion  on  assignments  from  the  com­ wanted  no  part  of  any  struck  ried  by  ships.  mittee.  ships.  "  Want  Joint  Rate  Committee  members  will  be  as­ In  discussions  with  SIUNA  signed  various  responsibilities.  The  Georgia  group  asked  the  President  Paul  Hall,  Brother  Wor­ Sheppard  will  be  ICC to  require the  railroads to join  rell  took  up  the  probldm  of  run­ HOUSTON—Delta  Line's  three  away  shipping  as  it  involves  thw  given responsibil­ with  Seatrain  in  establishing  ity  for  the  Atlan­ luxury  liners—the  Del  Norte,  Del  exploitation  of  West  Indian  work­ Joint  rail­water  rate  which  would  tic  Coast area  ac­ Sud  and  Del  Mar—will  inaugurate  ers.  Many  of  the  runaway  opera­ be  competitive  with  the  all­rail  tivitiesi  to  Puerto  a  new  passenger  service  between  tions  serving  Caribbean  countries  rate.  To  do  this,  the  railroads  Rico;  Williams  this  poi't  and  the  east  coast  of  make  it  a  point  to  recruit  their  would  be  required  either  to  cut  will  have  similar  South  America  in  January,  the  crews  in  those  countries  suffering  their  short, haul  rate  to  and  from  Kerr  Cal  Tanner  tasks  in  the  Gulf  SlU­contracted  Mississippi  Ship­ from  chronic  unemployment.  Be­ the  dock,  or  raise  the  all­rail  rate.  area  and  Al  Tan­ ping  Company  has  announced.  cause  of  this  P09I  of  unemployed  Georgia's  concern  over  the  loss  ner  on  the  Lakes  At  present,  the  ships  pick  up  workers,  the  ship  operators  are  of  shipping service  is based on  sev­ passengers  and  freight  at  New  and inland  watei'­ eral  factors,  among  them  the  com­ Orleans,  but  call  at  Houston  only  able  to  keep  wages  down  to  rock­ ways.  Brand  plaints of  shippers in  the Savannah  for  cargo.  Under  the  new  set­up,  bottom levels and  can virtually  dic­ Simmons  will  handle  contract  the  ships  will  also  pick  up  passen­ tate  the  terms  and  conditions  of  area,  the  loss  of  some  $350,000  an­ matters  and  related  items.  Cal  gers  In  Houston  and  then  leave  shipboard  employment.  nually  in  rental  fees  for  state­ Tanner  will  be  assigned  as  Hall's  for South  America  from  that  port.  One  of  the  objectives  of  thw  owned  port  facilities  in  Savannah  executive  assistant  and  will handle  and the  possible collapse  of  an am­ Delta  officials  said  the  luxury  projected  Caribbean  Federation  inter­union  relationships,  while  cruises would  be 44  days  in iength  would  be  to  halt  the  exploitation  bitious  port  development  program  Kerr  will  deal  with  administration  from  New  Orleans  and  41  days  of  West  Indian  seamen  by  Ameri­ in  that  city.  can  ship  operators.  of  Union finances  and  records.  from  Houston.  Before , the  ICC  approval, of  the  Sheppard  Williami  Ga. Governor Raps  ICC Ship Rate Acts  SIU  Plans Improved  Organization Set­Up  Unions Talk  On Trinidad  Runaways  • /I  'sl  ­'4  • ij  '0  Delta Plans  Houston Call  •••••• .3  •  �^  •   "•   ,  :  ••  •  •  • '.  ­  ­• .  ­  '• '^ ^  .• ', ;.  •  • ­­• • •­s; ._­'i    • ,• ..:• .• • ,•   l|i»«c£licrt«;»Sf^^  SEAFARERiSLTa^^  f,:.'V  ROTARY SHIPPING  HOARD  October 28 Through  Noveriiber  12, 1959  Ship  Atfivify  It  has  been  a  very  slow  period  on  the  shipping  front  for  most  SIU  vessels  signing  on  during  the  last  two  weeks,  and  three  ports  with  no  ports  as  the  total  number  of  men  shipped  over  the  last  two  weeks  ships  paying  off.  Because  of  this  most  ports  had  to rely  on  in  transit  ^oy  slipped  below  the  1,000  mark  for  the  first  time  in  over  six  months.  ships for  all  of  their  activity.  Offe  There  was  a  total  of  868  men  assigned  to  permanent  berths  from  the  There  was  a  total  of  212  vessels  calling  into  SIU  ports  over  the  4  14  ports  which  is  considerably  below  the  prior  period's  1,500  total.  last  period.  Of  this total,  63  paid  off,  28 signed  on and  the  remaining  Restoo  :  121  were  in­transits.  However  the previous  period  was exc^tionally  high.  New  York  21  Hardest  hit  were  the  three  ports  of  New  York,  Mobile  and  Houston.  Percentage­wise  the  job  breakdown  among  the  three  class changed  Pililadolpkfa  4  For  a  change,  Baltimore,  which  has  been  bearing  the  brunt  of  ship  slightly  as  shipping  declined.  Cla'ss  A  men  claimed  slightly  over  73  ioltlfflore  ........  10  per  cent  of  the  jobs,  class  C  cards  six  per  cent,  and  class  B  books  lay­ups  because  of  the  steel  strike,  improved  slightly,  but  is  still  well  the  remaining  12  percent  of  the  total.  This  represents  a  one  percent  Norfolk  ^ 2  below  its  norm.  loss in  class C.  Both class A  and B  fluctuated very slightly.  Briefly  the  bottom  fell  out  of  shipping  from  the  port  of  Mobile  JackienvIRe.1  as  that  area  dropped  to  its  lowest  figure  in  almost  a  year.  Only  31  There  were  three  SIU  ports  with  less than  50 class  A  and  B  men  on  MIomI  . .........  1  the  beach  at  the  start  of  the  new  period.  Seven  ports  have  less  than  men  ­were  shipped  there.  New  York­  also  fared  badly  as  shipping  50  class  A  men  registered.  Miami  was  almost  cleaned  out,  reporting  Towpo  ........a...  there slumped  to a  low 195,  and  Houston dropped  to 64.  only  four  men  registered  in  the  engine  and  steward  departments,  and  5  Also  on  the  downward  side  of  the  shipping  picture  were  the  ports  no  men  in  the  deck.  Wilmington,  although  enjoying  only  fair  ship­ Mobtio  of  Philadelphia,  Norfolk,  Jacksonville  and  San  Francisco.  New  Orleens ..  7  ping,  is  also  fairly  low­ with  only  48  men  registered  in  all  three  de­ On  the  brighter  Side  of  the  report  were  the  ports  of  Seattle,  Wil­ partments.  Hotttton  1  mington,  Boston  and  New  Orleans,  all  of  which,  if  not  showing  an  The following  is the forecast  of  SIU shipping,  port­by­port:  WilmfngtoB  .... ~  increase,  at  least  held  their  own.  Seattle  reports  that  shipping  there  Boston: Good ... New York: Should  improve; a number  of  vessels due  is  booming,  and  it expects  it to  continue.  Class A  and  B  men  will  find  in  for  payoff  .  .  .  Philadelphia: Good  . . . Baltimore:  Slow  . . . Norfolk:  Son  Fraaciifio.'.  1  no difficulty  landing  berths in  that area.  Fair  .  .  .  Jacksonville:  Steady  . .  Miami:  Good  . .  .  Tampa:  Slow  . . .  Seattle  4  Most  of  the  slump  is  the result  of  the  decline  in  the  number  of  SIU  Mobile: Should  pick  up .  . . New  Orleans: Good ... Houston: Slow ...  vessels  signing  on.  In  fact  there  were  five  ports  which  reported  no  Wilmington: Good ... San Francisco: Steady ... Seattle: Very Good.  Total  SIga  lo  Cm  Trani. TOTAl  43  5  ...  f  13  34  15  25  A  10  10  »r  4  —  1  3:­ ':,V  7  13  7  27  1  17  41,  19  ^  S  5  2  5  2  4  5  15  28  121  212  DfCK  DEPAkTMCNT  Registered  Registered  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  GROUP  GROUP  123 ALL  123 ALL  3  3  1  2  1  3  'i  —  23  61  15  99'  3  11  18  32  5  2  7,  ­ 2  4  6  12  27  4  43  3  3  10  16  1  2  —  12  —  2  2  4  2  6  1  3  1  9  —  4  Port  Boston  New  York  Philadelphia  Baltimore  ...  Norfolk  • ..  Jacksonville  Miami  1  2  —  3  Tampa  7  1  12  Mobile  .  4  15  27  12  54  New Orleans  20  35  6  61  Houston  3  2  Wilmington.  1  6  9  2  13  San  Francisco........I  2  6  Seattle  5  1  12  88  190  51  329  roTAis  —  —  3  1.  —  —  —  1  —  3  4  6  8  10  1  1  2  2  _  2  —  10  40  59  Shipped  Shipped  Shipped  TOTAL  Registered  0 n  The  Beach  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  CLASS  C  SHIPPED  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  123 ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  A  B  C  ALL  123 ALL  2  3  ALL  2  2  —  —  1  4  —  1  5  5  16  3  24  4 1 6 16  30  13  59;  1  5  6  12  —  2  59  12  2  73  96  222  45  363  30 47 82 3  4  2  9  —  9  9  13  24  18  55|  ­ 2 4 6 13  33  55  1  —  11  12  55  12  —  67  49  73  13  135i  5  21 39 65 2  2  5  —  —  2  2  5  2  —  7|  8.  4  2  5 6 11 1  —  —  3  —  1  —  —  1  1  —  1  1  3  6  —  3 1  —  1  1  ;  2  ,  —  2 —  2  2  3  7  ~2  12  —  ,2 3  11  3  3  5  r­ ^  3  5  3  —  8  29  39  4  72  —  1 10 13  18:  20  13  51  —  2  6  8  —  —  1  51  8  1  60  42  69  22  133  2  8 17 I  19  8  6  7  21  ^  21  211  35  60  6  101  —  17 13 30 2,  1  5  2  8  —  1  —  1  8  1  —  9  0  11  8  20  —  4> 1 5 A\  4  5  1  10  2  • 2  3  7  10  7  —  17,  16  18  4  38  —  3 6 9 5  7  2|  7_  2  .1  10  2  3  14  —  10  10  14  10  34|  6  5  —  11  —  1 1 109  76  113  52  241  6  15  39  [  60!  —  6  11  17 241 69 17 I 318 811 554 122 r987 13 98 136 247' • jiE  ENGINE  DEPARTMENT  Registered  CLASS  A  GROUP  1  2  3  ALL  Port  1  2  —  3  Boston  New  York  ...........  16  36  4  56  1  8  2  11  Philadelphia  1  28  3  32  Baltimore  —  5  ;—  5  Norfolk  I  4  —  5,  Jacksonville  —  —  Miami  1  4  1  6  Tampa  3  14  5  22  Mobile.  8  28  4  40  New Orleans  7  38  5  50  Houston  —  3  —..  3  Wilmington  San Francisco.  2  6  —  8  Seattle  3  9  12  44  185  24  253  TOTALS  I­ i:'' "  — •  —1  —•  ! •—;  Registered  Shipped  Shipped  Shipped  TOTAL  Registered  On  The  Beach  CLASS  B  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  CLASS  C  SHIPPED  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  3  ALU  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  S  ALL  A  B  C  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  3 ALL  —  —  2  1  —  2  —  1 1  1  1  2  —  ,  '  —­ ' ^  1  2  —  3  1  7  8  3  3  .  6  —  4  13  11  28  11  26  4  41  3  11  17  41  17  —  58  48  123  26  197  7  38  28  73  —  —  13  —  1  3  4,  3  6  4  13  ,—  2  3  5 j  r—.  5 —­ 18  1  26  5  32  >3  1  4  7  8  15  4  34  5  43  —  —  7  12  ­  18  —  2  3  5  43  19  5  67  7  88  5  106  ­  1  23  15  39  —  2  —  1  —  1  2  1  3 ,  —  —  —.  —  —  3  3  1  15  16  1  4  •  5  16  2  3  5  1  1  2  4  —  ,—  —  —  —  1  2  3 "  3  —  ­3  5  71 1  ^  7  1  2  ­  A  1   _  _l  ­ ­rr..  —'  —  —"  — .  —  —  1  1  ~ .  2  —  2  2  •   «—  2  —  _  —  —  3  3  —  2  —  —  2  — V  9  3  14  1  3  2f  2  —  5  2  1  6  8  —  7i  1  1  5  8; • — ­ 8  6  ­r­ 14  12  49  4  68  2  8'  10  1  1  11  6  18  IL  29  7  47  1  2  11  14  1  I ,  47  14  1  82  23  77  i  22  3  26  '  ~  23  •   8  —  31  19  61  4"*  84  1  19  12  32  1  13  9  23  4  15  4  23  1  3  4  8,  —  _  —^  —  1  2  —  ^  2  —  3  —  3  1  1  1  .3  1  41  •  —  •  3  7  3  11  1  15  3  3  '  6  '  ~  2  4  —  4  2  5  11  —  —  3  3  3  —  14  10  : 17  2  29'  1  11  9  4  14  3  11  2  18  —  3  ­­  3  1  1  1  2  8  3  16  6  3  251  3  IS  1  19  2  2  4  9  56  54  119'  43  137  35  215  7  23  53"  83  —­ 4  9  13 215  83  13  311132  478  68  688  12  127  42  231  — •  •  •  —  ,  • ,—  ,  :s  • ——.  • f  rso  ­i..'  STEWARD  DEPARTMENT  Registered  Registered  Shipped  ,  /  Shipped  Shipped  TOTAL  RegiMered  On The  Beech  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  CLASS  C  SHIPPED  CLASS  A  ClASS  B  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  GROUP  (HtOUP  GROUP  Port  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  S  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  8  ALL  A  B  C  ALL  1  ~  2  3  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  Boston.  _  2  1  11  3  1  —  —  1  I  2  —  1  —  2 • •   4,  S  5  14  1  —  3  4  New  York  .. .........  41  10  43  94  3  7  54  64  1.5  3­24  42  »  .,' ; 9 1,    —  3'  I  42  9  3  94 119  31  119  269  4  10  93  167  Philadelphia  .—  2  3  .6  1  3!  —  1  1  4  —  —  1  4  1  1  3  —  1  6  13  31  4  12  —  7  7  Baltimore.. ..a .......  '  1  •  3  10  20 r'  i  3  11  15  17  —  13  IS  1  —  2  6  21  •   44  3  44  13  3  69  60  IS  36  111  5  20  25  1..  i  Norfolk  —  .  _  2  —  1  —­  1  —  1  2  1  2  1,  8  5  4  14  5  5  10  Jacksonville,..........  6  _  2  • , 1  •  —  •  8 :  .4  2  2  10  2  —  • 2  A  1  —  1  —  1  1  .  2  T  ,7  2  1  2  6  '  —  —  —  —  _  —'  '  •.  ....  Mianu  • —  2  2  2  • _ '  n  2  •  2  Tampa   "  —^  '.• was,  —  ;  3  —  3  .  6 "  —  —'  —  1  1  —:  —  1  1  7  12 1• ^  1.  Mobile..  __  8  4  —  12  10 '  —  _  6  .   i  6  1  —  7  8  1  M­'  '  ' MM­  '  WIM  1  —  9  2B.  Hi  38  78  1  15  16  New Orleans..........  9  3 .  23  35  1  • . —  10  11  7  6  ­r  ~  8  6  29  42  6  3  51 1  41;.  5  54  106  2  8  42  1  27  Houston  : ..  ; .....  6  7  10  23  1  —  12  13  2  2  5  9 '.  —*  —  3  8  —  ..­12| r.2s.  18  13  48  5  9  2  93  Wilmington  .  1  1  .  2  • • 3  1  2  •  3E —'  3  —.  1  .   4! I;.::  f  1  5  is  2  1  1 '  —  San Francisco.,.......  3  —.  2  5  10 ;  e  '  3  • , W ..  5  •   r T­ • ;­r.  3  '  1  _  —'  —.  ——  8  8  —  11 1  18  7  14  39  15  .  6  Seattle  .  .  5  2  4  11 i  • •  • • ,  2  3  1  4  ­.5 •   —  •   1  4  3  0  14 V I  5 ,  5  8  14  5  8  24  10  2  3  15  VV  1  1  2  82  32  125  239  9  14 102  1251  63"  23  104  180  TOTALS  ^  1  41  43  1  1  14  16 180  43  18  239 337  163  314  754  16  28  271  315  •—  • —  —  1,  • —  ­  i S'1  ­ te "  ­ ::  ­ te:;A:V"'­'  MM  • ' —M    MM  ; ..  'MM  .. MM  ­e­ If:­'­ J.'t  • '  .  MM  MM  ­  MM  •  • sl  • M'  1.J  1.  s  SUMMARY^  mmo  ilffil''  eccK  mjONt  ?{5:K :  .^,­  ­ br­^S  V  "­  • '  vii; ,  '  GRAND  TOTALS  A;'.:."  Registered  CLASS  A  ­It.  GROUP  1 2 3 ALL '88 190 '51 I 329 44 V 185; "211 253j 82 32 125 i 239 214 407 200 j 821 Registered  Shipped  TOTAL  Shipped  .  Shipped  Registered On  The Beach  \  CLASS  B  SHIPPED  CLASS  C  CLASS  A  CLASS  A  CLASS  B  CLMS  B  GROUP  CLASS  "GRASCP  ­  GROUP  "  GROUP  GROUP  .  GROUP  ­  ­ 1  2  3 ALL  ­  3  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  9 ALL  A  B  C  ALL  1  2  3  ALL  1  2  2  3  Ati*  10__  40  JO 1  100  76  113  52:1  241  :.  6  r  15.E^39'|jlO  ~  :  t  17 241  60  171318 311  554  122  987  13­  98  138"T^  •'  9­'''  ^56  54  1  119~4>  132  351 215  ' T: "23 V^S3  r:  83  A  > t  "l» 215  83  18 1  311 132  478  „58  668  12  127.  ,42 • ["• 281  14  102 102  I 125 53 28  1041 Li9  1  9^ 14 141  li lfO_  «  If  I  239 337  103  314"  754"16'­  28­.2111.318  1  41  i  43,  868 760  1135  464  (  41  253  499  ' 793  28 ii8 2ib j 348,178 27b 1911636 14  89  133  1  186i:  1 1  "  34  1" "46 636  186  46 |  �NAvemfcer  29^1959  SEAFARERS  LOG  Pare  nve  Court Orders Sate Of 'No Pay'  Ship; Union Pressing Claims  BOSTON—The  first  step  in  recouping  wages  owed  seamen  on  World  Tramping  ships  was  taken  here  when  Federal  Judge  George  C.  Sweeney  ordered  the  sale  of  the  Pacific  Navigator  at  public  auction  on  November  23.  The  proceeds  of  the sale  will  go  to  pay  bills  amounting  to $180,000  includ­ ing  crew  wages  and  allot­ Wave  was  taken  ashore,  on  orders  having  enough  troubles, what  with  ments,  plus  suppliers'  bills  of  the  American  consul  in  Israel,  no  money  and  no  bunkers,  to  fur­ the  crew  had  to  resort  to  picnic  ther complicate  things she  has  just  and  other  charges.  Under  the  law,  wage  payments  style  cooking.  They  fried  their  sprung  a  leak.  have first  claim  on  the  proceeds of  breakfast  bacon  and  eggs  and  After  a  hasty  inspection  of  the  chicken­dinner  over  a  wood fire  vessel,  the  US  Marshal  ordered  such  a  sale.  More  Sales  Expected  they made  from grain fittings from  $1,300  worth  of  repairs.  The  Pa­ The  action  by  the  Boston  jurist  the  hold.  cific  Carrier,  which  is  docked  at  is  the first  of, what  is  expected  to  "We didn't  have any  beefs  about  the  Bethlehem  Steel  Company's  be  a  series  of  such  sale  orders  on  the food  that  day," said  Ed  Erick­ yards,  had  taken  on  water  up  to  11  of  the  12  ships  of  the  World  sen,  who  snapped  a  photo  of  the  the  deck  plates.  Tramping fieet.  The  12th  vessel,  cookout.  "We  had  plenty  of  food,  the  Pacific  Ranger, has  been  taken  as  much  as  we  wanted,  and  it  was  over  by  another  SlU­contracted  pretty  good,  too."  company  which  is  bringing  her  Crews Repatriated  back  to  the  States  and  paying  off  A  second  ship,  the  Westpoft,  is  all  her  obligations.  —  Eight  of  the 12  ships  run by  the  in  Suez,  while  a  third,  the  Pacific  Venture,  is  in  Lourenco  Marques,  The  adventures of  a new  "private eye"  will hit  the bookstores  with  World  Tramping  agency  are  tied  Portuguese  East  Africa.  These  the publication of  "Kiss Oft The Dead" by  Seafarer Dave Garrity.  up  in  various  US  ports  with  the  crews  have  also  been  repatriated.  crewmembers  having  plastered  them  with  liens  for  wages  due.  The fourth  ship that  was strand­ Even  before  the  ships  had  come  ed in  the Middle East  is the  Pacific  back  to  the  US,  the Union  had  re­ Ranger,  which  is. now  returning to  ceived  numerous  complaints  from  the States  with  a  solvent  SlU­con­ Although  it is  his first  try at  a full length novel, Seafarer  tracted  operator  having taken  over  Dave Garrity's book, "Kiss Off  The Dead," has shown He  has  families  of  Seafarers  about  the  the  vessel.  the  necessary  "tough  writing"  quality  needed  to  turn  out  failure of  allotment checks  to show  Aside from  the Navigator  in Bos­ up,  or  about  the  checks  bouncing  ton,  the  other  ships  here  in  the  today's  popular  dective  mys­ Makeshift  cooking  arrange­ when  they  did  come  through.  cop  who  suddenly  finds  himself  When  the  ships  arrived  State­ States  are  the  Pacific  Star,  Nor­ ments  on  the  Pacific  Wave  tery  stories.  framed for murder  and in  the mid­ side,  crewmembers  found  there  folk;  Pacific  Carrier,  Baltimore;  after it ran  out of  bunkers  are  Garrity's book. Which is due  dle of  a  gangland  war. The  story's  no  paymaster  available  to  pay  Pacific  Tide  and  Pacific  Explorer,  pictured  while  the  crew  was  for  publication  this  coming  Janu­ first run  in  pocketbook size  will  be  was  them  off.  In  addition, many  of  the  Mobile; Pacific  Ocean, Port Arthur,  ary,  is  in  the  Mickey  Spiliane  some  200,000  copies.  However,  the  vessels  had  run  extremely  low  on  and the  Pacific Thunder and  Waldo  still stranded  in IHaifa.  Cook­ ing  was  done  in  oil drums  on  in  Houston.  tradition,  one  reviewer  noted.  company  is  hopeful it  will  become  stores.  deck.  Photo by Eddie Eriksen.  While  interesting  enough  to  hoid  a best sellfer in  a short  time.  The  Union  promptly  assisted  As If  the Pacific Carrier  weren't  the  reader's  attention,  the  story  A  member  of  the  deck  depart­ Seafarers on these  ships in  plaster­ also  provides  for  plenty  of  the  ment,  Garrity  spent  much  of  his  the  vessels  with  liens  so  that  "rough  and  tough"  detective  type  free  time  aboard  ship  turning  out  ing  their  wage  claims  would  be  satis­ short  stories  for  various  detective  characters.  fied.  "Kiss  Off  the  Dead"  is  about  a  magazines.  More Overseas  Aside from  the eight ships  State­ side,  four  others  were  stranded  in  the  Middle  East  and  Africa.  One  ship,  the  Pacific  Wave,  has  a  lien  on it in Haifa, Israel.  Arrangements  HOUSTON—Eight men lost their lives here last week when  had  been  made  by  the  SIU  the tanker Amoco Virginia caught fire and exploded at a dock  The  International  Woodworkers  such  alien  employment is officially  through  the  State  Department  to  in  the  heart  of  the  petroleum  storage  area  on  this  port'#  of  America  announced  it has  with­ held  to  depress  wages  and  condi­ repatriate  all  but  three  crewmem­ eastern outskirts.  drawn the token  picket lines  it has  tions of  all American  packing­plant  bers.  The  three  men  are  staying  Five  of  the  lost  crewmem­ would  take  possibly  six  months  to  maintained  in  Newfoundland  fol­ workers.  The Meat Cutters Union,  in  Haifa  so  as  to  process  the  legal  bers  were  unlicensed  men  determine  all  the  reasons  for  tho  lowing the action  of  the Newfound­ which won an  NLRB election at the  action  that  has  been  undertaken  who were identified  as members  of  disaster.  land  government  in  setting  up  a  plant  in September,  1958,  went  on  against  the  ship.  the  National  Maritime  Union. Also  The  site  of  the fire  is  only  28  government­sponsored  strikebreak­ strike in March after failure of con­ Crewmembers  of  the  Pacific  lost  were  the  ship's  skipper.  Cap­ miles  north  of  Texas  City  whero  ing  organization.  The  IWA  will  tract  negotiations.  The  strike­ Wave  have  just  returned  to  the  persons  were  killed  in  1947  in  continue  its fight  against  the  scab  breakers  are  paid  starting  mini­ United  States,  after  a  jerky  flight  tain  R.  R.  Combs  of  North  Caro­ 512  a series of  explosions which  ripped  lina,  and  the first  assistant  engi­ "union" set  up  by  Premier  Joseph  mums of  $1 an hour.  that featured stops in Athens,  Lux­ neer, Frank Riley, of  Staten Island.  ships  loaded  with  nitrates.  Smallwood, who had  the provincial  4"  3^  4"  embourg,  Brussels  and  Shannon  Besides  the  NMU,  the  ship  was  legislature  pass  a  bill  "outlawing"  ,  Approximately  1,200  printers  at  International Airport, Ireland.  the loggers  union  and  forcing  the  three Boston  newspaper  plants are  Before  the  crew  of  the  Pacific  under  contract  to  the  Marine  En­ gineers  Beneficial  Association  and  9n  strike  over  various  contract  is­ men  back  to  work.  Masters, Mates  and Pilots.  The scab "union" recently held «  sues . The men,  members of  Inter­ Five  NMU  Men  convention,  adopted  a  secret  con­ national  Typographical  Union,  Lo­ stitution  and  passed  resolutions  cal  3,  struck  the  "Boston  Herald  The five  unlicensed  men  were  which  are also  secret, the IWA  de­ and  Traveler," the  "Boston  Globe"  identified  as  Barry  Walling,  AB,  and  the "Bositon  Record­American­ clared.  Newport  News,  Va.;  Arvid  Hill,  Advertiser."  At  issue  are  wages  oiler,  New  York City; E. C.  Gallar­ J"  ft  i  do, chief  cook, Sommerville,  Mass.;  HOUSTON—Shipping  came  to •   Mexican nationals are  being per­ and time  off  in case of  death in the  Jimmy  Lee  Brown,  second  cook,  standstill  in  this  normally­active  mitted  by  Immigration  authorities  famiiy.  The  employers'  last  con­ Philadelphia,  and  Calvin  C. Thom­ port  because  the  channel  was  to cross into Texas and  work at the  tract  offer  had  been  rejected  898  strikebound  Peyton  Packing  Com­ to 90.  as,  AB,  Mathews,  Va.  closed  several  days  by  the  AmOco  4"  4'  4"  pany  in  El  Paso.  About  240  men  The  eighth  man  was  a  Houston  Virginia  fire  of  two  weeks  ago.  are  involved,  despite  a  finding  by  The national shortage of  contain­ fireman  who  fell  into  an  oil­filled  The  vessel  is  sitting  on  the  bot­ the  US  Department  of  Labor  that  ers  was  eased  somewhat  as  the  Rolling  up a  near­perfect record,  hold  and  drowned.  tom  of  the  channel,  and  leaking  American  Flint  Glass  Workers  re­ the  SIU  Training  School  in  New  At  least  18  members  of  the  gasoline.  Until  it  can  be  raised  turned  to  work  after  a  51­day  York  has  graduated  169  successful  tanker's 41­man  crew were  injured,  and  towed  out  in  the  bay,  the  strike.  The union  won  a  two­year­ candidates for  a  lifeboat ticket  out  and  three firemen  hurt  when  they  27­cent  hourly  package  for  3,200  of  173  who  have  attended  thie  feil into the  Houston Ship  Channel  Coast  Guard  is  keeping  the  water­ way  closed  to  all  traffic.  members in 80 plants.  Actual wage  school  to­date.  the fiames.  As  a  result  of  the closing  of  the  increases  amount  to 18 cents  over  The  lifeboat  trainees,  after  tak­ while fighting  was written  channel, acting  Port Agent  Charles  .the  two  years,  with  a  union  shop  ing  both  classroom  and "boat  in­ off The $6 million vessel  as total  loss by  its operator, the  Kimball  reports  the  largest  regis­ applying  for  the first  time.  Glass  struction,  have  been  whizzing  American  Company.  Also  lost  tration  list  ever.  containers, such  as milk,  beer, and  through  the  Coast  Guard  examina­ were  some Oii  38,000  barrels  of  heat­ The  following ships  paid­off  and  soda .bottles had  been  in  tight sup­ tions  with  ease.  ing  oii  and  15­20,000  barrels  of  signed­on  during  the  last  two  ply, while  ^e supply of  metal cans  high­test  gasoline,  as  well  as com­ weeks: Jefferson  City Victory  (Vic­ In  addition  to  the 169  successful  has  been  dwindling  because  of  the  plex  loading  facilities  at  the  Hess  tory)  and  the  Del  Viento  (Miss.).  lifeboatmen, °  the  training  school  steel  shortage.  Terminal, where the ship  was load­ has assisted  24 ordinaries  who sub­ .In­transits  were:  Bienville •  (Pan  • '   ISf  4"  4"  Atlantic);  Andrew  Jackson,  DeSo­ A  new  dues  schedule  will  take  sequently  obtained  their  AB  tick­ Lpg at the  time of  the blast.  Gasoline Spill  to  and  Antinous  (Waterman);  effect  in  the  United  Automobile  ets,  plus  a  number  of  wipers  who  A  Coast  Guara  spokesman  said  Bents  Fort,  CS  Baltimore,  Council  Workers  as  a  result  of  a  decision  have gone  up to firemen.  by the last tJAW convention.  Total  Ordinaries and  wipers interested  the fire  is beiieved  to have  started  Grove,  CS  Miami,  Winter  HUl.  dues  will  be  S5  per  month,  with  in  enrolling  in  the  school  for  up­ when  gasoline  spilling  from  a  Chiwawa,  Bradford  Island,  and  $3.75 for  union  administration  and  grading,  as  well  as  tnen  in  any  barge was  ignited  by a  passing tUg.  Royal  Oak  (Cities  Sendee);  Del  $1.29 ior the strike fiind.  The pre­ category  who  lack  lifeboat  tickets  In  Washington,  meanwhile,  the  Viento  (Miss.);  The  Cabins  (Texas  vious  due .l evel  wafs $3 per  month,  can  enroll  in  tne  schpoil  by  con­ Coast  Guard  announced  that  a.  City  Refinery);  Mermaid  (Metro.  but the union found .it far too • small  tactings  the  dispatch  counter  on  board  of  inquiry  would  begin  an  Pet.); and  the Seatrain  New Jersey  to' continue. i|t9;fui|>ctions  successi  the  second  deck  in  the  New  Yoik  iininediate  investigation  of .  the  and  Seatrain  Georgia  (Seatfain  ­ , ­  . .  tragedy,  but  it  was  beiieved  it  Lines).  folly.,  •  hall.  :A  ­k  H  Typewriter  Is Fat Payoff  Eight Perish As Amoco  Tanker Explodes At Dock  Lifeboat  OK  Given 169  From Sill  I ­'S""  Fire Stymies  Ship  Action  In Houston  • 4  1  ­.i*  •  ,  • I  ;  •   I  I 1  �SSATAREUSLOIS^  TXvi&s&et  t», Vtm  Labor, Indusfry  Plan T­H Talks  With steel  workers back  on  the job following  the Supreme  Court's action  in issuing  an 80­day  Taft­Hartley "cooling off  injunction, the  Government  and  US labor  started discussions  to  patch  up  the  inadequacies •   Despite  the  late  start  of  naviga­ change,  the  workers  will  be  back  of  T­H.  tion,  and  the  steel  strike,  the  vol­ At  the  suggestion  of  AFL­ on strike  after  the New  Year  when  ume  of  tonnage  passing  through  CIO  President  George  Meany,  the  Injunction  runs  out.  the  St.  Lawrence  Seaway,  during  President  Eisenhower  is  arrang­ As  Meany  put  it,  the  Taft­Hart­ its first  full  season,  is  expected  to  ing  for  joint  talks  between  top  la­ ley  "oooling  off"  period  Is  simply  hit about  80  percent  of  pre­season  bor  and  management  leaders  to  a  "heating  up"  period  in  which  estimates.  develop  some  kind  of  policy  for  nothing  is  accomplished.  The  rec­ The Seaway was opened April 25,  dealing  with  labor­management  ord  of  past  strikes  halted  by  T­H  and  traffic experts of  the  St.  Law­ injunction  action  shows  that  very  disputes.  rence  Seaway  Development  Cor­ poration  predict  it  will  handle  The  futility  of  the  Taft­Hartley  few  were  actually  settled  as  a  re­ about  20  million  tons  of  cargo  by  injunction  was  pointed  up  by  the  sult  of  the  injunction.  the  time  it  closes  November  30.  fact  that  no  real  negotiations  have  In­the  steel  situation,  there  is  It  had  been  estimated  that  this  taken  place  in  the two weeks since  no  sign  that  the  industry  is  going  year's  cargo  would  total  25  million  the steel  workers  went back  on the  to  back  down  on  its insistence  that  Ex­Seafarer  William  frank  points  out  collapsed  house from  tons,  and  that  this  figure  would  job.  Unless  there  is  a  marked  it  ha^  the  right  to  change  work  rules  unilaterally.  In  fact  having  which  he  pulled  three  non­union  housewrreekers  while  he  was  double  itself  within  five  or  six  fought  the  unions  this  far  on  the  on  picketline  duty,  frank  resumed  picketing  alter  the  rescue.  years.  These  estimates  of  cargo  volume  issue,  the  industry  is  liable  to  use  were  the  basis 'on  which  the  US  the "cooling  off" period  to rebuild  and Canada  devised the tolls  which  .  its  finances  and  strengthen  them­ are  expected  to  pay  off  the  $471  selves  for  renewing  the  battle  million  waterway  in  50  years.  with  the  steel  union.  However,  in  view  of  late  ice  The  union  men,  on  their  side,  which  hampered  early  navigation,  resenting  being  forced  back  to  Disregarding possible danger to himself and forgetting their  and because  of the ore  fleet tie­up  work  under  an  injunction,  are  go­ ing  to  use. the  rest  period  to  pay  labor  differences,  former  Seafarer  William  Frank  threw  off  caused  by  the  steel  strike,  Sbaway  off  some  of  their  debts  and  accu­ his  picket  sign  and  ran  into  a  wrecked  building  to  rescue  officials  vieWed  the  season  as  highly  successful,  even  thougk  it  mulate  personal  fiinds  so  that  hree  non­union  workmen*^  fell  five  million  tons  short  of  ex­ they  can  go  out  again.  to  work  ashore  as  a  bouse­ pectations.  .  who  were  trapped  when  a  WASHINGTON—Elaborate plans  Consequently,  as  Meany  pointed  wrecker.  The  officiate  also  predicted  that  by  the  Japanese  government  for  out,  the  truce  Is  likely  to  be  just  wall  fell  on  them  at  a  struck  some  6,600  ships  will  have  used  housewrecking  project.  construction  of  nuclear­powered  a  means  of  preparing  for  neyir  in­ the  Seaway  by  the  time  it  closes.  merchant  vessels  have  been  an­ dustrial  warfare  unless  a  new  ap­ The  incident  occurred  in  Brook­ The  6,OOQtb  ship cleared  the  locks  lyn  early  this  week  while  Frank,  nounced  here  by  the  head  of  the  proach  is  forthcoming.  nearly  two  weeks  ago,  and  others  now a  member  of  the  Housewreck­ Japan  Nuclear  Ship  Mission.  Five  have  been  transiting  the "waterway  «rs  Union,  started  picketing  the  different  vessel  types  have  been  at a  rate  of  30 a  day.  site  of  a  non­union  wrecking  proj­ suggested  as  the  basis  upon, which  Although  the  Seaway  itself  will  iect.  While  walking  his  post.  Frank  to  construct  the first  Japanese  PARIS—An  overflow  of  mer­ close  November  30,  the  Welland  said,  he  heard  a  crash  and  saw  a  nuclear ­ powered  ship.  iwall  collapse  on  five  non­union  chant  ships  is  causing  a  crisis,  to  Canal,  connecting  Lake  Erie  and  Among  the suggested  vessels are  workers,  burying  them  in  the  world  merchant  shipping  that  is  Lake  Ontario,  is  expected  to  be  a  passenger­carrying ship  of T7,000  likely  to  last  for  several  more  opeii until  December 15. The Sault  debris.  gross  tons;  a  small  experimental  Bull Lines,  which  last  m<mth  an­ Taking  off  his  picket  sign,  he  years,  according  to  a  study  and  Ste.  Marie  Canal, <  between  Lake  ship  of  4,000 gross  tons, and  three  nounced  it  was  planning  a  new  ran  into  the  wreck  and  carried  statistics  on  the  international  mer­ Huron  and  Lake  Superior,  is  ex­ oil  tankers  of  different  sizes  and  coiitainership  service  to  Puerto  three  of  the  injufed  men  to  safe­ chant fleet complied  by the  Central  pected  to  be  open  until  December  Rico,  has revealed  some  of  the de­ horsepower  ratings.  ty.  Passersbys  rescued  the  other  Committee  of  French  Shipowners.  12.  tails of  its projected  vessels.  —  The  passenger  ship  would  be  The company  is  planning to  con­ two  men.  Frank  then  picked  up  The  world's  merchant  shipping  used  to carry  Japanese Immigrants  vert  One  of  its eight  C­2 freighters  his  sign  and  continued  to  picket  tonnage  reached  100  million  tons  Sign Name On  to  South  America,  while  the  into  a  lift­on,  llft­oif  ship  which  the  operation.  ,  at  the end  of  1958,  but  despite  the  smaller,  experimental  ship  would  would  hold  140  35­foot  container  recent  increase  in  maritime  traffic  Their  Lives  Mattered  LOG Letters  be  used  as  an  ocean  survey  vessel.  vans  between  decks  and  another  A  strong union supporter,  Frank,  there  is  a  10  percent  surplus  of  For obvious  reasons  the  LOG  It  is  expected  that  the  Japanese  40  vans  of  the  same  size  on  the  who  has  been  out  of  work  for  the  available  space,  says  the  report.  cannot  print  any  letters  or  Atomic  Energy  Commission  will  main  deck.  past  month,  said  that  he  hated  to  The  potential  surplus,  it  adds,  other  communications  sent  in.  make  a  selection  of  a  prototype  The  remodeled  ship  will  be  see  these  men  working  behind  a  amounts to  30 percent—^if  ships be­ by  Seafarers  unless  the  author  vessel  shortly  so  that  the  basic  equipped  with  craqes  to  transfer  picket  line.  But  when  the  wall  fell  ing built or on order are taken into  signs  his  name.  Unsigned  designing can  begin  next  year  and  the  containers  to  and  from  dock­ on  them  and  they  were  trapped,  account.  At  present,  25  million  ammjunous  letters  will  only  the  ship  enter  service  in  1964.  side trucks,  in an  operation similar  their  lives  became  more  impor­ tons  of  shipping  is on  order  while  wind  up  in  the  waste­basket.  The first  American  nuclear­ to the one used by the  Pan­Atlantic  tant  than  anything  else,"  he  com­ eight million tons are  being laid up.  If  circumstances  justify,  the  Excess new  tonnage ­over break­ LOG  will  withhold  a  signature  powered  ship,  the  SS Savannah,  is  Steamship  Company.  Other  ships  mented.  expected  to  enter  service  somer  would be converted  subsequently if  Frank  sailed  with  the  SIU  up  ups would  continue for at least  two  on  request.  until  1955  as  FWT,  before  going  years,  the report  predicted.  time  next  summer.  the  traffic  warranted  it.  Infirst Year  1964 Goal  Of  Japan's  Atom Ships  Is'­ 1^'  Ex­Seafarer  Rescues 3;  Resumes  Picket  Line Vigil  Vessel Glut  To Continue  Bull Studies­ C­2 Change  11.  r  '  \k­ Walk/Do Not Run '  .(V;  ;•   f­''' 'H­IS  It' ­  ,  iMONG the commonest  causes of  shipboard mishaps  are  slips  and  falls  while  going up  or  down  ladders or  on  a seemingly  level  deck.  Whether  they  happen  when  the  ship  goes ^'Tilt!"  or  when  sorneone  foils  to  detour  around  a  tool  or  patch  of  oil  or  grease,  'Occidents do happen.  Since  the potential  is always there,  it pays to  take  care  and  watch  your  step.  S­ V  •   i; • /• •'!•/    J  K­'O• y­iiiKj­fe;,  .• 5,V  ..  /(• • TV  This  con  best  be  done  by  walking  instead  of  sprinting  oround^^"^  ­ ^  ^  with  no  regard  for  your  surroundings.  Then, : even  if  you  take  a­  tl,  "  spill,  the  possibility  of  serious  injury  is  minimized.  Use^your  head'  '  as  well OS  your  feet  to get  where  you're going.  ­ r,.X  • :  1  (• •  • va.iv­ ViUi­pSSi;:}!  i'.',  i­ v,'vVi.vy>:  V  • '('i  fn  • • ­•.  �HvnaSmFrn,  ISSf  i  SEAFARERS  LOG  •  YOUR  DOLLAR'S  WORTH  Seafarer's Gnide To  Better  Boying  Ftc« SCVM  Railway Unions Counferattack  Rails^ Featherbed ding Smear  Incensed  by  a  nationwide  railroad  advertising  campaign  designed  to  portray  railroad  workers  as  professional  featherbedders,  AFL­CIO  railroad  unions  have struck  back  at  th»  distortion  of  the issues.  In  the process,  the railroad  unions  have come  up  with  some star­ tling material on the activitiesf  m  Small Car Battle Just Beginning  of  railroad  management  on  ETSrOtaain^  contrc  Demand  for  Detroit's  new  compact  cars  already  is  running  high.  this issue.  Heavy ^ales  show  the  pubiic  really  wants  economy  cars  even  though  The  "feajtherbedding"  charges  it  took  Detroit  madufacturers  several  years  anu  many  lost  sales  (and  have  been  widely­circulated  by the  lost  jobs)  before  they  would  believe  if. Just  prior  to  the  introduction  railroads in  a  costly  and  extensive  of  the  new  US  makes,  the smali  imports  had  grabbed  off  ten  percent  newspaper  and  magazine  advertis­ of  the  American  car  market.  .  ing campaign  which has been going  Of  the  imports,  there  now  are  over  80  different  makes  being  sold  on  for iponths.  Just  as in  the steel  here,  with  about  70  still  $100  or  more  below  the  American  compacts.  contract  situation,  management's  The  US  compacts,  however,  are  more  powerful  and  larger  than  the  charges  are  aimed  at  destroying  work  rules  which  have  existed  for  small  imports.  Enough  is  known  now  about  the  US  compacts  so  buyers  can  begin  many  years  for  the  protection  of  railroad  employees.  evaluating  the  cars  for  their  own  driving  needs.  There  are  now  six  US  compact  cars:  GM's  Corvair,  Ford's  Falcon,  What  has  incensed  the  railroad  Chrysler's  Valiant,  Rambler's  Rambler  American  and  Studebaker's  unions  is  the  failure  of  ads  to  Lark.  Dodge's  "Dart"  is  smaller  than  other  Dodge's  but  still  a  large  mention, the other  side  of  the coin  car,  competing  with  Chevy,  Ford  and  Plymouth.  Mercury's  Comet  —that railroad  unions  have waived  many  conventional  benefits  in  will  be offered  this spring as the "aristocrat  of  the economy  cars."  ­ order  to  obtain  the  work  rules.  COMPARISON  WITH  STANDARD  MAKES:  In  general,  the  new  These  benefits include  many  items  US compact  cars are  about  to  three feet  shorter  in  overall  length,  standard  in  other  union  contracts  and  about  1,500  pounds  lighter,  than  the  Ford­Chevy­Plymouth  group.  such as Saturday  and Sunday  over­ The 106­109  inch  wheelbase  of  the  time;  no  layover  pay;  no  differen­ new  compacts  compares  with  118  tial  for  night  work;  no  overtime  up  for  the  standard  makes.  You  over  eight  hours  or  oyer  40  hours  .don't  really  _give  up  much  In  a week  in  many instances;  no extra  wheelbase,  but  only  bod'  over­ pay  for  holidays;  no  expenses  for  hang.  In  fact,  the  compacts  have  food  and  lodging  while* away  from  been designed so yon  sacrifice only  home  awaiting  assignment  and  no  about  an  inch  of  inside  leg  and  standby  pay  when  awaiting call.  Often,  the  unions  point  out,  head Toom.  —  The compacts generally  have six­ operating  employees  in  freight  Clip  from  "Labor,"  publicotion  of  the  railroad  unions,  depicts  cylinder  engines  (Rambler  also  of­ service  work  a  seven­day  straight  way  that  rail  labor  numbers  hove  declined,  executives'  num­ fers  an  eight),  with  horsepower  time week of  56 hours, and on  occa­ ratings  of  80  for  Corvair,  90  for  sion this can  go as  high as 96  hours  bers  have  remained  static.  Falcon  and  Lark,  100  for  Valiant,  without  OT.  A 100­mile passenger run is a  basic  127  for'  Rambler.  This  compares  The  rail  unions  estimate  that  if  day's  run,  while  freight  runs  call  with  132  up  for  the  stardard­size  the  railroad  workers  had  weekend  for  additional  mileage.  Thus,  in  cars.  But  since  the  compacts  are  premium  pay,  overtime,  and  lay­ lieu  of  overtime  and  other  bene­ much  lighter,  they  are  pretty  over  benefits  comparable  to  other  fits,  the  railroad  worker  can  col­ nearly  as  responsive  and  powerful  unions,  it  would  involve  a  $648  lect  more than  one  basic  day's  pay  in  performance  as  the  big  cars.  million  additional  wage  bill a  year  on  a  given  run  within  an  eight­ the  ^railroads.  hour  day.  This  has  been  attacked  One  reason  for  the  lighter  for  To compensate for the absence of  weight  of  the  new  compacts  is  these benefits, railroad  workers are  by  the  railroads  as  "featherbed­ their  unitized  constructidto,  with  paid  on  the  basis of  mileage  units.  ding"  in  their  ads,  while  they  neglect  to  explain  that  the  pay­ • b  ody  and  frame  welded  as  a  ments are in  lieu of  other  benefits.  NEW  YORK—Adam  H.  Hamil­ single  unit. This  also lowers  the height  and. cuts dovim  on  body  rattles.  Rail  unions  call  the  absence  of  ton,  comptroller  of  the  SIU  \yel­ The  compacts  have  list  prices  of  around  $2,100  for  a  sedan,  includ­ the  conventional  rules,  "thorn­ fare  Plan,  died  at  the  Methodist  ing  Federal  excise  and  deaier  preparation,  but  not  local  taxes,  trans­ bedding"  and  indicate  they  will  Hospital, Brooklyn on  November 18  portation  nor  optional  equipment.  This  is  about  $200  less  than  the  demand  their inclusion  in  the next  after  a  short  illness.  He  was  55  lowest­price  standard  sixes.  agreement  should  the  railroads  years  old.  In  general  the US  compacts  give  a  chance  to  save  some  of  the  fuel  seriously  attempt  to  do  away  with  Hamilton  became  comptroller  of  cost  of  the  big  models  and  ten  percent of  the initial  price  and finance  the  mileage  units  of  pay.  the  Plan  in  December  1952  after  charge,  and  have  more  maneuverability.  Early  indications  are  that  iJespite  all  the  charges,  the  many  years  of  experience  as  a  the  compacts  wiil  provide  in  the  neighborhood  of  18­22  miles  per  unions note that the average hourly  gallon,  compared  with  about  15  for  the  standard­size  sixes.  An  Arab  League  move  to  get  a  wage  of  railroad  employees  is  trouble  shooter  and  top  adminis­ trator  in  the  produce  industry. Ha  COMPARISON  WITH  SMALL  IMPORTS:  The  two  most  popular  bigger  share  of  oil  wealth  may  $2.47 an hour, which is below wages  served  as  comptroller  until  his  small  imports  are  Volkswagen  and  Renault  Dauphlne.  Their  95­inch  have  important  repercussions  on  in  steel,  auto  manufacturing,  air­ death.  wheeibases are smaller  than the 106­and­up  of  the US  compacts.  Their  American­flag  tanker  shipping  in  craft, coal mining and construction.  Hamilton  supervised  the  daily  four­cylinder  engines and  lighter  weight  (1,400­1,600  pounds  compared  the long  run. The~Arab  nations are  The  real  kicker  in  the  railroad  operations  of  the  Plan  and  was  to about  2,350),  makes  possible  a  good  30­35  miles  per gallon  of  ga.s.  ready  to  present  a  formal  demand  charges, the rail  unions' newspaper  assistant  to  the  Administrator.  In  price,  too,  the  small  imports  shade  the  new  US  compacts.  They  for  a  50  percent  share  in  all  the  "Labor"  points  out,  is  in  the  fig­ list  at $1625­$1645,  not  Including  transportation  from  port  of  entry.  profits  made  by  the  big  interna­ ures  on  the  numbers  of  railroad  But  the US  compacts do  have  more interior  space for  a family;  more  tional  oil  companies  out  of  Ara­ workers  employed  today  as  com­ pared to  the palmy days  of  railroad  power, especially  valuable  in  hilly country,  wd a  smoother  ride. They  bian  oil.  At  present,  the  Arab  states  operation  back  in the 1920's.  represent  a  compromise  between  the J>ig  cars and  the small  ones.  "50­50"  arrangements  coverr  In  1923,  the  paper  said,  there  COMPARISON  WITH  EACH  OTHER:  Chevrolet's  Corvair  is  the  have  ing  crude  oil  output  only.  They  were  1,800,000  railroad  employees  smallest  of  the  three  new  compacts,  both  in  length  and  width,  and  are asking  for  a  share in  the  prof­ and  16,000  executives.  closest  in  design  and  purpose  to  the small  imports. "Like  Volkswagen,  its  of  refineries,  and  of  pipeline  In  1959,  railroad  employment  Is  Corvair  has  the  eng.:ie  in  the  rear.  It's  aluminum  and  air­cooled  (no  and  tanker  companies.  down  to  less  than  900,000,  but  anti­freeze  needed).  In  effect,  the  Arab  move  would  there  are  still  16,000  executive  Chrysler's  Valiant  is  the  largest  of  the  three  new  cars  in  overall  give  them  half­ownership  of  the  officers..  length: four  inches  longer  than  Corvair  and,three longer  than  Falcon.  giant  runaway­flag  tanker  fleet  If  anything  then,  the  newspaper,  But  its  106V^­inch  wheelbase  actually  is  less  than  Corvair's  108  and  which  service  the Persian  Gulf  oil­ concludes,  it  is  railroad  manage­ Falcon's  109V^.  Valiant^also  is  300  pounds  heavier, than  its  rivals.  Of  fields.  These  fleets  are  largely  ment  which  Is  doing  the  fqather­ the  three,  VaUant  is  closest  to  the  standard­size  cars,  but  of  course  owned  or  controlled  by  the  big  bedding, including use  of  stock op­ can't  be  expected  to  yieid  as  much  gas  mileage.  international oil  companies such  as  tions,  expense­account  "entertain­ ment" and  other  devices  to  fatten  Ford's  Falcon  is  in  between  in  size.  It's  a  clean­looking  car  with  Esso,  Socony,  Royal  Dutch,  more  trunk  space  than  the  Corvair.  It  retains  the  cast­iron  engine  in  At  present,  the  income  of  the  the  executive  payrolls.  fronf^ but  next  year  expects to  make it  aluminum.  Arab  nations  for  crude  oil  is  es­ The Rambler,  already  proved  to be  a  successful car, is a  little bigger  timated  at  a  billion  dollars a  year,  Photo Error  all­around  than  the  three  new  compacts.  It  has  a  108­inch  wheelbase  but  the  profits  of  refining  and  Tha late Adam  Hamilton  Through  an  error,  the photo­ and  191­inch  overall  length.  The  1960  Rambler  has  been  restyled  for  transportation  go  exclusively  to  graph  of  another  Seafarer  was  Trustees  of  the  Plan  credited  a  cleaner  look. The  Rambler  American is  the smallest  and  least­expen­ the  large  international  oil  com­ used  in^  the  his  business  skiUs  and  wide  sive  of  the  US  compact  cars,  with  a  100­inch  wheelbase,  five  more  bines  which  operate ships at  mini­ September  25,  knowledge  with  the  successful  op­ than  Volkswagen,  11  more  than  the  Renault  Dauphine,  and  18­23  mum  costs  under  the  runaway­fiag  1959,  LOG  in  eration  of  the  Plan  and  its  steady  inches  more overall  length.  set­up.  the  place  of  growth  and  servicibility  to  the  The  Lark  is  much  the  same  as  the 1959  model.  It's  just  175  inches  American­flag  ships  get  none  of  the  late  Sea­ membership.  long on  a  108V&­inch  wheelbase and  is  priced  about  $100  less  than  the  this offshore  business  and  are con­ farer  Enrique  He  was  born  on  March  4,  1904,  other four  compact  American  cars.  fined  to  the  US  domestic  trades.  Bazo,  in  the  and  made  his  home  recently  in  The  real  controversy  is  over  Corvair's  rear  engine  compared  to  the  However,  should  the  cost  of  han­ announcement  Forest  Hills,  N.Y.,  where  he  lived  fioiii  engines  of  the  otBer  makes.  In  general,  rear  engines  are  con­ dling  oil from  the Persian  Gulf  go  of  his  death.  his  wife  Dorothy.  He  is  sur­ sidered  to  haye  these  advantages:  elimination  of  the  driveshaft  hump  up,  it  would  tend  to  encourage  a  The  LOG  re­ with  vived  by  his  wife  and  his  mother.  so  you  have  a  flat  floor;  better  traction  on  ice;  more  maneuverability  greater  concentration  of  oil  ex­ grets  the  er­ services  will  take  place  at  low  speeds;  easier  parking;  better  braking.  Front  engines  are  con­ ploration  and  producing  here  in  ror.  Adjoining  at Funeral  1  PM  today  at  the  Boyertown  sidered  to  provide  better roadability  at'high  speeds  or  in  high  winds;  the  United  States,  in  which  case  Is  the  coiTMt  photograph  of  Chapel,  38  Lafayette  Avenue,  less  wander  and  less away on  curves;  possibly  more safety  in  a  front­ US­flag  tanker  operators  would  Brother  Bazo.  Brooklyn.  end crash  and more luggage spacer'  benefit.  By  Sidney  Margoliu*  Adam Hamilton  Dies, Was SlU  Welfare Aide  " • ­ 'i A  ­  •  ­V :s  • 7K •  'I  'I  ­  •   ­• A  'i i  . ­J  <  ­1  Arabs Seek  Bigger  SIke  Of  Oil Pie  II  • J "1  • } ''  ­I  �• C­ rare  »rlt  SEAFARERS  LOG  Ninreaiter  tt. lift  I'; .  ir,^­ "V,  y  Ifc  •   ir­•   FOR  EVERY  5IU MEMBER...  I*.­I  K'  FOR  ALL  WORKERS...  _ STTJ;'  IC  •   • • *.  W­ '55;  TheSIU  ORGANIZES  A PRIMARY  funcHon  of  a  union  is  to  continue  or­ ganizing  efforts  in  its  field os  long  as  there  are  workers  without  the  protection  of  q union  con­ tract.  Consequently,  active  organizing  campaigns  have  been  a  constant  feature  of  the  SlU  down  through  the  years.  Why  does  a  union  organize?  For  one  thing,  its  pur­ pose,  as  a  union,  calls  for  it  to  extend  the  benefits  of  union protection  and union  conditions to  all men  working  in  its  industry.  Secondly,  the  existence  of  cheap  wage,  non­union  operations  is  a  dire  threat  to  the  jobs  of  its  members, because  non­union  outfits can  and do undercut  union firms.  Finally, it can be clearly  seen  that  the larger  and stronger  a union  is,  the more it organizes in the  vari­ ous  fields within its industry,  th^  better  it is  equipped  to  represent  and  protect  its  membership.  f ­  ­ %L  •  In  the  maritime  industry,  the  closely­related  interests  of  seamen,  tugboatmen,  harbor  workers,  fishermen  and  allied  crafts  and  their  mutual  interdependence  up  and  down  the  coast  and  on  fresh  water  make  organizing  an  essential of union  growth and survival. Then  too, maritime  faces a  problem which  is unique  and in  which organizing  will play an  ever­increasing  role—the problem  of  Amer­ ican^controlled  runaway  shipping.  .•>,.' • . '• !•   f­.  •  .  •  K.:  IP­'  Ifei'r"  m­ •  iw­  '. •  Organizing,  of  course,  is  easier  said  than  done.  In  to­ day's political  climate, with  anti­union  forces on  the  rise,  it is more  difficult, more costly and  more  time­consuming  than ever. That  is because  today's labor  laws have a  host  of built­in obstructions  to delay, harass and  weaken union  organizing activities. Nevertheless,  the SlU is carrying  on  its traditional program in several areas as described here.  0:  • i'.'fy.i'Mi'i  5 '' '''  ''fika  ,  •  *;•   "'  ' • H   r  :  ­3­­T" ­  ­f '•   • }  i ij/ ?  if: • • • '<  •  '.'f  .  /'.Si;.­J  M  ;<iS­  ,  nxi,­ •   i,i5:5­5 •^  t   '  yM./.i'?• j''...  /  1  ;  5.;  % '^55# • •   e  .  • >  : =>  • C#'!;,;; •  *'  • ­  n i.' • '   "  •   y."  '.  •   '­i'M'' ­  ':y?­ sv. ^  • "­'J ^  f  :  ,5  kSkry^''t'<. '^4.  .­.v.. S­'  /;  .ywlg;/./ • .^..3; ./(u./yw/i'//s^;­ ^ .is  ,/"• •V   •  I 'inftifiiitoi if'f  •  •   V  •  ":.5 !a:.v  �Navraiber  tt, ItSt  SEAFARERS  LOG  FkivHfM  /M  .  • • ^'V  ­ry.W'  . I..  •  •  i  • ;%: ­r"''  ;..n  ­ • •   ;.;„  I  :• •  '  Runaway  Flags  The  biggest,  most  important  and  most  difficult  organiz­ ing  task  confronting  the SIU  is on  the runaway­flag  ships.  It is obvious  by  now  that if  American­owned  or American­ controlled  shipping  is  permitted  to  Operate  without  hin­ drance under  runaway flags, then  the future  of  the Ameri­ can  seaman  is gloomy  indeed:  Already,  the SIU  has  had a.  tasijC  of  what  runaway­flag  organizing is like  in  the fight  with P&O Steamship, opera­ tors  of  the SS  Florida,  and  with  the  runaway­flag  owners  of  the Yarmouth,  Although it Js well  over  a  year since the  Union  won  an  historic election  on  the SS Florida, the  run­ away  operators  are  employing  every  legal  device  to  block  a union  contract. This has  been  a long, costly  and time­con­ suming fight,  principally  because  it  is a  key  test  of  Ameri­ can  unions' rights  to sign  up runaway  ships.  ernment's  "operation  bootstrap."  The  SIU's  Puerto  Rico  Division  has successfully organized  dozens of  companies on  the  island  representing  the  new  Industries  which  have  sprung  up  in  recent  years.  Organizing in  Puerto  Rico  is  a  vital operation,  because without  union  protection, the new­ ly­industrialized  island  could  quickly  become  a  haven  for  cheap  wage  operators  who  would  exploit  the  big  pool  of  unemployed  on  the island. In  the final analysis, such  cheap  wage conditions will have detrimental effects on  the island's  economy and  on shipping  and, unless checked,  could  under­ mine conditions for seamen maqning US ships on  the island  run./  I  "Tli  %  Ui  Seaway  And Lakes  While  the Florida  case  is being  fought  out,  the SIU  and  NMU  are  planning  a  long­range  joint  organizing  program  which  is an  outgrowth of  last  year's elaborate, nation­wide  protest demonstrations against  runaway­flag shipping.  .  ,  ;  .1 .  Harbor^ Allied! Trades  Barges, tugs, riverboats, lighters and similar craft, as  well  as marine suppliers and related operations are all important  elements in  a sound  maritime union  operation. Through its  various  divisions,  such  as  the  Harbor­and  Inland  Water­ ways Division  and the Marine Allied  Workers Division,  the  SIU has made considerable progress over the past few years.  Yet  the potential in this field  is still trerhendous  and much  remains to  be done.  • ?  J  ­.3  i  The  opening  of  the  Lakes  to  saltwater  traffic  promises  far­reaching effects on  the patterns of  operation in the ship­ ping industry. Up until now, a good  part of  the Lakes opera­ tion  has been  the preserve  of  non­union  or  company  union  operations. Now  the SIU, through the Great  Lakes District,  is making an intensive  effort in  the Lakes area  and has  met  with  initial  successes.  This  too  has  all  the  earmarks  of  a  long­range  operation  before  Lakes  seamen  and  saltwater  men  on  the Seaway  can  both  be assured of  full  union  pro­ tection.  I  • J  Fishermen^ Canneries  • V  • J  Puerto Rican Division  A key link in SIU shippiiig operations, the island of  Puer­ to  Rico  is' rapidly  becoming  industrialized  under  the  gov­ The  successful  organization  of  New  Bedford  fishermen  under  the  SIU  banner  is  a  classic  example  of  how  local  groups  such  as  these  can  benefit  from  the  assistance  of  a  larger organization  like  the SIU.  Unable  to make  headway  on their own, they  have now firmly established  themselves  with SIU  help and  vastly  improved  their  conditions. Other  fishermen  and fish  cannery  workers not  now  receiving the  full  benefits  of  union  protection  are seeking  the  SIU's  as­ sistance.  1  • 1  'i  .­"v.­­ .  "V'  �r^tcB  SEAFARERS  LOG  MTD Adds To Strength;  Gains Four New Unions  Pick Up 'Shot'  Card At Payoff  PENSIONERS'  CORNER  Seafarers  who have  taken the  series  of  inoculations  required  for  certain  foreign  voyages  are  reminded  to  be  sure  to  pick  up  their  inoculation  cards from  the  captain or the  purser when they  pay off  at the end  of  a voyage.  The  card should  be  picked up  by the  Seafarer and held so that  it  can  be  presented  when  sign­ ing on for another voyage  where  the  "shots"  are  required.  The  inoculation  card  is  your  only  proof  of  having  taken  the  re­ quired  shots.  Those men  who forget  to pick  up  their  inoculation  card  when  they  pay  off  may find tbaf  they  are  required  to  take  all  the  "shots"  again  when  they  want  to sign  on for another  such voy­ age.  (The  brother  described  below  is  receiving  the  $150  monthly  SIU  dlf­ ­ Four  more  AFL­CIO  unions  have  joined  the  ranks  of  the  ability­pension  benefit.)  rapidly­expanding Maritime Trades Department,  boosting the  Thomas Horan  . . . 6$... sailed on  all  types of  ships—Hog  Islanders  to 56,000­ton  passenger ships.  ^Horan commenced  his career  sailing out  department's  strength by an  additional  17,500  workers in  the  of  Liverpool,  England, in  1920.  His first  employer  was  the  "Lapland"  industry.  •   of  the old Red Star  Line.  Later he sailed  with the  Hamburg­American  shipboard  members  of  MTD,  The  latest  MTD  additions  within  the  broader MTD  structure.  Line,  and  has  sailed  under  the  American  flag  since  then  up  to  his  are  the  Iron  Workers,  with  retirement in  1959.  The  agreement  to  set  up  the  about  10,000  men  employed  in  Horan  was a  member of  the steward  department.  He  had  no special  marine  trades;  Sheet  Metal  Work­ new  division  within  MTD  was  preference  for  type of  ship or  type  of  run,  taking  them  as they  came.  reached  at  last  month's  MTD  con­ ers,  with  5,000;  the  American  Ra­ Presently he  is an  outpatient at  the Staten  Island  hospital  where he  is  ­dio  Association,  representing  1,500  vention  in  San  Francisco  between  receiving  treatment  for  a  heart  condition.  Married,  Horan  lives  in  MTD  " and  the  AFL­CIO  Maritime  radio  operators,  and  the  Uphol­ Brooklyn, KY,  and  often  visits  the  Union  hall.  sterers  Union,  which  has  1,000  Committee.  This  meant  four  addi­ 4>  4'  tional  uilions,  two  of  them  being  members  working  aboard  vessels  Victor  H. Gnstafsen ...  71 ...  a member  of  the  engine department,  the  NMU  and  the  ARA,  would  be­ on  shipboard  furnishings.  come  MTD  members.  The  other  Gustafson  started  sailing  in  Swe­ Now  25  Unions  two  are  Local  5,000  of  the  Steel­ den  in  1905.  He  retired  in  June,  1959.  During  his  many  years  of  These  additions,  along  with  the  workers,  and  the  Industrial  Union  sailing  Gustafson  had  no  special  decision  of  the  National  Maritime  of  Marine  and  Shipbuilding  Work­ run,  and  he  didn't  care  what  type  Union  to  join  the  MTD,  boost  the  ers.  of  ship  he saiied  on  as  long  as "it  organization's  total  membership  to  wu an SIU ship."  25  unions.  As  reported  in  the  last  SEAFARERS  LOG,  the  NMU  ­  sailed  for­ membership  has  voted  favorably  '  and  non­union  ships  in  on  the  move  to  aiffiliate  the  NMU  " 'the  old  days,  any  SIU  ship  was  with  MTD  in  a  special  seafarers'  suitable  because  it  was  far  su­ section  jointly  headed  by  NMU  perior in shipboard  living ahd  con­ President  Joseph  Curran  and  BALTIMORE—Shipping  is showing  favorable signs  in this  ditions.  SIUNA  President  Paul  Hall.  Gustafson's  home  is  in  Chicago,  port  city, reports'Earl  Sheppard, Baltimore  agent.  Two Bull  The  new  Seafarers'  section  Is  Illinois,  but,  because  of  his  health,  devoted  to  the  problems  of  the  Line ships  crewed up  recently and  ore boats  are expected  to  he  Is  spending  his  winter  down  go  back  into  action  now  that  Rerired  Seafarer  Vicfor  H,  south;  Thanks  to  the  Union's  the  steel  strike  is  tentatively  two weeks  were: the  Penn  Mariner  Gustafson  and  his  landlady,  monthly  $150  SIU  disability­pen­ sion benefits,  as he put it.  He still  (Penn  Trans);  Dorothy,  Jean,  Mae,  Mrs. Anna  Emerick.  over.  corresponds with  his old shipboard.  Emilia,  and  Edith  (Buil);  Oremar  Fifteen  men  were  signed­on  as  (Marven);  Alamar  (Calmar)  and  buddies  John  Lewis  and  Frank  Moran.  stand­bys  aboard  Calmar  Line  Cities  Service  Baltimore.  ships  being  prepared  for  winter  Signing  on:  Penn  Mariner  (Penn  lay­up.  Though  this  line's  ships  Trans);  Alcoa  Runner  (Alcoa);  Fel­ may  be  here  for  some  time,,  tore,  Oremar  (Marven);  Iberville  there  are  a  lot  of  crewless  ships  (Waterman);  Oremar  (Marven)  and  Members  of  the  Marine  Fire­ laying  here  waiting  for  charters  Angelina  (Bull).  In  transit  were:  Longview  Vic­ men's Union have  voted to approve  which  could  come  at  any time.  (Continued from  page 2)  keeps  going  down.  most  of  the  proposed  changes  in  A disputed  overtime case  involv­ tory  (Victory!;  Steel  Scientist,  ported,  the  following  are  some  of  • The    seamen's  accident  rate  is  the  union's  constitution.  Among  ing  the  Calmar  Line  has  been  Steel  Director,  Steel  Admiral,  the  CG's  conclusions:  far  lower  than  in  scores  of  indus­ settled  with  the  mailing  of  checks  Steel  Designer,  Steel  Navigator  changes  approved  is  one  calling  e  Only 6 accidents resulted from  tries,  such  as  breweries,  bakeries,  for  setting  up  dues  on  a  monthly  to  this  hall  for  the  individuals  (Isthmian);  Santore  (Marven);  Al­ a "physical  deflolency" of  the men  paper  plants,  woolen  mills,  among  concerned.  coa  Patriot  (Alcoa);  Robin  Trent  basis  instead  of  quarterly,  and  airport ground personnel,  paA em­ involved  Paying  off  here  during  the  past  (Robin).  changing  the  length  of  terms  of  ployees  and  many  others.  • OiUy    6  were  attributed  to  a  But  while  office.  The  MFOW  membership  they  do  show  all  of  factor  labeled  "psychological  (im­ voted  to  keep  the  present  system  this,  these same figures are  rightly  maturity, insanity)"  of  having meetings  on the first and  discredited  within  the  AMMI  and  third  Thursdays  of  the  month.  o  25  were  caused  by  an  "unsafe  the Safety  Council itself.  The sam­ movement  (running,  jumping, etc.)"  ple is so small  as to  be almost  non­ t  o  256 were  attributed to  an "un­ existent.  In  three  of  the  last  four  The  Sailors Union  of  the  Pacific  safe  prac­tic­e"  years,  only  three  shipping  compa­ has  gone  on  record  to  support  the  _f  548  were  to "other  human  er­ nies were  included in  the computa­ Steel  Workers Union with  a $3 per  rors"  not  otherwise  explained  tions.  Last year  there  was_a grand  man  per  month  contribution.  "The  • 98 to    "weather  conditions"  total  of five  shipping  companies  contribution  will  take  effect  in the  • 184    to "other"  factors  of  "en­ among­the  35  companies  reporting  event  the  steel  union  has  to  go  vironment"  back  out  on  the  picket  line  at  the  to  the  Council.  During  1955­57,  end­  of  the  present  80­day  Taft­ • 75 to "failure    (of)  unapproved  there  were  22.  Hartley  cooling  off  period.  equipment  or material"  It's  less  than  accurate  to  tar  a  • 115 were    listed  under "other"  whole  industry,  especially  its  sea­ 4.  3^  (not  attributed to  "human" or  "en­ men,  by. using  such figures,  when  The  first  Canadian­flag  ship  to  vironment"  factors)  due  to  "insuf­ it's  really  the  obligation  of  the  cross  the  Atlantic  in  many  years,  ficient information to  classify as  to  shipowners to file the  reports.  The  the  Eskimo,  will  service  a  winter  cause" and "miscellaneous  causes."  failure  to  report,  of  course, .goes  route  from  Quebec  City  to  the  These figures,  particularly  the  back  to  the  fact  that  many  ship­ United Kingdom for Canada  Steam­ first two,  certainly  belie  the  "un­ owners  aren't  at  all  interested  in  ship  Lines.  The  Eskimo,  built  to  stable,  chronically  ill"  label  many  having  creditable figures available.  handle  the  ice  conditions  existing  Seafarers or children of Seafarers who qual­ tiy to pin  on seamen.  in  Canadian  waters,  is  manned  by  As  reported  in  the  last  LOG,  ify for  the SlU's $6,(X)0 four­year scholarships,  the  SIU  Canadian  District.  Since  Ralph  Casey,  president  of  the  Canada  permits unrestricted  trans­ are urged  to complete their  applications now  American  Merchant  Marine  Insti­ fers of  ship  tonnage  to  British  and  so~as  to  be  eligible  to  take  forthcoming  tute,  also  spoke  on  "safety" at  the  other  flags,  the  Canadian deep  sea  College  Entrance  examinations. The next  ex­ same  convention  of  the  Marine  fleet  has  virtually  disappeared.  Section.  Both  the  Safety  Council  aminations are given  on January 9, February  3^  ft  4"  and  its  separate  Marine  Section  WILMINGTON  —  Shipping  has  6, and  March  12. The latter  date  is the  last  The  Inland  Boatmen's  Union  is  publish  a  set  of figxires, but  Casey  been  slow  here  for  the'"past  two  continuing  its  long  strike  fight  possible­examination that can be taken before  chose  to rely  on  the figures of  the  weeks,  and  so  is  registration;  re­ against  barge  and  tug  operators  in  the awards are  given. Since applicationt for  Safety  Council­^not  the  .Marine  ports  Port  Agent  Reed  Humphries.  San  Francisco  harbor  with  the  Section  he  was  addressing.  Twenty  jobs  were  shipped,  but  the  examination  have  to  be  compfofeif  operators out to put an end to work  The  Marine  Section fitmres, cov­ only  17  men  registered.  The  com­ about a month ahead  orthe examination  "rules  involving  overtime  and  man­ ering  a  much  larger,  more  repre­ ing  two  weeks  should  be .^good,  ning.  The  IBU  is  getting  financial  date, it is urgerit  that candidates act new.  sentative  sample  of  work  aboard  says  Humphries,  with  the  payoff  support  from  the  SHJ  Pacific  Dis­ ship,  completely  refuted  what  he  of  one  ship  and  the  arrival  of  All  applications  are  handled  by  the Sea­ trict  for  the  duration  of  the  beef.  was  trying  to  say.  They  clearly  seven  ships  in  transit  farers  Welfare  Plan,  J1  Broadway, New  3^,  4"  3^  show  a  continuing  decline  in  the  Tbere  were  no  payoffs  or  sign  York City.  accfdent  frequency  rate  for  sea­ ons during  the past  two weeks, and  Crews  of  the  SIU  Great  Lakes  District  have  gone  back  aboard  men.  only  five  ships  arrived  in  transit.  their  ships  as  traffic  started  to  The figures he ignored  on  the ac­ The  Almena  (Clover  Carr.)  was  move again  with  the  return  of  the  cident  rate  for  seamen—printed  expected  to  pay  off  early  this  SEAFARERS  WEtFARE  PLAN  steel  vsbrkers  under  the  80­day  side  by  side  with  those  he  used—  week,  and  the  following  vessels  Tift­Hartley  injunction.  Steel  also repudiate his whole  argument.  were  scheduled  to  arrive  within  a  11  BROADWAY  plknts  are  trying  to  stock­ np^  on  They  show  the  following:  few  days:  Yaka,  City  of  Alma,  ore,  coke,  limestone  and  other  re­ • The    accident  rate  for  seamen  Warrior  (Waterman);  Almena  (Clo­ YORK  4^  N.  Y.  quirements for  steel­makihg in  the  is  the  lowest  of  all  the  rates  ver);  Steel  Scientist  (Isthmian);  few siiort weeks that remain  before  lumped  togi^er to make the  over­ Rebecca  (Inter­continental),  ahd  the  Lakes  Heeze  over  and  hall  all  maritime industry  rate.  Calmar: (Calmar); according  to  Ohipping.  • The accident    rate  for seamen  ports.­­  ' •   ­',  "V­ • '  ­/  Baltimore Shipping Rises;  Bull Line Crevrs  2 Ships  C6 Figures  Add  New  Element To Safety  Issue  Calif, Porf  In as Slump  im  I;­ •   if  w^­ u.  .  �• • • • •V_'^  /" '  V:  >_  :'.;r;­v­  • _  • •   Tm  m,vm  ­  .f,  SEAFARERS  LOG  'Using His Head'  • J'''  •   •   ..J'.V'  P<««  Btwm  Charge Ship Firms  Sneer  At US Law  WASHINGTON—After  hearing  testimony  from  a  number  of  steamship  companies  concerning  the  granting  of  rebates  to customers in one form or another  to evade standard freight  charges.  Rep.  Emanuel  Cel­­*  ler  (Dem­NY),  chairman  of  such  rebates  were  common,  either  an  antitrust  subcommittee,  in  the  form  of  actual  cash,  free  ^  df^  has  charged  the  industry  with  numerous  abuses  of  the  anti­trust  acts.  Celler,  who  is  also  chairman  of  the  House  Judiciary  Committee,  noted  the  existence  of  a  whole  series  of  secret  agreements  on  freight  rates,  rebates,  discrimina­ tion  against  certain  shippers  and  other  violations  in  wholesale  lots.  Theoretically,  ship  operators  are  supposed  to  charge  the  same  rate  to all  comers  in a .given  trade,  and  rebates  to  selected  customers  are  a  violation  of  US  law.  Testimony  by  ship  operators  indicated  that  transportation  or  "entertainment."  In  addition  to  the  hearings  on  the  rebate  issue^  the  committee  heard  testimony  by  a  representa­ tive of the independent tanker oper­ ators  who  charged  major  oil  com­ panies  with  cross­chartering  ships  to  each  other  at  a  loss  so  as  to  freeze  out  the  independent  opera­ tors. The  spokesman, Samuel  Wang  of  the  Sru­contracted  North  At­ lantic  Marine  Company,  called  for  legislation to provide  minimum and  maximum  rates  on  oil  cargoes  in  the  domestic  trades.  Meanwhile,  the  Joint  Committee  for  American­Flag  Tankers,  a  group  in  which  the  SIU  and  NMU  are  participating  along  with  inde­ pendent operators, has submitted  to  the  Office  of  Defense  Mobilization  supporting  data  in  its  bid  for  a  "50­50"  rule  on  oil  imports  into  the  United  States.  Ships Halted;  Box­Carrier  Gets Cargo  Boss Convicted  HOUSTON — One  reason  why  ship  operators  are  turning  to  the  containership  idea  in  increasing  numbers  was  offered  by  the  ex­ perience  of  Pan­Atlantic's  Bien­ The owner  of  a  printing  plant in  ville liere. The SlU­contracted ship,  the  metropolitan  New  York  area  barred  from  its  terminal  by  the  has  been  fined  $1,005  in  Federal  aftermath  of  the  Amoco  Virginia  Court  after  pleading  guilty  to  em­ fire,  simply  moved over  to another  ^oyment  of  child  labor.  pier  in  Texas  City  and  unloaded  The  fine  was  assessed  against  and loaded  its 226  trailers  there.  Instructive  Books,  Inc., of  Baldwin,  Port  authorities  had  been  com­ Long  Island, after  the  owner,  Mor­ pelled  to close  several  miles of  the  ton  Cache,  pleaded  guilty  to  two  Houston ship channel  following the  counts  of  a  criminal  information.  •  Just  a  few  days  after  Landrum­Griffin  bill  took  effect  blaze on the Amoco  tanker, because  It  was  found  that  the  printing  the White  House announced  that, on  the suggestion  of  AFL­ gasoline  and  fuel  oil,  leaking  out  plant  was  employing  39  children  CIO President George Meany,  it would  convene a  labor­man­ of  the grounded tanker, endang^'ed  under  18.  Of  these,  27  were  be­ ship  traffic  and  threatened further  tween  14 and  16 and  were  working  agement  conference  for  the  purpose  of  working  out  ways  outbreaks of fire. As a consequence,  illegally  in  and  about  a  factory  and  means  to  resolve  difficulties in  labor  relations.  the  Bienville  was  unable  to  ap­ under  the  Fair  Labor  Standards  At the same time, no settlement appears in sight in  the na­ proach  its  Houston  terminal.  Act.  Another  group  of  12  between  tional  steel  beef,  and  a  major  labor­management  collision  Since  the  Pan­Atlantic  ships  the ages of  16 to 18,  were employed  carry  their  own  loading  and  un­ illegally  oh  power­driven  machin­ appears likely  in  the railroad  industry and  elsewhere.  loading  gear,  in  the  form  of  trav­ What  this all  proves  is  that all  the  voluminous legislation  eling  cranes  built  right  onto  the  ery.  passed  since  World  War  II,  including  Taft­Hartley  and  ship,  the  vessel  simply  beached  MOBILE—Shipping  in  MobUe  Landrum­Griffin,  has  done  nothing  to  improve  labor­man­ its  containers  in  Texas  City.  during  the  past  two  weeks  has  agement  relations and  prombtei.^dustrial peace.  Drivers  brought  the  trailer  cabs  been slow,  with most arrivals being  and  chassis  from  Houston  to Texas  The reason  is that  the motives  of  those­ who  promoted  this  Seafarers  nverseas  who  want  the'short  trip  variety  and  needing  City,  picked  up  the  containers  for  few  replacements.  Fourteen  ves­ legislation­ were  not  above  reproach.  Under  the guise  of  im­ delivery  there  and  delivered  them  to  get  in  touch  with  headquar­ sels  are  expected  here  during  the  proving  labor  relations  or  correcting  abuses,  they  have  ac­ in  the  "Standard  fashion  as  if  ters  in  a  hurry  can  do  so  by  cabling  the  Union  at  its  cable  next  two  weeks—either  for  payoff  tually  sought  to  weaken  a  union's  ability  to  represent  its  nothing had  happened.  '­''• ess,  SEAFARERS  NEW  or  in­transit.  membership.  One  of  the  chief  selling  points  YORK.  of  the  containership  in  the  Pan­ There  are  two  .World  Tramping  The proof  of  the pudding lies in the open offensives, against  Use of  this address will  assure  ships  here  awaiting  legal  develop­ working  rules,  job  security,  grievance  procedures,  seniority  Atlantic  style  is  its' ability  to  han­ leedy  transmission  on  all  mes­ dle  cargo  at  any  dock  where  a  ments which  will clear  the way  for  protection  and  other  union  benefits  which  are  being  waged  truck  can  pull  up  alongside  the  sages  arid  faster  service  for  the  their  sale.  Settlement,  however,  is  by big steel and  the mammoth railroad  industry.  men  inv­'ved.  ship.  not  expected  for another  month  or  The  steel  industry,  for  example,  figured  that  steel  union  so,  according  to  attorneys.  Mean­ while,  the  Union  is  doing  all  it  members had  lost  their' desire to fight  and  would cave in  un­ can  to alleviate  hardships resulting  der  pressure,  but  much  to  their  surprise,  the  rank  and  file  from  these  vessels  being  unable  to  of  the union  held so solidly  that there wasn't even a  whisper  pay  off  when  they  arrived.  of  a "back  to  work" movement  at  any sta^e of  the  walkout.  Most  of  the  grain and  petroleum  What  it  boils  down  to  is simply  this:  when  the  chips  are  cargoes  here  are  being  hauled  by  down,  as  they  are  today,  union  members  know  that  union  foreign shipping  lines.  American  protection  is  the only  way  by  which  they can  preserve  their  flag  ships  stop  here  only  off  their  Way out  and load  up the scant  rem­ status  and  their  job  security.  nants.  Consequently,  there  are  no  offshore  payoffs  here  at  the  mo­ ment.  A  British  shipping  industry, spokesman  came  up  with  Families  of  seamen  who  drive  some  refreshing  observations  the  other  day  in  discussing  vehicles  on  the  docks  here  regu­ the  runaway­ship  operations.  He  said,  in  effect,  "Let's  not  larly  are  urged  to  get  stickers  for  their  cars  from  the  Police  Office,  holler­  'runaway'  at  Panama  and  Liberia  while  we  permit  Alabama  State  Docks.  Rigid  rules  operators  to  register, in  Bermuda  under  the  British flag."  US, and  Canadian, seamen's  unions could  vvell say "amen"  are  being  set  up  for  use  of  pier  facilities,  and  soon  all  cars  using  to  that.  For  the flag  of  Bermuda  has  become  a  hangout  for  the^ docks  will  need  stickers.  what  was once  Canadian shipping,  as  well  as for  American­ The following  ships are  due here  owned  tanker  operations.  Within  the  next  two  weeks  either  The  real  prublem,  of  course,  has  never  been  Panama  and  for  payoff  or  in  transit;  Monarch  Liberia as suc|)^since  if  they didn't  register ships some other  Of  the  Seas,  Claiborne.  Hastings,  small  country  Would  be  found  to  serve  the  same  purposes.  iberville.  Young  America  (Water­ man);  Alcoa  Corsair,.  Roamer,  The  problem  lies  in  lax  international  regulation  on flag  Cavalier,,Banger,  Partner  (Alcoa);  registries.  Back  in  the days of  pirates and  privateers, a  ship  Visiting  Japaneso trade  union  debgation leads  details about  SIU  j^teel  Admiral  (Isthniian); Beatrice,  could,  and did, fly  any flag  which  suited  it at  the  moment.  Welfare Plan Clinic in Brooklyn  fr^m Pr.'Joseph B. Logue, medical •   Eliiiabeth  (Buil);  Del  Alba  and  Del  The  same  situation  applies  today,  oddly  enough,  with  the  director^left).  The  labor  group jtoured  yaripus  SIU  facilities  in­ cluding Union headquarters nearby.  Bio  (Miss.).  support and connivance  of  the US State Department.  ..  • i  • ­..S  • k  A  n  vjj  ­6  •  ".'i  • J  ­I  'J  On Child Labor  Foreign Flags  Grab Bulk Of  Mobile Cargo  Union Has  Cable Address  3i  .­I  '• 'I  '''1  • ii.  *•  ­a  Tour SIU  Clinic  •   !.''i  Bermuda Too  • •  ­i'   �Union Benefits  Made Difference  m  November t«, 19S|,  SEAFARERS  LOQ  par* Twelra  tically  unanimous  approval  of  the  membership.  /  Homesteaders,  in  mj^bplnion,  fall  into  three  categories.  First  is  the  guy  who  wants  to  im­ press  people  by  getting  a  new  ear  every  year  and  putting  on  the dog  otherwise.  Somehow he  always  remains  in  hock.  The  second  is  the  gambler  who  is  forever  trying  to fill  an  inside  straight.  He's  just  a  steady  source  of  income  for the  expe­ ;  .u.  To  the  Editor:  It  is  with  heartfelt  thanks  that  I send  my  appreciation for  the  death  benefit  check  which  I  Just  received.  I  had  to  admit  The  following  is  a  round­up  of  safety  suggestions  taken  I was  worried until  it came,  and  from  recommendations  at  safety  meetings  on  some  of  the  I  will  never  forget  It.  for  it  SIU  ships.  These  meetings  are  held  regularly  on  SIU  ships  .  lifted  a  great  many  worries  from a  broken heart.  Our debts  under  the  joint  union  —  In­'*'  were  very  heavy  and  J.  was  careful,  then  neither you  nor  your  dustry Safety Program.  happy to pay  them.  buddies will end  up in drydock.  On  the  Wild  Ranger,  eye  My  husband's  greatest  desire  safety  was  the  matter  of  greatest  was  to return, to  the sea,  to  the  attention  and  Seafarers  were  re­ Birthday Suit  ships  he  loved.  For  this reason,  minded  to  be  careful  when  remov­ he would never  retire.  However  ing  face  shields  and  goggles,  since  he  was  vfery  sick  for  so  long,  rust  or  foreign  matter  could  most  with  expensive  medical  bills,  easily  enter  the  eye  at  that  time.  and  the  disability  payments  On  the  Afoundria,  it  was  sug­ kept  us  going.  He  always  told  gested  that Seafarers  remember  to  All  letters  to  the  editor  for  me  that  If  anything  happened  use  goggles  for  sealing  and  sand­ publication  in  the  SEAFAR­ to  him,  I  would  get  this benefit.  ing,  and  especially  chiseling  and  ERS  LOG  must  be  signed.  Thanks for such  a  Union.  I  am  hammering,  since  many  accidents  by  the  writer.  Names  will  proud  of  the  wonderful  people  •  to the eyes happen during this type  be  withheld  upon  request.  there,  that  are  so  good.  of  work.  I  would  like  to  continue  re­ The  crew  on  the  Choctaw  had  a  ceiving  the  LOG  as  it  meant  so  rlenced  card­players.  The  third  novel  safety  suggestion.  They  sug­ much  to  us,  and  I  can  see  all  is the  bird who wants  to become  gest  a  man­rope  with  knots  in  it  the  good  you  are  doing.  a  millionaire  overnight.  be  installed  in  a  vertical  position  Mrs.  G.  Schrunk  Every  fall  he  buries  a  bunch  near  the ladder  in  the steering en­ of  silver  eagles,  digging  them  i t.  i  gine  room  to  aid  a  tall  man  using  Littia  Jimmy  Bechiivanis,  aga  up  at  the  spring  in  the  hope  the  ladder.  The  master  discussed  15 months, and his sister Mary  that  they  bore  offspring.  Since  Praises 'Love?  fire fighting and suggested  that the  are out for a walk  in the coun­ the company supplies the dough,  men  attend  a  fire  fighting  school  Poem in LOG  try.  Their  father,  Nick  Bech­ his  devotion  and  loyalty  is  when  they  had  the opportunity.  To the  Editor:  iivanis,  is  an  AB  and  lives  in  strictly  given  to  it and  the  offi­ Of  course,  the .most  Important  I  got  a  big  kick  out  of  the  cers.  For  time  off,_  extra  time  Brooklyn, where its much hard­ factor  in  safety  is  you  ... if  you  poem  "retribution"  by  Roy  or  other  favors  he  will  surrep­ er  to  be undraped.  keep your  mind on  the job  and are  Fleischer.  The  dame  in  the  titously  do  favors  without  over­ poem  is  just  like  my  own,  but  time.  Some  of  these  become  I  still  love  the  old  gal.  all­around finks.  This  I  have  Fleischer  is  a  genius.  personally  seen  during  my  18  Name  withheld  years  in the  Union.  ^  (Ed.  note:  Fleischer's  poem  Don't  be  taken  in  by  any  in the  last  LOG  dealt  with  the  CMCodile  tears  this  character  TAMPA  .......1809­1811  N.  Franklin St.  fidcleness of  women.  The  letter  niay  shed  in  telling  you  his  SIU,  A&6 District  B. Gonzalez, Acting Agent  Phone 2­1323  writer's name  is  beinp  withheld  troubles.  He  does  not  support  SECRET ARY­TREASUHEH  WILMINGTON.  Calif  605  Marine  Ave.  Paul Hall  Reed Humphries, Agent  Terminal 4­2528  for  obvious  reasons.)  a  dear  old  grandmother  who  is  ASST. SECRETARY­TREASURERS  HEADQUARTERS....675  4th  Ave..  Bklyn.  J. AlgUia, Deck  W. Hall, Joint  suffering  from  some  obscure  i  i  4­ C. Simmons, Eng.  J. Volplan, Joint  SUP  disease.  Neither  does  he  put  a  E. Mooney. Std.  BALTIMORE  1216  E.  Baltimore  St.  HONOLULU... .51 South  Nimltz  Highway  Hit Homesteader  grand  niece  through  college.  Earl Sheppard. Agent  EAstern 7­4900  PHone  562­777  Hell,  its  an  effort  just  to  get  623  BienvUle  St.  BOSTON  276  State  St.  NEW  ORLEANS..  Union Outiook  Jackson  5­7428  G. Dakin. Acting  Agent  Richmond 2­0140  the  right  time  from  him.  Ave., Brooklyn  HOUSTON  *.4202  Canal  St.  NEW  YORK..:..... .675 4th  To the  Editor:  My  advice  is,  don't  make  the  HYacinth  9­6609  R. Matthews. Agent  CApital 3­4089; 3­4080  PORTLAND  ......  211  SW  Clay  St.  As  everyone  knows,  a  union  vacation  fund  a  pension  fund,  MIAMI  74#  W.  Flagler  St.  CApitol  3­4338  Louis Neira, Ageqt  FRanklin 7­3564  SAN  FRANCISCO.  450  Harrison  St.  can  only become  strong and  re­ it may turn pretty sour.  A vaca­ MOBILE  '. .1 South  Lawrence  St.  Douglas  2­8363  main  that  way  if  it  has  the  un­ tion  fund  is  just  what  the  word  Cal Tanner. Agent  HEmlock 2­1754  SEATTLE  2505  1st  Ave.  Main  2­0290  stinting  support  of  its  members  says,  vacation.  Take  it  and  join  NEW  ORLEANS  523  Bienville  St.  SOS  Marine  Ave.  WILMINGTON  Lindsey Williams. Agent  Tulane 8626  on  all  union  matters  even  the  fraternity  of  good  Union  Terminal 5­6617  NEW  YORK  675  4th  Ave.. Brooklyn  though  they  may,  at  times,  in­ brothers.  HYacinth 9­6600  MC&S  NORFOLK  416  CoUey  Ave.  volve  a  temporary  hardship.  M.  Gottschalk  J. BuUock. Agent  MAdison 7­1083  HONOLULU....51  South  Nimlts  Highway  For many  years we have gone  PHone  5­1714  i  i  i  PHILADELPHIA  337  Market  St.  523  Bienville  St.  S. CarduUo. Agent  Market 7­1635  NEW  ORLEANS.  all  out  tc!. support  other  unions  RAmond  7­428  SAN  FRANCISCO  450  Harrison  St.  NEW  YORK  675  4th  Ave..  Brooklyn  trying to better  their conditions.  SIU Film Aids  Marty Breithoff. Agent  Douglas 2­5475  HYacinth  9­6600  SANTURCE.  PR. . 1313  Fernandez  Juncos.  PORTLAND  Some  members  appeared  puz­ Students'  insight  211  SW  Clay  St.  Stop 20  CApitol  7­3222  zled  when  asked  to  support  la­ Keith Terpe. Hq. Rep.  Phone 2­5996  SAN  FRANCISCO  350  Fremont  St.  JACKSONVILLE  920  Main  St..  Room  200  bor disputes  in totally unrelated  To  the  Editor:  EXbrook  7­5600  William  Morris.  Agent  ELgin  3­0987  SEATTLE  2505  —  Ist  Ave.  Last  week  I had  the  pleasure  fields such as the  office workers,  MAln  3­0089  SEATTLE  2505  1st  Ave.  of  showing  fellow  students  in  .'.....SOS  Marine  Ave.  Ted  Babkowski.  Agent  Main  3­4334  WIL.MINGTOr  hospital  personnel,  restaurant  TErminal  4­8538  workers and  many others.  How­ my labor  and management class  ever' this  farsighted  policy  by  the fine film  concerning  the  Great  Lakes  Distrid  SEAFARERS LOG.  ALPENA...  127  River  St.  our  officials  has  paid  off  hand­ Seafarers  International  Union.  I  believe  It  was  very  helpful  ELmwood  4­3616  675  Fourth  Ave.,  somely,  in  gaining  reciprocal  BUFFALO.  NY  914  Main  St.  to myself and the rest of  the stu­ support ill return on many occa­ GRant  2728  Brooklyn  32, NY  dents  In  gaih­ CLEVELAND  ....1420  W.  25  St.  sions  and  winning  tha  respect  MAln  14147  ing  an  insight  of  the  entire  labor  movement  I would like  to receive the  DULUTH...  621  W.  SupeHor  St.  of  the  pro­ .  Phone:  Randolph  2­4110  up  to  the  highest  level.  SEAFARERS LOG — please  FRANKI'ORT.  Mich  ...PO  Box  287  cedures  a h d  In  my  estimation  a  good  Un­ objectives  of  633  S.  Second  Ave.  put my name on your moiling  MILWAUKEE  ion  member  will  make  it  his  BRoadway  2­3039  the  SIU  in  ac­ W.  Jefferson.  Ave.  (Print  Information)  RIVER  ROUGE.. 10225  list.  business  to  be  informed  about  tion.  After the  Mich.  Vinewood  3­4741  all  his  Union's  activities,  serve  SOUTH  CHICAGO  9383  Ewing  Ave.  class  I  con­ SAginaw  1­0733  on  unpaid  coinmittees  if  asked,^  NAME  TOLEDO  120  Summit  St.  ducted  a ques­ CHerry  8­2431  and  give  blood  to  the  blood  tion  and  an­ bank  which  the  Union  provides  swer  period  Canadian District  Cirignaiiq  for  the  member  and  his family.  concerning the  FORT  WILLIAM  408  Simpson  St.  These  are  just  some  of  the  the  SIU  and  the  response  was  Ontario  Phone:  3­3221  STR€ET  ADDRESS  HALIFAX  N.S  128H  Hollis  St.  many  activities  going  on  In  the  one  of  favorable  proportions.  Phone  3­8911  progress  of  his  Union.  MONTREAL  634  St.  James  St.  West  I  believe films  of  this  type  Victor  2­8161  .  However,  on  the  other  hand  are of  a great help to the  Union  QUEBEC  44  SauIt­au­Matelot  Quebec  LAfontalne  3­1569  we  have  the  homesteader  who  in  giving  the  general  public  52  St.  David  St.  CITY  ....... ..^ONE...  THORpLD.  Ontario  hibeniates  on  a  ship  for  years,  knowledge  of  our fine  organiza­ TORONTO.  Ontario  272  King  St?^R  totally  disinterested Jn ­  every?  tion.  The  pleasvu­e  was  all  ST^kTE"  ".'i  ST.  JOHN.  NB  ....177 PrlnM^WUilam^SL  thing  except  to "hurray"  at  an­ mine.  other  pay  raise  or  benefit  298°Mata^SL  Louis  A.  Cirlgnano.  Jri  TO  AVOID  DUPLICATION:  If  you  VANCOUVER,  EC  gained.  He  is  perfectly  happy  (Ed. note:  Brother cjlrignano,  • ro  on  old  fubtcribei  and  have  a  MFOW  to  reap  all  the  gravy  but  will  a  member  of  the  SIU  for  the  changa  of  address,  plaasa  giva  your  BALTIMORE  1216  East  Baltimore  St.  not  lift  a fingei  in  support,  let­ past  H  years,  is  presently  tak­ fo^ar  address  balow:  EIAstern  7>3383  HONOLULU^.. .56  North  Nimitz  Highway  ting  the  othet  guy  knock  his  ing  special  courses  at  the  Pat­ brains  out  erson State College, in New Jer­ NEW  ORLEANS  823 ^envUle^t!  ^DRESS  ..............  sey.  As part  of  one of  his labor  Other  unions  were  forced  to  NEW  YORK  ..........130  course^, [pother  Cirignano  pre­ smoke  these  pe^le out  by  put­ • •   • • • tee  PORTLAND..........522  NW'ii?orott"st  ting  a  year  limit;  later  reduced  sented .d  showing  of  a  movie  SAN  FiRANCISCO..MO^'sMOn^'sL  to seveh  naontllsi  On  the  time a  about  the  SIU,  and  esiplained  CITY^®fell,ZPNE.;.,v, SAN  PEDRO  ithan  eah  stay idn  a  ship.  This,  the  lihidn's  basic  functions  and  ': "  \  mind  yoh,  was  done  with  iprac­ objectives.t  SEATTLB.............,^'W­„«1^  '0  0  .•   • ,.»­0"^y.0­0 0    0  Tips On  Safety  Letters  To  The  Editor  • I" v..  m •>:  .  MAln  2­6326  Dei Sud Has  Fact Proposals  v  To  the  Edltori  I made  the following motions  at  a  recent  meeiing  aboard  the  S S.  Del  Sud  which  I  think  should  be  brought  to  the  atten­ tion  of  the  membership.  .That  all  men who  work  seven  days  a  week  be  given  one  day  off  a  month.  '  That  bread  and.abutter  be  available  24  hours  a  day.  That  men staying  on  ship  one  year  be  forced  to  get  off.  This  last  piotlon  was  seconded  by  Brother  J.  j.  Culeton,  but  was  voted  down..,  Arnt  Larsen  4  4  4>  Crew Offers  Pact Changes  To  the  Editor:  At  the  last  meeting  of  the  SS  Penn  Mariner,  we  had  an  ex­ tensive  discussion  and  decided  upon  several  recommendations,  which  I  have  forwarded  to  the  SIU  negotiating  committee  for  consideration  in  the  forthcom­ ing  contract  negotiations.  I  might  add  that  the  recommen­ dations  were  carried  unani­ mously.  They  are  as follows:  That  the  present  hospital  benefits  be  in­ creased  to  $50  per  week,  to off­ set  undue  hardship  among  fam­ ily  men  due  to  the  high  cost  of  hospitalization.  ' This  motion  was  made  by  W.  Millison.  Provisions  should  be  made  to  overcome  the  wide  gap  in  the  base  wage  and  overtime  rato  between  the  licensed  and  unli­ censed  crewmembers.  Also,  the  present  vacation  benefits  now  paid  to  unlicensed  and  licensed  members  should  be  revised  to  provide  equal  benefits  to  all.  This  motion  was  made  by  my­ self.  As  far  as  the  motion  men­ tioned  above  is  concerned,  re­ gardless  of  its  outcome,  the  present  vacation  benefits  should  be  maintained  without  restric­ tions.  This motion  was made  by  R.  J.  Brown.  Future  pay, increases,  if  any  aro  granted,  should  bp  equal  to,  in  dollars  and  cents,  or at  least  on  an  average  with,  &e  in­ creases  obtained  by  the  piates  or  engineers.  This  was  another  motion  that  I  made.  Aside from  these motions, the  crew  went  on  record  extending  a  vote  of  thanks  to  C.  Fiowrers,  for  doing  such  a  good  job  on'.'  the  sanitary  work  on  the  deck  department,  anfi^to  °M.  Malda­ nado and  T. Rabago,  crew mess­ man  and  pantryman  respective­:  ly,  for  their .effi<dent  and  good­ natured  food  service.  As far  as the  rest of  the crew  is  concerned,  there  have  been  no beefs  of  any significance  and  everything  has  been  running  very  smoothly.  W.  Besselievre  4  4  4  Applaude Giaiiie  Of Medical Clinic  To the  Editor:  '  •  •   Enclosed  herewith  is  my  new  address,  I  would  like" to  con­ tinue  to  receive  the  SEAFAR­ ERS  LOG  and  keep  informed  on  the  SIU'S  enterprises.  '  I  would  like  to say  that  I am  very  happy  and  gratified  to  see  how  enlarged  and  magnificent  your  new  hospitalization,  and  medical  clinic  program  have  reached  in  such  a  dlmunitive  time.  My  congratulations  to the  sponsors,  organizers  and  the  men  uehiiid  tlie  slory.  Modesty  is  one  of  our  greatest  assets,'  Keep  up  the  geod  work.  .  ­ '  Thahk  yoq  for  your, kindness'  and  coopefati6^l/• • ^'i­  '" <1^:"  LiniU H.  Romaii  '  �Pace Tbkiea  SEAFAitERS  LOG  Ita^cMtcr M. ItSt  • ­  ,v>  In  Between  Missile  Shoots  Crewmembers of  the  Sampan  Hitch,  one  of  the  ships  of  the  South  Atlantic  mis­ sile  r^nge  fleet,  buckle  down  to  the  day's  work  while  awaiting  a  shoot.  Photos  by  Chester  Coumas.  SIU SHIPS AT SEA  Things  must  be  pretty  tough  aboard  the  Gulfwater.  According  to  reports" from  P. Dousat  and  A.  Mangold  the ship  sailed  from  America  with  Australian  lamb,  which  they  sw^  was so tough,  the  lambs  must  have  swum all the  way  to  the  States  to  Mangold  get  here.  To  gild  the  lily,  the  Suez  pilot  said  that  the Gulfwate#: was the worst  feeder  of 1 any ships  he  had  ever  been  on.  He  suggested  they  rename  it  the  Bilgewater.  4.  4  They're  plenty  sore  aboard  the  Ocean  Alice ... It seems  that  the  doctor in Portland, a company man,  used  only  one  needle to give shots  to  the  entire  crew.  The  crew  has  decided  to  ask  that  more  needles  be  used  on  all  future  candidates.  ^ PHOTOS  ^sroRies  reports R. Schaffer,  meeting secre­ tary.  Russei  E.  McLeod  is  ship's  delegate.  It's official now. The  bucko mate  is  virtually  a  thing of  the  past.  Or  at  least  that's  a  natural  reaction  after querying  a  couple of  younger  crewmehibers  on  the  Steel  Flyer  when  she  was  paying  off  in  New  York  last  week.  "Bucko  mates?  What  are  they?  We don't know  what bucko  means,"  the two  responded.  Time  was,  and  not  so  long  ago,  when  bucko  mates  or  engineers  were a fixture  on many ships, even  on  Union­contracted  vessels.  They  descended  from  a  long  line  of  ancient shipboard  tyrants.  Back  in  the  days  when  Andrew  Furuseth  was  trying  to  win  decent  treatment  for  seamen,  your  bucko  was  mighty  handy  with  a  billy,  a  pair  of  heavy­shod  boots  or  a  sim­ ilar  weapon  if,  in  his  opinion,  any  seaman  didn't  turn  to fast  enough.  In  later  years,  thanks  to legisla­ tion and Union advances, the  bucko  was  compelled  to  refrain  from  physical  assault  on  seamen,  but  there was  nothing to stop him  from  hard­timing  a  crew  in  other  ways.  The  term  "bucko"  came  to  mean  a  despotic  officer  who  stretched  his  authority  to  the  limit  allowed  by  law  and  took  unholy  glee  from  making  seamen  miserable.  Nor  were some of  them beyond  provok­ ing  a  fight  with  a  seaman  on  the  dock.  Now  the_worst  that  anybody  can.  seem to say about a  mate is that  he  won't  let  the  man  on  the  wheel  smoke  while  on  duty. Undoubtedly  there are a  few buckos around, but  seamen  may  have  to  hunt  around  a  little to find  them.  «S  NORFOLK  (Cttloi  • • rviM),  Nov.  VrXIwlrman,  A.  Hsbortf  Sacretary*  W.  Meara.  Sanitary  men  not  to ttirow  water' in  laundry  licJca.  No  beefs.  USAF­C­Sa­MU  (F.A.A.).  Oct.  Chairman.  A.  Fhllips;  Secretary,  O.  Jattan.  New  agreement  under  nego­ tiation.  Subsistence  to  be  paid  on  weekends  for fakeals  not  served  bn  ship.  New  delegates  elected.  Request  less  noise  at  night.  Keep  table  clean  at  coffee  break.  par.  Request  stronger  roach  and  In­ sect  detergent.  Complaint  re  drinking  water  having  too  much  chlorine.  MT.  WHITNEY  (Carga  Ship  Man­ ayament),  Sept.  f  —  Chairman,  T.  Lewis;  Secretary,  F.  Neely.  New  delegate  elected.  Some  OT  disputed.  Discussion  re  men  fouling  up.  Sept.  17—Chairman,  T.  Lewis;  Sec­ retary,  F.  Naaiy.  Repair  list  turned  FORT  H06KINS  (Cities  Service),  Nav.  l­^halrnian, ­ g.  Schilling;  Sac­ rataryr  R.  Hartley.  Two  men  short.  Ship's  fund  S9.39.  One  man  paid  off  In  PR.  No  beefs.  One  missed  ship  In  Perth  Amboy.  Request  menus  be  typed  Instead  of  written  on  black­ board.  .  ­./  ALCOA  PLANTER  (Alcoa),  Oct.  17  ­^Chairman,  T.  Smith;  Sacratary,  H.  Doclonx. :.Four  men  logged.  One  man  npatrlatod  to .US.  Ship'a  fund  S40^  Fast  hours  OT  disputed.  One  man  lost  in  Italy  due  to  illness.  Motion  that  keya  he  made  for  each  man  in  foc'Sle,  and  Yale  locfca  installed.  Dis­ cussion  re  retirement  plan.  ' 'COASTAL  S^'FRY  (Suwannat),  Sapt.  S7—Chairman,  C.  Eruea;  Sesre­ tary,  R.  Archer.  Captain  to  pay  off  at  end'  of  each  month  in  cash  per­ taining  to srages  only,  OT  to­bo  paid  biL check,  Ship'a fund  $17.  Few  hours  OT  disputed  in  deck  dept.  One  man  missed ship  In Redtei­ Suggest  canned  fruit,  be ­ftrved  every  night  at  sup­ Ankotni Biiyk, AB, holds a pulley  while Bosun  Mason  takes  a  kink  out  of  a  line.  Steward  Robert  Donnely  looks  on,  as  supplies  coming  aboard are  checked.  EDITH  (Bull),  Nov.  1—Chairman,  J.  Hanauit}  Secretary,  L.  Savior.  Ship's  fund  S12.96.  Some  OT  disputed  in  deck  dept.  To  see mate  re slick  paint  on  bridge.  Suggest  fantaU  be  kept  cleaner.  Cigarettes  and  matches  to  be  thrown  overboard  instead  of  on  deck.  OCEAN  ALICE  (Sea  Libartias).  Oct.  IS—Chairman,  Langicy;  Secretary,  R.  Schaffer.  Discussion  re  subsistence  due  crew  from  St.  Johns,  Oregon...  Draws  to  be  limited  to  half  amount  due draws,' allotments and  Slops.  Some  OT  disputed.  Vote  of  thanks  to  steward  dept.  for  job  well  done.  Urgent  repairs  needed  on  galley  range  and  stack.  STEEL  ADMIML  (Isthmian),  Oct.  23—Chairman,  R.  Hunt;  Secretary,  M.  Burns.  Screen  doors  made.  One  man  hospitalized.  Few  hours  disputed  OT.  Report  217  accepted.  Slop  chest  dis­ crepancy.  Vote  of  thanks  to  steward  dept.  for' fins  dinners.  ­STEEL  SEAFARER  (isthmian),  Oct,  1^—Chairman,  L.  AUkander;  Secre­ tary,  E.  Kaufman,  No  beefs:,  every­ thing  running  smoothly.  Ship's  fund  S8.4S.  Delegate  to  inquire  ro  amount  of  qnlnine  on  board,  also  about  Sy  spray  and  keya  for  rooma.  NATALIE  (Marltlmo  Oversaas),  Oct.  IS—Chairman,  W.  Smith;  Sacratary,  S.  Rothschild.^ Ship's fund  SSiSS.  Some  OT dispntad  in ateward  dept.  Request  less  noise  in  messrqom.  .  Suggest  proper  attire  be  worn  in  messroom.  I  %  in.,  Few  hours  OT 'disputed.  Vote  of  thsnks  to  steward  dept.  for  Job  well  done.  WACdSTA'  (Watstihsn),  Oct.  25—  Chairman,  J.  Blsnchardi  Sscrctsry,  J,.  Furssii.  Few  repairs  to  be  done.  No  beefs.  Delegate  rcrclected.  Suggest  hegotuting  on  next  contract.  SUZANNE  (Bull),  Oct.  ' 1S­i­Chalr­ msn,  N.  Mebisy;  Secretary,  O.  Has­ kail.  Two  men, .hospitalized.  Few  men  logged.  Ship's  fuisd  $18.90.  Few  hours  OT  disputed.  STBBL  DESIGNER  (irtmian),  Nav.  1—Chairman,  A.  Saccei  isocratary,  J.  Gibbena.'  Discussion  re  draw,  Ship'a  fund  S18.4S.  No, beefs.  New  delegate  elected.  Discussion  re  misuse  of  wash­ ing  machine.  VotC'Of  thanks  to  stew­ ard  dept.  for  Job  well  done.  /  ALCOA  PIONEER  (Alcoa),  Oct.  3—  Chairman,  (3.  Trcsclair:  Sacretary,  E.  Canenliado.  One  man  missed  ship;  one  man  logged.  . Men  warned  of  loggings—to  bo  reported  to  Coast  Guard.  Ship's  fund  326.  No  beefs.  Nov.  1—Chairman,  A.  Hauka;  See­ rotary,  E.  Canonlzado.  Two  safety  meetings  held  each  trip.  To  report  any  h^rd  to  delegate.  Thanks  to  delegates  for  good  cooperation  during  trip.  Ship's  fund  $65.  Thanks  to  steward  dept.  Ipr  work  well  done.  STEEL  FLYER  (isilimlan).  Sept,  S—  Chairman,  Don  Keddy;  Secretary,  Lacncie  Caidcron.  Everything  smooth:  each  person  .to  clean  hla  ' own  fan.  $2.25  left  in  ship's  fund.  Motion  ap­ proved  to instruct  Frisco  ItaU  to have  patrolman  available  to  visit  ships  when  requested.  John  M e r k e t  Sword Knot bosun,  on  visit.  Charles  D'Amico,  Jr.,  DM,  coils  wire rope.  plates  be  kept  over  moving  parts  of  feed  pumps: life  rings be  moved from  resistor' house  top  to  main  deck.  $5  donation  to  be  made  toward  movie  fund.  Few  hours  disputed  OT.  Re­ port  218  accepted:  Diseussion  on  movie  funds.  Chairs  to  be  repaired  and  porthole  panels  be  installed  m  recreation  room.  CHICKASAW  (Waterman),  Oct.  25—  Chairmen,  J.  McLaren:  Secretary,  H.  Kennedy.  Two  men  hospitalized.  Pa­ trolman  to  handle  cargo­ and  bonus.  Need, new  washing ­ machine.  Vote  of  thanks  to  delegate.  Each  man  to  be  given  list  of OT.  Ship's  fund  $20.  Few  hours  disputed  OT.  Patrolman  to  check hospital  supplies.  Need more  water  pressure.  Vote  of  thanks  to  deck  delegate.  To  order  brushes  for  coffee  urn  glass.  STEEL  WORKER  (isthmian),  Oct.  11  —Chairman,  V.  L.  Mcehan;  Secretary,  P.  Robartsen.  Few  men  have  been  logged:  beefs  occasionally  re  food,  which  will  be  taken  up  uiider  good ft  welfare.  $32.58  in  ship's  treasury.  Oct.  3—CtiBlman,  Oomaz; Sacretary,  J.  Fidaigo.  Beef  about  washing  down  ship.  Delegate  resigns:  another  elect­ ed.  New  delegate  is Gomez.  Two men  logged.  Deck  hands  wanted  to  know  why  mate  didn't  want  crew  to  ­wash  down  decks.  Mate  explained  that  after  delegate  had  approached  htm.  he  didn't  want  men  to  tell  him  what  to  do.  CS  BALTIMORE  (Cltlos  Sarvlea),  Nov.  a—Chairman,  Thomas  Hitt;  Sac­ ratary,  F.  A.  Oray.  One  man  missed  ship  in  Ijfte  Charles.  No  beefs.  $14.65  In  ship's  fund.  Discussion. ra  washing' machine  and  drinking  foun­ tain.  ­ HASTINGS  (Walarman),  Nov.  1—  ChairffMh,' J.. M.  Callamaiw  Sacratary,  J.  i. Walls.  Atk  Ifaat  crew lake  beefs  to  delagateir  not  captain.  Man  asked .  to  respetA  tholr  delagai*.  Few  beefs  ALCOA  PARTNER  (AlCM),  NOV.  2—  Chairman.  N.  Flowars;  gecretary., J.  taken  up  wttli  patMtaaan. ­  One­man  Baxlor.  Repair  list  submittM.  S­.fety  ;ln  hbspltal  In  Rotterdam:  one  missed  Euggcstiona made  that  duck'boards he­ .ship In  Ramhunt.  Delegates  aMted  to  installed around, main  genen­.tor; di^ek  . get  up., repair.,  lists.  ORION  CLIPPER  (Orion),  Sept.  25—  Chairman,  R.  WIman;  Secretary,  R.  Barker.  Few  hours  OT  disputed;  no  beefs.  American  money  to  be  issued  for  draws  remainder  of  voyage.  S8.42  in, ship's  fund.  One  man  missed  ship,  one  man  hospitalized,  in  Bahrein  Is­ land.  Motion  carried  to  have  SIU  representation  in  Yokahama.  Only  12  of. 20  mattresses  ordered  received  in  Yokohama: will  write  hq  to  clarify.  MAXTON  (Marine  Carr.),  Nov.  I—  Chairman,  E.  J.  Riviere;  ­Secretary,  none  named.  Everything  running  anoothly.  All  repairs  taken  care  of.  Small  amount  of  OT  disputed.  Two  men sick  during  cruise. Suigest  ample  number  of  keys  to  heads  be  made  available.  FENN  EXPLORER  (Pern.),  Oct.  28—  Chairman,  S.  H.  Mills;  Sccratary,  J.  W.  Thomas.  Everything  running  smoothly:  no  beefs.  Suggest  that  lights  in  recreation  and  mc  ; halls  be  brighter, and  that  slnpchest  be  opened  at more  convenient hours  for  crew.  .  RAPHAEL  SEMMES  (Fan­Atlantic),  N«v.  a—Chairman.  W.  Heater;  Secre­ tary,  B.  Varn,  Jr.  Most  repairs  taken  made.  One  man  missed  ship  in  Mi­ ami.  Engine  dept.  quarters  need  aougeeing:  showers  and  head  need  painting.  More  care  should  be  taken  with  washing  machine.  FENN  TRADER  (Pcnn.  Shipping),  Oct.  2S—Chairman.  R.  J.  Aumiller:  Secrataryf  W.  T,  Strickiin.  Beef  on  hot  w*tir  for  all  showers' taken  up  With  chief  en^eer.  Motion  (wrried  to  write. hq  ra  chief  engineer  inter­ ­'farring  with  or  trying  ta .ruii  all  de  partments.  SEAFAIR  (Colonial).  Nov.  t—Chair­ man,  Frad  R.  Hicks,  Jr.;  Sacratary,  Jasse  P.  Brinklay.  Cheeked  repair  list  frum  last,  trip:  evcryililiig  ukay.  SIU  notified  by  mail,, re  men  hospitalized  at  Port  Sold.  Captain  requests  handa  to keep  Alp cleaner.  Two men  111  dnrinq  trip  left  .<,hip  shorthanded­ • ipit manaeed fine­  We.alher  hot.  Go,,'  "ltorber»"'  aboard.  :  J  �SEAFARERS  LOG  Par*  PoBrtMB  SEAFARERS  IN DRYDOCK  Nmretnber M, Itit  'Just  Look Joe' Brings  Tony Woe  The  following  item  teas  submitted  to  the  LOG  byt  Seafarer WilliamCalefato.  This  a  tale of  Seafarer  Tony, ashore  in Bombay for  the first time. But  NOBODY wai  In  the  New  York  area,  Seafarer  Benjamin  Mirnano,  is  recuperating  going  to  "take"  him  as  they  did  in  Manila,  or  in Tokyo,  or  in  fact  in  nearly  every  other  from  a  minor  ailment  and  expects  to  be  discharged  any  day  from  the  port  he'd visited.  Staten  Island  USPHS  hospital.  An  AB,  he  last  sailed  on  the  Orion  He  was  just  looking  over  "Wait  bud,  what's  the  scoop?  with a  deep, deep root.  Each grasp­ Comet.  the rail at the activities on the  What's  this  costing?"  ing  a  foot,  they  began  to  cut  int®  Also  there  is  Thomas  Bubar,  ad­ "Sh­h­h,  it's all  right.  Don't  talk,  Tony's  callouses.  dock  below,  when  someone  mitted  October  16  from  the  Nor­ about  money,  me  show."  Remarkable  Tony  thought,  but  touched  his  shoulder.  folk  USPHS  hospital,  for  a  gen­ "Hello  Joe,  look."  The  fingernails  were  clean  and  he  wasn't  too  sure  that  callouses  eral  checkup.  An  OS,  his  last  One  of  the  many  Indians  who  the  Indian  talked  on.  He  said  he  had roots.  In  the States  the chirop­.  ship  was  the  Bienville.  had  boarded  the  ship,  held  up  a  was  an  authorized  chiropodist  and  odists  just  shaved  them  off.  Another  Seafarer  in  drydock  in  Soon  they  were  finished,  and  it  small  chisel  about  three  inches  wanted  to look  at Tony's  feet.  New York  is Teodorico C. Cepriano,  was  time  to  pay.  Tony  knew  this  long.  /"Well  I'm  not  taking  my  shoes  an  AB  who  last  sailed  on  the  Paci­ Tony  looked.  That  was  his  first  off  for  nobody,  I  got  no  corns."  by  the  way  they added  up so  many  fic  Tide.  He  was  admitted  Octo­ mistake.  ^  "I see  in your  face that  you have  junior,  senior  callouses,  some  ber 6 with  a case of  diabetes, which  "What's  that,"  he  asked.  That  bad  feet.  Let  me  show  you,  no  corns,  a  pedicure  and  a  manicure.  Bubar  Mignano  fortunately,  is  almost  under  con­ That  price,  $15,  American.  was  his  second,  and  fatal  mistake.  money."  trol  now.  "That's robbery," Tony screamed.  The Indian started  to trim a finger­ In  Houston is  Vivian E.  Wilkerson, deck  engineer, who  tore ligaments  nail  and  soon  had  it  scraped  clean.  By  this  time  the  corn  puller  was  "Sh­h­h­h, OK, $10.  But we make  in  his  leg,  causing  a  blood  clot.  Wilkerson,  who  last  sailed  on  the  Before  Tony  knew  it,  he  was  start­ joined  by  a  partner  who  also  told  special  price  for  you.  No  speak  to  Tony he  was in  serious trouble  and  nobody  we  make  it  so  cheap."  Pacific  Carrier,  is  doing  fine  and  ing  on  a  second finger.  pleaded  to  let  them  help  him.  Much  to  his  woe,  Tony  learned  should be  out  of  the hospital  in an­ While  talking  they  had  untied  his  later that  they charged  him  double  other  week.  shoe  laces.  Tony  was  overwhelmed  the  going rate.  Also there  are Seafarers  William  LOG­A­RHYTHM:  with  the  mystery.  How  did  they  • And so it went  in Bombay. Tony's  R. Mcllveen, a  former messman  on  know  he  had  corns  and  callouses.  intentions  were  good,  his  determi­ the De Soto and James H. Hawkins,  They  told  him  he  had  junior,  nation  unfailing.  The  trouble  was  who* sailed  last  as  an  oiler  on  the  senior,  first,  second  and  third  that  his  will  power  was  just  too  Wild  Ranger.  Mcllveen  had  a  degree  callousus,  and  each  one  weak.  blood  clot  in  his  leg and  will  be  in  .  By  Bobby  Winters.  the hospital for  another two  weeks,  as  will  Hawkins,  who  is  suffering  Sometimes  to  meet  head­on.  ­by Seafarer  "Red"  Fink  Cepriano  Wilkerson  from  a  herna.  Nurtured  by hatred  and  venom ...  The  following  is  the  latest  available  listing  of  Seafarers  in  the  vari­ The^ elements  they  so alarm.  ous  PHS  phospitals.  If  you  are  in  port,  take  time  out  for  a  visit  to  any  of  your  former  shiprhates  who  are  laid  up,  or  else  drop  them  When  affability  and  peacefulness  Could  permeate  the  air.  a  line.  It  will  certainly  be  welcomed  by  them.  Why  all  this  hostility  and  ques­ MT.  WILSON  STATE  HOSP.  USPHS  HOSPITAL  BALTIMORE,  MD.  BALTIMORE,  MD.  tioning?  Crossed  Signals  'Sea Spray'  GoUy  ggg*  Joseph  Kalata  Henry  Adams  George  Baker  Jr.  Elmer  King  Stephen  Bergeria  James  King  George  T.  Butera  William  Lang  Francisco  C.­issasco  Marion  Luksa  James  Macunchuck  Donald  Catlin  David  MiUer  Charles  Cawley  Johan  Nordstrom  Francis,  Chase  George  Richardson  Jeff  Davis  Edward  Scherzer  John  Dixon  Anthony  Pinchook  Ira  W.  Eminizer  Clark  Waldron  Eddie  Game  Bruce  Webb  Gorman  Glaze  George  Williams  David  Hebert  Chester  Wilson  Charles  Hooper  USPHS  HOSPITAL  BRIGHTON.  MASS.  P.  Konstantinidis  William  MitcheU  Stavrus  Marconis  Raymond  Perry  USPHS  HOSPITAL  GALVESTON,  TEXAS  Phillip  BUboa  William  Mcllveen  James  Hawkins  James  Matthews  USPHS  HOSPITAL  NORFOLK.  VA.  Philip  Adkins  Peter  Raptakis  Henning  Bjork  Robert  Rhea  James  Black  Samuel  Warren  Francis  Boner  Robert  Wiseman  Allen  Burke  USPHS  HOSPITAL  SAN  FRANCISCO.  CALIF.  Mack  Acosta  Edward  Huizenga  Charles  Fishel  Richard  Kohls  Charles  Harris  Joseph  Neubauer  USPHS  HOSPITAL  SAVANNAH,  GA.  John  M.  Power  Ernest  Webb  USPHS  HOSPITAL  SEATTLE.  WASH.  Joseph  Barron  John  L.  Millner  John  Brady  Louis  W.  Pepper  Leonard  W.  Leidig  Joseph  Prabech  USPHS  HOSPITAL  FT.  WORTH,  TEXi^S  Richard  Appleby  Max  Olson  B.  F.  Deibler  Leo  Watts  Woodrow  Meyers  Joseph  Wise  Albert  Ogletree  Shorthanded?  If  a  crewmember  quits  while  a  ship  is  in  port,  delegates  are  asked  to  contact  the  hall  immediately  for  a  replace­ ment.  Fast  action  on  their  part  will  keep  all  jobs  aboard  ship  filled  at  all  times  and  elimi­ nate  the  chance  of  the  ship  sailing  shorthanded.  George  Davis  SAILOR  SNUG  HARBOR  STATEN  ISLAND.  NY  Victor  B.  Cooper  Thpmas  Isaksen  VA  HOSPITAL  TUCSON,  ARIZONA  Frank  Mackey  VA  HOSPITAL  HOUSTON.  TEXAS  Raymond  Arsenault  VA  HOSPITAL  KECOUGHTAN.  VA.  Joseph  Gill  TRIBORO  HOSPITAL  JAMAICA.  LI,  NY  James  RusseU  US  SOLDIERS  HOME  HOSPITAL  WASHI>}GTON,  DC  William  Thomson  VA  HOSPITAL  CENTER  HOT  SPRINGS  SO.  DAKOTA  Clifford  Womack  USPHS­HOSPITAL  STATEN  ISLAND.  NY  Ivar  Anderson  D.  Kambanos  George  Berry  Alford  Keenura  Thomas  Bubar  John  Lefco  Arthur  Camara  John  Metsnit  George  Champlin  Robert  Nielsen  Diego  Cordero  Joseph  Puglisi  Henry  Cordes  Raymond  Reddick  Claude  Davis  Emeterlo  Rivera  P.  DeJesus  John  Roberts  Brigido  Figueroa  Jose  Rodriguez  Michael  Filosa  Frank  Rossi  Milton  Flynn  Manuel  Sanchez  Eugene  Hall  Tadashi  Yatogo  USPHS  HOSPITAL  MANHATTAN  BEACH  BROOKLYN,  NY  Matthew  Bruno  Thomas  Lehay  G.  Caraballo  Leo  Mannaugh  Leo  V.  Carreon  Primitivo  Muse  Joseph  Cox  Jeremiah  O'Byrne  John  Driscoll  George  Phifer  OtU  Gibbs  Aimer  Vickers  Bart  Guranick  R.  Waterfleld  Taib  Hassan  Luther  Wing  Joseph  Ifsits  Pon  Wing  WiUiam  Kenny  USPHS  HOSPITAL  NEW  ORLEANS,  LA.  Sidney  Anderson  Edward  Knapp  Salvador  Blanco  Leo  Lang  Roderick  Brooks  J.  McCiarence  Serando  J.  Canales  Henry  McKay  Melvin  Chilton  Fred  Morris  Js.  Paul  Cook  William  Nelson  Benjamin  Foster  James  Norlleet  Roy  Gallagher  John  Pennell  Salvatore  Gentile  Eugene  Plahn  James  Glisson  John  Psilos  Earl  Hardeman  Aubry  Sargent  Wade  HarreU  Paul  Signorino  Sidney  Irby  David  Williams  Edward  Jeanfreau  Salvatore  Zammlth  Jesse  Joy  Like  a  leopard  in its  lair.  Caged  and  ready  to spring  out.  With  venom  in  its  claios  . . .  When  some  definite  persuasion  Could  bring  foy  to  peoples  hearts.  Why  smear  good  intentions.  Arid  willingness  to  serve?  We  all  of  us  have  our  desires  and  worth.  Let  there  be  good  will  And  peace  on  earth.  I  hope  Mr.  Khrushchev  returns  to  Russia  With  much  faith  and  humility.  For  our  country  and  our  way  of  life.  Forgive  «s  our  transgressions  And  ill  will  in  countries  every­ where,  For  the  lion  could  leave  its  cage  And  cause  tumult  in  countries  everywhere.  • ppivK  "Damn bird is  always embarrassing  me when  I've got  company."  Life Jackets Plug  Cracks  On Steel Maker  Intake Pipe  STEEL  MAKER,  at  sea—Sometimes  life­jackets  can  ba  "life­sayers" even if your not overboard or just plain floating  around in the middle qf a chop ?y sea.  That's what the engine gang  it  was  plugged  and  they  could  and deck crew of  the Isthmian  till  get  things  under  control.  This  Lines' Steel  Maker  found  out  makes  one  of  the  few  times  that  when  the  vessels'  circulating  in­ take  pipe  cracked  about  12  hours  out  of  the  port  of  Baltimore.  Then  the  engine  gang.  Bosun  Ruffes and  deck maintainance  men  Johnston  and  Reinchuck  sloshed  around in  water,  up to  their necks,  for  three  hours  before  thgy  could  stop  the  leak.  jrhey  did  this  by  wrapping  life  jackets and  canvas around  the  leak  some Seafarers could  say "we  were  up  to  oiir  necks  in  trouble,"  and  really mean  what they were  saying.  All  in  all,  the  men  cdrtainly  dis­ played  a  great  deal of  resourceful­ ness  and  courage  and  doing  this  work  under  such  difficult  condi­ tions.  Life  jackets are  supposed  to  keep  people  from  sinking,  but  if  they  can  keep  a  ship  from  doing  that, so much the better.  �^  Pace  Fifteea  SEAFARERS  LOG  November  20^1959  Labor, Biz Hit Tax Proposals  SlU  BABY  ABBIVALS  WASHINGTON—Labor  and  business—^which are usually  at odds  with one  and another  —^joined  forces  in  a  common  cause at  an  Internal  Revenue  Service  hearing  in  Washington  Ail  of  the  following  SIU  families  have  received  a  $200  maternity  last  week  on  tax­deductible  dues  paid  by  their  members.  The  IRS  called  the  hearing  benefit  plus  a  $25  borfd  from  the  Union  in  the  baby^  name:  to clarify  its rules on the non­ DebVa  Lee  Chiaramonte,  born  and Mrs.  Asterio Muentes, New  Or­ deductibility  of  expenditures  *!5eptember  21,  1'959,  to  Seafarer  leans, La.  for  lobbying.  The  Government  and  Mrs.  Joseph  Chiaramonte,  XXX  contends  that  expenses  incurred  Brooklyn,  NY.  Carta  Jeanine  Larce,  born  Octo­ ber  3,  1959,  to  Se^arer  and  Mrs.  during  the  "promotion  or  defeat  Kimi  Suzanne  Johnson,  born  William  M.  Larce,  New  Orleans,  of  legislation"  can't  be  written  off  as  "business  expense,"  and  are  September  25  ,1959,  to  Seafarer  La.  therefore  non­deductible  items.  and  Mrs.  Woodrow  Johnson,  As­ XXX  toria, NY.  Robert Patrick  Lewis, born  Octo­ Or,  in  the  IRS's  terminology:  ber  5,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  Mrs.  "Dues  .  .  .  are  deductible  in  full  i  4,  i  unless  a  substantial  part  of  an  orr  Michael  John  Manen,  born  Sep­ Jesse Lewis,  Norfolk, Calif.  ganization's  activities  is  lobbying."  tember  12,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  X  X  X  Mrs.  John  Manen,  Rockport,  Tex.  Peter  Fotl  Jr.,  born  October  9,  "to  this,  AFL­CIO  counsel  Rob­ 1959,  Seafarer  and  Mrs.  Peter  D.  ert  C.  Mayer  noted  that  trade  un­ 4>  4>  i  Wanda  Ivette  Ortiz,  born  Sep­ Foti,  Bayonne,  NJ.  ions  had  been  established  for "leg­ islative  and  political  activity  on  tember  22,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  X  4"  X  •   Mrs.  Guillenno  Ortiz,  San  Juan,  Yvette  Feliciano,  born  May  19,  one  hand  and  collective  bargain­ PR.  1959,  to  Seafarer  and.Mrs.  Julio  ing  on  the  other"  to  improve  con­ Feliciano,  New  York  City.  ditions  under  which  people  work  t '  4,  4i  Carolyn  Gregg  Price,  bom  July  and  live.  XXX.  18,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  Mrs.  Charles  Kenneth  Neumann  Jr.,  The  AFLrCIO  regards  the  move  Thomas  R.  Price,  Baltimore,  Md.  bora  October  8,  1959,  to  Seafarer  as  an  attempt  to'  hamper  union  and  Mrs..  Charles  K.  Neumann,  activities  in  the  legislative  and  .  %  ^  ^  ..Catherine  Ann  Smith,  born  Long  Island  City,  NY.  political  arena.  August  26,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  XXX  Members  Might  Quit  Mrs.  William  R.  Smith,  BalUmore,  Dana  Arthur  Paradise,  born  Oc­ Many  speakers  from  community  Md.  tober 5,  1959,  to Seafarer  and  Mrs.  groups  admitted  that  if  dues  be­ Leo  Paradise,  Swansea,  Mass.  4>  4"  t  come  non­deductible,  members  Domlnick Trevisano Jr., born  Oc­ X  X  X  may  become  non­existent.  Juan Rodriguez Jr., born  October  tober 22,1959, to Seafarer and Mrs.  At  present,  however,  there  are  Dominick Trevisano,  Brooklyn, NY.  16, 1959,  to Seafarer and  Mrs. Juan  five  bills  pending  in  Congress  Rodriguez,  Galveston,  Tex.  X  i,  X  • :  ^  which  will change  the  tax  rules on  Craig John  Wilcox, born October  XXX  26,  1959,  to Seafarer  and  Mrs.  Earl  Tomas  Romero,  born  September  non­deductible  lobbying  expenses.  Paul  Wilcox,  Edgewater,  NJ.  9,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  Mrs.  Jose  It  should  be  pointed  out  that  even  if  the  IRS  ruling  becomes  Luz  Romero,  Houston,  Tex.  XXX  official.  Union  members  would  Cecilia  Marchelle  Myers,  born  XXX  October  14,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  Denlse  Arlene  Warden,  born  Oc­ have  to  disallow  only  a  tiny  por­ Mrs. James  Thomas Myers,  Mobile,  tober 4,  1959,  to Seafarer  and  Mrs.  tion  of  their  annual  dues  at  tax­ Richard  Warden, So.  Portland.  paying  time.  Ala.  i­  .  i  XXX  Donald  John  Blakeslee,  bom  September  23,  1959,  to  Seafarer  and  Mrs.  William  A.  Blakeslee,  Pinellas Park,  Fla.  XXX  Asterio and Carlos Muentes, born  September  10,  1959,  to  Seafarer  EVERY  i  SUNDAY  I DIRECT  VOICE  ^  I BROADCAST  Urge Sfcrfe  Dep't To Hit  Sea Unions  (Continued  from  page  3)  doubtedly  been  heightened  by  de­ velopments  in  Athens  last  month  where  the  International  Transport­ workers  Federation  won  approval,  in  'principle,  from  Greek  ship­ owners  that  unions  in  the  country  where  actual  control  of  a  vessel  is  vested are the  ones who have rights  to  organize  such  ships.  The  Greek  shipowners  Involved  operate  numerous  American­con­ trolled  ships  under  the  runaway  flags.  It  was  also  agreed  that  the  Gjr^ek  ,  Seamen's  Union  would  terminate  agreements  it  has  with  runaway  ships  controlled  by  the  Orion  Shipping  agency  of  New  York,  in  line  with  the  above,  leav­ ing the  Orion ships  open to. Ameri­ can  upion  organbing.  jAmbng  the  various  cases  now  pending  before  the  Labor  Board,  the  KfLRB  New  Orleans  regional  office  is  now  investigating  unfair  labor  charges  made  by  the  SIU  against the owners  of  the Sea Level  charging  discrimination  against  Cuban  seamen  who  signed  SIU  pledges.  In  the  SS  Florida  case,  an  NLRB field  examiner  has  ordered,  the  owners  to  reinstate  eight  discharged  crew  members  and to  bargain wjth  the SIU,  while  in  Hhe  Yarmouth  situation,  the  NLRB  has  agreed  to  hear  the  tihion's argument  that it  has  juris­ diction  over  that  ship.  Anothei'  pending  case  involves  the  Marine  Cooks  and  Stewards  Union.  Here  the  US  Supreme  Court  has  agreed  to. review  lower  court  decisions  which  halted  the  picketing  of the  Liberieh­flag  ves­ sel  .In  Tacomd,  Washfihgton,.  in  June,  1957.  •   I  I  Many  Payoffs Tftis Week  To Brighten N'  Orleans  NEW  ORLEANS—With  the  expected  arrival  and  payoffs  of  11 ships in a week  or so,  the outlook  is bright for shipping  from  this  Gulf  port.  ­tt  Brother C, J. "Buck" Steph­ ens," acting port agent,  reports  that after the first of  the year,  Mississippi  passenger  ships  will  go  on  a  new schedule.  Instead  of  sail­ ing  on  Fridays  for  Texas  ports,  returning  Tuesday  and  leaving  again  on  Thursdays  for  the  Lone  Star  State,  the  ships  will  depart  Monday  evenings at  6  PM  and  sail  southward from  Houston on  Thurs­ days.  In  light  of  an  upcoming  state  election  which  is  expected  to  have  great bearing  on  labor activities  in  Louisiana,  the  membership  here  went  on  record  to  support  candi­ dates  who  will  aid  the  cause  of  labor.  Ships  that  paid  off  during  the  past  two  weeks  were:  Alcoa  Planter  and  Alcoa  Pilgrim  (Alcoa);  Del  Sud  and  Del  Rio  (Miss.);  Lucile  Bloomfield  (Bloomfield);  Hastings  (Waterman);  and  Maxton  (Transocean  Pet.).  Signing  on  were:  Alcoa  Planter,  Alcoa  Pilgrim  (Alcoa);  Del  Sud  (Miss.);  Antinous,  Wild  Ranger  (Waterman);  Ames Victory  (Victory  Carr.);  and  Producer  (Marine  Car­ riers).  In  transit  were:  Alcoa  Corsair,  Alcoa  Ranger  (twice),  Alcoa  Cava­ lier,  Alcoa  Roamer,  Alcoa  Clipper  (Alcoa); Seatrain  Louisiana  (twice),  Seatrain  New  Jersey,  Seatrain  Georgia (Seatrain); Del Sud  (Miss.);  Elizabeth,  Kathryn,  Edith,  Frances  (Bull);  Steel  Navigator  (Isthmian);  Warrior,  Monarch  of  the  Seas,  De  Soto,  Claiborne,  La  Salle  (Water­ man);  Atlantis  (Petrol  Shipping);  Gateway  City  (twice),  Raphael  Semmes  (Pan  Atlantic);  Ames  Vic­ tory,  and  Longview  Victory  (Vic­ tory  Carriers).  TO SHIPS  IN ATLANTIC EUROPEAN  AND  SOUTH  AMERICAN  WATERS  MTD'  "THE VOICE OF THE  Ray  "Blackle"  Petera  Please  contact  Gloria  E.  Peters,  Main  Street,  East  Falmouth,  Mass.  Tel.  KImbal  8­2209  (East  Fal­ mouth).  Anybody  having  informa­ tion  as  to  his  whereabouts  con­ tact  the  above.  Giles Glendenning  '  Please  contact  your  mother  at  her  new  address:  4212  Groveland  Ave.,  Baltimore • 1  5,  Md.  James  Rogerson  Important  you  contact  Mrs.  Gwen Webb.  25 S.  Exeter St., Balti­ more,  Md.  Phone  EAstern  7­9357.  Berkey  Schuler  Please  contact  Alba  Black,  141  East  3d  St.,  New  York  9,  NY.  E.  Clyde  Barnhill  Please  contact  your  brother,  Emerson  Lee,  OX  7­9864,  or  go  to  Tommy's  house  next  time  you're  in  Houston.  Nunzio  La  Plaza  Please  contact  your  wife  at  173  Banta  Ave.,  Garfield,­NX,.  Marion  B.  Mallia  Please  contact  your  wife  at  4319  Alice  St.,  Houston  21,  Tex.  Frederick B.  Neely  Anybody  knowing  his  , where­ abouts  contact  Mrs.  Ernestine  Neely, 7  South 3rd Street,  Prichard,  Ala.  Frank Lego  Helen  Wilse  is  trying  to  locate  you.  Contact  her  at  Jaka  Ham  Co.,  Inc.,  99  Hudson  Street,  New  York  13,  NY.  Robert Hussey  Contact  John  Swoboda.  Impor­ tant.  EVERY  SUNDAY,  1620  GMT  (11:20  EST  Sunday)  WFK­39.  19850  KCa  Ships  in  Caribbean,  East  Coast  of  South  America,  South  Atlan­ tic  and  East  Coast  of  United  States.  WFL­6S,  15850  KCa  Ships  in  Gulf  of  Mexico,  Carib­ bean,  West  Coast  of  South  America,  West  Coast  of  Mexico  and  US  East  Coast.  .  WFK­95,  15700  KCa  Ships  in  Mediterranean  area,  North  Atlantic,  European  and  US  East  Co^st.  Meanwhile,  MTD  'Round­The­World  Wireless Broadcasts  Continue . . .  ;  '  Every  Sunday,  1915  GMT  (2:15  PM  EST  Sunday)  WCO­13020  KCs  Europe  and  North  America.  WCO­16908.8  KCs  East  Coast  South  America  WCO­22407  KCs  West  Coast  South  America  ^4% [J.  Every  Monday,  0315  GMT  (10:15  PM  EST  Sunday)  mm 25­15607  KCs  Australia  WMM  81­11037.5  Northwest­Pacific  MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT  The  deaths of  the following  Sea­ farers  have  been  reported  to  the  SIU  Welfare  Plan  and  the  death  benefit,  has  been  paid  to  their  beneficiaries:  Pedro Claudio,  54. Brother  Clau­ dio died of heart  disease on Novem­ ber  11,  1959.  He  was  buried  at  St.  Michaels  Ceme­ tery,  Astoria,  Long  Island,  NY.  Brother  Claudio  was  a  member  of  the  engine  de­ partment  and  joined  the  Union  in 1943.  He is sur­ vived  by  his  wife,  Eleanor,  df  The  Bronx,  NY.  4  3^  4  William  J.  Davis,  51.  Brother  Davis  died  in  a  drowning  accident  on  October  12,  1959,  in  the  Mis­ sissippi  River  at  Canal  Street.  He  was  buried in  the  Garden of  Memo­;  ries  Cemetery  in  Louisiana.  Brother  Davis  was  a  Bteward  and  !  joined  the  Union  in  1941,  He. Is  survived .by  .his ^  sister,  Madelihs: 'Cbenivert,  of  New  Orleans,  Lk..  ­ 1  MATES 4T TWe SKJScm  ,4*47  SWAP  THEPkSHTSONTV.  WHW LOW PRICES  WBlCcmMBREAf  YOJ/eowW PLACE.  OynNEQAtOOPERAIEO  BYTMb  mUNlOM­A^AR  V'j­ rr­JJtdV.:': :•  •   ^1  �Vol. XXI  No. 24  SEAFARERS^LOG  Nov. 20.  195f  OFFICIAL  ORGAN  OP  THE  SEAFARBK^  INTERNATIONAL  UNION • ATLANTIC AND  GULP  DISTRICT • AFL.CIO    •   US Ship Haulage  Of  Farm Surplus  Expected To Hise  Man­Made 'North Star'  WASHINGTON—Prospects  of  an  increased  farm  surplus  shipment  program  are  in  the  offing  as  a  result  of  a  record  harvest  of  farm  products  in  1959.  The corn crop is  the largest  on  record,  far  exceeding  that  and  gifts  of  surplus  abroad,  the  expansion  of  farm  production  has  of  any  previous  year,  and  left  the  Government  with  more  other  staples  such  as  wheat,  soy­ surplus  of  some  commodities  than  beans,  dairy  products  and  cheese  when  the  program  started.  The  are  also  being  produced  in  record  implication  is  that  the  farm  sur­ plus  shipments  abroad  will  con­ or  near­record  nuantities.  As  a  result,  the  Government  tinue for  a  number  of  years  on'an  faces  the  prospect  of  having  about  increased  scale.  $10  billion  worth  of  surplus  in  Agriculture  Secretary  Ezra  Taft  storage  by  the  time  all  the  crops  Benson  has  already  indicated  that  he  would  seek  authority to expand  arc  in.  food  distribution  overseas.  The  only  way  to  get  rid  of  the  embarassment  of  riches  is  to  ship  The  farm  surplus  cargoes  have  it  overseas,  and  the  only  way  to  been the  mainstay of  the American  do  that "is  either  to  give  the  food  tramp fleet,  particularly  with  the  away  or  "sell"  it  under  extremely  decline  in  foreign  aid  and  military  aid  appropriations.  Many  tankers  generous  terms.  and  regular  cargo  liners  have  also  At  present,  the  US  is  sending  farm  surplus  abroad  at  the  rate  of  been  participating  in  the  program  $1.5  billion  worth  each  year,  half  which  has  supplied  huge  quanti­ Official  Navy  photo  shows  unidentified  officers  with  navigation  of  which  is  shipped  on  American­ ties of  food and fiber  lo such coun­ satellite.  When  placed  in  orbit,  these  satellites  will  enable  any  tries  as  India,  Korea,  Turkey,  flag vessels  under  the "50­50"  law.  ship  at sea  to fix its  exact position,via  radio signals  received from  Spain,  Poland  and  other  under­ Up  until  this  year,  the  program  developed  areas.  the orbiting navigation aid.  had  been  renewed  from  year  to  year,  starting  off  as  $750  million  worth of  sales in 1954  and doubling  in size  as time  went  by.  Last  year,  a  study  by  special  advisors  to  the  President  recommended  a five­ SACRAMENTO,  Calif,—Governor  Edmund G. Brown of  California, has offered strong  year  long­range  effort  to  dispose  of  the  surplus.  Congress,  after re­ support  to  the  fight  of  the  SlU­affiliated  Cannery  Workers  Union  of  the  Pacific  against  ceiving  the  proposal,  voted  a  two­ runaway canneries.  year  program  at  $1.5  billion  an­ In  a  telegram  sent  to  Mrs.  America  vice­president,  represent­ the  runaways  is Puerto  Rico.  Re­ nually.  Andrea  Gomez,  union  presi­ ing  the  Cannery  Workers  Union  cently a  number  of  canneries have  However, despite  the heavy  sales  dent,  Gov. Brown said,  "Your  was  recently  invited  to  Puerto  opened  there,  and  Mrs.  Gomez  program  of  resisting  runaway  can­ Rico  by  the  island's  labor  depart­ charged  them  with  being  run­ neries  has  my  wholehearted  sup­ ment  to  survey  the  canning­situa­ aways.  Puerto  Rico  has  a,new  de­ velopment  program  which  induces  port.  We  must  keep  our  fishing  tion.  and  canning  industries  healthy  During  the  past  few  years,  can­ new  industries  to  set  up  there,  and expanding  along  with all  other  nery  workers  in  Southern  Califor­ with  sizable  tax  reductions  and  industry  to  provide  jobs  for  our  nia  have  been  fighting  the  prob­ concessions  for  a  ten  year  period.  lem of  runaway operations.  But  the  industries  are  supposed  own. people.  "We  cannot  afford  to  sit  idly  One  example  of  a  runaway  is  to  be  new enterprises  and not  run­ by,"  he  continued,  "while  any  in­ the  Van  Camp  company,  a  leading  aways  seeking  the  tax  concessions.  dustry  moves  to  areas  of  low  tuna  packer.  It  has  established  a  Mrs.  Gomez  said  that  she  is  con­ Time  is  short  for  Seafarers  and  wages  and  poor  working  condi­ large  operation  In  American  Sa­ fident  that  if  she  establishes  that  their  dependents  to  file  all  of  the  tions.  Good  businessmen  know  moa,  where  the  mainland  $1  an  any  of  the  plants  are,  in  actuality,  papers necessary  to compete  for an  that  business  thrives  most  in  a  hour minimum  wage scale  does not  runaways,  the  Puerto  Rico  au­ SIU  scholarship.  Welfare  Plan rep­ healthy  economy  where  employees  apply.  In  ..California,  unionized  thorities  will  take  steps  to  with­ resentatives have warned.  Although  are  able  to  maintain  a  high  stand­ plants average  $2.50 an  hour.  draw  tax  exemptions  granted  the scholarship committee  does not  ard  of  living."  The  latest  stamping  ground  for  these  cgmpanies.  meet  until  next  May,  applications  The  governor  also  congratulated  for  the  five  $6,000  scholarships  her  on  her  recent  election  to  the  must  take  the  college  entrance  ex­ presidency  of  the  cannery  union.  amination  and  submit  the  results  She  had  formerly  been  the  busi­ with  their  papers.  ness  representative.  Qualifications  for  the  scholar­ Mrs.  Gomez,  an  SIU'  of  North  ships are  three years' seatime,  with  one  day  in  the  last  180,  and  90  days in  the  previous calendar  year  The  college  entrance  examination  With  the full impact  of  the Landrum­Griffin' amendments  is  given every  month,  the  commit­,  to  the Taft­Hartley  Act  taking  effect  on  Friday,  November  tee  advised,  with  the  last  one  be­ fore  the  committee's  May  meeting  13,  both  the  unions and  the  Government  agencies  involved  being  on  March  12,  1960.  Appli­ SIU  membership  meet­ are  still  scratching  their  col­"^  cants  must  file  for  this  examina­ ings  are  held  regularly  lective  heads  attempting  to  ing the  provisions of  this'act," The  tion  about  a  month  ahead  of  time.  involved,  15,000  words  every  two  weeks  on  Wed­ figure  out  just  what  the  law  provisions  A  select  committee  of  college  in all, will  be published  in the next  and university  deans and registrars  nesday  nights  at  7  PM  in  means.  issue  of  the SEAFARERS  LOG,  at  will  pick  the  five  winners  of  the  all  SIU  ports.  One  effect  of  the  new  law  is  a  considerable  added  expense.  All  Sea­ Union's  scholarships.  Although  already  clear—it  is  going  to  in­ In addition to bonding and  print­ there  was a  total  of  17  applications  farers  ore  expected  to  volve  a  considerable  increase  iQ  ing  costs,  many  unions  will  have  filed  so  far,  16  of  them  are  as  yet  attend;  those  who  wish  to  union  operating expense  to comply  to revise and reprint their constitd­ incomplete.  be excused  should  request  with  the law.  For example,  the  bill  tions  and  by­laws  and  some  small  Further information on the SIU's  requires  Individual  bonds  for  all  local  unions  will  have  to  draft  up  scholarship  program  may  be  ob­ permission  by  telegram  union  officials  up  to  a  fixed  per­ constitutions.  Lawyers fees  are  ex­ tained  from  the  Seafarers  Wel­ (be  sure  to  include  regis­ centage  of  the  union's  assets.  Pre­ pected  to  mount  considerably  for  fare Plan,  11 Broadway,  New York.  tration  number).  The  next  viously'a  blanket bond  was permit­ many unions,  to meet the  many re­ SIU  meetings  will  bo2  «  ted  which  was  much  cheaper  than  quirements of  the law.  individual  bonding.  Thd  complexities  of  the Taw are  November  25  Then  the  law  requires  that  Its  such  that  the  Justice  Department  details  be  given  to  the  union's  and  the ­ Labor  Department  still  December  9  membership. Section  105 o.f  the act  haven't  been  able  to  decide  who  says,  "Every  labor  organization  handles  what  ia  the  administra­ December  23  shall inform  its members  concern­ tion  of  the act  NEWS  HEADLINES  IN  REVIEW  «  OVJNAm WMB/M SAHAfiA  lAl AlgARR/rUieB „ vTWeAHV  Ama^AfiDfi&tMAjATtcm  ?Romsn'ceeoF&/^AfiA  *  i i  A'  %(f^£L\6M<XDfOOfm  ^LBCVO//, VOIP  BSV  &URlOAlAhS> fAOOBWeS  a­  it  '  Governor Backs TunaUnlonFight  SlU College  ^IHVAVB" CANAL ­Zom,  ^oRM asmsAsa/.  it  it  it  Applications  Due Shortly  |i  I,  \i.­y­  '•   C­.  • •   SCHEDULE  OF  SIU  MEETINGS  anDvii.  yoinsm  EXPAAIDS GlOeB'­TROr  ^ZiAAfs... o?s visnp  NlUB­ to  ARS>iJ\\&RtAW CmERB,  it  i  it  Labor Measure Will Cost  Uiuons More In Expenses  SAID/A AsiDRS> MA SSf/ZA  Af 0VP3 ol eORDSH  MBMAVOIP/M& Mmor  WmtiscgiHAmn>m~  \fliu. fis&erA^fiEssa!.  ^  it  m?iw,  it ^  . ­ �"I .  v..  CONTRACT CLARIFICATIONS  ,  "  .• •  • ' ­ .• f­ .  f  ;1  J?s  •  '.3:  '• 3  ­'to.  , M  . • . •   jj  • V  It  wof  agreed  between  the  Union  and  Management  Negotiating  Committees  that  the  following  Clarifications  would  take  effect  as  of  November  4, 1959:  • r  ARTICLE  II  GENERAL  RULES  CLARIflCATION,  SECTION  10.  CUSTOMARY  DUTIES.  ^(h)  The  greasing  and  tesdng  of  reach  rods  in  cargo  holdi^,  exciting the  freeing up  or mechanized  repairs  thereto.  When  no  carpenter  is  carried  this  work  shall  be  performed  by  the  deck'  maintenance  men  without  the  payment  of  overtime.  Clarification  Section  10 regarding  AB  Maintenance  Men  is ade<  quately  covered  in  Article  III,  Section  4  (b),  and  Article  II,  ^tioii 27.  Clarification  Section  10 regarding  wipers.  Add a  new paragraph  (n)  to  Article  IV,  Section  28:  (n)  At sea, when a watchstSnder  becomes ill or injured, a W'pef  may  be assigned  to  stand  his  watches  for  which, he  shall  be  paid  his regular overtihie  rate. If  the original man  remains incapacitated  for a  period  in excess  of  three  (3)  days,  the Wiper  may  then.be  promoted and shall  receive the  differential  in pay  only.  Clarification  Section'10  regarding  Engine  Utility  is  adequately  covered  under  Article  IV,  Section  16(d).  Clarificajtion  Section  10: New  paragraph  to  be added  to Article  IV numbered  Section  36.  SECTION  36.  STANDING  SEA  WATCHES.  DAY  WORKERS.  All  other  unlicensed  personnel  in  the  engine  department  who  are  classified  as  day  workers,  excepting  Deck  Engineer,  Engine  Utility  and  Wiper,  when  required  to stand  watches  due  m a  shortage  of  unlicensed  watchstanders,  shall  be  entitled  to  overtime  for  all  watches  to  stood.  >  .  ,  •  •   •  a  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  12.  MEDICAL  RELIEF;  To  be add^  as  paragraph  (c)  of  the  contract:  ,  ;  .  (c)  Medical  relief  will  not  be  provided  except  that  which  is  available  aboard  the  vessel,  if  the  cause  of  the  illness  is  the  fault  of  the  member  of  ^e crew,  such  as  vener^l  disease,  et&  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  14.  RBPATRIATION,  UPKEEP  AND  TBANSPORTATJON,  (a):  Inrorporsted  as  second  paragraph  of  conttact  paragraph  (a).  SECTION  14.  REPATRIATION,  UPKEEP  AND  TRANSPORTATKW.  (a)  Where a crewmember  must leave  a vessel  because of  illness  or  injury  in  any  location  outside  the  continental  United  Sutes,  he  stuU  be  repatriated  at  coihrany  exprate  as  set  forth  herein,  pt  die earlietic!da«  possiblp. an^wYAncea  equalled. ;*<>  allotmenti.  If  any,  shall  continue  during  such  repatriation,  provided  he  has  'sufficient  monies  due  him  from  the  Company  to  cover  such  advances.  It  it  the  purpose  of  die  above  paragraph  to  provide  for  the  automatic  payment  of  advances—in  a  sum  equal  to  the  agreed  allotment—and  to do  this  automatically)  which  advances ­are  then  to  be  charged  against  any  claim  for  earned  or  unearned  wages.  The advances  are  to.be paid  in exactly  the same  time and  manner  and  to  the  same person  or  persons  that  the allotment  would  have  been paid  had  not illness  or  injury taken  place. The  term "repatri­ ation"  refers  to  the  entire  period  for  which  unearned  wages  are  due,  and  "advances"  are  to  be  made  during  the  entire  period,  except  in  those  cases  where  the  law  sanctions  a  refusal  to  pay  unearned  wages  (which can  be  established  under  law  to  be gross  negligence, willful  miscondua, etc).  If  repatriated  on a  vessel  of  the company,  he shall  be signed  on  as a  non­working  workaway.  If  repatriated  on  a  vessel  of  another  company,  he  shall  be  given  not  less  than  second  class­  passage.  In  the  event  he  is  given  less  than  second  class  passage  on  a  vessel  of  another  company,  be  shall  be  given  the  cash  difference  between  the  passage  afforded  and  second  class  passage.  The  seaman  shall  have  the  option  of  accepting  repatriation  by  plane  • i  f  such  transportation  is  offered.  Repatriation  under  this  section  shall  be  back  to the  original  Port of  Engagement.  (b)  In the  event a crew  member miist.leave  a vessel  because of  illness  or  injury  incurred  in  the  service  of  such  vessel  while  in  a  location  within­ the  continental  United­ States,  and  such  illness  or  injury  is  known  prior  to­ his  leaving,  he  shall  be  entitled  to first  class  transportation  by  rail  to  his  original  Port  of  Engagement  in  accordance  with  Article  II,  Section  59.  (c)  While  awaiting  repatriation  under  section  (a)  and  (b)  herein,  the seaman  shall  be  entitled  to  repatriation  upkeep  in  the  sum  of  $8.00  per  day  until  affhrded  transportation  as  outlined  in  said  subsections.  Such  upkeep  shall  be  paid  up  to  and  inclusive  of  the  day  he  is  afforded  the  means  of  transportation  by  which  he  is  to  be  repatriated.  The  Company  or  its  Agents  may  make  arrangements  for  meals  and  lodgings  while  the  seaman  is  await­ ing repatriation  transportation, but  in  no event  shall  these arrange­ ments  be at  a  cost  of  less  than  $8.00  per  day.  In  cases  where  regular  meals  are  not  included  in  the  trans­ portation  herein  provided  for,  the  repatriated  seaman  shall  be  paid  the sum  of  $6;00 pec  day  for  food duritig  the  transportation  period.  (d)  Where a  seaman  leaves  the  vessel  due  to  illness  or  injury  ­and  auch  illness  or. injury , has  been  Icnowii  prior  to  his  leaving.  he  shall  receive  a  full  statement  of  his  account  showing  waget  due  him.  Where  time  does  not  permit  the  statement  being  given  to  the  man  before  he  leaves  Ae  vessel  or  before  the  vessel's  departure,  the  Master  shall  promptly  advise  Ae Company's  Agent  and  the home  office of  the status  of  the man's  account at  the  time  he  left  the  vessel.  Thereafter,  when  the  seaman  presents  himself  to  the  Agent  at  the  Port  where  he  left  the  vessel,  the  maximum  allowable  pay­ ment shall  be  made  to  him  by  that  Agent.  When  the  seaman  presents  his  claim  for  wages  to  the  Agent  or  office  of  the  Company  at  the  port  of  engagement  or  to  Ae  home  office of  Ae company,  he  shall  receive  payment as  promptly  as  possible.  Failure  to  pay  the  seaman  wages  within  72  hours  exclusive  of  Saturdays,  Sundays  and  Holidays  after  presentation  of  his  claim  shall  entitle  the  seaman  to $8.00  per  day  until  the  full  wages  due  the  man  at  the  time  he  left  the  vessel  are  paid.  Clarification,  Section  14(a)  and  (b): Delete.  '  Clarification,  Seaion  14(b):  To  be  incorporated  as  paragraph  .  (e)  of  the contract  as  follows:  (e)  Original Port  of  Engagement as  used  herein shall  mean  Ae  port  in  Ae Continenal  Uni^ States  where  a  crew  member  was  first employed  on  board  the  vessel.  •   ­  •   •   CLARIFICATION, SECTION  18. EMERGENCY DUTIES  AND DRILLS  (a): Incorporated iii contract as second paragraph of  Section 18 (a)  as  follows;  In  an  emergency  such  as  the  above  paragraph  deals  wiA,  it  h  not  necessary  to  call  out  all  hands  unless  the  Master  of  the  vess^  feels Aat  it'is necessary.  ­  '  '  ;  CLARIFICA'nON, SECTION  27. IMVISION  OF  WAGES OF  ABSENT  MEMBERS:  Deleted  as  contract  clause  is  self­explanatory.  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION.  SECTION  29.  EXPLOSIVES:  Shall  be  amended  to  read  as  follows:  ­ SECTION  29.  EXPLOSIVES.  On  vessels  carrying  explosives  in  excess  of  50  long  tons  as  permitted  by  law,  Ae  Company  agrees  to  pay  each  member  of  Ae  Unlicensed  Personnel,  in  addition  tq  Aeir  regular  monthly  wage,  10%  per monA  of  such  wages  front  Ae  time  Ae  loading  of  Ae  explosive  cargo  is  started  until  th#  . explosive  cargo  is  completely  discharged.  .­.4Sw. i  �;'f.  r  darlfleatiaiia—^Pace  t  »r.v  r..'  f.';:  '  f,  •  '  • f  (.  Navembcr M,  ISIt  SEAFARERS  LOG  When  the Unlicensed  Personnel  is  required  to work  explosives  at any  time, they  shall  be  paid  for  such  work  in  addition  to their  tegular  monthly  wages  at  the  rate of  $5.00 per  hour.  For  die  purpose  of  this .agreement,  explosives  shall  consist  of  die  following  items:  ^  Nitroglycerine  '  *  Loaded  Bombs  T.N.T.  Dynamite  Poison Gases  loaded  shells  of  one  Black Powder  pound  or  over  but  not  Blasting Caps  small  arms  ammunition.  Detonating Caps  get other  data  if  possible, such  as  wMther  reports  to furdier  badp  his  decision.  When launch  service is arranged  for  by the  Company, the sdied­ ule shall be sueh that each and  every member shall  be given oppor­ tunity for a round trip as called for herein on his watch  below.  In  port  where  regular  boat service  is  not  available,  members  of  the crew  may make  their ,owh  arrangements  for  transportadon and  the  company  agrees  to  reimburse  either  the  crewmember  or  tte  owner of  the boat  up to $2.00 pet round  trip pet man  carried once  every 24 hours.  .  •   •   ' •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  41.  REST  PERIODS:  First five  clari­ CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  30.  PENALTY  CARGOES:  Shall  be  fications deleted  as  contraa  clause  is  self­explanatory.  incorporated  in  paragraph  (a)  as  follows:  Second  para^aph of  Section  41  (a)  is to  be changed  as follows,  SECTION  30.  PENALTY  CARGOES,  (S)  ^en membert­of  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  are  required  to  clean  holds  in  which  lead  and .sixth  clarification  to  be  incorporated  into  contract  as  para­ concentrates, coal, coke  or  penalty cargoes,  as specified  herein, have  graph  (d):  been  carried  they shall  be  paid  straight overtime'  for  the watch  on  SECnoN'41.  REST  PERIODS,  (a)  ^XTien  ship  is  under  port  deck  and  overtime  and  one­half  for  the  watch  below,  provided,  working  rules  and  sea  watches  have  not  been  set  and  members  of  however,  that  when  holds  have  been  cleaned  by  the  unlicensed  the  unlicensed  deck  and  engine  personnel  off  duty are  required  to  personnel after carrying penalty cargo, no overtime for cleaning will  be  ^id  for  subsequent  cleaning  of  holds  unless  another  penalty  work overtime  between  midnight and  6 a.m., they shMl  be entitled'  to one hour of  rest for each  hour actually  worked. Such  rest period  cargo  is  carried.  shall  be  given  at  any  dme  during  the  same  working  day.  The  •   •   •   rest  period  shall  be  in  addition  to cash  overtime allowed  for  such  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  31.  STANDBY  WORK:  Deleted  as  worlc  If  such  rest, period  is  not  given,  men  s^U  be  entitled  to  contraa  clause  is  self­explanatory.  ^ertime at the  regular overtime rate  in  lira  thereof. This shall  not  apply  when  sea  watches  are set  the  same "day  and  before  the  test  In first  paragraph  of  contract  put  comma  after  word  "day"  in  period  is completed.  second  line  and  delete  words  "and  board  and  lodging  are  not  (b)  On  days  of  arrival,  if  members  of  the  unlicensed  deck  or  . furnished  them  on  the  ship".  engine  personnel  off  duty  are  required  to  perform  work  between  •   •   •   midnight and 8 a.m., they shall be entitled  to 1 hour of  rest for each  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  34.  PORT  TIME:  Incorporated  in  hour  worked. If  sbch  period  of  rest  is  not  completed  at 5  pJn. of  Section  34,  paragraph  (a)  as  follows:  the same day, overtime.shall be allowed for  the incompleted  portion  SECTION  34.  PORT  TIME.  For  the  purpose  of  applying  port  of  such  rest  period.  overtime  provisions  of  this  agreement,­"port  time"  or  the  words^  (c) On  days of  deparmre, the  rest period  provision  herein shall  apply  to day  workers only.  "in  port" shall  be defined  to mean  the  following:  COMMENCEMENT  OF  PORT  TIME.  (d)  Where a  seaman  is entitled  to a  rest  period  under  the pro­ (a)  From  the  time a  vessel  is  properly  secured  to a  dock,  buoy  or  dolphins  for  the  purpose  of  loading  and/or  discharging  cargo,  visions of  Seaion  41, such  rest  period  shall  be  granted  during thd  ballast,  passengers  or  mail;  undergoing  repairs;  taking  on  fuel,  time  that  he  would  normally  be  required  to  work  in  order  to  water  or  stores;  fumigation,  lay­up;  awaiting  orders  or  berth,  complete  his  working  day.  except  when  a  vessel  is  moored  or anchored  in  or outside  the Port  •   •   »  of  San  Pedro for  the purpose  of  taking  on  bunkers.  CLARIFICATION, SECTION  42. FRESH  PROVISIONS:  Incorporated  Clarification,  Section  34.  Termination  of  Port  Time:  Deleted  in  new  paragraphs  (c)  and  (d), as  follows:  as contract  clause  is  self­explanatory.  (c)  When  a vessel  is proceeding  coastwise  between  Continental  •   •   • .  United  States  ports, a  sufficient amount  of  fresh  milk  shall  be  pro­ CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  35. SHIFTING  SHIP:  Incorporate first  vided  in  each  port.  However,  forty  (40)  gallons  of  fresh  milk  two  clarifications  into  new  paragraphs  (c)  and  (d)  of  contract,  shall  be  on  board  prior  to  departure  from  the final  port.  as  follows:  •  (d)  If  milk  is  provided  for  persons  other  than  crewmembers,  (c)  A  move from  Honolulu  to Pearl  Harbor  or vice  versa shall  then  additional  milk  must  be supplied  for such  use.  be considered a shift of  the vessel.  •   •   •   (d)  A  move  fiom  Galveston  to Houston  or  vic^. versa  shall  be  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  44.  MEAL  HOURS:  Deleted,  as  con­ tract  clause  is  self­explanatory.  considered  a  shift  of  the  vessel.  Clarification, Seaion  35  (b). Shifting Ship:  Deleted as  contract  is self­explanatory.  Section  35.  Shifting  Ship:  Add  uiider  (a):  All  moves between  ports on  the St. Lawrence  Seaway  and/or on  the Great  Lakes,  West  of  Montreal, except  those  moves  which  are  less  than  eighty  (80)  miles.  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  36.  RESTRICTION  TO  SHIP:  Incor­ porated  in  contract  by  addition  of  second  paragraph,  as  follows:  SECTION  36.  RESTRICHON  TO  SHIP.  When  a  vessel  has  been  in  a  foreign  port  where  the  crew  was  restricted  to  the  ship  and  the  Company  claims  that  this  restriction  was  enforced  by  the  government  of  the  port  visited,  the  Company  will  produce a  copy  of  the  government  restriction  order  when  the  crew  is  paid  off.  A  letter  from  the Company's  agents  will  not  be suflScient  proof  of  the existence of such  an order.  If  the Company is  unable to produce  such an  official order  from  the government  of  the country  involved  and is unable to satisfy the  Union of  the validity of  such  restriction,  the  crew  shall  be  compensated  for  haying  been  restricted  to  the  ship by  the  payment  of  overtime  for  the  period  of  the  restriction.  When  a  restriction  occurs  because  of  quarantine,  immigration  or  custom  procedure,  a  letter  from  such  government  agency  shall  suffice.  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  38.  SAILING  BOARD  TIME:  First  three  (3)  clarificauons deleted  as contract  clauses  are self­explana­ tory.  Last  clarification  to  be  incorporated  in  Article  II,  Section  38  paragraph  (e), of  contract,  as  follows:  (e)  In  the  event, after  cargo  is  aboard  or  discharged  and  ship  is ready  to  proceed,  the  full  complement  of  Unlicensed  Personnel  is  not  on  board,  no  overtime  shall  be  paid.  Full  complement,  as  used  herein,  shall  mean  the  full  complement  as  required  by  the  vessel's  inspection  certificate.  Add  new  paragraph  to  Section  38  (f), as  follows:  (f)  The overtime  prescribed  above shall  not apply  when  sailing  is delayed  on  account  of  weather,  such  as  rain,  fog,  or  any  other  condition  beyond  the  vessel's  control.  When  the above  conditions  prevail  and  it  is expected  that such  delay  will  exceed  two  (2)  hours,  the  new  time of  departure shall  be  posted  as  soon  as  possible,  but  in  no event  later  than  the time  originally  posted.  Failure  to  comply  will  invoke  penalty  provided  for, in  (d)  above.  ­ •   •  •   .  "  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  40.  LAUNCH  SERVICE:  To  be  incor­ porated  as  second  paragraph  of  contraa,  completing  Section  40  as  follows:  SECTION  40. LAUNCH SERVICE.  When a ship  is anchored  or  tied  up to a  buoy for  8 hours or  over, for  the  purpose outlined  in  Arti­ cle II, Section  34, each  member of  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  while  on his  watch  below shall  be allowed  one round  trip to shore  at  the  Company'.', expense  every  24' hours.  The  master  shall  use  his  own  judgment  and  if  in  his  opinion,  die  conditions  are  pot  safe,  he  shall  not  provide  launch  service.  However,  he  shall  as  usual  make'his  entries  in  the  log  as  to  the  weather condidons  and  advise ship's delei^te  accordingly. He shall  •   •   •   •  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  45.  MIDNIGHT  LUNCH:  Shall  be  substituted  for  contraa  clause  and  amended  as  follows:  SECTION  45. MIDNIGHT  LUNCH,  (a)  If  the crew  works  as  late  as  9 p.m.  coffee  and  night  lunch  shall  be  provided.  If  work  con­ tinues  after  9 p.m. fifteen  minutes  shall  be  allowed  for  the  coffee  and  night  lunch,  which  time  shall  be  included  as  overtime.  (b)  If  crew  starts  work  at  or  before  9  p.m.  and  works  con­ tinuous  overtime  until  midnight,  the  men  shall  be  provided  with  a hot  lunch at  midnight. If  the work  continues after  midnight one  unbroken  hour  shall  be  allowed­ for  such  hot  lunch.  If  this  un­ broken  hour  is  not  allowed  the  men  involved  shall  receive  one  hour's overtime  in  lieu  thereof,  which  shall  be  in  addition  to  the  actual  overtime  worked  during  the  hot  lunch  hour.  (c)  If  crew  is  broken  out after  9 p.m.  and  works  continuously  for  three  hours, a  hot  lunch  shall  be'provided  at the  expiration  of  the three  hours  if  the  work  is  to be  continued. Otherwise,  a  night  lunch  shall  be  provided.  An  Unbroken  hour  shall  be  allowed  for  the  hot  lunch  and  if  such  unbroken  hour  is  not  allowed  the men  shall  receive one  hour's overtime  in lieu  thereof, which  shall  be in  addition  to the  actual  overtime worked  during the  hot lunch  hour.  (d)  If  crew  works as  late as 3 a.m.. coffee  ahd  night lunch  shall­ be  provided  and  if  work  continues  after  3  a.m., fifteen  minutes  shall  be  allowed  for  coffee  and  night  lunch,  which  time  shall  be  included  as  overtime.  (e)  If  crew  works  as  late  as  6  a.m.,  coffee jhall  be  provided  and  if  work  continues  after  6  a.m., fifteen  'Minutes  shall  be  allowed  for  coffee,  which  time shall  be  included  as overtime.  (f)  When a  vessel  is scheduled  to depart at  midnight, the  mid­ night  lunch  hour  may  be shifted  one hour  either  way.  7.  ^eo standing midni^t to 8 tjn. .watdi on die mine day W  vessel  is  fumigated  shall  be entitled  to  room  allowaoitx  gardless of  when  the vessel  is cleared,  .  8.  Work  such  as  chipping,' welding,  riveting,  hammering,  or  other  work  of  a  similar  nature  is  being  performed  in or a^t*  the crew's  quarters  between  8  p.m. and  6 a.m.  ,9. iSuch  work  as  oudined  in  8 above  is  beioig  performed  in  oit  around  the  quarters  of  the  men  who  stand  donk^  watchm, .su(:Iy  men  will  be ­provided  with  other  quarters  or  room  allowance  will  be  allow^.  CLARIFICATION, SECTION  49. CREW  EQUIPMENT:  Incorporated  in  contract,  which  is  amended  a$  follows:  ' SECTION  49. CREW  EQUIPMENTI  The  following  items  shall  be  supplied the  Unlicensed Personnel employed  on board  vessels of  the  "Company:  1.  A  suitable  number  of  blankets.  2.  Bedding  consisdng  of  two  white  sheets,  one  spread,  two  white  pillow  slips,  which  shall  be  changed  weeUy.  3.  One face  towel  and  one  bath  towel  which  shall  be changed  twice  weekly.  4.  One  cake  of  sundard  f^ce  soap,  such  as  Lux,  Lifebuoy  or  Palmolive  soap,  with  each  towel  change.  5.  One box of  matches each  day.  6.  Suitable  mattresses  and  pillows  shall  be  furnished  but  hair,  straw or excelsior shall  not be suitable. As  mattresses now  on  board  wear  out,  they  shall  be  replaced  by  innerspring  mat­ tresses.  7.  All  dishes.provided  for  the  use  of  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  shall  be of  crockery.  •   8.  One cake of  laundry soap,  one cakenf  lava  soap, one boocTif  washing  powder  weekly.  >  .  9.  Sanitubes  shairbe available  for  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  at  all  times.  10.  Cots shall  be supplied  to the ctew  while in  die trqpics except  on  the new  type  passenger  vessels.  11.  Two  twelve­inch  fans shall  be fumfshed  in  forecasdes  occu­ pied  by  two or  more  unlicensed  persontiel, and  one sixteeii­ inch  fan  in  all  forecasdes  occupied  by  one  member  of , the  Unlicensed  Personnel. This shall not apply to air­conditioned  vessels.  Any  member  willfully  damaging  or  dntroying  linen  shall  be  held accountable  fbr same. 'When  full linen is  not issued,  men shall  receive $2.00 each  week  for  washing their  own  linen. The Steward  shall  not issue clean  linen to any  individual crewmember  until such  member Jias turned  in  his  soil^  lineii.  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION, SECTION  51. MESS ROOM:  Deleted' as contraa  is  self­explanatory.  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  57. "rRANSFORTATioN  AND  PAYING  OFF  PR(X:EDURE:  Incorporated  in  contract  clause  amended  as  follows:  SECTION  57. TRANSPORTATION  AND  PAYING  OFF  ^OCEDURB.  1.  (a)  Vessels  in  the  bauxite  trade or  on  foreign  voyages  shall  be  sign^  on  for  one  voyage  for  a  terth  of  time  not  exceeding  9 calendar  months.  Vessels  in  the  Far  East  trade  shall  be  sightd  on as  herein  stated  except  that  die  term  of  time  may  be  12  caleii­ dar  months.  (b)  It is also agreed  that  the Articles  shall  terminate at  the final  port  of  discharge  in  the  continental  United  States  of  America.  If  the final  port  of  discharge  is  located  in  an  area  other  than  the  area  in  the continental  United  States  in  which  is  located  the  pon  of  engagement, first­class transportation  shall  be  provided  to  only  those men  who­leave  the vessel,  plus wages  and subsistence  to port  of  engagement in continental  United States. At  the seamen's option,  cash  equivalent  of  the  actual  cost  of first  class  rail  transportation  shall  be  paid.  (c)  If  the vessel  departs from  the final port of  discharge witfaio  10  days  after  inbound  cargo  is  completely  discharged  to  retutiT  to the  area  wherein  is  located  the  port  of  engagement,  the aboVe  shall  not  apply.  (d)  For  the  purpose  of  this  Section,  the  Continental  United  States  shall  be  divided  into five  areas—^Pacific  Northwest;  Cali­ fornia;  Atlantic  Coast  Area,  North  of  Cape  Hatteras;' Atlantic  Coast  Area,  South  of  Cape  Hatteras;  and  the  Gulf  Coast  Area.  (e)  It  is  further  agreed  that  in  die  event  a  ship  returns  light  of  in  ballast  to  the continental  United  States, articles  shall  termin­ ate  at first  port  of  arrival  in  accordance  with  voyage  description  set  forth  in  the  articles,  exc'ept  that  when  the  arrival  at  the first  ^port  is  for  the  purpose  of  securing  additional  bunkers,  stores,  or  making  emergency  repairs  of  not  more  than  7  days  duration,  ardcles  shall  continue  until  the  vessel  can  proceed  to  another  continental United  States  port.  (g)  In  the  event  the  midnight  lunch  is  not  se'rved  the  men  further  agreed  that  if  within  30  days  of  signing  clear  involved  shall  be  paid  the  supper  meal  allowance  in  addition  to  of  (f). It is  the articles a  seaman  who accepted first­class railroad  transporta­ the overtime  provided  for  in paragraph  (d)  above.  tion  in  cash,  presents  himself  in  the  Company's  or  agent's  office  at  the  port  of  engagement,  he  shall  be  paid  an  amount  equal  to  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  47. CREW'S QUARTERS:  Incorporated  wages  and  subsistence  for  the  number  of  days  ordinarily  required  to travel  from  port of  signing off  back  to the  port  of  engagement.  in  contract,  under  item  (1), and  contract  amended  as  follows:  2.  (a)  Vessels making a voyage, or voyages  to Bermuda, Mexico,  SECTION  47.  CREW'S  QUARTERS.  All  quarters  assigned  for  die  use  of  the  unlicensed  personnel  are  to  be  kept  ftee  from  vermin  West  Indies,  including  Cuba,  Canada,  Newfoundland,  and/or  insofar  as  possible. This  is  to  be  accomplished  through  the  use  of  coastwise  in  any  order, either  direct  or  via  ports,  shall  be  signed  extermination  facilities  provided  by  the  Company,  or  fumigating  on  for  one  or  more  continuous  voyages  on  the  above­described­ route or  any  part thereof  and  back  to a final  port  of  discharge on  the quarters  every  six  months  with  gas.  the  Atlantic or  Gulf  Coast  of  the  continental  United  Sutes  for  a  Room  allowance  as  provided  iQ  Seaion  43  shall  be  allowed,  term  of  time  not  exceediiig  6 calendar  months:  when  (b)  When  a  vessel  is  on  domestic  articles  or' harbor  payroll  1.  Heat is  not furnished  in cold  weather. When the  outside tem­ prior  to  proceeding  on  a  foreign  voyage  a  member  of  the  Un­ licensed  Personnel shall  not be entitled  to transportation  to the  port  perature is  65 degrees  or  lower, this  provision shall  apply.  of  engagement  if  he  fails  to  make  the  foreign  voyage,  unless  the  2.  Hot water  is  not available  in crew's  washrooms  for  a  period  cdmpany  terminates  his employinent  through  no  fault  of  his  own.  of  12  or  more  consecutive  hours.  Once a crewmember has made  the initial foreign voyage  and earned  3.  Crew's quarters have been  painted and  paint is  not absolutely  transportation,  the  transportation  remains  payable  so  long  as  he  dry  and  other  suitable  quarters are  not  furnished  aboard.  pays  off  in  another  area  other  than  the  area  wherein  is  located  his  original  port  of  engagement.  ­ 4.  At all  times  when vessel  is on  dnr dock  overnight.  5.  Linra  is  not  issued  upon  men's  request  prior  to  6  p'jn. on  (c) If  the port where the articles  are finally terminated  is located  "  die day the seanian  joins die v^l.  in an  area  other  than  the area  in  the continental  United  States  io  6.  Vessel  is  being fuffli|ated  and  is  not  cleared  before  9 pjn.  ­which  is located  the  port  of  engagement, first­cla^s transpotj^iioii  A  �M,'19Sf  iftiill  be  ftovfdlSd  to  diiose  inen  cily  wfio  leaVe  die  V^KI,  plus  ^gk and subsistence  to pon of  ehgageineht in  continental  United  States.  At  the  stkfman's  option,  cash  equivalent  of  the  actual  cost  of first­class fail Wansportation  shall  be paid.  SEAFARERS  LOG  lO 'days  or less,  the'Unlicensed  Personnel  shall  be  kept on  board  at  the  regular  monthly rate  of  pay.  Ikwever, when  it  is expected  that said  vessel  will  be idle  for  a period  in  excess of  10 days,  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  may  be  r^uced  on  arrival.  Should  the  resume  service  within  10  days,  the  vessel's  Unlicensed  The  crewmemhtr  shall  be entitled  to  transporution  regardless  vessel  Personnel  who  are  entitled  to return  to  the  vessel,  shall  receive  of  the  number  of Ivoyages he  maka  once, transportation  has  been  wages,  room  and  meal  allowances  for  the  period  for  which  they  due  him  as  long lis  he  pays  off  in  an  area  other  than  an  area  Srhereiil  is locatH lUie original  port of  (engagement.  Tn  these cases  were  laid  off.  (b)  Crewmembers entitled  to return  to  the  vessel  and  who fail  ^ragraph  (d)  bebw  shall  not  apply.  to  do  so,  shall  likewise  be  entitled  to  the  above  benefits,  except  (d)  If  the vessell departs from  the final port of  discharge within  ratings  required  by  the manning  scale  prescribed  in  Article 11,  10 days after  arrival  to  return  to  the  area  wherein  is  located  the  Section not  62,  hereof.  port  of  engagement^  the  above  shall  not  apply.  Clarifleatioii*—Par* S  meal  hours  are  changed,  the  hours  of  work  shall  be  changed  ac­ cordingly,  provided  that  when  a  meal  hour  is  changed,  it  must  be  changed  for  the  entire  department.  CLARIFICATION,  SECT.ON  12.  CARPENTER'S  DUTIES:  Shall  be  incorporated  in  contract  clause,  as  follows:  SECTION  12.  CARPENTER'S  DUTIES,  (a)  Routine  duties  of  the  Carpenter  shall  include  the  following:  1.  Painting,  chipping  and  cleaning  the  windlass.  2.  Sounding  bilges,  fresh  water  and  ballast  tanks  daily.  3.  Shoring­up  cargo.  4.  Standing  by  the  windlass  when  necessary.  5.. Maintenance work  such  as  repairing locks,  installing  porthole  ^  gaskets, fixing  and  fastening  steel  lockers,  and  all  blocks.  6.  Such  other  work  as  is  customary  for  Carpenters  to perform.  (b)  No overtime shall  be paid  to members  of  the Deck  Depart­ ment who  are required  to assist  the Carpenter  during their  regular  hours.  "  (c)  When  members  of  the  Deck  Department  are  required  by  die officer­in­charge  to  perform  regular  carpenter  work  they  shall  be  paid  straight  overtime  for  their  watch  on  deck 'jmd  overtime  and  one­half  for  their  watch  below.  (d)  Routine  soundings  shall  be  taken  on  Saturdays,  Sundays  and  Holidays at  sea. Except  in an  emergency, only  members  of  the  Utilicensed  Deck  Department  shall  take  soundings  in  the  absence  of  the Carpenter  and  Boatswain.  After  5  p.m.  and  before  8  a.m.  weekdays and  on  Saturday, Sunday  or  Holidays,  they  shall  be  paid  « their  regular overtime  rate.  "(e)  When  no  Carpenter  is  carried,  the  Boatswain  shall  sund  by the  windlass^ and shall  uke soundings.  An  Able Seaman  may  be  required  to  relieve  the  Boatswain  at  the  windlass  during  regular  working  hours.  (e)  For  the  purpose  of  this  section,  the  continental  United  States shall be  divided  into five areas; Pacific  Northwest; California;  ARTICLE  m  Atlantic Coast  area,  North  of  Cape  Hatteras;  Atlantic  Coast  area,  DECK  DEPARTMENT  ^th of  Cape Hatteras;  and  the Gulf  Coast  area.  (f)  It is  further  agreed  that  if  yvithin  30 days  of  signing  clear  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  2.  DIVISION  OF  OVERTIME:  Shall  of  the articles, a  seaman  who accepted first­class rail  road  transpor­ be  iiicorporated  into  contract  clause,  which  shall  be  amended  to  tation  in  cash,  prexnts himsejf  in'the Company's  or  Agent's office  read  as  follows:  at  the  port  of  engagement,  he  shall  be  paid  an  amount  equal  to  SECTION  2.  DIVISION  OP  OVERTIME.  All  overtime  shall  be  wages  and  subsistence  for  the  number  of  days  ordinarily  required  to travel  front  port of  signing off  back  to  the  port  of  engagement.  divided as equally  as possible among  the members of  the deck crew.  In  any  event,  the  Boatswain  shall  be  allowed  to  make  as  many  (g)  It is  also agreed  that the  transportation  provisions contained  hours  overtime  as  the  high  man's  overtime  hours  in  the  Deck  herein  shall  not  apply  until  the  articles  are finally  terminated.  Department, except where  such  overtime has  been  paid  for  routine  Boatswain  shall  have  the  right  to stand  week­end  3.  Any  member  of  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  will  be  allowed  sea  watchbs. The  watch  in  turn  with  the  rest  of  the  deck  department.  If  to  pay  off  the  vessel  in  any  port  in  continental  United  States  or  gangway  he  fails  to  exercise  such  right  he  has  no  claim  for  high  man's  Puerto.  Rico  upjon  24  hours  notice  to  the  Master,  prior  to  the  overtime.  sch^uled  sailing  of  the  vessel.  In  like  manner,  the  Master  shall  be  allowed  to discharge  any  inember  of  the  Unlicensed  Personnel  If  the  Boatswain  is  required  to  work  with  and  supervise  the  upon 24  hours notice.  If  the seaman exercises  his  rights  to  be  paid  watch  on  deck  on  Saturdays, Sundays,  or  Holidays,  for  which  the  off,  as  provided  for  in  this  paragraph,  transportation  provisions  watch  on  deck  receives  additional  overtime,  he  shall  receive  the  shall  not'be  applicable.  If  the  Master  exercises  his  right  to  dis­ same  amount  of  overtime {Mr  hour  as  paid  to  a  member  of  the  char^ a  seaman  as  provided  for  in  this  paragraph,  transportation  watch  on  deck,  in  lieu  of  his  regular  overtime  rate.  (f) When  no Carpenter is  carried, driving wedges and  chipping,  provisions  shall  be  applicable.  However,  a  member may  be  dis­ When  the  Boatswain  is  working  alone,  or  with  men  on  watch  painting  or  cleaning  the  windlass, repairing  and  maintenance  of  charged  in  Puerto  Rico  for  just  cause  and  shall  not  be  entitled  ^, nansportation.  Shpuld  the  Union  object  to  the  discharge,  the  below  only,  on  Saturdays,  Sundays,  or  Holidays,  he  shall  receive  all  blocks,  shall  not  be  considered  Carpenter  work.  idattet  shall  be  handled  in  accordance  with  grievance  procedure.  the  regular  overtime  rate  prescribed.  (g)  When  the  Qrpenter  is  required  to  remove  old  paint  or  varnish  preparatory  to  repainting,  sand,  and  repaint  the  same,  he  4. ­Applicable  Operations  Regulations  shall  be  effective  on  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  6. BREAKING  WATCHES  AND  WORK  shall  be  paid  overtime  for  such  work  performed.  GAA  vessels.  IN  PORT:  Shall  be incorporated  into contract  clause, as  follows:  (h)  When  a  Carpenter  becomes  ill  or  injured, a  deck  mainter  Wages and'subsistence  under  Section  37, 1  (f), shall  be  paid  SECTION  6. BREAKING  WATCHES  AND WORK  IN  PORT,  (a)  In  nance  man  may  be  assigned  to  perform  carpenter  work  for  which  promptly and  the Company  shall  furnish  an  order  therefor  at  the  time the transporution  is paid,  which shall  be signed  by the Master  all  ports, watches  shall  be  broken  except  in  those  ports where stty  he shall be  paid  his regular  overtime  rate. If  the Carpenter  remains  of  vessel  will  not  exceed  24  hours,  then  watches  shall  run  con­ incapacitated  for  a  period  in  excess  of  three  (3)  days,  the  deck  or  Company  represenutive  and  by  the  seamen.  maintenance  man  may  then  be  promoted  and  shall  receive  the  secutively.  differential  in  pay  only.  Any  part of  a sea  watch  from  midnight  until 8  a.m., on  day  of  ;  Steamship  Company  arrival,  shall  constitute  a  complete  watch.  This  shall  not  apply  Note: The  last clarification  of  Section  12  was  incorporated  into  '  R«turn  Transportation  Rocoipt  to  men  required  for  ^ngway  watch.  When  arrival  occurs  on  a  Article  III, Section  34,  paragraph  (d).  Saturday, Sunday or  Holiday, overtime shall  only  be paid  for  hours  Name of  Vessel:  •   •   •   actually  worked  on  such  watch.  Name of  Seaman  ­  Rating:..,..  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  14.  DOCKING  AND  UNDOCKING:  (b)  In  port  when  sea  watches  are  broken,  the  hours  of  labor  Port:  Date  Deleted,  as  contract  clause  self­explanatory.  shall.be  from  8 a.m.  to  12  ntion  and  1  p.m.  to  5  p.m.,  Monday  Original  Port of  £ngagemei)t  •   •   •   '  through  Friday.  Except  as  otherwise  provided  herein,  any  work  Cash  Aiht.  Paid  Received:  outside of  these hours  or on Saturdays,  ^undays and  Holidays shall  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  15. TOPPING  OR  LOWERING  BOOMS:  be paid  for  at  the  regular  overtime  rate  for  the  respective  ratings.  Deleted,  as  applies  to  one  company  only,  and  they  have  a  letter  Vouchor  (c)  When  watches are  not  broken  in  port and  the vessel's  stay  from  Union.  Travol  Subsistenco  and  Wages  exceeds  24  hours  in  port,  overtime  shall  be  paid  for  all  watches  The  ifcarer  Z#  whose  signature  after  5 p.m. and  before 8 a.m.  after  24  hours. If  watches are  appcnn^ below  was  paid  off  the above  vessel  on  the date  indicated  stood  CLARIFICATION, SECTION  16. UNSAFE WORKING  CONDITIONS;  broken  in  a  port  after  having  been  maintained  for  a  period­of  and  is entided  to  days travel  subsistence at  per  day,  time,  Incorporate  in  contraa  clause,  as  follows:  overtime  shall  be  paid  for  all  watches  stood  between  time  atid  days wages at }  per month, less  taxes, upon  of  arrival and  breaking of  watches. This  shall  not  apply  when  the  SECTION  16.  UNSAFE  WORKING  CONDITIONS.  Working  in  pfesenution  of  satisfactory  identification  to  .rr.  ,.  crew  is being  paid  overtime for  standing  watches.  holds  into  which  cargo  is  being  loaded  or  discharged  shall  be  (Company or Agent)  •   •   •   considered  unsafe  working  conditions.  However,  this  will  not  located  at  within  thir^  (30)  days  (address)  CLARIFICATION,  SEcnoN  7.  MEN  STANDING  SEA  WATCHES:  prohibit  the cleaning  of  between­deck.spaces  while  cargo  is  being  worked  in  the  lower  cargo  holds.  (Men  working  or  watching  from  the date  of  payoff.  Delete  as  applicable  to  and  covered  in  Article  IV.  cargo  shall  not  be  included  in  this  clause.)  •   •   •   Master, or Company Represenutive  Seaman  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  10.  GANGWAY  WATCHES:  Shall  be  incorporated­into  the  contract  clause  as  follows:  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  17. CALL­BACK  TO  SHIFT  OR  HAUL  Received Pr yment  SECTION  10.  GANGWAY  WATCHES,  (a)  In  all  jwrts  when  VESSEL:  Incorporate  in  contract  clause  as  follows:  Section  57, 1  (d): Amend  by  deleting  word  "five"  preceding  vvatches  are  broken  a  gangway  watch  shall  be  maintained  at  all  SECTION  17.  CALL­BACK  TO  SHIFT  OR  HAUL  VESSEL,  (a)  ­  areas  and  insert  word  "eight"  in  lieu  thereof.  Add  after  "Gulf  times.  A  sailor  shall  be  assigned  to  maintain  this  watch  and  When  vessel  is in  port and  watches are  broken  and  men  are called  Coast  area",  the  State  of  Alaska,  the  Western  Great  Lakes  Area  ­8  hours  shall  constitute  a  watch.  No  overtime  shall  be  paid  for  back  for  shifting  ship,  after  5  p.m.  and  before  8  a.m.,  Monday  and  the Eastern  Great  Lakes  Area. The  dividing  line  between  the  these watches  on  weekdays  between  the hours of  5 p.m. and  8 a:m.  through  Friday,  they  shall  receive  a  two­hour  minimum  for  such  Western  and  Eastern  Great  Lakes  shall  be  the  Mackinac  Straits  On  day  of  arrival  sea  watches  for  men  who  are  to stand  gangway  call­back.  Bridge  and  the  Sault  Ste.  Marie  Locks.  watches  shall  be  broken  at  midnight  when  stay  of  vessel  is  to  In  the  event  the  shift  exceeds  2  hours,  the  men  shall  receive  exceed  24  hours.  Add a paragraph:  overtime for  the hours actually worked.  On  day  of  departure  sea  watches  for  men  standing  gangway  When  Hawaii  becomes  a sure  this shall  not  constitute  an  addi­ On  Saturdays,  Sundays,  and  Holidays,  the  men  shall  receive  tional  area  for  the  purpose  of  transportation,  however  seamen  watch shall be set at  midnight prior to scheduled  sailing time. Over­ a  minimum  of  4  hours  for  such  call­back.  They  may  be  turned­ time  shall  be  paid  for  watches  stood  from  midnight  to  midnight  shipped  in  Hawaii  who nre  paid  off  in  the  Continental  United  to one or  more  times  without  the  payment  of  additional  overtime,  Sutes and who are entitled  to transportation under  other provisions  on  Saturdays,  Sundays  and  Holidays.  Sailors  standing  gangway  except  where  the  time  exceeds  4  hours,  in  which  case  they  will  ­watches  shall  not  be  required  to  care  for  cargo  lights  without  of  this  contract  shall  receive  transportation  to San  Francisco.  payment  of  overtime.  Sailors  standing  gangway  watches  shall  not  be  paid  for  the  hours  actually  worked.  Amend  Section  57,  paragraph  3,  by  adding  a  sentence:  The  be  required, to do any  other  work, except  raise  or  lower  gangway,  During  such  call­back  the  men  may  be  required  to  secure  the  provisions of  this  paragraph shall  not apply  to Alaska  and Hawaii.  ensign,  tend  gangway  lights  and  gangway  ropes,  call  the  deck  vessel for  sea, but  may not  be required  to do maintenance  or  repair  •   •   •   watches  and  Steward  Department  and  turn  off  and  on  deck  light  work.  CLARIFICATION,  SECHON  58.  RETURN  TO  PORT  OF  ENGAGE­ and  anchor  light  switches.  (b)  When  men  are  called  out  to  haul  ship,  after  5  p.m.  and  MENT:  Shall  be  incorporated  in  contract,  which  is  amended  as  (b)  Gangway  watches  shall  not  be  maintained  while  ship  is  before 8 a.m.,  Monday  through  Friday,  they  shall  receive  a  2­hour  follows:  underway  during  the  shifting  of  the  vessel.  minimum  for  such  call­back.  SECTION  58.  RETURN  TO  PORT  OF  ENGAGEMENT,  (a)  In  the  In  the  event  the  haul  exceeds  2  hours,  the  men  shall  receive  (c)  The following  companies  will  be  considered  in  compliance  event a  ship of  the  Company  is  sold,  interned,  lost,  laid  up,  run  when  they  maintain  their  own  shoreside  gangway  watchmen  in  overtime  for  the  hours  actually  worked.  aground or  is Stranded  and  the crew  is  required  to leave  die vessel  only  the  ports  as  listed, below: •   On  Saturdays,  Sundays  and  Holidays,  the  men  shall  receive  the  by  reason  thereof,  the  crew  shall  be  given  transportation  back  to  minimum  of  4  hours  for  such  call­back.  ,  the  port  of  engagement  with  subsistence,  room  and  wages,  at  the  Calmar Steamship—Sparrows  Point, Philadelphia, San  Francisco.  When  hauling^ ship, if  men are  knocked  off  for less  than 1 hour  tinie  of  payoff,  as  per  Article  11,  Seaion  59.  of  this  agreement.  Isthmian  Lines—Baltimore,  Long  Beach,  Boston,  New  York,  overtime shall  be  continuous.  When  room  and  subsistence  is  not  furnished  aboard  the  vessel,  ~San  Francisco,  Philadelphia.  ,  (c)  The duty  of  men  called  for  the specific  purpose  of  shifting  foom  and  meal  allowance, will  be  paid  as  prescribed  in  Article 11,  ship  shall  be  limited  to  work  necessary  for  shifting,  and  shall  Mississippi  Shipping—New  Orleans.  Section  43,  until  crew  is  furnished  repatriation  by  train, vessel  or  not include  maintenance or  riepair  work.  commercially  operated  airplane,  equivalent  to  the equipment  of  a  Robin  Line—Boston,  Philadelphia,  New  York,  Baltimore.  regularly scheduled  airline, or in  the event such airplane transporta­ (d)  All  hands  available  shall  be  used  for  shifting  or  hauling  tion  is not  equivalent  to a regularly scheduled  airline, they  shall  be  Waterman  Steamship—New  York,  Philadelphia,  Baltimore,  vessel.  Mobile.  '  paid  the difference  in  cash.  ­•   •   •   •   (e) When  a shift  or  haul  commences at  exactly  5 p.m.  and  the  (b)  The  port  of  engagement  of  the seaman  is  the  port  in  the  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  11.  DAY  WORKERS:  Incorporated  in  meal  hour  has  been  changed  to  4  p.m.  to  5  p.m.  for  the  entire  Continental  United  Setes  where  he  was first  employed  by  the  contract  clause,  as  follows:  crew,  the  crewmembers  who  are  on  the  vessel  and  are  working  company  for  the  vessel  involved.  It  is agricxd  that  where a  seaman  not  be entitled  to  the call­back.  "Those  men  who  have  com­ SECTION  11.  DAY  WORKERS',  (a)  The  following  ratings  shkll  would  quits  and  a  replacement  is  obuined  in  the' Continenul  United  pleted  their day's  work  prior  to 5 p.m.  and  were called  back  vfould  States port,  the replacement's  port.of  engagement  shall  be  the same  be  classified  as  day  workers:  Boatswain,  Carpenter,  Storekeeper,  be entitled  to the  two­hour  call­back.  as  the  seaman  he  replaced  except  that  the  replacement  would  be  AB  Maintenance.  .  »  •   •  •   entitled so  transportation  to  his  port  of  engagement  if  the ship  is  (b)  The working  hours at sea  and  in port  for  all  men  classified  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  24.  VESSEL'S  STORES:  Incorporated  laid up and he is laid off.  as  day  workers  shall  be  from  8 a.m.  to  12  noon,  and  1 p.m.  to  in  contract  as  follows:  •   •   •   5 p.m.,  Monday  through  Friday. Any  work  performed  by  day men  CLARIFICATION,  SECTIOIJ  60.  IDLE  STATUS:  ^hall  be  incor­ outside of  these  hours  shall  be  paid  for  at  their  regular  overtime,  SECTION  24.  VESSEL'S  STORES,  (a)  Sailors  may  be  required  porated  in  contract  clause,  which  is  amended  as  follows:  to handle  Deck  stores, radio  baneries  and radio  equipment, either  rate, except  for  such  work  as  defined  in  Article 11,  Sectiott 18.  on  the  dock  or  aboard  ship  during  their  regular  hours  without  SECTION  60.  VISSSEL  IN  IPLB  SrAtris.  (a). When  a  vessel  is  (c)  When, in  accordaiice  with  Artide  II, Section  44  (c), die  paynaent  of  overtime.  Regular  hours  shall  be  from  8  aun.  to  Itu^ve in  a  United  Sutes  port  for  any  reason  for  a  periul  of  /• fVi  "  ­ 4  mi  • u  �CbcificaHmis—Pace  4  SEAFARERS  LOG  Keventber t», 19»  ' 12 noon and from  1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday ^roagh  Friday.  sails before  noon, sea  watches shall  be set  not later  than one  Kouf  ia  contract  as  paragraph  (d)' as  follows:  (d)  When  a vessel  proceeds  from  one city  to another  city utd  (b)  When  sailors  are  required  to  handle  galley  coal.  Steward  kforr scheduled departure.  or  Engine  room  stores,  either  on  the  dock  or  aboard  ship,  they  \ Sea­ watches  for  men  standi^ donkey  watches  shall  be  set  at  (always  assuming  that  the  vessel  is  under  Register  or enrollmeoc  prior  to scheduled  sailing  time.  Where  sea  watches  are~  and  a  Custom  clearance  or permit  to  proceed  is  required),  rh<iq  shall  be  paid  overtime  at  their  regular  overtime  rates  during  midnight  set at midnight and  the vessel  does not  sail  before midnight  of  the  those  cities  are  to  be  considered  two  separate' and  distinct  ports.  straight­time  hours  and  the ¥ate  of  time  and  one­half  their  over­ following  day,  overtime  shall  be  paid  for  all  time  in  excess  of  If  a Custom  cletuance or  permit to  proce^ is not  required  Ae two  time  rate  during  overtime  hours.  24  hours  after  setting  sea  watches,  in  accordance  with  the  agree­ cities  are .to  be  considered  the  same  port  for  the  purpose  of  (c)  Daily  supplies  of  provisions  to  be used  for  port  consump­ ment.  Overtime  will  be payable  to the  Firemen­Watertenders after  applying  the  overtime  provisions  of  above.  tion  shall  be  brought  aboard  by  the  sailors  during  regular  hours  the  first  24  hours  since  setting  sea  watches,  until  the  vessel  sails.  Once a  vessel pays  off  in  the port,  that port shall  be used  for  the'  '  when  required  to  do  so,  without  payment  of  overtime.  •   •   •   purpose  of  applying  the  provisions  of  paragraph  (c)  above  until  (d)  li.e officer­in­charge  shall  determine  the  number  of  sailors  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  7.  BREAKING  WATCHES:  Incorporate  such  time  as  the  vessel  makes  another  voyage  and  pays  off  in  required  for  handling  ship's  stores.  in  contract  clause  as  follows:  another  port  at  which  time  the  latter  port  shall  then become  tte  (e)  The  Company  reserves  the  right  at  any  time  to  use  shore­•   SECTION  7.  BREAKING  WATCHES.  When  a  vessel  is  in  jmrt  as  port  of  payoff,  etc.  gaogs  to handle  ship's stores.  •   • •  •   defined  in Article  II, Section  34, and  is scheduled  to remain  in port  •   •   •   twenty­four  hours  or  longer,  sea  watches  shall  be  broken.  When  CLARIFICATION,  SECTIDN  4.  WORKING  HOURS:  Incorporate  ­ CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  31.  BILGES  AND  OIL  SPILLS:  Incor­ scheduled  stay of  vessel  is less'than  twenty­four  hours, sea  watches  in contract  clause as  follows:  porate  in  contraa  clause  as  follows:  shall  be  maintained.  If  sea  patches  are  to be  broken,  they shall  be  SECTION 4. WCMIKING  HOURS.  . •   SECTION  31.  BILGES  AND  OIL  SPILLS,  (a)  When  men  are  broken  when  "Finished  with  Engine" bell  is rung.  Sea  watches  for  Steward, 8  hours  between 6:30  a.m. and  6:30 p.m.  required  to  clean  bilges,  they  shall  be  paid  straight  overtime  for  men  who  are  to  stand  donkey  watches  shall  be  broken  at  mid­ Chief  Cook, 8  a.m.  to  1  pjn.—3  pJn.  to 6  pm.  their  watch  on  deck  and  overtime  and  one­half  for  their  watch  night  on  day  of  arrival  when  stay  of  vessel  is  to  exceed  twenty­ Night Cook  and'Baker, 2 ajA.  to 10 a.ffl.  four  hours.  below.  Second Cook,  7 a.m.  to 1  p.m.—4 p.m.  to 6 p.m.  On  day  of  arrival  any  part  of  a  sea  watch  from midnight  until  (b)  When  men  are  required  to  clean  up oil  spills  on  deck  or  Third Cook, 7 am. to 1 p.m.—4 p.m.  to 6 pm.  oil  spills  on  houses,  masts  or  over  the  side,  as  a  result  of  fueling  8 a.m.  shall  constitute  a  complete  watch.  This  shall  not  apply  to  Messman,  6:30  a.m.  to  9:30  am.—10:30  am.'to.l  pm.—>  or overflow  from  tanks,  they shall  be  paid at the straight  overtime  men  who  are  to  stand  donkey  watch.  When  such  arrival  occurs  4 p.m.  to 6:30 p.m.  rate  for  their  watch  on  deck  and  overtime  and  one­half  for  their  on a Saturday,  Sunday  or Holiday,  overtime shall  only  be paid  for  Steward Utilitymaii,  7 a.m.  to 1  p.m.—4 p.m. to 6 pm.  hours actually worked  on such watch.  When watches are not  broken  watch  below.  Galley  Utility,  6:30  am.  to  10  a.m.—11  a.m.  to  I  pm.—  (c)  There  shall  be  only  one  payment  for  cleaning  up  after  in pert and  vessel's stay  exceeds  24 hours  in  port overtime  shall  be  4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.  paid  for  all  watches  stood  after  5  p.m.  and  before  8  *.m.  after  each  spill.  When  passengers  are  on  board,  the  passenger  utility's 'working  '  •   •   •   24 hours.  If  watches are  broken  in a  port  after having  been main­ hours shall  be the  same as  the messmen.  tained  for a  period  of  time,  overtime  shall  be paid  for all  watches  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  32.  TANK  CLEANING:  Incorporate  In all  ports, the  Night Cook  and  Baker shall  work on­a  Khedule  stood  between  time of  arrival  and  breaking watches.  This  shall  not  bemeen  in  contract  as  follows:  6 am.  and  6 p.m.  as  set  fonh  by  the  Steward  except  on  apply  when  the  crew  is  being  paid  overtime  for standing  watches.  SECTION  32.  TANK  CLEANING,  (a)  When  members  of  the  days  of  arrival.  'This  excludes  men  standing  donkey  watches.  crew on or  off  watch are  required  to enter any  tank  in  which  water  When meal hours are  changed for Deck  and Engine  Departments  •   •   •   is regularly  carried,  for  the  purpose  of  cleaning  or making­repairs  in accordance with  Article II,  Section 44,  the Steward  Department's  CLARIFICATION, SECTION 9.  ELBCTRiaANS:  Incorporate  in con­ working  hours  may  be  changed  accordingly  provided,  however,  therein, they  shall  be paid  straight overtime  for straight  time hours  and  overtime  and  one­half  between  the  hours  of  5  p.m.  and  tract  clause  as  item  (22), as  follows:  that  they  be  given  2  hours'  notice  prior  to  the  time  necessary  to  (22)  No overtime  is  payable  under  this  section  when  the  MG  prepare meals.  8  a.m.  weekdays,  or  on  Saturdays,  Sundays,  and  Holidays.  •   •   •   (b)  When members of  the crew  are required  to enter  tanks that  sets supply  electricity  for  the entire  vessel.  Regardless  of  the  loca­ CLARIFICATION, SECTION  5. MANNING  SCALES:  Shall be  incor.  tion  of  the  MG  sets  the  use  shall  determine  whether  or  not over­ have  contained  animal,  vegetable,  {xtroleum  oij,  or  creosotes  in­ ,  cluding  bunkers  or  molasses,  including  use  of  Butterworth  System  time is  payable. If  the MG sets  are used  to supply electricity  for the  porated  in  contract  as  follows:  When  $2.50 per  day per  passenger  is being  paid  to members  of  vessel,  no  overtime  is  payable.  If  the  MG  sets  are  not  used  for  for  the  purpose  of  cleaning  or  making  repairs  therein,  the  watch  the  Steward  Department,  there  shall  be  no  division  of  wages  as  on  deck  during  straight  time  hours  shall  be  paid  at  Ae  rates  of  entire vessel  but used  for  reasons specified  in  Article  IV, Section  9  outlined  in  Article  V,  Section  7,  because  of  the  absence  of, this  (3), overtime  shall  apply  as  specified  in  agreement.  $2.14  per  hour  for  those  ratings  receiving  a  basic  monthly  wage  •   •   •   member  in  the  Steward  Department.  of  $348.54  or  below;  $2.18  per  hour  for  those  ratings  receiving  When  the company  receives  no compensation  for a minor child  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  15.  DECK  ENGINEER:  Incorporate  $355.38  but  not more  than  $405.66 and  $2.23  per hour  for  those  then  the  $2.50  per  day  shall  not  be  applicable.  ratings  receiving  $413.47  or  above.  On  Saturdays,  Sundays,  and  in  paragraph  (a)  of  contract  clause  as  follows:  •   •   •   SECnoN  15.  t>ECK  ENGINEER,  (a)  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Holidays  or  between  the  hours  of  5  p.m.  Aid  8  a.m.,  weekdays,  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  8.  ROUTINE  WORK:  Incorporated  the  rates  for such  work  shall  be  $4.28;  $4.36 and  $4.46 per  hour  Deck  Engineer  to  oil  and  maintain  winches  and  do  maintenance  respectively,  dependent  upon  the  monthly  wage  ranges  specified  and repair  work  to deck  machinery  and  deck  piping, and  wl^en  no  in  contract  as  follows:  SECTION  8.  ROUTINE  WORK,  (a)  The  regular  routine  duties  Electrician  is  carried  he  may  be  required  to  care  for  lights,  fuses  above.  Three hours  overtime  at the  rate of  $2.14; $2.18  and  $2.23 per  and overhaul  electric fans. This  will not  include mast  lights, naviga­ laid  out  below  shajl  be  carried  out  within  the  scheduled  woikiog^  "  hour  respectively,  dependent  upon  the  monthly  wage  ranges  speci­ tion  lights  and  cargo  lights  permanently  installed.  Lifeboat motors  hours  as  specified  above  and  it  shall 'be  the  duty  of  the  Steward  fied  above, shall  be paid  for  this  work  in addition  to  the overtime  are  not  to  be  considered  as  deck  machinery.  The  Deck  Engineer  Department  to organize  its  work  so  that  it is  accomplished  within  actually  worked,  provided  however,  that  these  three  (3)  hours  shall not  be required  to work  on any  electric motors such  as refrig­ the  eight  hours  per  day  as  scheduled  in  this  agreement.  Routine  duties  of  the  Steward  Department  shall  be  to  prepare  and  serve  overtime  shall  be  paid  only  once  when  tanks are  being  cleaned on  erator  motors,  etc.,  without  the  payment  of  overtime.  the  meals.  They  shall  also  clean  and  maintain,  including  spot  consecutive  working  days.  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  17.  OILERS­DIESEL:  Delete.  Add  sougeeing  and  polishing  woodwork,  the  quarters  of  the  licensed  •   •   •   a  new  section  37  in  Article  LV  by  putting  in Article  111, Seaion  personnel, the  Radio Officers,  the Pursers, Passengers  and  the ship's  CLARIFICATION,  SECTTON  33.  CLEANING  STEERING  ENGIN^:  17, as amended.  office,  all  dining rooms,  messrooms,  washrooms,  galley  and  pantry.  Shall  be  incorporated  in  contract  clause  as  follows:  •   •   •   They  shall  sort  and  cull  fruit  and  vegetables.  Unless  otherwise"  SECTION  33.  CLEANING  STEERING  ENGINE.  When  sailors  on  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  18.  OILERS  ON  SEA  WATCHES—  specified  in  this  agreement  no  overtime  applies  to  ^ above  pr  off  watch  are  required  to  clean  steering  engine  or  steering  STEAM:  Deleted  and  letters  to  companies  involved.  routine  work.  engine  bed,  they  shall  be  paid  overtime  for  such  work.  However,  .Add  a  new  paragraph  (g)  as follows:  (b)  The  Steward  Department  shall  not  be  requited  to  do any  sailors  may  be  required  to  clean  and  paint  steering  engine  room  (g)  In port  when sea  watches are  maintained and  cargo is  being  work  in  the Radio  Shack  without  the payment  of  overtime.  and  grease  tiller  chains  while  on  watch  during  straight­time  hours  work^ after 5  pjn. and  before 8  a.m. Monday  through Friday,  the  (c)  It shall  be  routitie  duties  for  the  Steward  Utility  to count  without  the  payment  of  overtime.  oiler  on  watch  shall  be  paid  overtime  in  accordance  with  Article  and  bag  linen,  work  in  storerooms,  linen  lockers,  toilets  and  •   •   •   IV, Section  29, of  the agreement.  Steward  Department enclosed  passageways and  do general  cleaning  •   •   •   CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  34.  ADDITIONAL  WORK:  Incor­ within  his  8  hours as  directed  by  the Steward.  porate  in  contract  and  amend  as  follows:  CLARIFICATION, SECTION  19. OILERS ON  DAY WORK—STEAM:  (d)  Where  the Saloon  Messmen are  required  to wax  and  polish  decks,  it  shalF  be  among  their  routine  duties  to  maintain  same  SECTION  34.  ADDITIONAL  WORK,  (a)  In  all  ports,  members  .  Incorporate  into  contract  clause as  follows:  SECTION  19. OILERS  ON DAY  WORK—STEAM. Tliey  shall assist  daily.  When  he  is  required  to  remove  old  wax  preparatory  to  of  the  Deck  Department  may  be  required  to  chip,  sougee,  scale,  prime  and  paint  the  vessel  over  the  sides.  the  enginers  in  maintenance  and  repair  work  in  engine  room,  rewaxing,  and  rewax  same,  he  shall  be  paid  overtime  for  such  •   •   •   (b)  Overtime  shall  be  paid  when  sailors  are  required,  either  machine  shop,  shaft  alley,  ice­machine  room,  and  storeroom  when  work  performed.  In  port  or  at  sea,  to  chip,  sougee,  scale,  prime  or  paint  galley,  located  in, or  adjacent  to engine  room. They  shall  not  be required  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  12.  SHIFTING  MEALS:  Deleted  as  pantry,  saloon, living  quarters,  forecastles,  lavatories  and  wash­ to  do  any  cleaning  of  boilers,  painting,  cleaning  paint,  polishing  matter  is  covered  in  amended  Section  4.  Amend  as  fpllows;  .rooms,  which  are  not  used  by  the  Unlicensed  Deck  Department.  work,  wirebrushing,  chipping  or  scaling  without  the  payment  SECTION  12. SHIFTING  MEALS.  When  meal  hours  are extended  This  shall  also  apply  to  all  enclosed  passageways  with  doors  or  of  overtime.  for  any  reason  and  all  of  the  unlicensed  personnel  are  unable  to  bulkheads at  both  ends.  Clarification  regarding relieving  for supper  shall  be incorporated  eat  within  the regular prescribed  time, all  members of  the Steward  (c)  Non­permanent* tt­ansient  or  irregular  foreign  shore  labor  in  Article  IV,  Section  8,  Supper  Relief,  by  adding  a  new  para­ Department  required  to  stand  by  to  prepare  and  serve  the  meals  shall  not  be  employed  to perform  any  of  the  work  in  the  licensed  graph  (c)  as  follows:  ,  shall  be  paid  at  the  regular  overtime  rate  for  the  time  the'meal  or  unlicensed  quarters,  sto(e  rooms,  passageways,  galleys  and  mess  (c)  In  United  States  Continental  ports  when  supper  is  served  is extended.  As  much  notice as  possible shall  be given  the  Steward­ rooms,  except  in  those  instances  where  the  Company  uses  estab­ from  p.mu  to  5:30 p.m.  an  piler  may  be  required  to relieve  Department  when  meal  hours  are  to be  shifted,  and  in  no  event  lished  shore  labor.  Companies  on  regular  trade  routes  who,  prior  the  Fireman­Watertender  for  supper  from  4:^0  p.m.  to  5  p.m.  shall  this  notice  be  less  than  two  hours  in  advance.  In  the  event  the two­hour  notice is  not given the  meal hour  shall not  be shifted.  to June 7,  1954, used  established, shore labor  in  foreign ports  may  without  the  payment  of  overtime.  •   •   •  continue  such  practice.  *  •   •   I  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  13.  MEALS  IN  PORT:  Incorporated  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  28. WIPERS:  Incorporate  in  contract  (d)  At sea  or  in  port,  the  deck  department  may  be  required  to  in  contract  clause  as  follows:  clauses  (b)  and  (d)  as  follows:  ­ sand  and  varnish  all  outside  rails,  storm  and  screen  doors.  SECTION  13.  MEALS  IN.  PORT,  (a)  When  meals  are  served  in  (b)  It  shall  be  routine  duties  for  the  Wipers  to  do general  port  to other  than  regular members  of  the  crew,  passengers,  pilots  cleaning,  including  oil  spills  on  deck,  painting,  cleaning  paint,  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  35.  CHAIN  LOCKER:  Delete  and  port  engineers,  supercargoes  and  porr  captains,  when  assign^  to  wirebrushing,  chipping,  scaling,  sougeeing,  polishing  work  in  the  change  contract  clause  as  follows:  the  vessel,  $2.50  per  meal  shall  be  paid  and  divided  among  the  SECTION  35.  CHAIN  LOCKER.  Not  less  than  two  Able  Seamen  Engine  De]»rtment,  including resistor  houses and  fanrooms; clean­ members of  the Steward  Department actually  engaged  in preparing  *  ing and  painting  steering  engine  and  steering  engine  bed,  and  to  shall  be  sent  into  the  chain  locker  to stow  chain.  and  serving  meals.  •   •   #  uke on  stores.  However, when  taking on  fuel oil  or  water  and  the  •   •   #  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  14.  EXTRA  PERSONS  SLEEPING  CLARIFICATION,  DECK  DEPARTMENT.  PASSENGER  VESSELS:  hoses  are  connected  and  disconnected  by  shoreside  j^rsonnel,  the  Wiper  sh^l  not  be  required  to  assist.  When  the  ship's  personnel  ABOARD:  Incorporated  jn  contract  dause as  follows:  ,To  be  covered  by  letter  to  companies  involved.  SECTION  14.  EXTRA  PERSONS  SLEEPING  ABOARD.  When  two  handles  the  connections,  the  Wiper shall  be  used  to assist  in con­ #  •   #  ,  neaing and  disconnecting  acid  putting  hoses  away  but  should  not  or more persons, other than regular aewmembers, passengers, super­ cargoes  and  pilots,  sleep  aboard,  the  member  of  the  Steward  De­ be  required  to  standby.  •  •   ARTICLE  IV  (d)  One  Wiper  shall  be  assigned  to  clean  quarters  and  toilets  partment  who takes  care  of  the  room  ishall  be  paid  1  hour's  over­ ENGINE  DEPARTMENT  of  the Unlicensed  Personnel  of  the Engine  Department daily.  Two  time per  day. This  does not  apply when  a^ship carries  the  required  complement  to accommodate! passengers  and  the  number  of  extra  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  3.  HOURS  OF  WORK:  Incorporate  hours  shall  be  allowed  for this  work  betwen  the  hours  of  8  a.m.  persons  aboard  does not  exceed  the full  complement of  jo^engers  and  12  noon  daily  both  at  sea  god  in  port  as  designated  by  the  ;  in contract  clause  as  follows:  "  •   allowed.  .  •   •   »  SECTION  3.  HOURS  OF  WORK,  (a)  Working hours  in port  and  engineer in charge.  .  GLARiFicA­qoN,  SECTION  J6.  MUSNIGH'T  MEALS  AND  NIGHT  Pumping .of  galley  fuel  tank  shill  be  performed  on  Saturdays,  at sea  for  all  men  classified  as  day  workers  shall  be  from  8  a.m.  LUNCHES: Incorporated  in contract clause  and amended as  R>llowf:  the two hours  sanitary  work.  to  12  noon  and  1  p.m.  to  5  p,m.  Monday  through  Friday.  Any  Sundays and  Holidays during  •  •   •   •   SECTION  16.  MIDNIGHT  MEALS  AND  NIGHT  LUNCHES,  (a)  work  outside  these  hours  or  on  Saturdays,  Sundays,  or  Holidays,  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION, 31.  USING  PAINT  SPRAY,  GUNS:  Members  of  the  Sfeward  Department  actually  engaged  iq  serving  to  be paid  for  at  the  applicable  overtime  rate,  except  as  provided  lunches  at  9  p.nt.  or  tUidnight  or  3  a.m.  are  to  be  allowed  in  Article  II,  Seabn  18.  Wh^n  in  accordance  with  Article  II,  Incorporate  in  contract  as  per  Article  Iff,  Section  25,  2nd  para­ hot  3  hours  overtime  for  preparing  and  serving  same.  ?  as  follows:  ,  Section  44  (c), the  meal  hours  are  changed,  the  hours  of  work  graph,  (b)  When  not  more, than  the equivalent  of  one  department  is  SECTION  31.  USING  PAINT  SPRAY  GUNS.  When  members, of  shall  be  changed  accordingly,  provided  that  when  a  meal  hour  is  the crew  are  required  to  use  paint  spray  guns,  they  shall  be  paid  served at  9 p m. or 3 a.m. night  lunch, one cook  and one  Messmaa  changed,  it  must  be  changed  for  the  entire  department.  it the straij^t  overtime  rate during  straight  time  hours,  and  over­ shall  be turned  out to perform  this  work.  When  serving  the mid­ (b)  Working  hours  in  port  or  at  sea  for  all  men  classified  as  time and  one­half  during  overtime  hours.  night  hot  lunch,  one  cook  and  two  messmen  shall  perform  this  Watchstanders  shall  be  forty  hours  per  week,  Monday  through  When  spray  guns,  other  than  small  hand  type,  are  being  used  work.  Friday.  Any  work  performed  on  Saturdays,  Suhdayj  or  Holidays,  for  painting,  two  men  shall  operate  same  and  both  men  shall  (c)  When  meals  are riot  provided  as  specified  in  Article  11,  shall  be  paid  for  at  their  regular  overtime  rate.  Section  34,  above,  the  number  of  the  Steward  Department  who  receive overtime.  •   •   •  .  would  normally  be broken  out to prepare  such meals  shall be  paid  J  CLARIFICATION,  SECTION  6.  SETTING  WATCHES:  Incorporate  the  overtime  specified  in  paragraph  (a)  above.  AkTICLs' V  l­ia  contract  clause  as  follows:  STEWARD  DEPARTMENT  , 7  SBcnoN  6.  SETTING  WATCHES.  Sea  watches  shall  be  set  not  CLARIFICATION, SECTION  27. DAY  WORK:  Deleted as  ooottaa  iam tfian noon  the day  of.d(^oire> except  that  when  vessel  CLARiFfCATK;^,  SECnjDN  3,  HOURS  OF  WORK;  JocotForate  clause  Klf­expianatory,.  •  •  •  •  1^1 •  •  •  • •  •  � 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 November 20, 1959 Description An account of the resource Headlines: RUNAWAYS ASK STATE DEP’T TO ‘STOP UNIONS’ PREDICT STEP-UP IN SURPLUS CARGO ORDER SALE VESSEL IN PAY BEEF 4 UNIONS TO AFFILIATE WITH MTD CG FIGURES ADD NEW ELEMENT TO SAFETY ISSUE ‘SAVE OUR CUT-RATE WAGES, ‘RUNAWAYS BEG STATE DEP’T COURT ORDERS SALE OF ‘NO PAY’ SHIP; UNION PRESSING CLAIMS EIGHT PERISH AS AMOCO TABKER EXPLODES AT DOCK LABOR, INDUSTRY PLAN T-H TALKS SEAWAY GETS HEAVY PLAY IN FIRST YEAR RAILWAY UNIONS COUNTERATTACK RAILS’ FEATHERBEDDING SMEAR MTD ADDS TO STRENGTH; GAINS FOUR NEW UNIONS US SHIP HAULAGE OF FARM SURPLUS EXPECTED TO RISE LABOR MEASURE WILL COST UNIONS MORE IN EXPENSES SIU FREIGHT AGREEMENT 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 11/20/1959 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Color photograph Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. XXI, No. 24  1959 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/daa9b5a23c5e64dd27d5531f6224a44b.pdf 0b85443ffe57b2aab54a6e1b318df192 PDF Text Text Volume 62, umber 11 SIU Job Growth Continues Seafarers Crew Reflagged Cruise Ship In mid-October, SIU members signed on aboard United States Lines' newly acquired cruise ship Patriot in Oregon. Formerly the Nieuw Amsterdam, the vessel is slated to cruise the Hawaiian Islands starting Dec. 9. Bosun Bernie Eda (right) and other crew members climbed the gangway as the vessel was reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. Page 4. Photo by Robert Mihovil S&H Christens Z-Drive Tug Seafarers in the Gulf Coast region recently welcomed a new Z-drive tug to the G&H Towing fleet. The Matthew K, christened in Galveston, Texas in late September, is getting positive reviews from SIU boatmen. Page 4. SIU-Contracted Companies to Operate45 RRFVessels SIU members will crew 45 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships (including the Cape Washington, pictured here) for the next five years, following a government announcement that upheld earlier contract awards for vessels by the U.S. Maritime Administration. The SIU secured substantial wage increases and benefit gains aboard the 45 ships awarded to six of its contracted operators. Page 3. Safety School Opens in Hawaii The SIU and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month opened a new, U.S. Coast Guard-approved basic safety training school in Barbers Point, Honolulu. The facility primarily is intended for use by local residents for new job opportunities aboard U.S.-flag cruise ships as well as to meet the increased demand for trained mariners from Hawaii. Page 3. �President's Report ContlnueCI Progress Doesn't it seem like yesterday when all the talk was about "Y2K" and the millennium bug and epic New Year's Eve celebrations? Well, we're almost through the year 2000. And just like during the 1990s, the SIU is still on a roll. In this union, our top priority is clear: good jobs and job security for the membership. That goal never changes. I'm proud of the SIU's work in consistently achieving that goal. This month alone, for example, we are reporting major contractual gains on the RRF ships; new jobs on the cruise ship Patriot and the Z-drive tug Matthew K; and the launch of MSC's newest SIU-contracted surveillance vessel. We also opened, with the assistance of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, a new basic safety school in Hawaii. It mainly is designed to help the union and its contracted companies meet the increased manpower requirements that go hand-in-hand with the expansion of the U.S.-flag cruise ship fleet as well as the increased demand for trained mariners from Hawaii. Those gains certainly aren't the only ones the SIU has made. As we reported in October, three to six new tankers have been ordered for the Jones Act fleet. Those ships will be crewed by SIU members. Additionally, the Paul Hall Center has opened a first-class simulator building featuring the world's most modem equipment. These successes, along with many others that have been reported throughout the year in the LOG and at membership meetings, don't come easy and they don't happen by accident. Particularly in our industry, we have to scratch and claw for everything we gain. We constantly battle against foreign-flag interests who would love nothing more than to see the U.S. flag wiped off the seas. One way we can win that fight is through the continued good work of the Paul Hall Center's advisory board. Through close examination of the industry and careful planning, the board has been instrumental in helping the SIU provide our contracted companies with the world's best-trained mariners. More information about this key group begins on page 5. Overall, with the year winding down and the holidays approaching, we in the SIU have much to be thankful for. We've worked for-and won-many new jobs and substantial contractual improvements. We've improved our capability to provide state-of-the-art training for any and all Seafarers who want it. We also have our sights set on even bigger gains in the future. And we intend to keep on winning. Job Well Done On a personal note, I extend my most sincere thanks and appreciation to John Graykowski for his terrific work as deputy maritime administrator and (twice) as acting maritime administrator. Mr. Graykowski, as reported on page 7, is stepping down from MarAd. He truly embraced MarAd's cause, and his enthusiasm will be missed. Volume 62, Number 11 November 2000 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; 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 LOG, 520 l 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 SIU, Other Maritime Unions Unite in Battle to Improve 'Oil Patch Mariners' Conditions Members Asked to Help in Gulf Coast Effort For the last two years, five maritime unions have worked together to organize the offshore mariners sailing in the Gulf of Mexico oil patch. The campaign is reaching mariners aboard offshore service vessels (OSV) and tugboats that pull oil rigs to location. The effort is taking place all along the Gulffrom Florida to Texas-and has the full support of the AFL-CIO. By working together, the unions- which include the American Maritime Officers; the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; the Marine Engineers ' Beneficial Association; the National Maritime Union; and the Seafarers International Union-are consolidating their resources to benefit those seeking a voice at the workplace. Each of the unions had been fielding requests from oil patch mariners to join. Many workers were afraid they would be unable to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) requirements when they are implemented in 2002. Others described the horrific conditions they experience regularly while at sea and were looking for help. Still others knew from family and friends who are members of the maritime unions about the benefits and job security of having a union contract. The unions assisted a grassroots organization called the Gulf Coast Mariners Association (GCMA), located in Houma, La. The GCMA, founded by men and women who work in the oil patch, were tired of the runaround they were getting from the large companies who took over the momand-pop outfits during the bust times of the 1980s and early 1990s. The founders of the GCMA realized the mariners needed a voice. From its simple start a few years ago, the GCMA now boasts a membership of more than 1,000 mariners in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. As it grew, the GCMA received more and more firsthand accounts of the problems and dangers faced by oil patch mariners. Many of them were direct violations of safety and labor regulations issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Yet, almost all of the reports included a statement that the violations never were given to federal authorities because the mariners feared losing their jobs. Some of these statements reminded the representatives of the five maritime unions of the experiences reported by the organizers 50 and 60 years ago when they were organizing the deep sea industry: Union·-~~,·~ .,Pl,ght·of·OffsbOre''. IVl~rlnersi. ..-rR:'first1Uling !'started hearingtro:if nmttn~,; w&n 1git do~'tiere .~ the · homfll9n. sta~enf/They treat us likes:~-' J Fnow it's not pretty tO hear', but that•s:Wbahtqey say.. And it's no1 Just a~nstttie boat oompantes, but tne oil ccimpanies and vendors. t hate to see mariners treated like they are the bot.~om of!ft~ b~}l'et. Everyone talks Jike that so ygu even hear guys referring foithems.etves as 'boat trash.' t can't believe hbw they get paid for 12 hours and work 18 or 20 nours a day With no overtime. and Jt just seems nor~ mat. Ifs hard to agitate arouml overtime because no one really expects it. People can get fired for anythingat anytime-just because someone doesn't like you or wants to.hire their nephew. And there's nothing they can do about it except pack their bags and start tooking for another job." ' Jimmy O~no, OMU organizer from SIU much, "The mariners in the Gulf today haVe constanttY stated they woukf not want their chftdr~n to ,fu:fl~. theA!; into the industry. They see that their fathers still have to work lf'\t() thetf 10s because they have no pension and need the money, They canoot afforct to retire. They want a better life for their chitdren and this industry does n.o! .provlde it unless they can get some help. That's why they are looking for like the unions to provide job security and long-term benefits." Tim Dragone, OMU organizer from AMO scimeone ~organizing is a much tougher job than I ever imagined. The mariners in tl1e Gulf are treated like second..class citizens whose rights are ignored by the boat companies. They're told they~re not allowed to speak to union organizers or even among themselves about a union. These mariners are routinely ordered to break environmental laws and the rutes of good seamanship. They're slowly getting stronger and I'm proud to help them toss away the chains of slavery that have bound them too long," John Hasson, OMU organizer from MEBA ''The mariners here are getting such a raw deal. When you look at conditions on the boats-pay, benefits. food-it's unbelievable sometimes. The companies treat them tfke a number. The captalns have no authority on the boats~ but the companies want to catr them supervi$0rs to try to keep them out of the union. They are called 'boat trash: When they are on the vessels. it's Uke a prison camp. If anyone needs a union, it's these guys down here." Gary Hensley, OMU organizer from MM&P "We have the working condruons of a Third World country rtght here in our own backyard, and ifs time to clean it up! These mariners can get the job done under the worst condiUons. be it weather, fatigue or poor equipment. They make it happen. So I say it's about time that they get the respect and recognition that they deserve, and the onty way that's going to happen is if the mariners stick together, They need a union: John Ebanks, OMU DFganfzer from NMU The five maritime unions are united in their effort to end the abuse faced by oil patch mariners who work aboard vessels like this one in the Gulf of Mexico. • "The 12-hour rule is ludicrous. It does not make sense when it cannot be enforced. Either run more than 12 hours or turn the wheel over to an ... inexperienced. You close your eyes and pray." • "The whole crew would be up all day shifting barges and chipping and painting. Then the company would call and give us orders to get a material barge and take it offshore. This was a fourman crew doing this job. And this is a continuous cycle." • "I have been working on boats for about 28 years. The number one issue that I see which needs to be addressed at this time for the inland and coastwise mariner is fatigue and hours worked." • "I was the only one [capable] to handle my boat, running my work sometimes beyond 12 hours. Stress is a big part of my life. Keep going to keep the company, and the oil company, happy. I have no choice. It doesn't matter whether I'm tired or not. I'm just a person that has to feed my family and keep a roof over hls head." Others offered actual accounts of dangerous situations: • "I was working as a deckhand with Coastal Towing. Me and the captain were the only crew. We were working with rig Workhorse 4 (a jackup rig), moving it from one location to another in Vermillion Block 31. Many times it would take us 12 to 30 hours to get the rig on location where it could start to work on the well. With just two men on board, we were unable to cook or get any sleep. The captain would complain to our office about the hours and that we were tired and needed some rest, but they told us that the boat was not making enough money to put a third man on to help. Finally I had enough and I quit." • "I have 16 years experience as a tankerman with a grade A document. I worked on the MV San Miguel for Buffalo Marine in Texas. I have worked hitches of 35 days straight. We were work- Continued on page 6 November 2000 �SIU-Contracted Companies to anage 45 RRF Vessels Wages, Benefits Substantially Increased SIU members will crew 45 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships for the next five years, following the General Accounting Office's announcement in late September that upheld earlier contract awards for 74 vessels by the U.S. Maritime Administration. The SIU secured substantial wage increases and benefit gains aboard the 45 ships awarded to six of its contracted operators. The union also has attained retroactive wage increases totaling at least 4 percent for the years 1999-2000-a period in which the RRF vessels operated under contract extensions because of a 1998 protest concerning the government's bidding procedure. The new five-year agreements call for much larger wage boosts, plus Seafarers Welfare and Pension Plans benefits at their top levels; inclusion of the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan at 5 percent of base wages; increased vacation benefits and other gains. The new contracts are retroactive to May 1, 2000. Crew turnover among the 74-ship RRF fleet was scheduled to begin Nov. I on Pacific Gulf Marine's Cape Flattery is one of eight RRF ships the company will manage and operate under a contract with the U.S. Maritime Administ:tion. • • Union EleCllOn Voling Starts November 1 Voting for officers of the Seafarers International Union's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to be conducted by secret ballot, begins Nov. 1 and continues through Dec. 30. This election also includes five proposed constitutional amendments. (See sample ballot, pages 12-13.) Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 20012004 term. Such members may pick up their ballots at any of 21 SIU halls throughout the country. Ballots may be obtained from 9 a.m. until noon, Mondays through Saturdays, except legal holidays, until Dec. 30. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents, two headquarters representatives and I 0 port agents (for a total of 27 positions). It also includes the five proposed constitutional amendments. In accordance with the union's constitution, a credentials committee composed of six rank-andfile Seafarers, elected by their fel- low members, reviewed the nomination applications to ensure each candidate's eligibility. The committee's report was prepared Aug. 18 (after the nominations period closed) and approved by the membership at the September meetings. Subsequent to the September membership meetings, a nominee for the position of vice president in charge of contracts and contract enforcement appealed his disqualification by the committee. This individual's appeal was presented to the membership at the October membership meetings and the appeal was granted. The secret ballots are accompanied by envelopes marked "Ballot" as well as postage-paid envelopes bearing the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee. Each Seafarer must present his or her book to the port agent or agent's designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked "Ballot" and the mailing envelope. When the member receives the ballot and envelopes, his or Continued on page 7 lli!i,~~s.e be advisee! that SIU headquarters and all li4f!l!JiriTJ!l halls will be closed Monday, Dec. 25 for 1;:::E£:EE:.:::;~ 'frs h(iurs will resume the following workday. ·:·-_;;;ft;: <;:;:._· November 2000 ·,;, most of the vessels, although a few began earlier. The SIU-contracted companies which were awarded contracts are American Overseas Marine Corp. (AMSEA); Crowley Liner Services; Interocean Ugland Management.; Ocean Duchess; Pacific Gulf Marine; and Patriot Contract Services. A list of the SIU-crewed vessels accompanies this article. The vessels in the RRF fleet are used when the nation's armed forces require surge shipping, such as during the Persian Gulf War or more recent operations in Somalia, Haiti and Bosnia. The ships are owned by the government and operated by private 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 vessels. Others stand in reserve or reduced operating status (ROS), ready to be fully crewed and deployed in four days or fewer. The rest of the fleet operates under 10-to-20-day activation status. The fleet includes tankers, RO/ROs, barge carriers, crane ships and breakbulk vessels. '-JIF Sltips;tiJ Be Managed·by SI~. COnt.panie5 American Overseas Marine Corp. (9) Beaver State Cape Jacob Cape John Cape Johnson Cape Juby Cape Nome Curtis Green Mountain State Wright Cr9wley L!ner Se/vices (8} C~pe Inscription , {)~pe lntr~pid . ,Gape lsabei · Gape Island Cape Lambert Gape Lobos Cape Washington Gape Wrath lnlerocean Ugland Mgmt. Corp. (11) Petersburg Potomac Gopher State Flickertail State Cornhusker State Cape Mendocino Gape Fear Cape Mohican Cape May Chesapeake Mount Washington Ocean Duchess (3) Alatna Chattahoochie Nodaway When the awards first were announced in May, Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater stated, "These contracts will enable the Ready Reserve Force to continue to perform its vital role in protecting America's national security, one of the Department of Transportation's top strategic priorities." Pacific Gulf Marine (8) Diamond State Equality State Gape Farewell Cape Florida Cape Flattery Keystone State Gem State Grand Canyon State Patriot Contract Services (6) Cape Breton Cape Bover Cape Blanco Cape Borda Gape Gibson Cape Girardeau The awards originally were made in the summer of 1998, but MarAd quickly rescinded them following objections to the bidding procedure. Finally, the new contracts were announced earlier this year- but were followed by more protests, this time apparently concerning the outcome of the awards, rather than the method used to determine them. MSC Launches New Survey Ship USNS Mary Sears Joins The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month ceremonially launched the sixth of its Pathfinder T-AGS 60 class of oceanographic survey ships, the USNS Mary Sears. SIU members will crew the new ship sometime in 2001most likely in the spring or summer. Meanwhile, finishing touches are being applied to the vessel at Halter Marine Shipyard in Moss Point, Miss. The Mary Sears will join five other SIU-crewed oceanographic surveillance ships operated by Dyn Marine for MSC. The others are the Pathfinder, Bowditch, Sumner, Henson and Heezen. Like its forerunners, the Mary Sears is 329.5 feet long and can travel at 16 knots. It will join its sister ships in collecting scientific data from coastal as well as deep ocean waters around the world for the Navy Oceanographic Office. s Other Surveillance Vessels Photo Credit: MSC The USNS Mary Sears, pictured during construction in Moss Point, Miss., is the sixth SIU-crewed T-AGS 60 class vessel operated by Dyn Marine for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The ship is the first oceanographic vessel named after a female oceanographer, according to MSC. The late Mary Sears "is widely credited with expanding the role of oceanographic research and data collection," the agency noted. She also helped develop "one of the foremost oceanographic institutions in the world." Safety Training School Opens in Honolulu The SIU and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month opened a new, U.S. Coast Guard-approved basic safety training school in Barbers Point, Honolulu. The facility primarily is intended for use by local residents for new job opportunities aboard U.S.-flag passenger ships- such as the newly reflagged Patriot (see story, page 4). Already, three groups of students (58 individuals) have completed STCW basic safety training at the new school. At least a few additional installments of the course will be offered before the end of the year; it is anticipated that consecutive classes will be conducted throughout most or all of 2001. The newly reffagged Patriot sails to Portland. Page 4 Instructors from the Paul Hall Center, which is based in Piney Point, Md., directed last month's classes and also provided lifeboat training on the SIU-crewed SS Independence in Hawaii. The center's health and safety director, Jim Hanson-a key figure in the planning of the acclaimed Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which opened last year in Piney Point-also helped teach the courses, in addition to coordinating much of the setup. "The students did really well. They especially liked the maze," Hanson noted. "The Coast Guard was there also, and they seemed pleased with the safety switches, the gear and the ratio of instructors to students." Hanson added that the other instructors- Dennis Donehoo and Ben Cusic-"did a tremendous job both in helping get the facility open and in teaching the courses. They really went the extra mile." The school is located on a forContinued on page 7 Seafarers LOii 3 �r I' Sealarers Crew New Z-Drive Tug ~ ' I SIU members in the Gulf Coast region are sailing aboard the new Z-drive tug Matthew K, following the boat's christening in Galveston, Texas in late September. "It's really an exceptional boat," said Mate Sean Arbogast. "It's got great maneuverability and it's very comfortable." Bay-Houston Towing Company owns the vessel, while G&H Towing operates it. Built at Main Iron Works in Houma, La., the Matthew K performs docking operations in the Texas ports of Houston, Galveston, Texas City, Corpus Christi and Freeport. The boat also has general towing capabilities. "This is an exciting new addition to the fleet," stated SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. "It shows the type of technological advancement that will keep SIU members in step with the future. It also underscores the value of the new simulators [at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Edu- Seafarers (from left) Sean Arbogast, Thomas Sneed, William Hadley and Jeff Welch welcome the newest addition to G&H fleet. cation] that will be used to train people on these high-tech vessels." Carroll Young, executive vice president of G&H Towing, played a big role in the Matthew K's design. "It was designed with escort capability in mind, but also with consideration for future possibilities," he noted. "It has an extended keel, and in that regard Seafare rs Climb Gangway To Pristine Passenger Ship After many months of anticipation, Seafarers in mid-October signed on aboard United States Lines' newly acquired passenger ship Patriot in Oregon. Following the transfer of ownership Oct. 18 from Holland America Line, the 1,212-passenger vessel-flying the Stars and Stripes-proceeded to Cascade General Shipyard in Portland, Ore. for a multi-million dollar refurbishment. Formerly the Nieuw Amsterdam, the Patriot will cruise the Hawaiian Islands beginning Dec. 9. According to U.S. Lines' parent company, American Classic Voyages, the Patriot will sail every Saturday evening from Honolulu, Oahu. Passengers may select from 80 optional island explorations as the ship cruises to the ports of Nawiliwili, Kauai; Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawaii; and Kona, Hawaii before returning to Honolulu the following Saturday. "This acquisition is great news for the American-flag passenger industry and for the SIU," stated SIU President Michael Sacco. "We welcome the new job opportunities. We also look forward to doing our part to help ensure the continued revitalization of the U.S.-flag passenger fleet." Philip C. Calian, American Classic's chief executive officer, noted, "We are within weeks of introducing the Patriot as Hawaii's largest and most contemporary year-round cruise ship. The ship will pioneer United States Lines' return as 'America's cruise line."' Under American Classic's Project America initiative, the company is building a pair of 1,900-passenger vessels slated to begin sailing in 2003 and 2004. They are under construction at union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss. and will be the largest ocean-going cruise ships ever built in a U.S. yard. The keel for the first ship was laid Oct. 10. For Patriot reservations, call toll-free 877-330-6600 or visit the web site www.unitedstateslines.com. For job opportunities on the Patriot, contact your port agent or visit the "jobs" section at www.seafarers.org. Admiral Towing Crews Approve First Contract The SIU has negotiated its first-ever contract with Admiral Towing & Barge Company in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. According to Neil Dietz, SIU Port Agent in Honolulu, the agreement is for three years and affects 12 Seafarers who operate three Z-drive tugs. Following unanimous ratification, the pact was signed Sept. 20, ending negotiations which commenced in June. Among the contract's highlights are enrollment in the Seafarers Welfare Plan and the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, wage increases and language for call-out pay. "I think it's a good first contract," said Chuck Seafarers LOG • Length; 100 feet • Beam; 38 feet • Draft: 17.1 feet • Main engines: 2 EMO 12-645 turbo charged engines, 2150 hp each, devetoping a total of 4300 bhp @ 900 rpm • Drive units: 2 Utstein Model #1650 Azimuth Drive Units with 86-lnch stainless steel wheels in Nautican high-performance nozzles a Bollard putr: 110,000 lbs. ahead and 100,000 astern • Deck machinery.: Markey Model #DYSF-52 "Escort" fine winch on bow with 750 ft "Plasma" line rated at 96(),000# working strength; 1 Markey variable speed cap- U.S. Lines' Patriot Debuts December 9 4 All four wheelmen have shown above-average ability to learn the new system." Both Arbogast and Young pointed out that the Matthew K gets high marks for crew comfort. "I've been here 43 years, and this boat is probably one of the best I've ever seen in that regard," Young said. "I absolutely agree," noted Arbogast. "The only person you share a room with is your relief. The galley is large, and there are two air conditioning units on the boat-one especially for the wheelhouse." Matthew K FacfSheet it's not a typical Z-drive tug. The hull and winch is [like that of an] escort tug, which also differs from a typical Z-drive. "It's unique to this area," he continued. "Z-drive tugs aren't common in Texas, but the Matthew K has been really wellaccepted. It does everything and more than we'd hoped." Arbogast said the crews are adjusting well to the new boat. "It's not difficult, just different," he observed. "It doesn't handle like a big boat. You have joysticks like in an airplane, rather than a wheel. There's a bit of a learning curve, but everybody's doing exceptionally well. stan aft • Generators: 2 Detroit Diesef 671 unitsy each producing 75 • Wheelhouse: Designed with 360--degree visibility • Fire fighting: 2000 GPM Aurora ftre pump. driven by Detroit Diesel 8V-71 with "Skum" fire monitor mounted kW on fornard deck 8 Classificati-0n: ABS Inter- national Load line SIU Mate Sean Arbogast greets the boat's namesake, 12-year-old Matthew Evans Kuebler-a great, great grandson of Capt. W.D. Haden, founder of Bay-Houston Towing. • Electronics~ Furuno Radar, 2 VHF radios, PA system, auto pifot with Furuoo OGPS sys- tem · Orgulf Boatman Ratify New Pact A new contract has been hammered out between SIU boatmen in St. Louis and Cincinnati-based Orgulf Transportation. The new agreement, ratified Sept. 18, covers three years and boasts significant upgrades in wages and benefits. Approximately 150 full-time and probationary SIU members who crew 21 Orgulf tugboats will benefit from the fresh accord. Negotiations had been ongoing since early August. Major points of the new contract include: • Wage increases ranging from 6.1 percent to 8.2 percent in the first year • Wage increases of 2 percent in the second and third years • Enhanced welfare benefits that will include prescription coverage for dependents • An increase in optical and death benefits • A one-time $300 signing bonus for SIU members (other than probationary members) • Stand-by pay or free-time Howard, a member of the negotiating committee. The historic contract offers a unique challenge for the SIU, Dietz said. The pact is part of a military bid and marks the first time that Navy tugboats in Pearl Harbor have been replaced with civilian vessels. The Navy has retired its tugboats in Pearl Harbor. The SIU-crewed Admiral Towing tugs are responsible for providing towing, docking and other assistance (including emergency) to various classes of vessels and barges at the U.S. Navy Station in Pearl Harbor. The crews' most delicate duties will involve the docking and undocking of submarines, Dietz said. In addition to Howard, the SIU contract committee consisted of Deron Schade, a tug captain; and Bill Sneed, a deckhand. These individuals did a ter- Continued on page 6 These SIU members recently joined SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper in the successful negotiation of a new three-year contract with Orgulf Transportation. Pictured are, seated from left, Nancy Avery, Martha Smith and Herman Rowe. Standing are W.T. Bush, Doug Ogle and Sleeper. days (when the company initiates stand-by status) In addition to the foregoing advancements, the SIU contract committee successfully negotiated for the installation of satellite dishes aboard company vessels. Orgulf typically has been tough but fair in negotiations, according to SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper. "Members of both committees [the SIU contract committee and their counterparts representing Orgulf Transportation] worked extremely hard and addressed all the issues on the table," Sleeper said. "We made great strides during the negotiations, especially with respect to up-front wage increases and in the medical plan which now affords prescription coverage for dependents. "The new contract goes a long way to establishing Orgulf as a premier inland employer company. It offers perhaps the most competitive wage scale out there and the medical plan is magnificent," she said. "Hopefully the next time around, and with more member participation, we'll make even greater advances." Martha Smith, a member of the SIU negotiating committee, shared Sleeper's sentiments about the new contract. "The negotiations went very well," she said. "The response we've had from the membership has been very positive. "They (the membership) were ecstatic with what we got for them as well as what we did not lose" she continued. "We were firm in what we needed .... "I thought · getting the 6 to 8 percent wage increases the first year and the 100 percent medical coverage for everybody, including children and spouses, were quite fantastic. Both are unique in day and age," she concluded. Chris Ulmer, labor liaison for Orgulf, was equally pleased Continued on page 5 November 2000 �Advisory Board Revisits STCW Governor Mel Carnahan, 66, Dies in Oct. 16 Plane Crash Simulators Are a Highlight As Industry Group Studies Training Requirements The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education's deep sea and inland advisory board worked through an ambitious agenda last month during its 33rd annual meeting in Piney Point, Md. As has been the case in each of the last few yearly sessions, the group devoted much of its time to STCW-related issues. It reviewed in detail the convention's various requirements for unlicensed mariners (see charts, page 10). It also refined the system for auditing the SIU's U.S. Coast Guard-accepted training record books (TRBs )-both the actual documents and the school's database that collectively contains the information found in them. Other topics included the Paul Hall Center's new simulators; strategies for recruiting shipboard personnel; new courses that recently received Coast Guard approval; "distance learning," a term for providing vocational instruction over a secure electronic medium; the school's unlicensed apprentice program; the Coast Guard's interim rule on licensing and manning for officers of towing vessels; and a review of the board's accomplishments during the past year. The meeting took place Sept. 25-26. Participants included representatives of SIU-contracted deep sea, Great Lakes and inland companies; the Coast Guard and its National Maritime Center (NMC); the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd); the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC); the U.S. Army Transportation School (Fort Eustis); the Logistics Management Institute; the U.S. Military Transportation Management Command; the National Transportation Safety Board; and the Paul Hall Center. Opening the meeting, SIU President Michael Sacco credited the board for several noteworthy accomplishments since last year's conference. These include the opening of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School; the formation and work of the TRB auditing committee; and the development of criteria for the new simulators. "When labor, management and government work together to solve our problems, it's not that difficult," Sacco stated. "We can solve them together." The SIU president thanked Paul Hall Center instructors and officials for their efforts in helping secure top-notch simulators for shiphandling, engine room operations, liquid cargo transfer and crane operations- equipment that is expected to significantly enhance dozens of Paul Hall Center courses. He also praised the Coast Guard for working with the school as it developed and updated curriculums to maximize the simulators' instructional value. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez pointed out that the conference "is historic because, for the first time, we have NMU officials and contracted operators participating." Bill Eglinton, the school's director of vocational education, described the advisory board's mission as "a team effort. Together, we come up with solutions. This is a multi-faceted industry, and there's so much going on, we've got to talk about it in order to meet everyone's needs." He added that since the last meeting, the school has obtained Coast Guard approvals for 15 classes, which include a few renewals and a number of new courses. The school also has produced or obtained more than 1,200 training videotapes that are available to SIU-contracted companies. One of the conference's highlights was an in-depth, STCWrelated question-and-answer session moderated by Capt. Myles "Chip" Boothe and Capt. Ernest Fink of the Coast Guard's NMC. Along with Eglinton, they discussed with the other attendees some of the recurring questions about both the original 1978 STCW convention and the 1995 STCW convention as amended. They reviewed the STCW "checklists" developed by the school as well as various Coast Guard regional examination center (REC) procedures including licensing and certification methods. The agenda also featured a hands-on tour of the new simulator building. Upgraders and Conference participants took a hands-on tour of the Paul Hall Center's new simulator building. In photo above and below, Major General Kenneth L. Privratsky, Commanding General of the Military Traffic Management Command, tries the crane simulator and visits the bridge simulator. entry-level students are expected to begin utilizing the new gear this month. As reported in previous issues of the Seafarers LOG, the bridge simulator is the centerpiece of the new systems. It features a 360-degree viewing sector and three interactive auxiliary bridges. The main bridge includes an integrated ship control console with ARPA/radar, global marine distress system (GMDSS), electronic chart display (ECDIS, with charts from Continued on page 10 Missouri Governor Mel Carnahan, a friend of labor who was running for the U.S. Senate, died in a plane crash Oct. 16 near St. Louis. He was 66. Also perishing in the wreck were Carnahan's son and an aide. The plane was a six-seat Cessna 335 which went down in a rocky area. Carnahan consistently supported working families. He fought for collective bargaining rights for state workers and opposed "paycheck deception" legislation similar to California's infamous Proposition 226, which was designed to rob workers of their voice in the political process. The two-term governor's budgets included unprecedented investments in job training and other workforce preparation programs. He strengthened prevailing-wage enforcement and dramatically reduced the time it took to process workers' compensation claims. He also extended health care coverage to thousands of previously uninsured children, and he passed an effective patients' bill of rights. Carnahan also supported the U.S. Merchant Marine. He twice was honored by the St. Louis Port Council of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, including earlier this year. Maryland Governor Parris N. Glendening, chairman of the National Governors' Association, said in a prepared statement, "Mel Carnahan 's career and greatness were marked by his gentle humor and tireless Orgulf Pact Signed Continued from page 3 about the new accord. "We [at Orgulf] were happy with the overall result of the contract," he noted. "We were [especially] happy that we could provide an increase in the overall coverage afforded in their health care plan. I give a lot of credit to your negotiators for that. "We've had a great relation- Gov. Mel Carnahan passion for public service and the people of Missouri." Michigan Governor John Engler, vice chairman of the association, said, "I served with Governor Carnahan for nearly eight years (in the organization). I came to know him as a man with a deep commitment to public service." An editorial in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch noted, "Among his political peers, including his enemies, Mr. Carnahan was known as an even-keeled, evenhanded and progressive policymaker. Making government work was Carnahan 's legacy .... We will miss him because he was a kind and decent man." Carnahan was running for the Senate against incumbent Republican John Ashcroft. Roger B. Wilson was sworn in Oct. 18 as Missouri's governor. ship with the Seafarers for a long time and we hope to keep it that way," he added. "They've been crewing Orgulf vessels for more than 25 years and have always done a superb job." The SIU negotiating committee consisted of Seafarers Smith, W.T. Bush, Doug Ogle, Nancy Avery and Herman Rowe along with Great Lakes Vice President Tom Orzechowski and Sleeper. Raise Minimum Wage Union members and officials rallied Oct. 12 at the U.S. Capitol along with several prominent legislators in support of increasing the minimum wage. Speakers included (top photo) House Minority Leader Richard Gephardt, (below left) House Minority Whip David Bonior and (below right) Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney (far right in photo below) also helped lead the call for passage of legislation boosting the minimum wage. In three photos above (from left), Paul Hall Center Vocational Education Director Bill Eglinton, Coast Guard Capt. Myles "Chip" Boothe and Coast Guard Capt. Ernest Fink discuss various requirements of the original and amended STCW conventions. November 2000 Seafarers LOG 5 �,1 Indiana Harbor Crew Welcomes Apprentice Memorializing Mooney Phase II Offers Valuable Hands-On Training When the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education launched its revised trainee program in 1997, perhaps the most noteworthy addition was a 90-day shipboard training segment. Known as Phase II, this portion of the unlicensed apprentice curriculum affords students the ultimate in hands-on training. It consists of 30 days sailing in each of the departments-deck, engine and steward-aboard an SIU-contracted vessel. Great Lakes SIU members aboard the Indiana Harbor recently welcomed Paul Gobs as one of the first Phase II apprentices to sail on an American Steamship Co. vessel-and the Seafarers commended both the student and the program itself. "I think the hands-on experience is important when it comes education," to shipboard observed QMED Todd Buckingham. "Paul is catching on really fast." Second Engineer Gerard Ed Mooney, who passed away in July, often spent long hours on the job as an SIU headquarters representative from 1961 until his retirement in 1977. But, as SIU President Michael Sacco put it, Mooney also found time to be "a great socializer. He had tremendous concern for people, especially members of the SIU." With that in mind, the bar at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. on Sept. 26 was dedicated as the Mooney Pub. A brief ceremony took place featuring remarks by Sacco, retired SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney, and Mooney's son Stephen Mooney (who sailed with the SIU). A sign was unveiled that reads "Mooney Pub, A Safe Harbor." Pictured at right are Stephen and Julianne Mooney. Unions Unite to Help Gulf Coast Mariners Continued from page 2 ing three men per boat -<:aptain, mate and myself. I would work many positions, as a cook, engineer, deckhand and tankerman. I have seen myself work up to 42 hours at a time due to the lack of crew. I now have a bad back from having to deal with pulling hoses by myself and being overfatigued." • "July 28, 1999, I worked for a company in Dulac called Gulf Pride. I went on the boat thinking I'm making at least $160-$170 a day-a little crewboat. I had to find a deckhand. It took us hours and hours to clean this boat up-it was that messy. The boat hadn't moved in four months from where it was. But I told the man that I could move it.... By 11 p.m. that night, we got the boat moving [and] went to Intracoastal City. On Aug. 1, my wife got the check and she told me I'm only making $103 a day and the man don't even know his math-his adding was also wrong. I called the man. He never answered. My wife called. He was very rude. [He] said ifl don't like it, get off. Well, I did." In order to address the needs of the mariners, the unions created an organization called the Offshore Mariners United (OMU). As its project, the OMU ·::J<L~ ~ Seafarers LOG Anderson-an SIU hawsepiper who graduated from the school in Piney Point, Md. in 1979 and subsequently upgraded therestated, "It's good to see a person who came from the same school that I came from, and his level of participation has been incredible. We've already had him making the rounds. He's catching on fast." Before starting their Phase II training, the center's unlicensed apprentices complete 12 weeks of introductory courses in Piney Point. Later, once they have finished Phase II, they return to the school for department-specific training that completes the program. Gobs, who signed on the Indiana Harbor in September, said he is enthusiastic about the program -particularly the shipboard training. "It has really been a good experience for me," Gohs noted. "I've learned a lot, and when my crew members showed me the SIU union hall from the ship as we passed by in Algonac (Mich.), it made me feel all my time spent preparing for this 90 days was worth it." For more information on the unlicensed apprentice program, contact the Paul Hall Center's admissions office at (301) 9940010, or visit the Paul Hall Center section of the internet site www.seafarers.org. The site includes printable and electronic versions of the apprentice program application. Tying up the vessel (at right) in Saginaw, Mich. are (below, from left) DEUs Larry Kauti, Allan Johnson and Jack Povaser. Oil patch mariners looking to gain the advantages of a union contract work long hours aboard undermanned supply vessels like these tied up in Port Fushion, La. tackled the need for STCW training. Working with the Louisiana AFL-CIO and the U.S. Department of Labor, the OMU obtained a grant for the GCMA in the amount of nearly $4 million to offer classroom and hands-on training for union and non-union mariners to get their STCW endorsements. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney announced the grant to mariners on June 23 during a visit to Houma. The training will be available at various locations along the Gulf Coast. The companies cried foul to the local media, claiming they would have provided the training. The mariners already had seen An offshore supply vessel delivers goods to a rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Mariners working aboard vessels like this are fighting to join a union. 6 QMED Todd Buckingham (left in left photo) and Second Engineer Gerard Anderson (right in top photo), an SIU hawsepiper, welcome Unlicensed Apprentice Paul Gohs aboard the Indiana Harbor. promises of additional crew, better pay, safer working conditions and much more come and go without being met. They knew if they were to get their STCW endorsements, it would have come from their wallets. Now, the OMU is launching its organizing campaign. Members from all five unions are involved. This effort will not be won overnight. It will require the help of the entire memberships of the maritime unions. Your assistance is needed for this drive to be successful. Many maritime union members have family and friends who work and/or live in the oil patch area of the Gulf. Please let them know about this campaign. Ask them to get involved to improve the lives of these overworked mariners . Let these struggling mariners know the advantages of having a union contract, with its work rules, benefits and educational opportunities. Members who would like to assist the effort are urged to contact their port officials. This is the biggest maritime organizing battle since the 1950s. The oil patch is the largest area of unorganized maritime workers in the country. All five unions are devoted to making this drive a success, noting the odds are great but they have been overcome before. Continued from page 4 rifle job during the negotiations, according to Dietz. "Each of them did a wonderful job representing the interests of the members," said Dietz. "Chuck Howard especially was instrumental during the negotiations because he made sure that news was communicated from the union to the members and vice versa. We also had tremendous support from the contracting and legal staffs at headquarters." Deron Schade (top photo) and Bill Sneed (right} served on the negotiating committee, along with Chuck Howard and SIU Port Agent Neil Dietz. November 2000 �-- - -- - - - - - - - - - - -- Graykowski Leaves MarAd Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater last month announced that U.S. Maritime Administrator John Graykowski is resigning as of Nov. 4. At press time, his successor had not been named. Graykowski was named deputy maritime administrator in 1994. He has served as acting administrator since May, when Clyde Hart took an assignment at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. "John Graykowski has been a determined leader and enthusiastic advocate of the Vocational Education Director Receives Public Service Award nation's maritime industries," said Slater. "He has had a tangible positive impact on the U.S. shipbuilding industry by efficiently administering programs and policies resulting in . . . ship construction and shipyard activity." "It has been an honor to serve under President Clinton, and specifically with Secretary Slater," Graykowski said. "The National Shipbuilding Initiative, Maritime Security Program and Maritime Transportation System innovations clearly illustrate their support for our vital American mar- Outgoing Maritime Administrator John Graykowski itime industries." Before his appointment to MarAd, Graykowski was an associate with two law firms based in Washington, D.C. He also was senior counsel on the Merchant Marine Subcommittee of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. SIU Election Starts Nov. 1 Continued from page 3 her book will be stamped with the word "Voted" and the date. Members who cannot travel to one of the 21 union halls during the voting period may request an absentee ballot. Such requests should be made in writing, by registered or certified mail, to SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Requests for absentee ballots should be postmarked no later than Nov. 15. Article XIII of the union's constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, full reprints of the current constitution and the proposed revised constitution, the tallying committee's report and other related information appears on pages 13-32 of the October 2000 issue of the Seafarers LOG. (Piney Point inadvertently was omitted from the list of voting locations that appeared on page 13. It was included on the sample ballot on page 15.) Moreover, a notice of the election was mailed in September to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. NOTICE OF 2 • ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2001-2004 OFFICERS SEAFARERS INTERIAnoNAL UNION Atlantio, Bait, Lakes amllnland WatetS l'h"strlct Elections wm be conducted by secret matt ballot. ,.,i Batlots may be obtained at the foltowing locations from 9:00 a.m. to 12 {i;OQ(>n {focal tfme}, Mondays through Saturdays, exctuding holidays, during ?5!J~vottng period. The voting period shaU commence Nov, 1, 2000 and shalt ;;;:C<)ntinue through Dec. 30, 2000. <J: ..·.-..... VOTING LOCATIONS Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, has received the U.S. Coast Guard's Meritorious Public Service Award for his work as chairman of the agency's Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (MERPAC). Coast Guard Rear Admiral Robert North presented the award to Eglinton, who chaired MERPAC for one term from 1998 through early 2000. (A chairman may not serve consecutive terms.) The committee is composed of unlicensed and licensed mariners, shipping company officials, Coast Guard representatives, maritime training specialists and others from the industry. MERPAC advises the secretary of transportation (via the Coast Guard commandant) on matters concerning the training, qualification, licensing, certification and fitness of U.S. mariners. The award reads in part, "Mr. Eglinton led a diverse group of highly talented experts in providing outstanding recommendations to the Coast Guard.. . . His direct and constant oversight of the performance measures development work groups resulted in vital and timely recommendations to the Coast Guard's efforts to implement the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. "Mr. Eglinton organized 15 work groups comprised of more than 100 committee members and maritime industry volunteers. Each group developed specific performance measures for particular shipboard competencies and forwarded them to the full committee for consideration and approval. That each of these work groups completed their respective tasks on time is a direct reflection on Mr. Eglinton's personal involvement, commitment, and leadership. "In addition to this significant accomplishment," the citation continues, "Mr. Eglinton reassigned committee members who completed their respective performance measures packages to develop additional recommendations on simulator standards for demonstrating competence in cri- Bill Eglinton, vocational education director at the Paul Hall Center, shows the award he received from the U.S. Coast Guard for chairing an advisory committee. sis management and human behavior; and, advice on a Coast Guard proposal to the International Maritime Organization Subcommittee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping on medical standards for seafarers .... His efforts in maintaining positive morale and high productivity during this challenging time are highly commendable." For more information on MERPAC or the Paul Hall Center, visit the site index/links section of www.seafarers.org. Coast Guard-Approved School Opens in Honolulu Continued from page 3 mer Navy base that belongs to the state. It features four different, environmentally safe burn pads which simulate various types of marine fires; a "smoke house" for training with breathing apparatuses; a series of mazes; two classrooms and an office; and a container configured for search-and-rescue training. Plans are in the works to build a newer, expanded facility. Meanwhile, 15 or so SIU members voluntarily joined the Piney Point contingent in preparing the school at Barbers Point. Officials and members of the Honolulu Fire Department put the new school through its paces, inspecting the facility and also training there. Pictured from left to right are Capt. Terry Seeling, Deputy Chief John Clark, Chief Anthony Ramos and Paul Hall Center Health and Safety Director Jim Hanson. fif....~tJMORE .•.. ••..2315 E$s~x St, Saftimore, MO . 21224 ~-~~Ron ... ;~ ....•520 St. Clair River Or., Algonac, MJ 48001 iiOOGJTH .. ~ ....... 705 Medical Arts Bfdg., Duluth, MN 55802 N!~l't~UDERDALE .. 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft Lauderdalet Fl. 33316 ;:;:·:-; ·:-;.-:;:::::·:·.· -·:: - ~;-,:;;;:·.'.·:;::'.':': il~~AM ;f"i';{:#~;; ... ~ ..:....125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301~E. Tun Jesus . .Crisostomo St. Tamuning, Guam 96911 lil~Br~LU ? ....606 KaUhi St., H~notulu, HJ 96819 ;f.oN . : :..•...1221 Pierce St. Bouston. TX ,nooz . W~SoNVtLi.E ....3315 liberty St., Jacksonville~ Fl 32206 .;:SEY CITY ,.•....99 Montgomery St, Jersey City, NJ 07302 0 1~E ..~ ........164tfoaupnin ~s~nd Parkway"~obile, AL 36605 SEOfORO .••46 Union St., New Bedford. MA 02740 OE:LPHlA , ..•2604 South Fourth St, PhHa.deJphia, PA 19148 Above: Students practice turning a valve and extinguishing a fire at the new safety school in Honolulu. The building in the background houses classrooms for more instruction. POINT•' ••••.•Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, · ,Piney.f01nt. MD ;20674 Left: Though much of the safety training is hands-on, two large classrooms are available for other segments of the course. #0'1Bmber 2000 Seafarers LOB 7 �ITF Recovers $1.4 Million for Premier Crew Runaway-Flag Campaign Gains Momentum With 'Action Weeks'; Port Canaveral Office Opens The International Transport Workers' Federation's worldwide campaign against runaway-flag shipping has yielded notably strong results since a Sept. 19 rally on Capitol Hill titled "Workers Against Floating Sweatshops." The September event (covered in last month's Seafarers LOG) kicked off a series of "action weeks" both in the U.S. and abroad. It also coincided with the opening of a new ITF office in Port Canaveral, Fla. intended to improve crew conditions in the cruise ship industry. Among the campaign's recent highlights: • ITF officials based at the Port Canaveral facility recovered $1.4 million in back wages for the crew of the defunct Premier Cruise Lines runaway-flag ship SeaBreeze. At press time, they also were assisting more than 1,100 other crew members from Premier ships tied up in the Bahamas. • SIU members and officials voluntarily teamed up with ITF NMU ITF Inspector Enrico Esopa departs from the Viktorio Kodovilja in Carteret, N.J. inspectors and representatives of other U.S. maritime unions for unannounced ship inspections Sept. 20-21 in New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Houston, Norfolk, Va., Charleston, S.C. and New Orleans. Several of the vessels were cited for violations; one was ordered to pay $5,000 in back wages to the crew. • In late September, actions were conducted in 28 European countries. More than 500 inspections were carried out, and nearly $400,000 in back pay for the crews was recovered, with more expected. • From Oct. 16-20, the federation sponsored an Asia-Pacific action week. Nearly $1 million in back pay was recovered for crews of the various inspected runawayflag ships. In announcing the opening of its Port Canaveral office, the ITF pointed out in a written statement, "Since the 1980s, cruise shipping has grown at an average 9.6 percent per year, racing ahead of other maritime sectors. Port Canaveral is the world's third leading port for this trade, handling 1.35 million passengers per year. "However, the gains have been one-sided. Most vessels fly flags of convenience, which allow unscrupulous operators to pay crews a pittance while demanding they work up to 12 hours a day, seven days a week. "The ITF is opposed to the flag of convenience system, which allows ships to be registered in countries other than that of ownership, and which is directly implicated in the operation of unsafe ships, illegal activities and exploitation of crews," the federation's statement added. "For as long as the system is allowed to continue, the [ITF] TOTE Nets Safety Awards For Design of New RO/ROs SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) last month announced it received the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) Commissioner's Pollution Prevention Award 2000. The award reads, "For the design and construction of the Orea Class vessels to be sailing in Alaska by 2002. Totem Ocean Trailer Express has commissioned ships that carry fuel in double walled tanks, use a diesel electric propulsion system, and numerous other attributes that go beyond what is required by law to protect Alaska's air and water. By doing so, TOTE has set the bar for many other vessels that travel in Alaska's waters." TOTE's new roll-on/roll-off vessels are being built at San Diego's NASSCO shipyard. They will be the first non-military containerships or RO/ROs built in a domestic yard since the R.J. Pfeiffer came out in 1992. ADEC Commissioner Michele Brown, in announcing the award, stated, "We all know that prevention is truly the only way to handle an oil spill. TOTE, though, acted upon that goal by not waiting for regulations, but [taking] the initiative to make the Orea Class vessel safe, efficient and environmentally responsible. TOTE went beyond compliance by thinking through the risks, anticipating potential harms and acting to prevent pollution." Earlier this year, TOTE received the States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force 2000 Legacy Award in recognition of "extraordinary efforts to prevent oil spills demonstrated in the design of their new vessels." B Seafarers LOG Seafarers and members of other U.S. maritime unions teamed up for unannounced FOC ship inspections during the U.S. "action week" in September. Among those participating were (left to right, kneeling) Seafarers Lee Frazier and George Murphy, SIU ITF Inspector Don Thornton, Seafarers Carlos Perez and Harry Galena, (standing) MM&P member Daniel Laurion, Seafarers George Mazzola and Michael DiAngelo, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, Seafarers Brandon Purcell, Greg Brandeni and Bill Lough, and Donald Marcus of the MM&P. will attempt to curb its abuses by ensuring that crews are covered by agreements on working hours, wages and conditions." More than 500 transport-related unions-including the SIUare affiliated with the Londonbased ITF. Right: Seafarers Tim Taylor (left) and John Gallagher (right) meet crew members of the Cyprus-flagged CMA CGM Gauguin during an inspection in Port Newark, N.J. Texas Commission Rejects 1 Preauthorization1 Rules AFL-CIO Official Credits SIU's Moore Editors note: The following is reprinted from the Texas AFLCIO daily electronic newsletter. In a resounding victory for working people, the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission on Oct. 19 rejected proposed "preauthorization" rules that would have let the insurance industry decide most of the circumstances under which an injured worker gets treatment. The proposed rules failed on a 3-3 tie vote. The three commissioners representing employers voted to enact the rules, while the three commissioners representing employees voted against the rules. To our knowledge, this was the first 3-3 tie vote since O.D. Kenemore, a ferocious defender of working people and the retired president of the Tideland Central Labor Council, left the agency for retirement. Led by Doctors Council 1199 of AFSCME, the Texas AFL-CIO spent months lobbying against the proposals. The commission staff recently revamped the proposal to relax some of the more onerous sections, but the doctors' union and the Texas AFL-CIO still saw the proposals as onesided attempts to limit medical treatment for injury victims. Texas AFL-CIO President Joe D. Gunn gave the lion's share of credit for today's vote to Commissioner Kenneth Moore, a [representative] of the Seafarers Union. "Today, Kenneth Moore came into his own as a fighter for injured workers in Texas," Gunn said. "Some months ago, in criticizing Gov. Bush's appointments to agencies that have employee representation, I lumped Brother Moore in with other appointees that we believe were not equipped to do the job. I'm glad to be proven wrong on this. Ken Moore today distinguished himself by standing up to a significant amount of pressure in the interests of Texas working people. Ken Moore led the way and helped persuade the other employee representatives, Jack Abla and Rebecca Olivares, that as representatives of employees, they were obligated to protect injured workers from these proposed rules." Upon hearing Gunn's comments, Moore said, "I appreciate the kind words. However, the credit for this victory definitely must be shared among all three of us who voted against the proposal. We wouldn't have won without each of those votes." Gunn noted that the Workers' Compensation Commission staff spent a good part of the meeting trying to persuade the employee representatives to sign off on the proposal, but Moore led the arguments against the proposal during the commission discussion. Workers' Compensation Commissioner Kenneth Moore, an SIU representative, is credited with helping protect the rights of working people in Texas. Gunn said after his criticism of the Bush appointments, he and the Texas AFL-CIO staff held several meetings with Moore and found him to be ready, willing and able to navigate in the complex waters of workers' compensation law. Gunn said Dean Corgey, a member of the Texas AFL-CIO Executive Board, was instrumental in assuring the Texas AFL-CIO that the Seafarers Union, which represents some workers who are covered by workers' comp and some who are covered by other laws, would stand tall for the strongest workers' compensation system that workers can get. November 2DDO �Baltimore-Area Retirees See Bright Future for SIU Four Fondly Reflect on Inland Careers Four retired Seafarers, friends who each navigated the waters in and around Baltimore during their careers with McAllister Towing, recently gathered at that city's SIU hall to exchange pleasantries, reflect on their profession and share their impressions regarding the state of SIU and its benefits programs. Collectively, they have more than 130 years of sea time. Joining the four was a fifth Seafarer, Steve Hardin. Although not yet a retiree (he plans to retire in three years), Hardin, a tug captain, was eager to join his friends and hear their takes on their respective careers. A monthly SIU membership meeting provided the setting for their reunion. Bob Machlinski was the "vet" of the group. Joining the SIU in 1952 in the port of Baltimore, Machlinski sailed as a member of the deck department. He ended his Seafaring career in May 1996. "I live very comfortably as an SIU retiree," Machlinski said, "and I don't think I'll ever work anywhere else again .... I'm very satisfied with the pension and other benefits I receive because they took care of my wife before she died. They're still taking care of me today." Machlinski says he sees a promising future for the SIU. "It looks like the union really is picking up steam in the passenger trade area," he offered. "More passenger ships are sailing under the American flag, and that means more jobs for SIU members. "I do foresee a manpower shortage, though, so the school at Piney Point will become even more important," he noted. "More people will be going through there to get the skills they need in order to fill all of the jobs that soon will become available." Joining the SIU in July 1963 was Gerard Freburger. A member of the engine department, he came ashore in December 1998. "My retirement package is good, very good," Freburger said. "My family and I depend on my pension as well as benefits. Overall, I am very pleased with what I receive." Although he believes a great deal has changed in the maritime industry since he began his career, at least one thing has remained the same: Unions are absolutely necessary for worker protection, he stated. "There definitely is a need for unions today, because so many things are changing in the workplace," Freburger said. "That's especially true in the maritime industry because contracts are getting longer and longer and more people are needed to fill the jobs on a long-term basis. Unions really help and protect people." Jerard Cifarelli retired effective January 1998. A native of Baltimore, Cifarelli was a tug captain. He joined the Seafarers in 1970. During his career, Cifarelli was never one to stand still. He sailed as a cook and later as an engineer. Before retiring, he had worked his way up to the wheelhouse. "I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the SIU, but retirement is good," Cifarelli shared. "I now get a good (retirement) check and basically I'm very pleased. Our pension and benefit system is right on top compared to those offered by other [organizations]. "I can honestly say that if it was not for the union, I wouldn't have anything today," he continued. "The benefits we enjoy as retirees were fought for hard by the union, and I appreciate that. I just hope others behind us get to enjoy the same." Cifarelli sees today's SIU as well organized and headed in the right direction. "The people in the top positions are doing a great job. The union is far better than it was [years ago]," he said. "When I started, I was making $9 per day," Cifarelli continued. "When I retired I was making more than $200 per day. It's really come a long way from what it was when I was working on the water. "I would definitely recommend the SIU to anyone looking for a rewarding career because it's a good organization. The leaders are good people who work for the members, and they will always be there for you." Cifarelli was especially impressed with the new union hall in Baltimore. The facility opened this summer. "The new hall is really nice and I think the union will benefit a great deal from it," he offered. "Besides being great for its members, the hall sends the message to people on the outside that the SIU really cares about its people. That translates into a better image for all of us and I Crew Enjoys Off-Time Angling Chief Cook Jeremy Kelley November 2000 SA Roger Jarrett After a recent membership meeting in Baltimore, the retirees as well as one soon-to-be retiree talked about old times and the future of the SIU. Those who gathered were (front, from left) Jerry Cifarelli, Gerard Freburger, (back) Joe Zorbach, Bob Machlinski and Steve Hardin. Hardin plans to retire in three years. think that's good." Joe Zorbach Jr. was the "rookie" of the group. The Baltimore native retired last month with nearly 30 years of service with the SIU. He joined the union in 1971 in the port of Baltimore and sailed in the engine department. "Now that I'm retired, I plan to take it real easy," Zorbach said. "Who knows, I just might rent beach umbrellas or something to pass the time. "I'm not real concerned about money and that type of thing," he continued, "because the SIU has always taken care of me and my family. My recent pension and medical benefits are good examples of that." Reflecting on his career, the U.S. Navy veteran said, 'The SIU has changed a great deal since I came in. It's more technical now and if you don't upgrade, you definitely will get left behind. I know from experience, because I went to Piney Point earlier this year and took four courses myself. The Coast Guard is making more and more requirements in all phases of the industry, so you have to go to school and learn new things in order to survive out there." Turning to the state of the SIU today, Zorbach offered, "I used to think that the SIU and maritime industry in general would decline in the next 10 years, but I no longer feel that way. It now looks like everything is on the upswing." Zorbach said he had experienced some hard times during his career, but he had no real regrets about his decision to become a mariner. "The waters were not always calm during my career," he said, "but when I look back over it, I don't think I could have done any better anywhere else. I would definitely be a Seafarer again because I thoroughly enjoyed my career. Seafaring was a natural for me," Zorbach concluded. hen Seafarers from the USNS Invincible last summer chartered a fishing boat during their off-time, they made the most of the trip. Chief Steward Beth Leonhard, Chief Cook Jeremy Kelley, QMED Jeffrey Wise, SA Roger Jarrett and MDR Mark Blanchard hauled in 75 pounds of tuna and 60 pounds ofwahoo during their four-hour excursion in Diego Garcia. Leonhard said she suggested the trip because "no one liked the fish we had on board (the Invincible). We brought back the tuna and wahoo and had a cookout for the crew. Altogether it lasted about three meals, and we made various dishes-tuna kabobs, marinated and grilled fish .... " The successful line-casting included one unsavory moment. A shark bit off a wahoo's body while the chief steward was reeling in the doomed fish. "I pulled the bloody head right into my chest. It was gross!" she recalled. "It was a large shark, and it nonchalantly ate the rest of the fish and then kept going." Leonhard, who provided the photos for this article, said that the exceptionally clear water around Diego Garcia helped the SIU anglers' cause. "The water is so beautiful there, you can see the fish swim by. We'll probably try for sailfish next time." The Invincible is a T-AGOS vessel that supports the U.S. Air Force by deploying a mobile surveillance and tracking radar system that can monitor U.S. or foreign space missiles or weapons testing. W Seafarers LOS 9 �STCW Requirements for Unlicensed SIU Personnel (Before February 1, 2002) Position Basic Safety Training Steward Dept. (all) Yes Deck Dept. Ordinary Seaman/DELI Yes Able-bodied Seaman Yes Bosun Yes Engine Dept. Wiper/DELI No: Non-watchstander Note: Mariner may possess a '78 or '95 certificate for lifeboatman/water survival. But not required (same for other non-watchstanders) No: Non-watchstander Note: Same as above. However, if specially trained , an STCW certificate for rating forming part of a navigational watch is required. Yes Note: A '78 or '95 certificate for rating forming part of a navigational watch is required. If assigned cargo duties, must also have tankerman assistant on certificate and MMD. Yes Note: Same as above. Yes Fireman/Watertender Oiler/OMLI Yes QMED-Watchstander Yes QMED-Dayworker Yes QMED-Pumpman Yes STCW Certificate Required Advisory Group Studies Training Continued from page 5 all over the world), a steering console and more. It provides teaching support in the following areas: voyage planning and execution; coastal and offshore navigation; collision avoidance; ARPA/radar operation; electronic navigation systems; search and rescue operations; vessel traffic management; high speed navigation; bridge watchkeeping procedures including tugs and barges, towboats and piloting; GMDSS procedures; oil spill response man- agement; port development; human factors; and bridge team management. The engine room simulator is potentially useful to any rating in that department, from wipers to engineers. It is designed for the training of engine room watchkeeping personnel in the operations of a vessel's diesel propulsion plant and electrical power plant. Additionally, it includes an auxiliary systems and machinery simulator. The crane and liquid cargo simulators are similarly advanced and useful. No: Non-watchstander Note: Mariner may possess a certificate for water survival. No Note: Not required until Feb. 1, 2002. However, mariner may possess a certificate for water survival. No Note: Same as above. No: Non-watchstander. Note: Same as above. Yes: A '78 or '95 certificate for tankerman assistant is required. Note: Evidence of meeting compliance with STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) until Jan. 31, 2002 is either evidence of having sailed prior to Feb. 1, 1997, or individual was assessed aboard ship during the relaxed assessment period and has entries in TRB to that effect, or has completed a Coast Guard-approved BST course and is recorded in TRB. Effective Feb. 1, 2002, everyone must have received training and assessment in Basic Safety Training. STCW Requirements for Unlicensed SIU Personnel (Beginning February 1, 2002) Position Basic Safety Training STCW Certificate Required Steward Dept. (all) Yes No: Non-watchstander Note: Mariner may possess a '95 certificate for Chapter V: Special Training for Special Vessels. Deck Dept. Ordinary Seaman/DEU Yes Able-Bodied Seaman Yes Bosun Yes No: Non-watchstander Note: Same as above. However, if specially trained, an STCW certificate for rating forming part of a navigational watch is required. Yes Note: A '95 certificate for rating forming part of a navigational watch is required. If assigned cargo duties, must also have tankerman assistant on certificate and MMD. Yes Note: Same as above. Engine Dept. Wiper/DEU Fireman/Watertender Oiler/OMU Yes Yes QMED-Watchstander Yes QMED-Dayworker Yes QMED-Pumpman Yes No: Non-watchstander Yes Note: A '95 certificate for rating forming part of an engineering watch is required. Yes Note: Same as above. Yes: Non-watchstander (Many SIU-contracted companies have requested that QMED non-watchstanders possess STCW certificates in order to help ensure compliance in special circumstances) Yes: A '95 certificate for tankerman assistant is required. Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2002, all SIU members will have received training and assessment in Basic Safety Training. STCW Requirements for Limited Licenses SIU Personnel (Beginning February 1, 2002) Radio Observ. Adv. FF Surv. Craft Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes ARPA License Tonnage Voyager BST BRM Master <200GRT Foreign Yes Yes Yes Yes Mate <200GRT Foreign Yes Yes Yes Chief/ Asst. Engr <200GRT Foreign Yes No No GMDSS Note: Vessels <200 GRT on domestic voyages are exempt and all vessels greater than 200 GRT on domestic or for eign voyages must meet training requirements listed above. Note: Mariners must obtain this training and assessment (close the gap) before Feb. 1, 2002. GMDSS and ARPA are required for vessels equipped with this equipment. Effective Feb. 1, 2002, all SIU members will have received training and assessment in Basic Safety Training. 10 Seafarers LOS In photos above and at right, members of the advisory board tour the school's new simulators for shiphandling, engine room operations, liquid cargo transfer and crane operations. November 2000 �"You can't get fresher than this," notes Recertified Steward Luis Escobar (left), as he and AB Mario Baja pull in the catch of the day aboard the Breton Reef The vessel was in Cherry Point, Wash. at the time. The crabs (below) were so large and plentiful that Escobar and the galley gang used them in recipes for steamed crabs, crab Newburg, crab gumbo and crab fritters. Right: Pumpman James McDaniel (right) got two birthday cakes for his special day, both baked by Unlicensed Apprentice Beth Ketha (center) aboard the Breton Reef With them is Recertified Steward Luis Escobar, who notes that Ketha is "the best," happily baking not only cakes, but cookies and much more. The galley gang aboard the Liberty Sea is a real team. Doing whatever it takes to raise morale, provide healthy, hearty fare and keep the vessel in tip-top condition are Chief Steward Thomas Kreis, Chief Cook Christopher Green and GSU Artie Pilgrim. Left: USNS Dahl's bosun, Klaus "Whitey" Tankersley (right), and (former SIU member) Captain Mike Finnigan put the .finishing touches on the ship's life ring. With the motto "USNS Voo Doo Dahl," it recently was presented to the Seaman's Club in Diego Garcia. Recertified Steward Kevin Marchand and Chief Cook Bernadette Yancey begin preparations for the next meal aboard the USNS Dahl. #o'1ember 2000 Seafal'ers LOB 11 �ELECTION NOTICE OF 2000 ELECTION Section 401 (e) of the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 (Landrum-Griffin Act) requires the mailing of an election notice to each member entitled to vote at his last known address. This notice is being sent to you in compliance therewith and, in addition, contains information of interest to all candidates and members. SEE REVERSE SIDE FOR VOTING LOCATIONS AND PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL REVISIONS OFFICIAL BALLOT No. 00000 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICAAtlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District VOTING PERIOD NOVEMBER 1st, 2000 THROUGH DECEMBER 30th, 2000 INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS-In order to vote for a candidate, mark a cross (X) in voting square to the left of name. If you vote for more candidates for office than specified herein, your vote for such office will be invalid. MARK YOUR BALLOT WITH PEN AND INK OR INDELIBLE PENCIL PRESIDS;~ Vote for One VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS ,, 0 Ji " Robert (Bobby) J. Clinton 111 .fC-19~8 2 0 Charles Burdette Collins, C-1652'' 3 D Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 '\._ /J 14,ffiJ ~ .1 (Vote for One) D , 24 lice-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF · 0 Michael D. Murphy, M-2483 7 0 William Parker, P-1067 17 D George Tricker, Larry Frank Phillips, P-1257 9 D Augustin Tellez, T-764 PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 27 D Co~§V (Vote for One) 28 D (Vote for One) (Vote for One) Edward Kelly, Jr., K-5043 NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT (Vote for One) Ambrose L. Cucinotta, C-1795 30 D HOUSTON PORT AGENT (Vote for One) (Vot,Pfor One) Don Anderson, A-5244 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS (Vote for One) D Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 Stephen W. Judd, J-5336 ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST 20 D (Vote for One) Dennis Metz, M-3013 Nicholas A. Celona, C-1578 (Vote for One) VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-2658 BALTIMORE PORT AGENT ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Jack Caffey, C-1010 Robert Selzer, S-1258 MOBILE PORT AGENT 18 D VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST 11 26 D (Vote for One) 19 D 10 0 NEW YORK PORT AGENT T-f)J~:r -PRESfO;~t~t~..l- J .i Vote for One D Edward "Edd" W. Morris, M-1358 (Vote for One) ASStSTA.N'f'v1cE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE "bJ?~ONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT '·· VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT 25 D :efP ASSISTANT VIC. CHARGE OF THE AT~TIC 8 Carl Peth, P-755 A,#(Vo.Jlfor One) ifr Vote for One 6 D Gl.00'{,gVRtiME .. NT SERVICES WFISH~G INDUSTRIES J~*"" ,.~~rm~tr~. Mangram, M-2394 David W. Heindel, H-1443 Leo Bonser, B-1193 (Vote for One) SECRETARY-TREASURER D 23 D Thomas Orzechowski, Jr., 0-601 .L. .:. John Fay, F-363 5 (Vote for Two) PINEY POINT PORT AGENT EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT 4 Vote for One HEADQUARTERS REPRESENTATIVE 21 D 32 D ···~:-.~ ~<\. •;;,,_ ST. James P. McGee, M-5945 . ~::.~. /.};' ViQcen.t Frands•Coss, C-8138 ..... l'bu) PORT AGENT (Vote for One) VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Vote for One (Vote for One) 12 0 Kevin Bertel, B-1832 13 D Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 22 0 Robert Hall, H-5727 33 0 DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT (Vote for One) 34 D ); Q 0 c=; r 0 N m ..... )> r r 0 0 _J _J C( -4 _J N 0 m ~ C( 0 u: N 0 0 LL 0 .j:lo voo~ 12 .,,.,, .q0 0 N 0 ....0 - ~oo~ .io11va 1v1:>1:::1:::10 Seafarers LOG Donald A. Thornton, T-5501 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2001 - 2004 OFFICIAL BALLOT 2001 - 2004 .q0 0 N Rebecca J. Sleeper, S-2497 See Reverse Side for Voting Locations and Proposed Constitutional Revisions .,,0.,, c=; ); .... m N ..... )> r r 0 0 _J ..I C( -4 m N 0 _J ~ C( (3 u: N 0 0 LL 0 .j:lo voo~ - ~oo~ .io11va 1v101:::1:::10 November 2000 �ELECTION NOTICE OF 2000 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2001-2004 OFFICERS AND CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS Election will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 A.M. to 12 Noon, Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence on November 1st, 2000 and shall continue through December 30th, 2000. VOTING LOCATIONS ALGONAC BALTIMORE DULUTH FT. LAUDERDALE GUAM HONOLULU HOUSTON NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK NORFOLK PHILADELPHIA PINEY POINT 520 St. Clair River Drive, Algonac, Ml 48001 2315 Essex Street, Baltimore, MD 21224 705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802 1221 South Andrews Avenue , Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 S-Sanqy Plaza, Tun Jesus Crisostoma St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 0,l:rKaJ.ihf'$.treet, Honolulu, HI 96819 12~1 Pi}rc~"' 'Street, Houston, TX 77002 "!. '~ .ll 15 Libe~"'Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 Mq}ltgomery Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302 MOBILE 40 ~auphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 NEW BEDFORD'''~'""'-- 48 J,Jn'ion Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 PUERTO RICO SAN FRANCISCO ST. LOUIS TACOMA WILMINGTON 3911 LaPalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 635 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 2604 South Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 1057 Fernandez Juncos Avenue, Santurce, PR 00907 350 Fremont Street, San Francisco, CA 94105 4581 Gravois Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63116 3411 South Union Street, Tacoma, WA 98409 510 North Broad Avenue, Wilmington, CA 90744 ""'·::;:;;~_mm;:e-· WHEREAS, the Executive Board of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District met on May 12, 2000 to discuss the current needs and conditions of the Union, its membership and the maritime industry in this country; and _ WHEREAS, among their discussions and deliberations was the subjecf'Cif''prpposed revisions in the Union's Constitution which would enable the Union to function more efficiently and to continue to fulfill its obligations to the membership· and / '\, WHEREAS, a Constitutional Committee was elected ,AtJ9'ust 7, ·~\in ac;t0rdance with Article XXV, Section 2 of our Constitution. They studied the proposed Constitutional Amendments Resolution and unanimously concurred on all proposed constitutional revisions; and /l WHEREAS, the report of the Constitutional C \'b y tt\,"membership at the regular membership meetings in September 2000. l NOW,THEREFORE,ITISRESOLVED ~~;~ (~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THE FOLLOWING CONSTIT~JION~LY ADOPTED PROPOSITIONS, TO BE VOTED UPON, IF ADOPTED, WOULD AMEND THE CONSTITUTION AS FOLLOWS: PROPOSITION #1 Are you in favor of amending Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 1 (a) of the Constitution of !tiEf•$.eafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows : •section 1. All members' dues shall consist of: "-'p·· ''· (a) Dues annually in the sum of four hundred dollars ($400.00) which shall be paid in equal am ,,,,. n a ~lendar year basis, no later than the first business day of each calendar quarter, and;" I.~ BOX OF YOUR CHOICE 'so Noo _, 111{,N #2 Are you in favor of amending Article V, Dues and Initiation Fee, Section 1 (b) of the Constitu;/k '(b) a sum equal to five percent (5%) of the gross amount received for vacation benefits for days wo ment for the earned vacation benefits and shall become effective as to members in the manner design the employ of the Union, its subdivisions and its affiliated organizations, or in any employment at the Un above the sum of one hundred dollars ($100.00) quarterly on a calendar year basis, no later than the first .;!.~national Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: ted employers. Dues payable under this Sub-section (b) shall be payable on the days that the member receives payrmined by a majority vote of the membership by secret ballot. When so determined by the membership, members in ction as provided in Article XII, Section 1 (a) and (c), shall pay in addition to that provided for in paragraph (a) immediately iness day of each quarter while so loyed.' ·:;-;i;,:. 11 11 PLACE X IN BOX OF YOUR YES 0 NO Are you in favor of amending the following Constitutional provisions to revise the name of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; Title Page Heading Preamble Article I, Name and General Powers Exhibit A Preamble, Section Ill, Section IV, Section V, Section VI, Section VII, Section VIII, Section IX, Section X, Section XI, Section XII and Section XIII so that the name of the Union would reflect the consolidation of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District and t Maritime Union in all of the above referenced sections and headings to read as follows Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District-NMU. PLACE X IN BOX OF YOUR CHOICE YESO NOO 11 11 PROPOSITION #4 Are you in favor of amending Article VII, Systems of Organization, Section 2 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to _tead ·section 2. The Headquarters of the Union shall be located in Camp Springs, Maryland and Piney Point, Maryland or at such places as the Executive Board may determine from time to time. The Hpedquart J consist of a President, an Executive Vice-President, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement, a Secretary-Treasurer, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast. on~'(1) Vice-Pi'e.sident in';Chai'ge of the Gulf Coast, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the West Coast, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Gp.vemme..,,. ices and Fi~himJ ' Industries and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.' !{ ~~:?"' Are you in favor of amending Article VIII, Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives and Port Agents, Section 1 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union''of No'.. , Gulf, Lakes ~-,,,._ and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: 'Section 1. The officers of the Union shall be elected as otherwise provided in this Constitution. These officers shall be the President, an Executive Vice-President, one (1) Vice-President in Charge~· ._ ontracts and Contract Enforcement. a Secretary-Treasurer, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast. one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the Gulf Coast, one (1) Vice-President in Charge of the West Coast, one (1). .~. President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters, and one (1) Vice-President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries and two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large.• ' Are you in favor of amending Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel, Section 1o of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: "Section 10. Vice-Presidents at Large. There shall be two (2) Vice-Presidents at Large whose duties shall be as directed by the President with concurrence of the Executive Board. Such duties and responsibilities may be changed from time to time in like manner, as dictated by the needs of the Union.' Are you in favor of amending Article X, Duties of Officers, Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel , Section 14, Executive Board of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: 'Section 14. Executive Board. The Executive Board shall consist of the President, the Executive Vice-President, the Vice-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement, the Secretary-Treasurer, the Vice-President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast Area, the Vice-President in Charge of the Gulf Coast Area, the Vice-President in Charge of the West Coast Area the Vice-President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters, the Vice-President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries, the Vice-Presidents at Large and the National Director (or chief executive officer) of each subordinate body or division created or chartered by the Union whenever such subordinate body or division has attained a membership of 3,200 members and has maintained that membership for not less than three (3) months. Such National Director (or chief executive officer) shall be a member of the respective subordinate body or division and must be qualified to hold office under the terms of the Constitution of such division or subordinate body.· Are you in favor of amending Article X, Duties of Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Headquarters Representatives, Port Agents, Other Elected Jobholders and Miscellaneous Personnel , Section 15 (b) , Delegates of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: "Section 15. Delegates. (b) The term "delegates• shall mean those members of the Union and its subordinate bodies or divisions who are elected in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution to attend the Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America. The following officers and jobholders, upon their election to office or job shall, during the term of their office or job be delegates to all Conventions of the Seafarers International Union of North America in the following order of priority: President; Executive Vice-President; Vice-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement; Secretary-Treasurer; Vice-President in Charge of the Atlantic Coast; Vice-President in Charge of the Gulf Coast; Vice-President in Charge of the West Coast; Vice-President in Charge of the Southern Region, Great Lakes and Inland Waters; Vice-President in Charge of Government Services and Fishing Industries; Vice-Presidents at Large; Assistant Vice-Presidents; Headquarters Representatives , with priority to those most senior in full book Union membership; and Port Agents, with priority to those most senior in full book Union membership.' PLACE X IN BOX OF YOUR CHOICE YESO NOD 11 11 PROPOSITION #5 Are you in favor of amending Article XXll , Quorums, Section 2 of the Constitution of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, to read as follows: "Section 2. The quorum for a regular meeting of a Port shall be twenty-five (25) members.' 11 11 PLACE X IN BOX OF YOUR CHOICE YESO NOD These amendments, if approved, shall become effective upon the date of certification of the Union Tallying Committee. November 2000 Seafarers LOB 13 �S~ling on tb.e Atlantic . • • Appropriately named, the Atlantic sails from the U.S. ports of Boston; New York; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C., Jacksonville, Fla. and Houston across the Atlantic Ocean to the European ports of Rotterdam, Holland; Bremerhaven, Germany; Felixstowe, England; and LeHarve, France. According to DEU John Cooper (who sent these photos to the LOG), the hard-working crew aboard the U.S. Ship Management vessel enjoys the 42-day run but always looks forward to coming home . . .........__,,_, ··~~..;.-,,..~ The Houston shoregang begins loading the ship's stores for the next trip. Right: Unlicensed Apprentices Nathaniel Miller (right) and Josh Ellerbee are packed and ready to go home after a long trip to Europe. QMED Ehtesham Ahmed checks the schedule for arrival time in New York. He will then return to his home port of Baltimore. Bosun George Perry waits for members of the deck department in the Atlantic's gear locker. Right: SA Jack Jones cleans dishes from lunch. DEU John Cooper takes the helm of the containership. Left: AB Bill Pinkston (right) stands watch with the 8 x 12 mate, Erick Cox. Enjoying a quick break in the crew mess are AB Janaro Jackson and Chief Electrician John Walsh. Chief Steward Edward Porter (right) talks with Patrolman Frank Cottongin Ill at payoff in the port of Houston. APPLY NOW FOR 1OF8 SCHOLARSHIPS TO BE AWARDED IN 1001 r----------------------------------------------------------------------------, P lease send me the 2001 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Mariner's Social Security N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Street Address City, State, Zip Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone Number __________________________ This application is for: 0 Self 0 Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 14 Seafarers LOB 11/00 Filling out the coupon at left is the first step toward pursuing your hopes, dreams and goals for a higher level of education. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college next year are encouraged to send away for the 2001 SIU Scholarship Program booklet. It contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Eight monetary grants will be awarded next year to three SIU members and five dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. Five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information carefully to make sure that certain conditions are met. No one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15, 2001. Do it today! November 2111JO �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 2000 *TOTA"L REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port ·. . Algonac 1 Baltimore 6 :;JjJuam TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 2 0 I 4 2 l 3 l 6 4 7 16 3 4 5 27 9 26 Mobile New Orleans New York 9 27 30 9 3 10 S 21 11 14 7 4 22 Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point 14 5 4 18 3 6 4 6 2 2 1 2 Honolulu Houston Jacksonville P~rto ·R'.100 :,5;;g.,, ' 8 San Franeisco'ii .21 Seattle . · ':. 25 St. Louis Wilmington Totals Port · Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville 4 2 27 220 11 122 0 0 -0 6 0 5 14 15 0 8 4 15 9 2 7 8 Mobile , ···'New Orleans .:. New York .4 Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point 6 3 2 9 · Puerto Rico 3 San Franc~co: . . · J 1 Seattle 13 St. Louis Wilmington Totals 9 8 8 3 3 1 6 7 2 3 4 5 63 o·,· 2 I 18 2 3 2 3 6 4 6 202 5 14 15 6 3 2 3 11 6 3 3 0 3 5 3 2 1 2 0 1 2 62 22 21 48 21 11 9 0 5 3 5 11 17 7 12 7 21 17 26 4 5 10 15 7 3 5 0 3 7 3 14 5 4 Algonac ..................Friday: December 8, January 12 Baltimore ................ Thursday: December 7, January 11 Duluth .....................Wednesday: December 13, January 17 Honolulu .................Friday: December 151 January 19 Houston .. " ..............Monday: December 11 Tuesday: January 16* •change created by Martin Luther King h<>Jiday Jacksonville .•.....•....Thursday: December 7. January 11 39 14 4~ 4 ~l,, 6 34 2 17 5 7 55 56 391 174 100 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: J>ecember 19, January 23 0 3 0 0 7 0 2 NewOrleans .......~...Tuesd!ty: .December 12, January 16 0 8 l 3 2 0 2 4 6 0 7. 4 3 27 29 5 Jersey City .•~...........Wedpesday:December 20, January 24 Moblle t +.................Wednesdai~; December 13, January 17 New York'. ...............Tuesday: becember 5, January 9 9 27 6 ' ll 18 0 8 4 3 3 8 ' 3.· 7' 17 5 4 4 74 0 1 z 9 3 3 5 12 5 7 '1 2 2 I{) lO 9 14 14 0 9 0 3 41 3 33 4 11 172 13 3 149 49 6 0 0 10 IO 0 4 90 38 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 i () 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 7 9 3 9 19 2 1 11 11 5 2 4 6 7 0 6 101 0 12 0 12 39 Piney Point ............. Monday, December 4, January 8 2 1() 1 7 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT l ' ( 0 0 0 3 3 0 1 3 3 1 0 1 7 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH AU Groups Class A Class B Class C 8 100 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Algonac· Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile 0 3 0 11 10 0 0 o· 3 0 Seattle St. Louis Wilmington Totals 12 16 21 l 1 2 0 0 17 6 4 140 42 25 2 0 1 l l l 0 3 23 3 0 0 13 2 5 0 0 0 2 1 3 I 0 11 109 2 37 2 33 9 18 5· 0 2 31 0 1 0 6 6 6 5 5 8 9 2 10 1 3 0 3 3 6 0 7 Honolulu Houston Jacksonville 0 6 3 5 M~pile o 4 3 1 0 73 7 9 4 i 4 4 29 Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point 1 0 I 5 Puerto Rico San Francisco · ··Seattle 2 St. Louis Wilmington Totals 0 9 39 500 ii/GU.am , ···Ne'W Orleans · · York • Totals All Departments O 3 4 1 0 2 0 2 0 19 10 0 69 0 0 6 2 9 12 2 6 12 3 10 26 7 10 12 0 l 8 8 11 0 4 2 2 0 38 0 15 20 1 9 2 4 11 21 4 158 9 212 0 4 32 412 338 443 s 0 7 0 1 17 1 0 0 0 2 30 2 12 1 4 255 75 39 l 1 0 16 5 8 1 1 J 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 8 1 0 1 5 7 9 0 11 MUHARAM HUSIN Please contact Isabel Husin at (718) 369-1430 or Maria at (718) 832-7651 at your earliest convenience. Corrections In the October LOG, page 13, Piney Point inadvertently was omitted from the list of_yoting locations. 4 0 Personal i ···· 3& 29 ENTRY DEPARTMENT · 1 1 0 22 9 11 i. 26 4 0 3 0 26 Port i~l~gonac · l\altimore 5 3 . SanFrancisco 5 0 1 1 6 4 I 2 4 3 ·•· J 7 7 13 8 3 0 22 5 New Orleans Q 3 4 0 0 0 2 3 8 0 4 19 0 4 1 7 New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point t Puerto Rico :~ew 6 9 8 Jl 1 7 103 26 0 5 10 3 4 15 21 2 0 2 9 7 2 3 17 2 0 1 15 19 0 Port '% DECK DEPARTMENT 3 l 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 4 Trip Reliefs December 2000 & January ztiiJi;<i Met11bership Meellngs lleep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters In the October LOG, page 37, the obit for SIU Pensioner Charles Rice should have stated that he graduated from the steward recertification program (not bosun recertification). 2. 1 0 1 37 16 30 110 10 17 8 10 n 5' ATTENTION All SEAFARERS CAeckgour Z,, ·Card/ 50 7 56 '/~--·..·,~y 15 2 0 ~~ 49 l 27 23 9 16 37 8 10 17 0 1 3 4 113 146 0 0 0 78 25 288 24 338 327 265 120 896 686 526 22 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. November 2000 Seafarers LOB 15 �- Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ../ SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 2000 CL - Company/Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED AU Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port 0 19 12 Algonac 0 8 6 Port Algonac Port 0 4 10 Algonac 0 13 . 21 Algonac Port Nicholas J. Marrone Vice President West Coast . ,Kermett Mangram Viee President Government Services .. 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 DECK DEPARTMENT 11 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 5 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT ·o 11 8 ·····. ·'····· 0 0 8 0 3 0 2 0 5 . lllDADQUART.ERS . . . S201 Auth Way · Camp Springs, MD 20746 ('W . l) 899-067 5 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Alg®ac. MI 48001 . (&to) 794-4988 Totals All Depts 0 44 49 0 26 29 0 18 *"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 ANCllORAGE 121 Sesame St, #lC, Anchorage. Al< 99503 ·.·. (907) 561-49'88 D ispatchers' Report for Inland Wat e rs BALTm.JORE SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 2000 ·2315 &Sex.St., :aattimoi:e, MD 21224 (410) 3274900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C GUAM . , 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 30M<: Tun Jesus Crisostomo St. Tamuning, Guam 9691 l · (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (80&) 845-5222 · ·u;oUSTON .• J 121 Pierce St, Houston. TX 71002 . (713) 659.-5152 ~~,J1tland ~aters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . Lakes, Inland Waters · 0 West Coast 0 Totals 0 Region Atlantic Coast 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 8 12 0 1 ·· o 0 1 ···•· () 0 0 . 0 0 9 1 0 10 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 •··.·. > () . 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Gulf Coast . . . < Lakes, Inl~!ld Water~.;tdfg ····· ··.·.·.···.·········· ~l!~~~DVO;~ 4& Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508} 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Hm'Vey, LA 70058 (504)328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave.• Brooklyn, NY 11232 West Coast Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Totals All Depts 1 0 13 2 0 11 3 1 *"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. 1 34 (7 18) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 2.3510 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST (757) 622-1892 PlOLADELPlUA 2604 S. 4 St., P.biJadelphi~ PA l 9148 (215) $36-381& PINEYPOlNT P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994~0010 PORT EVERGLADES . · J i21 S. Andrews Ave,, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 . (954) 522...7984 SAN FRANCISCO 35-0 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Divisfon (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE l 057 Fernandez Junc<>S Aile., Stop Santu.rce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 16~ ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Loliis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA .3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 {253) 212m14 WILMINGTON This 36-year-old photo was sent to the LOG by retired Seafarer James W. Krebser of Stuart, Fla. He writes: "Unlike the proverbial 'ships that pass in the night,' they often pass in the daytime, too. This snapshot of two Great Lakes bulk carriers was photographed in July 1964 on Lake Superior from aboard the SIU-contracted SS Frank E. Taplin." Krebser then went on to sail 10 Sea-Land containerships throught the 1970s in the SIU's Atlantic & Gulf District. Broad Ave., Wtlmin8f()n, CA 90744 (310) 5494000 16 Seafarers LOG November 2000 �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. n Inland pilot, a recertified steward and a recertified bosun are among the 17 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Alton Douglas navigated the inland waterways as a pilot for nearly 30 years. Recertified Steward Norman Evans and Recertified Bosun Enrique Velez graduated from the highest levels of training available to members in the steward and deck departments, respectively, at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Including Evans and Velez, 13 of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division and one plied the Great Lakes. Douglas and two others navigated the inland waterways. Six of the retirees were members of the deck department, four shipped in the engine department and seven sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. A DEEP SEA AHMED ALGAZZALI, 65, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of New York. Born in Yemen, Brother Algazzali first sailed aboard Connecticut Transport's Connecticut. A member of the steward department, he upgraded his skills in 1987, 1989 and earlier this year at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Algazzali last shipped aboard the Captain Steven L. Bennett, operated by Sealift, Inc. He resides in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOSEPH F. BIL LOTTO JR, 71, hails from Louisiana. He began his career with the SIUin1951, first sailing aboard the Steel Fabricator, operated by ISCO Inc. Brother Billotto shipped as a member of the engine department, last working aboard the Sea-Land Challenger. He calls Mobile, Ala. home. ERNEST BRINKLEY, 62, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Norfolk. He first sailed aboard the Spitfire, NORMAN EVANS, 63, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of San Francisco. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Brother Evans served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957. He first sailed aboard the Del Campo, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. A member of the steward department, Brother Evans completed the steward recertification course at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1984. The Alabama native last sailed aboard an American Ship Management vessel. Brother Evans lives in Dallas. AMBROSIO FACHINI, 56, hails from Brazil. He joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans and first sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce. A member of the steward department, Brother Fachini upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1993. He last worked aboard the American Merlin, operated by OspreyAcomarit Ship Management, Inc. Brother Fachini resides in Wilmington, Calif. EDWARDJ. HIEL, 61, started his career with the SIU in 1969, joining in the port of Cleveland. He first sailed aboard an American Steamship Company vessel. A native of Michigan, he shipped as a member of the steward department. Brother Riel upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1990, 1994, and again earlier this year. He last sailed aboard the USNS Sisler, a Maersk Line vessel. Brother Riel calls Saginaw, Mich. home. a General Cargo Corp. vessel. A native of Florida, Brother Brinkley shipped as a member of the steward department. He last sailed aboard Bay Ship Management's USNS Yano. Brother Brinkley resides in Norfolk, Va. HAROLD G. CALDEIRA, 64, began his SIU career in 1956, joining in the port of Houston. Born in New York, he shipped as Nortember 2000 a member of the deck department. Brother Caldeira upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1995 and 1998. He last sailed aboard CSX Lines' Newark Bay. Brother Caldeira calls Holiday, Fla. home. PHILLIP C. PARDOVICH, 65, joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of New York. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, he served with the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. A member of the engine department, Brother Pardovich first sailed aboard Boston Towing Boat Company vessels. He upgraded his skills in 1979, 1981 and 1991 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. The New York native last worked aboard the Sea-Land Newark Bay. Brother Pardovich resides in Port Richey, Fla. Salcedo first sailed aboard the Penmar, operated by Calmar Steamship Corporation. A member of the steward department, he hails from Puerto Rico. Brother Salcedo last shipped aboard the USNS Algol. He resides in New Orleans. !.••~~JESUS RODRIGUEZ, 65, began his SIU career in 1981, joining in the port of Wilmington. Born in South America, Brother Rodriguez sailed as a member of the engine department. He first shipped aboard the Santa Mercedes, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. The Columbia native last worked aboard the Overseas Ohio. Brother Rodriguez lives in Whittier, Calif. ENRIQUE VELEZ, 58, hails from Puerto Rico. He began his career with the SIU in 1977, joining in the port of New York. A bosun, Brother Velez first shipped aboard the Robert E. Lee, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. He shipped as a member of the deck department and completed the bosun recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for amaritime Training and Education in 1993. Brother Velez last sailed aboard the SeaLand Crusader. He resides in his native Puerto Rico. JULIAN SALAZAR, 64, hails from Texas. He started his career with the SIU in 1970, joining in the port of Houston. Before becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Army on two occasions; from 1950 to 1952, and from 1952 to 1954. Brother Salazar first shipped aboard the Steel Flyer, operated by ISCO, Inc. A member of the engine department, he upgraded his skills often at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. He attended the institution in 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980 and 1984. Brother Salazar last sailed aboard the LNG Libra, operated by Pronav Ship Management. He calls Houston home. JOSE SALCEDO, 56, started his SIU career in 1964, joining in the port of Puerto Rico. Brother WAYNED. WOODCOCK, 64, started his career with the SIU in 1966. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Brother Woodcock served with the U.S. Coast Guard from 1956 to 1960. He first sailed aboard the USNS Mt. Vernon, operated by Mt. Vernon Tankers Corporation. A native of Texas, Brother Wookcock shipped as a member of the steward department. He upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1975. Brother Woodcock last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Explorer. He lives in Waco, Texas. GREAT LAKES MOUSA M. SALEH, 52, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Detroit. Born in Yemen, he first sailed aboard the George D. Globe, operated by Great Lakes Associates. Brother Saleh shipped as a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Richard J. Reiss, operated by Erie Sand Steamship. Brother Saleh is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. INLAND DOMENICO CHIODI, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1981, joining in the port of New York. Born in Italy, Boatman Chiodi spent his entire career sailing aboard New York Cross Harbor Railroad vessels. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatmen Chiodi resides in the Bronx, N.Y. ALTON DOUGLAS, 65, hails from Louisiana. He began his SIU career in 1962, joining in the port of New Orleans. A pilot, Boatman Douglas first sailed aboard Dixie Carrier vessels. He last sailed aboard Allied Towing vessels. Boatman Douglas calls Slidell, La. home. FRANK D. WHITTINGTON, 73, joined the SIU in 1962. A native of Galveston, Texas, Boatman Whittington sailed aboard Galveston Wharves operated vessels during his career. He resides in Texas City, Texas. amend the U.S. labor laws in order to give the NLRB jurisdiction over aews of foreign-flag 1942 vessels substantially engaged in American comBritish Prime Minister Winston Churchill merce. The SIU president dedared that this offered his thanks and action would prevent the thanks of the disasters such as the Royal Navy to the .. sinking of the aews of two SIU-conI Tl .f ~f I n Yannouth Castle, the tracted ships that A.f •r. American-owned, returned to New York .f~f Panamanian-flagged after 1 t months on 01Jise ship which sank the run to Russia. A in the Caribbean with commendation ~==============================~ a los.s of 89 lives, relayed by Adm. E.S. Land, director of the after being destroyed by fire. War Shipping Administration, from the British 1990 Admiralty said in part~ "Mr. Winston An additional breakout of Seafarers will crew ChurchiR, the British Prime Minister, has paranother 13 ships for the government's Ready ticularly requested that he be associated with this message of congratulations ••.• I should like Reseive Force (RRF) fleet which has been acti· also to offer my congratulations to you and vated by the military to support the massive deployment of supplies and equipment to the your aew for excellent work you all perPersian Guff•••. For the duration of the breakformed during this encounter,, which is a great credit to the United States merchant marine.'' out, SIU President Michael Sacco extended The ships are unnamed for security reasons. until 10 p.m. the hours of the union's man· power center and hiring halls, which have been operating in high gear since August when the 1965 stepped-up shipping demands began. SIU President Paul Hall called on Congress to Reprinted from past issues of the SeJ.farers LOG ,.UJS MQ,A.f..rU J SJU HJ Si ORy Seafarers LOG 17 �Editors note: The Seafarers LOG staff makes every attempt to find and publish pertinent facts regarding the careers of our deceased brothers and sisters. These facts normally include, but are not limited to, date and port joined the SIU, vessels sailed, department worked, and place of residence at the time of death. In some instances, however, significant information simply is not available on their respective careers. When this occurs, we will list the name, age, date of death and division sailed at the end of this column. Photos will be published when available. DEEP SEA NORWOOD BARBOUR Pensioner Norwood Barbour, 73, died July 23. Born in North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of Norfolk. He shipped as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1969. Brother Barbour served with the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. He made his home in Washington, D.C. ROBERT BELVIN Pensioner Robert Belvin, 79, passed away July 26. Brother Belvin joined the MC&S in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. A member of the steward department, he first sailed aboard the President Polk. The Louisiana native began receiving his pension in 1984. He last sailed aboard the President Madison. Brother Belvin lived in San Francisco. .--------~ VIRGILIO COLLAZO Brother Virgilio Collazo, 48, died July 14. Born in Bayamon, P.R., Brother Collazo joined the Seafarers in 1999 and sailed as an AB. He first shipped aboard the Chemical Explorer, operated by Intrepid Ship Management. Brother Collazo last worked aboard the Sea-Land Hawaii. He resided in his native Puerto Rico. HELEN DRAGAVON Pensioner Helen Dragavon, 82, passed away May 5. Sister Dragavon joined the MC&S in 1957 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Soudan, Minn., she shipped as a member of the steward department. Sister Dragavon first sailed aboard an Oceanic Steamship operated vessel and last worked aboard the Mariposa. She began receiving her pension in 1969. Sister Dragavon called Hermantown, Minn. home. OLAF KJONBOG Pensioner OlafKjonbog, 98 died July 25. Brother Kjonbogjoined the Seafarers in 1950 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Norway, he sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1969. Brother Kjonbog resided in Kenner, La. .,. Seatann LOB JOHN MERKEL RAYMOND SMITH Pensioner John Merkel, 76, died Aug. 15. Born in Philadelphia, Brother Merkel began his career with the SIU in 1942, joining in the port of Mobile. The Philadelphia native sailed in the deck department and shipped primarily aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. vessels, including the Northern Lights. Brother Merkel began receiving his pension in 1971. He lived in Wadena, Minn. Pensioner Raymond Smith, 72, died May 17. Brother Smith joined the SIU in 1961 and sailed primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing vessels. Born in Cleveland, he sailed as a pilot. Brother Smith began receiving his pension in 1990. He lived in Lakewood, Ohio. CONRADO NAVARRA Pensioner Conrado Navarra, 88, passed away Sept. 8. Brother Navarra was born in the Philippines and sailed with the SIU as a member of the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1969. Brother Navarra lived in New York. AnANTIC FISHERMAN CLYDE PARKER Pensioner Clyde Parker, 82, died July 14. Born in Alabama, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's union in 1940 .........~;;.umo""""-.._..,............., in the port of Savannah, Ga. before it merged with the AGLIWD. He sailed as a member of the deck department and ...---==~....,,.....,.,., began receiving his pension in 1981. A bosun, he resided in Mobile, Ala. BART POWERS Pensioner Bart Powers, 72, passed away Aug. 3. He joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1953 in the port of New York. The New York native sailed as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1985. He lived in Clearwater, Fla. WILLIAM COUTURE Brother William Couture, 89, died in July. Brother Couture sailed in the deep sea division. WILLIAM MURRAY .,...---.,----.,,,,_.,,...=--. Pensioner William Murray, 86, died July 3. Brother Murray sailed in the deep sea division. Only limited information was available on the careers of the following deceased brothers/sisters: ANTHONY RUSSO LEON GASPERMENT Pensioner Leon Gasperment, 95, passed away July 14. Brother Gasperment sailed in the Railroad Marine division. Pensioner Anthony Russo, 75, died July 11. Brother Russo shipped in the deep sea division. SHEW WONG Pensioner Shew Wong, 77, passed away June 14. Brother Wong sailed in the deep sea division. KUNO SCHOPFER Pensioner Kuno Schopfer, 84, died July 9. Brother Schopfer began his career with the SIU in 1951, joining in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard Victory Carrier's Aimes Victory. Born in Germany, he shipped as a member of the engine department. Brother Schopfer began receiving his pension in 1984. He called Summerville, S.C. home. WILLIAM THORNTON Pensioner William Thornton, 84, passed away July 28. Brother Thornton began his career with the SIU in 1940, joining in the port of Philadelphia. A member of the engine department, he was born in Johnston County, N.C. Brother Thornton last shipped aboard the Andrew Jackson, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. He served with the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943. Brother Thornton began receiving his pension in 1962. He lived in Sea Level, N.C. INLAND EDDIE JONES Boatman Eddie Jones, 41, died May 22. A member of the steward department, he sailed primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels. Boatmen Jones resided in Chicago. GREAT LAKES HARVEY LONG Pensioner Harvey Long, 95, passed away June 19. Born in Michigan, Brother Long sailed as a member of the engine department. He worked primarily aboard Viking vessels, including the Ann Arbor. Brother Long began receiving his pension in 1969. He resided in Thompsonville, Mich. Your Rights To Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annuat report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed beloW'ke included in that report: 1) An accountant's report; . . . 2) Assets held for investment; . .. ~; i> . .• . ·if,3) transactions in exces~ 9f? per~~nt of the plan as~s; c;;; ·. '.. i .J.) . Actuarial information reg~rdingthe . furiding ofthepl~i ~rid , . · 5).·. Financial information an? inforn:tation on payments to sepdc~ pf9videi:s; · . . . .·· ... . .. . . .. 1'9 6btajfi a copy of the·fu:lla,nnual·repo:rt, or-any part the@~ wtlteor call Board ofTtustees of Seafarers Pe.rtsion:T.rnst; 5201 ~titltWay. Camp Springs, MD2()746, {301) 899~0675. 'fll~ cb.aige to cover copying costs will be $8.85 for the full: annuali:eport or.JS cents per page fm: any part~~f. . · .,.. You also have therigh~to. .tJ;ceive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge,a statement of the assets and liabµlties of the plan and acco~ying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of ~~.f!la:iJ. and accompanying note&, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan adroinistrator~ these ~o $~eµts and accgm:panyjng not~s be wm inCluded as part of that report. . ., . > · tr. t · · . . . .. . }· You also bave the legally pr-0tected right to examine the ~rirtual report at the main' o~~~,'.9f the; pJan (5201 Autb ~ay, Camp Springs, MD 20746) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington D.C., or t(J ?pbt~m:w c.~py fu>m the U .S, DepartJn,etit'o:f Labor upon payment of copying c~ts..Requests to the Department should be add:r~ t<).;~~~lic Disclosure Room. Room N4677; Pension and Welfare Benefits ~dJliinI~tr.ation. U.~. Department of La:bor, 200 ConstitutfonA\tenue, N.W.; Washington DC 20216. ·:.;· . . ·~~::.::::;-.;:~/)'::; .·.·. ,•:;. : - SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG &DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, EIN 13-1953878, Plan No. 003, for the period January 1, 1999 through December 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 through a trust fund . Plan expenses were $1,629 ,68 l. These expenses included $213,741 in administrative expenses and $1,415,940 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 305 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 $23,767,126, as of December 31, 1999, compared to $25,004,473 as of January 1, 1999. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $(1,237,347). This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $392,334, including employer contributions of $202, 110, realized gains of$1,009,023 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $1,196,282 and unrealized (depreciation) of assets of$(2,015,08l). Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was con- tributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights To Addftlonal 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 the plan assets; 4) Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; and 5) Financial information and information on payments to service providers; To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees of Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $5.25 for the full annual report or 15 cents 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. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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 N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20216. November 2000 �llfli'~i#fJlrers LOG attemptgto print as many digests of union shipboard ;;ft~ ?t·i :L:· 'minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space s. ll~:inutes ,;::;;r;;m:;~ct"P•~aL 1%i[1Jtl#e.1SS,ues requiting attenlio11, o.r.re,;,lutlon a"' gddressed by the union Hff/ i;Y/it1n receipt of thtt. ~bi/'-s~ minutes:·The minutes are then forwarded ·_•- · - · -~I ·· · , •.•_!_•_•_: .• _•.-.• ,•_._•_•.•.•-·-·-· ·'·-·-·-·-•_!_._._-_•-·-· ;_.•._ --· ,~!~e,Seat;r/lrs LOG for publicalion. ......... XWHffr::·~·; CSX TRADER (CSX Lines), July 2-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Milton E. Sabin, Deck Delegate Joseph A. Loyal, Engine Delegate Joseph A. Canlas, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia Jr. Bosun reported everything going well. He stressed shipboard safety, including wearing proper shoes on deck. He talked about new simulators at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and how SIU is using latest technology to keep its training levels among highest in world. Secretary stressed importance of contributing to SPAD, this being major election year, and encouraged members to register to vote. "Our votes could have a major impact on the Jones Act and other issues affecting the future of American shipping." Educational director pointed out new simulators at Piney Point for training by engine department members as well as deck. He also noted that anyone who has not been to the school lately would be very impressed with fire fighting school and culinary lab. Treasurer announced $400 in ship's general fund . Would like to purchase weight lifting and aerobic exercise machines and make nice gym in passenger lounge. Beef reported in deck department. Bosun noted that ship now in last year of five-year contract with Sea-Land (now CSX) and advised crew members to discuss any ideas or suggestions for contract negotiations. He also reminded everyone to separate plastics properly, to rewind and take care of video movies and to know and follow safety rules booklet. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. continue to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and be sure to meet STCW requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. ROVER (Intrepid Shipping), July 9- Chairman Jamie Miller, Secretary Juan B. Gonzalez, Educational Director George Fernandez, Deck Delegate Carey L. Foster. Bosun advised crew to wear hard hats and safety glasses during canal transit and in port. He also reminded them about separating all plastic items from regular trash and said he spoke with captain about getting daily news. Secretary urged unlicensed apprentices to listen to old-timers on ship in order to learn ropes. Educational director reminded brothers and sisters to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and to be sure STCW is current. By 2002, every seaman will need it. Deck delegate reported disputed OT; otherwise, ship running smoothly. Clarification requested from headquarters regarding missing man watch. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Dijbouti, Africa. SMT CHEMICAL TRADER (Intrepid Ship Mgmt.) July 31Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary Gregory Johnson, Educational Director arlton . Stamp. Ship due to arrive in Ukraine Aug. 8 and then head to U.S. in September. Chairman thanked crew for smooth voyage and noted importance of donating to SPAD. He also urged members to read LOG to keep updated on happenings in union and maritime industry. Secretary extended vote of thanks to all hands for helping keep messroom clean. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade at Piney Point school. EXPLORER (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), July 20-Chairman Michael A. Noble, Secretary William R. Burdette, Educational Director Kevin DeSue, Deck Delegate Larry D. Thompson, Engine Delegate Steven L. Rollins, Steward Delegate Carlito S. Navarro. Chairman pleased with good trip, good crew and good food. He thanked everyone for their help. New dryer brought aboard this voyage. Need individual crew member to be responsible for upkeep of rental TV. Secretary stated revision of sailing schedule needed. Educational director reminded crew members of upgrading courses available at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $1,830 in ship's fund. No beefs reported. Some disputed OT indicated in engine department. Clarification requested on vacation days and retirement. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Panama. USNS DAHL (Maersk Line), July 29-Chairman Klaus W. Tankersley, Secretary Kevin L. Marchand, Educational Director William Staton. Chairman noted previous question on travel was answered and is something to be considered in next contract. Treasurer announced $560 in ship's fund; $300 will go toward Aug. 13 island party (vessel currently in port in Diego Garcia). Additional donations being sought. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made that when crew member gets off and has to wait for flight in Diego Garcia, he should be paid daily wages until actual time of departure. The way it is, some have to wait several days without pay. Round of thanks given to steward department for great food and service. Pictures of ship on sale for $5 from steward or captain. OOCL INNOVATION (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), July 23-Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Edward C. Winne, Educational Director Rex E. Bolin, Deck Delegate Daniel W. Miller, Engine Delegate Richard H. Surrick, Steward Delegate Hamdi Hussein. Secretary noted ship to change to Mediterranean run next voyage. Ship also to be renamed SeaLand Oregon. Educational director urged everyone to CSX CHALLENGER (CSX Lines), Aug. 13-Chairman Tommy R. Benton, Secretary William E. Bragg, Educational Director Clive A. Steward Sr., Deck Delegate Erowin C. Udan, Engine Delegate Larry P. Calixto, Steward Delegate Glenn A. Taan. Chairman noted old business pending is cleaning of supply air duct system. He advised crew members of upcoming payoff scheduled Aug. 22 in Jacksonville, Fla. and November 2000 r mmd d m to adh re to Yra te management procedures. Agriculture inspector will not allow any deviations from rules. He also stressed importance of contributions to SPAD and MDL. Secretary suggested everyone read latest issue of LOG and make sure all sailing papers are up to date. Educational director urged all hands to apply for upgrading at Piney Point-and not miss out on this benefit. Discussion held on starting ship's fund. Deck department reported beef and disputed OT for dayworkers. Suggestion made for contracts department to consider reducing requirements for vacation benefits. Steward to check on status of fans for cabins and common areas. Vote of thanks given to all departments for helping keep clean ship. Special mention to DEU Mothana Mothana and UMS Rafael Pagan for extra effort and hard work. "They are without a doubt a credit to the Sill and its membership." Next ports: Houston; New Orleans; Jacksonville; San Juan, P.R. CSX CONSUMER (CSX Lines), Aug. 6- Chairman Rudy A. Santos, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Mark Serlis, Deck Delegate Milton F. Caballero, Engine Delegate Jose E. Villot Jr., Steward Delegate William Muniz. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 8 in Oakland, Calif. He thanked crew for job well done and advised them to be sure endorsements are up to date. Secretary noted ship's first unlicensed apprentice, Mike Harvey, is good shipmate. He reminded those getting off to leave room clean for next person. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and get necessary endorsements for increased job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Several suggestions made for consideration by contracts department: lower seatime required for pension and improve medical plan for dependents. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif.; Honolulu. CSX KODIAK (CSX Lines), Aug. 13-Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Melvin E. Morgan, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita Jr., Deck Delegate John S. Habib, Engine Delegate Gebar H. Ogbe, Steward Delegate Rang V. Nguyen. Chairman announced scheduled arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Aug. 15 with payoff next day. Blanket relief for crew available Aug. 16. Educational director advised everyone to check z-cards and STCW for expiration dates and renew them, if necessary. He also noted schedule of upgrading courses listed in monthly LOG. All members urged to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made from crew to have pay<? ff upon arrival of ship in Tacoma in order to have more time to spend with families. Vote of thanks to steward department for keeping ship clean and for excellent food preparation. Next ports: Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska; Tacoma. CSX TACOMA (CSX Lines), Aug. 6-Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Lorance D. Pence, Engine Delegate Steven D. Bower, Steward Delegate Jioia J. deLeon. Chairman stated payoff scheduled in Tacoma, Wash. upon arrival Aug. 8. Educational director recommended crew take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Piney Point. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Treasurer announced $500 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made that CSX implement sailing board by phone and also have it posted by 1700 hours. Crew asked to · p laundr) room door closed at all times and lint screens cleaned for fire safety. Everyone also requested to rewind and replace movies when finished viewing. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. DEFENDER (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), Aug. 5-Chairman Jerry Borucki, Roger D. Linasan, Educational Director Gerald Payne, Deck Delegate Peter Koucky, Engine Delegate Asher adding extra man in steward department and providing dependents with prescription coverage. Requests made for repair of communications system in crane, purchase of new embarkation ladders and better selection of movies. Also request made for voltage converters in staterooms. Next port: Charleston, S.C. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), Aug. 4--Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, Secretary William E. Cruising the Panama Canal The Panama Canal is an awe-inspiring engineering achievement. Completed in August 1914, it unites two great oceans-the Atlantic and Pacific-and provides a path between North and South America. Bosun Jerry Borucki (left) sent us this photo of himself and Second Mate Haines Lawrence as the U.S. Ship Management vessel Defender made its way through the canal on its run from San Pedro, Calif. to Freeport, Bahamas. J. Liss, Steward Delegate Barry J. Alviso. Chairman thanked everyone for job well done. Secretary also praised all hands for keeping ship clean. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at Piney Point to increase knowledge and financial future. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on emergency trip off ship. Unlicensed laundry room needs two washing machines and two dryers. Request also made for new VCR in crew library. Ship en route to San Pedro, Calif. Then heading to Panama, Mexico and Freeport, Bahamas. INNOVATOR (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), Aug. 13-Chairman George D. Vukmir, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Deck Delegate Gerry A. Gianan, Engine Delegate Melvin W. Layner. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 15 following U.S. Coast Guard inspection. He thanked all departments for good job since taking ship out of shipyard in Ulsan, Korea July 13. Secretary thanked chairman and deck department for keeping ship very clean. All unlicensed crew members wished Capt. Garry E. Fleeger good luck on his new job as port captain of Matson ships. Educational director urged all hands to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center for training and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Los Angeles. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Line), Aug. 27-Chairman James J. Keevan, Secretary Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational Director Peter G. Murtagh, Steward Delegate Thomas G. McCurdy. Chairman talked about piracy near anchorage in Callao, Peru. He asked crew members to return all movies to gym area and contribute to SPAD. This is an election year, and SPAD donations help keep the union strong. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep house clean. Educational director suggested everyone upgrade skills at Piney Point. He also reminded crew to keep all merchant mariner 's documents, STCW and TRBs current. Treasurer announced $158 in ship 's fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. Recommendations made for contracts department to look into Bryley, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Engine Delegate Detricke P. Kelly. Chairman announced receipt of new washer. He urged all Seafarers to vote in upcoming SIU election Nov. 1 through Dec. 30. Educational director advised all hands to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for job security and to keep current with STCW requirements. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Treasurer announced $1,500 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into prescription coverage for dependents. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done and to Chief Cook Sam Harris for great meals. Next port: Cherry Point, Wash. NORTHERN LIGHTS (IUM), Aug. 28-Chairman John 0. Glenn, Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director Michael W. Phillips, Deck Delegate Rafik A. Shahbin, Steward Delegate Christopher D. Hopkins. Chairman announced layover in Anchorage, Alaska. Secretary stated good voyage with good ship .and good crew. He reminded crew members to check mariner's documents and STCW for expiration dates. Educational director urged everyone to utilize educational opportunities available for SIU members at Piney Point. Crew asked to help keep laundry and lounge areas clean and to close doors to outer decks. Request also made for satellite dish aboard ship. Vote of thanks given to deck and steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSC Ship Mgmt.), Aug. 27Chairman Daniel N. Laitinen Jr., Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Deck Delegate Darrel W. Koonce Jr., Engine Delegate Willie J. Franks, Steward Delegate Sisto DeAnda. Chairman noted payoff in New Orleans Aug. 30. He advised crew to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new ice machine and for new linens and pillows. Thanks given to steward department for great job. Seafarers LOG 19 �Chicken Fried Steak Know Your Rights Serves: 25 . . . serve with chicken gravy, mashed potatoes and biscuits ... Ingredients: GALLEY CORNER 4-1/8 pounds cube steak 1-1/2 quarts all purpose flour 4 eggs 1-1/8 quarts buttermilk salt black pepper Season 1/2 cup flour with salt and pepper to taste. Pat cube steaks dry with paper towel and dredge in seasoned flour. Put aside while preparing batter. Beat egg with milk, then gradually add remaining 1 cup flour, beating constantly to make a smooth, thick batter. Season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a fryer to 370 degrees. Dip steaks into batter and place in hot oil. Fry until golden brown, turning once, about 3 or 4 minutes on each side. Be sure to heat oil back to 370 degrees between batches. Drain on paper towels before serving. a particular recipe or has one of their own that they would like to share, drop Chef Hetmanski a line at the Paul Hall Center, P. 0. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674 or e-mail to: shlssvoc@us. hsanet. net. If anyone is looking for Certified Executive Chef John Hetmanski 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 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Northwest 1\lrlines ..•AU~\. lAM. IBT. TWU Unions Ol~mpic :\lrwa~~ .. .IAM Ontario Kxpl'C$S .•. IAM AH\-A....,gn. of 1'11ght Attendants. AF'lrCIO Pilots Assn.• Afl.rCIO A~\-Allied Pilots Assn. APPA-1\ssn. of Profos.c;lonal Plight Attendants CW\-CommunlcaUons \\brkers of America, Af'L--CIO lAM*-lnlcrnaUonal A.o;.c;n. or \fachlnisL<> & Aerospace Workers, 1\!<1,-CIO IACP-Jndcpcndcnt Assn. of Conllnental Pan :\merfcan Alrwa~s ...Af;\. AW·\ Piedmont Airlines.•. i\fi\. All}\. !AM Pro:\lr...AP:\. UAW PSA Airlines .. .Ml\. ~\J,m. lAM. IITT Reeve AlcuUan Airways ... ALPA S~way Airlines ...AU~\ Southwest Airlines .. .IAM. !UT. 'l'VU Splr I'\. T\\ll ..ALm. nn. TWU 1\l.l.~\-J\lr I.inc Piiots trn•-tntemauonal Brotherhood of Tuamstcrs. AFlrCIO ln\--tndcpendent Pilots A."lSn. PACE-Paper. Allied-Industrial. Chemical & f<:ne©' \forkers lntcniaUonal Union, 1Wr,.c10 'f\\li-Transport Work.Cl'$ Union. AFlrClo - :r. 'IWU Allegheny Commuter lrllnes ..•AFA. ALn\, mr UNION 20 LABEL Seafarers LOS ... ACP. IAM. !UT Lines...ALB\. 1WU Alr AUanUc•.. L-\M Atrnc ... Al.l~\ Air Canada .• JAM Alr Midwest•. .IAM Air Nom .. .ALPt\ Air Ontario...ALn\ Air 'Iran Airlines•..1\FA. IBT, TWU Air Transal. ..ALn\ Air Wlsconsln ...AH\. :.\ U}\, lAM Alaska 1\lrllnt'$ ...Af<i\, ALB\. IAM. IBT. ANO E.xpross I (Nortl1wcst.s\irllnk) .•.Al.f~\. PACE Frontier :\lrllnes ...'f\\iU Great f..akes Avtalton ... fAM. Un Hawaiian Airlines ... AfA. AU~\. IAM. 1'\.'U Horl1.0n Alr...AB\. IBT, 'l'WU Kelo\\11a Fllgbtcran.Air Charter.. .!\I.PA KJ.c\f...'l'WU Labrador 1\lrways .. JAM Mesa Airlines... Af/\, AU}\ Mesaba A'.iaUon ...At/\. ;\J,f}\, TIVU Midway Airlines ...AH\, ALH\, lJ M Mld\\'CSt Express .•. AE\, ALB\ SERVICE TRADES 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 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. con EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained UA\~~!'(j ·.· 't.\!! Air r\lllanr.e...AT.PA 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. • l<'urelgn l-1:1{1 Carriers: The lA\I rtprcsenis rmploytws of lhe follo\\1ng: J\er Ungus. Aero Peru. lltalla lrllnes. Al ~\t, AnUllcan Alrtlnes. 8atmmasa1r. British i\lrwa,)s, BWIA. Continental Micronesia. OOmlnl<'ana. 1-:1 :\I Israel; l.l>\T. f ,u.IUlan.~. MeJi:lc.ana, Pl:tt1111plne Airlines, Swii Air. and Vartg. In addition. the lBT repm;enis emplO)'CCS of (:<JnUnent<JI Mlcnmcsla. DEPARTMENT, AFL·CIO 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. November 2000 �During a standby aboard the CSX Hawaii are (from left) Chief Steward Rafael Cardenas, SA Elston Yu and Chief Cook William Blees. AB Tom Grosskurth repairs a canvas in the bosun's locker aboard the El Morro during a recent payoff in . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. San Juan. Ar11111tl fl1e l'ttrf ttf 11111 1111111 Edward Haber, chief steward on the CSX Challenger, is ready to help serve the next meal. Chief Mate John Cates (left) and Capt. William Smith are happy to get the recent LOG during a servicing trip to the tug Sentinal, which took place at TMT Terminal on Isla Grande in San Juan. Right: Prior to payoff of the Perseverance (IUM) in Yabucoa , P.R., AB Diego Hatch Jr. helps with the discharging of cargo at the Sun Oil Terminal. OMU Rod Frazier performs a routine check of the engine room burners on the NPR, Inc. vessel Carolina. Pedro Barbosa (right) receives his first union book from SIU Safety Director Amancio Crespo (who sent the LOG the photos on this page) at the San Juan hall. At the TMT terminal in San Juan, Chief Mate Roger M. Rothschild operates the stern winch during preparations for sea operations aboard the tug Pilot. November 2000 At the SIU hall in San Juan are (from left) AB Julio Matos, GUDE Victor Torres, San Juan Safety Director Amancio Crespo, AB Rafael Vega, SA Antonio Colon and SIU Delegate Raymon Ayala. AB Steven Gough serves pizza aboard the tug Pilot while the vessel is being serviced. Seafarers LOG 21 �r, Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes SEAFARERS PAUl HALL CENTER PA UL. HAL L CENTE R LIFEBOAT CLASS Tankerman LIF EBOAT CLASS .. ~:'.'~'"·':';':;~3.'5".~:Q,po,~<;fO:<":;'.'.'.'~;o Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 606 - Unlicensed apprentices from class 606 who graduated from the water survival course are (from left) Elliott Johnson, Skyler South-Sutika, Thomas Hawks and Jason Thompson. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 607 Completing the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 607. They are (from left, kneeling) Jermiel Lawson , William Wak~man , (seco~d row) Brent Fitzgerald, David Provost, Karen Aguilar, Dominque Tarantino , Jesse Toves, (third row) Christopher Offrey, Philip Brown, Justin Grasseth , Jack Slagle, Jefferson Weir and Darnell Slayton. (PIC) Barge - Upgrading Seafarers completing the tankerman (PIC) barge course Oct. 13 are (from left, first row) Kenneth Baker, Damon Johnson, David MacCollister, Mitch Oakley (instructor) , (second row) Spencer Kreger, Tim Keller, Steve Bush and Marvyn Chester. Able_ Seaman - Ta':l_k~r ~ami~arization/Assistant Cargo (DL) Graduating from the tanker fam11tanzat1on/ass1stant cargo (DL) course Oct. 13 are (from left, kneeling) William Howell, Cody Colson, Antwan Stafford, Leonard Shuman 11 , (second row) J.J. Cooper, Jessica LoRusso, Kenneth Green, Harry Oglesby, Arlington Ayoso, Keith Mcintosh, Jim Shaffer (instructor) , (third row) Joshua Ellerbee, Ole Olesen, Kevin George, Archie Ware Jr., Gilberto Figueroa Jr., Ibrahim Muhammad, William Yurick, Nicholas Craddock, Nathaniel Miller, Jamal Somerville, (fourth row) Bryan Hill, Peter Pamepinto and Kenneth Jackson. Earning their AB ratings Sept. 29 are (from left 1rst row) James Hazel.Ip,. ~oel Balaguer, Jose Gamb~a , Mark Edmo_nds, Alberto Rivera , nd row) "dEman V1l1, Ahmed Saleh, Jerry Cassie, Stan Beck (instructor), (third row, virtua den) Jonathan Buffington , Muhiddin Awale, (fourth row) Richard Williamson, Cha Schulz and Peter Wojcikowski. Marine Electrical Maintenance - With their instructor Eric Malzkuhn (far right) are upgrading Seafarers in the Oct. 13 graduating marine electrical maintenance class. From the left are Anatolia Gorit, Leonides Bacal, James Daley, Taylor Watson, Milton Greene Jr. and David Parker. STCW and Water Safety - Crew members who will be working aboard American Classic Voyages' new cruise ships recently completed required classes in STCW and water safety. They are (in alphabetical order) Randall Agpalsa , Stephen Dewey, Joyce Hefley, Wolfgang Herz, Ernest Higa, Matthew Mccombs, Melissa _.Moyers, Neil Reilly, Armin Ruehling, Mark Rumbarger, Roderick Smith, James Somera, Hans Susser and Josef Wilblinger. We Did It! FOWT - Earning their FOWT endorsements Oct. 6 are (in alphabetical order) Nabil Ahmed, Geoffrey Bagley, Norn~an Barbosa, Chris Chambers, Virgil Craige, Joshua Davenport, Russell English, Edric Hernandez, Richard Kent, Hussein Kirkland, Robert Lee, Keith Ligon , Romuald Marlinski, James McDonald, S~lvatore Migliara, Melvin Nelson, Carlos Ortiz, Jason Paesler, Ryan Palmer, James Porter, Jason Roate, Vincent Sanchez, Kwan Tam, Bobby Taylor, Anthony Thomas, Europa Tuivaiti , Paul Weil and James Williams. Not pictured are James Beaudreau, Shannon Bonefont, William Knox and Bruce Weathers. Their instructor, Mark Jones, is at far left. 22 Seafarers LOS Unlicensed Apprentice Graduation - All the studying pays off for another group of unlicensed apprentice graduates as they complete Phase Ill of their program Oct. 20. From the left (first row) are Andrew Linares, Paul Hagan, Ray Herbert, Todd Curry, Michael Humphrey, Quinton Washington, Jesus Martinez, Norman Arquillano , Michael Logotaeo, (second row) Michael James Jr., Jerramy McNeil, Roland Carter II, Edward Deupree, Freddy Traffin, Michael Sherno Jr., Kevin Mcintyre, Brian Fifer, Patrick McAlpin and David Alexander. November 2000 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER , ~:~JWfiY~~~~~!!!~!~' ;,Maritime Ttafrting and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared . to improve :·the job skills of S~ar;~rs and to promote the American maritime · · Galley op~i-*uonst Advanced Galley Operations (Every week) Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4, 11, 18 Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward Nov. 6, 20; ,. Dec. 4, 18 (Every other week) :;,, Please note that this sphedule niay change to reflect the needs of the mem't?l?ership, the ~tP!!~f;,, ~ndus~~4 7 inJimes of conflict-the nation'ssecuri:ty.; Safety Specialty CoalSllS 7;i>. Students:~~~~~fariy;oftliese classes should check in the Saturday b.ejore · Start :. ~eir coUl'Se.~§';j~tart date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the Date Course :,;:.,morning of~ 'start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reserva~ ! iions shoulibe made for Saturday. November6 Basic Fire Fighting Seafarers :wli-0·}!~v~ any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at January22 . tlie Paul f¥!1~.~~!!tt?t'. .piay call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. February5 :.::industry. Date of Completion November 10 January26 February 9 February 23 February 19 November 24 Date of Completion Start Date January 19 January 15 .January29 February 12 February 26 February 2 February 16 March 2 January 15 January 19 (*must have basic fire fighting) Start Date of Completion · Date At:atleJJJiC Departmeld,,.~ourses March 30 January 26 . .. 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 FOWT. AB and OMED aoglicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The payment should be made with a monl?J? order onlv. payable to LMSS. Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ Deep Sea Member D END DATE BEGIN DATE COURSE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ Inland Waters Member D Lakes 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 _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ __ LAST VESSEL: _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class#------ -- - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? 0 Yes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? 0 Yes 0 No Firefighting: 0 Yes 0 No CPR: 0 Yes DNo Primary language spoken _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ SIGNATURE - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the sched_uling 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. ll/OO Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes Left: Limited License Completing the limited license course recently are (from left) Bill Block, Jim Cunningham, Guy Butler, Don Langman, Edward Hervias and Mike Smith (instructor). Not pictured is Duane Evans. Right: Chief Cook Upgrading to chief cook are (from left) David Wakeman, Jimmy Williams, Arthur Edwards, Chef John Dobson (instructor), Justo Reyes and Jose Garcia. November 2000 Seafarers LOS 23 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS for Seafarers Pension Trust and for Great Lakes Tug &Dredge Pension Plan - page18 More than 3,400 Seafaren Train at Fire Fighting School Facility Offers Broad Range of Safety Instruction I ~ I I I ~ ­ I I I I i While the Paul Hall Center's new simulator annex understandably has been a hot topic lately at the Piney Point, Md. campus, the center's Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School quietly has become a vocational education staple for many upgraders and apprentices alike. Since it opened in June 1999, through September of this year, the fire fighting school has trained 3,406 Seafarersan average of about 212 monthly. The breakdown by class is: 897 mariners in basic fire fighting; 243 in advanced fire fighting; 555 in damage control; 532 in the water survival segment of lifeboat; 732 in STCW basic safety; and 44 7 in first aid and CPR. The school, located near the Paul Hall Center's main campus, is composed of three main buildings with several other areas dedicated to educating mariners on how to combat and suppress shipboard fires. Specifically tailored for mariner fire fighting and safety training, it is equipped with the most modem, environmentally and hygienically safe equipment. Its main features include: • a three-story burn building (named the Eternal Flame) designed to replicate in areas a bridge, an engine room, shaft alley and other facilities found aboard ship; • a multi-level maze building used for search-and-rescue training; • outdoor burn areas featuring the kinds of pipes and hoses found on tankers, a helicopter pad like those located aboard some vessels, and an area for training with fire extinguishers; • computer-equipped classrooms; • an indoor pool used for water survival training; • a damage control room with a recessed floor to allow training in rising water. Student reaction to the fire fighting and safety school consistently has been positive, with Seafarers typically describiiig it as first-class and a tremendous asset. Others have been even more lavish in praising the facility. For instance, a high-ranking official with the International Transport Workers' Federation called it "a world-class institution. It is the best, most well-equipped facility of its kind anywhere in the world." For a list of upcoming classes at the Paul Hall Center, see page 23. Also, look for the annual course guide for 2001 in an upcoming issue of the LOG. � 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 November 2000 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU, OTHER MARITIME UNIONS UNITE IN BATTLE TO IMPROVE ‘OIL PATCH MARINERS’ CONDITIONS MEMBERS ASKED TO HELP IN GULF COAST EFFORT SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES TO MANAGE 45 RRF VESSELS UNION ELECTION VOTING STARTS NOVEMBER 1 MSC LAUNCHES NEW SURVEY SHIP USNS MARY SEARS JOINS 5 OTHER SURVEILLANCE VESSELS SAFETY TRAINING SCHOOL OPENS IN HONOLULU SEAFARERS CREW NEW Z-DRIVE TUG U.S. LINES’ PATRIOT DEBUTS DECEMBER 9 ORGULF BOATMAN RATIFY NEW PACT ADMIRAL TOWING CREWS APPROVE FIRST CONTRACT ADVISORY BOARD REVISITS STCW SIMULATORS ARE A HIGHLIGHT AS INDUSTRY GROUP STUDIES TRAINING REQUIREMENTS INDIANA HARBOR CREW WELCOMES APPRENTICE GRAYKOWSKI LEAVES MARAD VOCATIONAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR RECEIVES PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD ITF RECOVERS $1.4 MILLION FOR PREMIER CREW TEXAS COMMISSION REJECTS ‘PREAUTHORIZATION’ RULES TOTE NETS SAFETY AWARDS FOR DESIGN OF NEW RO/ROS BALTIMORE-AREA RETIREES SEE BRIGHT FUTURE FOR SIU MORE THAN 3,400 SEAFARERS TRAIN AT FIRE FIGHTING SCHOOL 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 11/01/2000 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. 11 2000 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/80a644ea2860a9628afabb3d3a60a272.pdf ad51a5df8d8696188c472bed646afa18 PDF Text Text www.seafarers.org Volume 63, Number 11 November 2001 25 YEARS OF RELIAB LITY eady eserve Force, Ceremonies Recognize Fleet as 'High-Value Sealift Asset' Representatives of government, the military, maritime labor and U.S. ship operators on Oct. 18 praised the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) as a key, cost-effective component of America's national defense capabilities. Ceremonies marking the RRF's 251h anniversary took place aboard the SIU-crewed Cape Wrath in Baltimore. Pictured aboard the ves- sel, with apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, are (front row) U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta and SIU President Michael Sacco; (back row, from left) SIU Port Agent Dennis Metz; SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez; Rear Adm. Edward Fahy, director, plans and policy directorate, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); and Rear Adm. David Brewer, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The apprentices are (from left) Jason Varner, Jennifer Senner, Alasha Dixon, Brandon Harrison, Robert Treloar, Kevin Kirk, Joseph Jesnes and Quincy Wilson. Helping the Heroes USNS Comfort Provides Respite For New York Rescue Workers Page3 Sept. 1 Attacks Affect American Classic Voyages - - - - - - l'age 2 AFL-CIO Depts. State Case For Opening ANWR - - - - - - l'age 5 Coast Guard: Port Security Reaches 'AH-Time High' l'ageB �President's Report Rebulldlng The terrorist attacks on America have harmed many U.S. industries, including maritime. That truth really hit home on October 19, when SIU-contracted American Classic Voyages filed a voluntary petition to reorganize through Chapter 11 bankruptcy. However, much like the nation itself, American Classic is working to regain its full strength. The company will continue to operate the Delta Queen riverboat, with an SIU crew. Michael Sacco Plans are being made to bring back the Mississippi Queen next year. The hope is that September 11 's impact on the U.S. cruise industry (and all others, for that matter) is only temporary. It's important to understand that Chapter 11 is a truce, not a surrender. Basically, it gives a company a chance to operate its business while creditors and courts approve plans to repay debts. It offers an opportunity to get a company back on its feet and rebuild. Additionally, American Classic is hardly alone in its predicament. As reported elsewhere on this page, U.S. layoffs since September 11 have topped half a million. Chapter 11 is a viable option in some cases, including that of Bethlehem Steel, which filed for reorganization four days before American Classic. The SIU, of course, will do everything we can to help our friends at American Classic in returning to full steam. More importantly, the union is eager and available to help all SIU brothers and sisters who are impacted by the layoff. One of the best things about belonging to this union is, there's no shortage of work. We have many opportunities, and I encourage mariners from the American Classic fleets to contact their nearest SIU hall for more information. Please also keep in mind that we offer top-notch vocational training at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., which can help you make the transition from passenger ships to cargo vessels. On a personal note, I thank each and every Seafarer for your professional, mature conduct in the face of the layoffs. As disappointed as we all felt upon hearing the reorganization news, that didn ' t stop the SIU crews from completing your respective voyages and then departing the ships with class and dignity. You have my thanks and admiration. Just as it will take time, patience and hard work to win the war on terrorism, so too will America need sustained, strong efforts to restore our work force . We have no other choice but to succeed. In Praise of the RRF The ceremonies for the Ready Reserve Force's 25th anniversary (see page 3) brought lots of encouraging words from high-ranking offi cials from the government and military. Clearly, there is recognition, at top levels, of the importance of U.S. sealift capability. That includes the need to maintain a strong pool of qualified shipboard manpower-American crews for American ships, supporting our nation in times of war and peace. While the praise for the RRF is well-deserved, it's time to step up efforts to revitalize the U.S. fleet. As I said during the ceremonies, there are indications that our industry stands on the verge of a manpower shortage that could threaten our national sealift capacity. The SIU is doing everything possible to prevent such problems, but we're not in this alone. America learned many lessons on and after September 11. One of them is we can t afford to ignore warning signs. That goes for the health of the U.S. Merchant Marine-a sound~ smart investment for this country s security. 1 1 ' Volumt1 63, Numbt1r 11 November 2001 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.urg The Seafarers L OG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published month- ly 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, 520 l 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© 2001 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOS American Classic Voyages Files Voluntary Petition for Chapter 11 Reorganization SIU-contracted American Classic Voyages, the largest U.S.-flag cruise company, on Oct. 19 announced that it has filed a voluntary petition for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in Wilmington, Del. The move was driven by the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 , which have harmed the tourism, entertainment and transportation industries more than any others (see story, this page). Seafarers will continue to sail aboard the Delta Queen riverboat, and the company also announced it is working to reintroduce the Mississippi Queen next year. As this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, work had been suspended on the two 1,900-passenger Project America cruise ships being built at Northrop Grumman's Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss. ''Northrop Grumman will continue its efforts with the U.S. Maritime Administration to obtain guaranteed funding for Project America," the shipyard said in an Oct. 25 new release. "Ongoing work on the program [is] subject to Project America's ability to secure immediate financing for the balance of the contract." American Classic is the parent company of United States Lines, The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., American Hawaii Cruises, and Delta Queen Coastal Voyages. The company said it believes the Chapter 11 process "will allow us to rebuild our business in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and continue our proud tradition as America's cruise line." For now, the reorganization includes shutting down many of the company's vessels-the ms Patriot and Independence, American Queen, Mississippi Queen and Columbia Queen, and the Cape May Light. The result is approximately 2, 150 layoffs, including roughly 1,700 shipboard jobs. SIU crew members from those vessels may call the following toll-free number for information on benefit continuation: 800 252-4674. "We will work with the company in every way possible to get those ships back in operation and to help ensure the continued construction of the new deep-sea cruise ships," said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "For the SIU members who were laid off, this union offers many other opportunities to work aboard ship, especially in the deep sea division." Tellez added that the Paul Hall Center's safety school in Hawaii will remain open. "The tragic events of Sept. 11 dealt a devastating blow to our business that has made it impossible to continue our full operations," said Phil Calian, CEO of American Classic Voyages. "We will continue to operate on a much reduced scale to focus on our Mississippi River cruises, which have been the historic core of our company." In August, the company had reported increasing per diems and occupancy on its Hawaii ships, profitable performance on its Delta Queen vessels and that it had successfully reached an agreement with N ortbrop Grumman on the continuation of construction of the Project America cruise ships. In the four weeks subsequent to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., the company said its gross bookings declined 50 percent, its cancellations increased 30 percent and it faced a weakened cash position with no prospects for additional capital at this time. The company has established a customer information hotline (800 856-9904) and additional information is available on the company's web site at www.amcv.com. Individuals with reservations on future American Classic cruises other than the Delta Queen steamboat should contact their travel agent, their travel insurance company or their credit card company for information about obtaining refunds. ,,_. U.S. Layoffs Top 528,000 The United States economy is expenencmg an accelerated downturn in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Hundreds of thousands of workers have lost their jobs, consumer confidence has plummeted, sales are down at major retailers and companies are scaling back on new investments. Little is expected to change in the immediate future , according to Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, who testified Oct. 17 before the Joint Economic Committee of Congress. The Fed chairman indicated that while the fallout from the attacks currently has the economy in a depressed state, he believes the resulting damage will only be short-term and that the country should recover once it gets over the initial shock of being attacked. ''The terrorist attacks have significantly heightened uncertainty in an economy that was already weak," stated a Federal Reserve Board news release, which was circulated shortly before Greenspan 's appearance before the committee. "Nonetheless, the long-term prospects for productivity growth and the economy remam favorable and should become evident once the unusual forces restraining demand abate." Meanwhile, workers across the country- many of them union members--continue to suffer. As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, announced layoffs nationwide had exceeded 528,000. Published reports suggest there are more than 140,000 aviation workers who face current or future layoffs. AFL-CIO research shows more than 260,000 in the transportation and hospitality industries, and another 66,000 in aerospace will join the ranks of the jobless. In New York City, an estimated 108,500 jobs were lost within one month of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, according to the Fiscal Policy Institute. While Congress and the administration floated the idea of a $75 billion economic stimulus package for the national economy, the New York City comptroller estimated Oct. 4 that the attack could cost New York City alone $105 billion in damages and lost revenue By sector, the figures in the box at right show layoffs, which have either been carried out or are projected. ti.s. Layoffs Sector Hospitality tourism, entertainment 132,545 Transportation 128,094 Manufacturing 99,153 Aerospace 66,535 I Communications & utilities 39,840 Service 33,996 Finance, insurance, real estate 15,764 Public administration 7,033 Retail trade 4,968 Other 775 Totals 528,703 ,,,,,, From Front Page to Paster Prints Available to SIU Members Based on suggestions and requests from the membership, the front page of the October issue of the Seafarers LOG is being turned into a poster, with minor variations. The main artwork from last month's front page (a painting by freelance artist Bill Brower, who has worked with the SIU for many years) is the poster's centerpiece. The top features the words, "These Colors Don't Run!" The bottom includes a message about the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD). SIU members who would like to receive a print of the new SPAD poster should send their name and home address to the Seafarers Political Action Donation, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. November 2001 �25 Years of Reliable Service Ready Reserve Force Praised as 'High-Value Sealift Asset' High-ranking representatives of government, the military, maritime labor and U.S. ship operators on Oct. 18 cited the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) as a key, cost-effective component of America's national defense capabilities. U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta served as keynote speaker during RRF 25 1h anniversary ceremonies sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) aboard the SIUcrewed RRF vessel Cape Wrath in Baltimore. Also weighing in with their support for the RRF were Rear Adm. David Brewer, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC); Rear Adm. Edward Fahy, director, plans and policy directorate, U.S. Command Transportation (TRANSCOM); Acting Maritime Administrator Bruce Carlton; SIU President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD); Capt. Timothy Brown, president of the Masters, Mates & Pilots; and Richard du Moulin, chairman, president and CEO of Marine Transport Corp. In addition to those from the Cape Wrath, a number of other SIU members attended the celebration. Seafarers crew several RRF ships based in Baltimore, as well as cable ships and tugboats. Unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md., also attended. 'We Know 1her Stand Ready' Mineta recognized unions' and merchant mariners' contributions to the RRF's accomplishments. "The key to the success of the Ready Reserve Force is its use of experienced American ship operating companies which manage the ships, and the skilled and dedicated professionals from maritime labor organizations who crew them," he stated. "America's merchant marine, maritime industries and merchant seafarers have come through for us every time our nation has needed them. We know they stand ready to do so again, whether tomorrow, next week, next year or in the distant future." The secretary said the RRF particularly proved its worth 10 years ago during the Persian Gulf War, when the merchant fleet reliably supplied American military forces for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. "The Cape Henry and the Cape Inscription-the first RRF ships to arrive in Saudi Arabia-along with their sister ships, helped ferry nearly onequarter of the 3.2 million short tons of dry cargo needed to support allied forces in the Persian Gulf." He also noted the effective cooperation that helps spearhead the RRF's viability. "Our industry and labor partners make the Ready Reserve Force a reliable, costeffective source of sealift," Mineta declared. He thanked MarAd employees for their "stellar efforts in service to our nation, especially today, in support of the Ready Reserve Force program." Mineta concluded, ''The RRF has served America well. President Bush, Vice President Cheney SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (right) presents a Seafarers LOG to U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta following the RRF ceremonies in Baltimore. ~ Plf?~Se be advised that SIU headquarters and all . : SIU hiring halls will be closed Tuesday, December 25, 2001 for the observance of . Christmas Day (unless an emergency arises). Nf?rmal business hours will resume the following workday. Na.,,ember 2001 Acting Maritime Administrator Bruce Carlton U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco Rear Adm. David Brewer, commander, MSC MM&P President Capt. Timothy Brown Marine Transport Corp. President Richard du Moulin and I are proud of your accomplishments and determined to give you the tools to continue your exemplary record of service and success." leading to the establishment of reduced operating status (ROS) crews who maintain the ships. ''You cannot 'park' ships and lock them up for 13 years and then expect them to perform," Carlton said. "We aggressively test these ships and ourselves on a no-notice basis." He added, "As we celebrate the success of our RRF, we stand ready to perform the mission of sealift for our armed forces." Steel Bridge Brewer pointed out that the RRF has proved its worth many times since the Persian Gulf War, including during missions to Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia and Central America. But the most vivid image of the RRF he described was that of the "steel bridge" of ships formed by merchant mariners to support U.S. troops during the Persian Gulf War. "During Desert Storm, we literally pushed a steel bridge to the Middle East," Brewer stated. "Ifyou flew over the ocean, you'd see one ship every 50 miles supplying our troops. "Whatever we do as a nation, we must never, ever bum that steel bridge to democracy," he continued. "I say to the RRF, thank God for your service." Fahy relayed comments from Gen. Tony Robertson, conunander of TRANSCOM: "The success of the RRF rests squarely on the shoulders of MarAd, working with our partners in the maritime industry.... You set the pace for defense transportation.... The highly trained men and women who crew the ships are true unsung heroes." Fahy himself described the RRF as "one of our treasured national assets." Carlton noted that everyone involved in the RRF program helps ensure the fleet's readiness by regularly participating in test activations, sometimes unannounced. He said that some of the cbal- · lenges faced by mariners activating vessels for the Persian Gulf War provided a valuable lesson, Shipboard Manpower Sacco and Brown stated that the nation must back its merchant fleet during peace time to help ensure adequate shipboard manpower for the RRF and other civilian-crewed, military support ships. Both pointed to a recent series of articles in the Baltimore Sun which quoted numerous high-ranking officials expressing concern about sufficient manpower for surge sealift. "The merchant marine is vital to this country's national defense, Rear Adm. Edward Fahy, director, plans and policy directorate, TRANSCOM and it's time America started acting like it," Sacco said. "We must never send our soldiers into battJe without knowing-for sure-that we've got the people and the ships to give them every tool they need. Continued on page 5 Ready Reserve Force Facts • . fleet includes 76 government-owned, civilian-crewed ships normally kept in reserve by the U.S. Maritime Administration {MarAd) to meet surge shipping requirements for the Department of Defense. • RRF ships transport materiel to deployed U.S. forces in peace time and war. • Vessels are maintained at 21 U.S. ports near potential military load-out sites. as well as two overseas ports. • Ships can be fully crewed and ready to proceed to a loading site in four, five, 10 or 20 days, depending on activation schedule. • Currently, four RRF ships are in active service as prepositioning ships. Twenty-six others are in reduced operating status (ROS} with four-day activation periods. Twenty-five more have five-day activation schedules~ 19 ships have 10-day activations; and two vessels have 20-day activations. • RRF fleet includes 31 roll-on/roll-off ships, 15 breakbulk vessels, 10 crane ships, nine tankers, seven heavy lift ships, two aviations repair vessels and two troop ships. Source: U.S. Maritime Administration : Seafarers LOB ' 3 �Helping the Heroes Seafarers-Crewed USNS Comfort Provides Respite for NY Rescuers Sooner or later, even the nearly tireless rescue workers in New York City needed recuperation. When those moments arrived, the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort provided food, shelter and other services to thousands of fellow Americans involved in salvage operations at ground zero. "I didn't care what we did, just as long as we helped. Whatever we could do to help America," stated AB Joseph Lee. "All the people who came aboard were glad to see us. It was really great just to take part in the relief effort." Stationed in Baltimore in reduced operating status (ROS), the Comfort received activation orders on Sept. 11, following the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. The ship arrived at New York's Pier 92 on Sept. 14. During the next two-and-a-half weeks, the steward department served 17,000 meals to guests, and the ship accommodated 2,300 overnight visitors. Also in that time, crew members and medical personnel processed 4,400 pounds of laundry; handled 561 sick-call visits and 14 dental treatments; provided 500 mental-health consultations; hosted 1,359 medical massages given to guests by volunteer massage therapists from the New York area; and gave 227 haircuts. The shipboard staff included 54 civilian mariners and 335 military personnel. The Comfort's availability and its capacity to dock near the rescue site proved invaluable for many reasons. For one, a lot of the rescue workers had nowhere else to stay, because they had traveled to New York from out- side the region. Even those who lived nearby would have had difficulty commuting between downtown and the suburbs, because of severe disruptions to the local transportation systems. Seafarers from the USNS Supply and USNS Spica also helped in the relief efforts. "It brought tears to my eyes, to be honest. The first thing you want is payback. Then, you think of the families, and you 're just glad you 're able to help." - Yeoman Storekeeper Robert Allen Ahead of Schedule When news of the attacks reached the Comfort, crew members immediately prepared for activation, even before receiving orders. The ship was ready to sail by 10 a.m. the next morning-four days earlier than required. As with many of the landbased hospitals in the New York area, the Comfort initially expected to be utilized for treating patients. The vessel is outfitted with 1,000 beds, 12 operating rooms, 80 intensive-care beds and all the other equipment and USNS Comfort In NY Relief • • • • • Ordered to activate Sept. 11. Ready to sail less than 24 hours later. Loaded supplies and personnel in Earle, N.J. Sept. 14. Arrived NY Pier 92 same day. From Sept. 15-30, served 17,000 meals to guests. Housed 2,300 overnight guests. Handled 561 guest sick-call visits and 500 mental-health consultations (among other services). Processed 4,400 lbs. of laundry for guests. vessel Data: • Crewed by members of SIU Government Services Division • Length: 894 feet • Beam: 105 feet, 9 inches • Design draft: 32 feet, 9 inches • Full load displacement: 69,360 long tons • Speed: 17.5 knots • Total hospital bed capacity: 1 ,ODO • Comprehensive surgical capability 4 Seafarers LOG capabilities of a typical large U.S. hospital. At some point en route to New York, word spread aboard the ship that its mission had changed to that a floating morgue. But, when the vessel docked at the U.S. Naval Weapons Station in Earle, N.J. in the pre-dawn hours of Sept. 14 (to load additional medical supplies and Navy personnel), crew members were informed their mission had been changed to supporting the rescue workers. "The unlicensed crew did a good job," stated Chief Mate Jim White. "We basically rolled out the red carpet." Recalling the Scene After the Comfort returned to ROS in Baltimore, several members of the SIU's Government Services Division shared their thoughts on the mission. "When we arrived, we could still see smoke off the stem," said Chief Electrician Pat Brown. "That was the first time I'd ever seen the Statue of Liberty. It was eerie, with all the smoke in the city. It put a knot in your throat." Brown said the crew was "too busy to chat with the rescue workers. We just said hello .... It goes without saying that every American became a real American on Sept. 11. It made everyone realize how precious this country really is." Engine Utility Shawn Brown joined the Comfort in New York, after taking a military flight. "It was busy, to ~ay the least. We did the engine work, plumbing, lighting, pulling lines, securing the ship. We had it from bow to stern," he recalled. Shawn Brown said that when Marines came aboard from ground zero, "You could tell by their expressions and the dust, it looked like a rough time.... The rescue workers looked relieved when they saw us. They were very appreciative of the hot meals. "I felt like a hero since I was actually involved, helping, practically right in the middle of things." AB Joseph Lee said shaking hands with New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani when he boarded the ship provided a highlight. "It was good to take part in the relief effort," said Lee. "All of the people were glad to see us. You could tell the ship was a relief for them." For Yeoman Storekeeper Robert Allen, part of the ROS crew before Sept. 11, arriving in New York proved particularly poignant. Allen resides in Norfolk, Va. but grew up in New York City. ..Personally, whenever I make that trip, I always stand outside (on deck) and look at the Statue of Liberty," Allen noted. "It was a sad experience. A lot of thoughts run through your head-that it can happen to anyone, anywhere at any time. It brought tears to my Continued on page 8 AB Joseph Lee Engine Utility Shawn Brown Letter Offered to Help CIVMARS, Soldiers Wnh Late Fees Due to Mail Curtailment Even before last month's episodes involving anthrax, the head of the military's mail system distributed a letter asking creditors to exempt overseas soldiers and civilians from late fees on payments delayed by the reduced flow of military mail to and from Europe. The letter is signed by Maj. Gen. Kathryn G. Frost, executive director of the Military Postal Service Agency. Soldiers, as well as civilians employed by the military (including CIVMARS), can obtain a copy of the letter at Army post offices, consolidated mailrooms and battalion S-1 sections. They may enclose the letter in correspondence or payments to their creditors. Mail services to Europe already were sharply curtailed following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. Services further were disrupted after the anthrax incidents. U.S. military officials caution that the letter itself does not automatically exempt personnel from the late fees. That, they say, is the decision of the creditor. Rather, the letter explains to creditors that the late payment is the result of delays in military mail, and asks the creditor to exempt the soldier or civilian from the fees. "The resumption of mail movement is very slow and in some cases has not resumed," the letter says. "We know that this interruption of mail movement has significantly delayed correspondence between you and our military and civilian Department of Defense personnel." Notice The Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration {NOAA) have announced the approval of wage adjustments for crvitian mariners in their respective fleets at the rate of 3.83 percent. Mariners should have seen the increase in their "leave and earning" statements in mid~October. The increase was effective July 1, 2001 and is applicable to base wages and premium pay. MSC West Coast mariners started receiving their increase in August. MSC and NOAA are working on payrolt procedures to make sure mariners receive their retroactive pay about eight weeks from the time they receive their initial increase. llarembel' 2001 �AFL-CIO Depts. State Case for Opening ANWR MTD, BCTD Urge Senate to Okay Energy Policy The AFL-CIO 's Maritime Trades Department (MTD) along with the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD) last month called upon the Senate to pass national energy policy legislation that includes the opening of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to environmentally safe oil exploration and drilling. The departments pointed out that in these uncertain economic times, such a national energy policy which includes ANWR exploration would mean hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs for American workers. Estimates range between 250,000 and 750,000 jobs would be created, affecting all parts of the country. The BCTD and MTD realize these new positions would be a tremendous boost for the American economy. In a joint news release, the departments stated, "ANWR can be safely explored and drilled by American workers. The oil will be moved through U.S.-built pipelines. It will be carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers with American crews. It will be refined and distributed in American facilities. And, American consumers will use it. On top of all this, American workers will staff, maintain and service the production facilities in Alaska. "Thanks to improvements in technology, today's workers will be able to explore and drill for oil in a far more environmentally safe fashion than when Prudhoe Bay was opened nearly 30 years ago. The BCTD and MTD remain committed to protecting ANWR's ecosystem and using the least invasive measures possible in its development. "Presently, about 58 percent of America's oil needs come from Labor Federation Warns Of Fast-Track's Perils AFL-CIO President John Sweeney early last month urged the top officials of national and international unions to mobilize in force to defeat "fast track" trade legislation making its way through Congress. Tagging the legislation as "completely inadequate," Sweeney said that while the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2001 (H.R. 3005) mentions the words "labor" and "environment," it falls well short of ensuring that any enforceable standards will be incorporated into future trade agreements. Further, Sweeney said, the bill fails to adequately address any of the key concerns that have been raised during the trade debate over the last several years. Sponsored by Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. William Thomas (R-Calif.), the legislation was referred to Congress Oct. 3 in the wake of the cpt. 11 tragedie i ew or , ashington and Pennsylvania. Supporters of the bill at that juncture said it was needed to help build and maintain the international coalition against terrorism and to help stimulate our struggling economy. Without fast track, they maintained, countries foreign sources. Within a decade without any changes, estimates show that figure could grow to 70 percent. The BCTD and MTD believe development of domestic oil reserves is needed. Exploration of the 2,000 acres within 1.5 million acres set aside in ANWR for development as provided in the House of Representatives bill would permit access to one of the nation's largest domestic sources of untapped oil. This would greatly reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, thus helping to make the nation more secure. "The Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO jointly believe developing ANWR can be done in a way that adds good American jobs, protects the environment and assists the growth of the American economy." would refuse to negotiate seriously with the United States because Congress could change any pact. "We strongly support stimulating the U.S. economy and responding to the tragedies of Sept. 11, but fast track does nothing to achieve either of these aims," Sweeney said following the legislation's debut in the U.S. House of Representatives. "Fast track was controversial prior to the recent tragedies, and it would not have passed in the Congress. "Pursuing the Thomas fast track approach at this time will erode the sense of cooperation and spirit of bipartisanship that we want to see our country and its leaders continue to take-not only on this issue, but on other issues as well," the labor president said. Under fast track, the president negotiates trade agreements and sends them to Congress for approval, but Congress can only vote "yes" or "no" on the overall pacts within a specified period. It can not amend them. Meanwhile, the House Ways and Means Committee on Oct. 10 approved the bill by a 26-13 vote. Undoubtedly, this development has set the stage for an intense and potentially disruptive debate in the House. The same panel earlier rejected a fast track bill offered by Rep. Charles Rangel (DNY), Rep. Sander Levin (D-Mich.) and Rep Bob Matsui (D-Calif.) by a 26-12 vote. Support Given to RRF at 25 Continued from page 3 "A good first step would be expanding the Maritime Security Program," he continued. Left: Unlicensed appren· "Another would be opening the tices from the Paul Hall Center represented the school during the observance. Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) for development, which will boost the American-flag tanker fleet. We also must maintain the Jones Act and our cargoreservation laws. And we must do whatever it takes to eliminate unfair competition from flag-ofconvenience vessels, which have been called floating sweatshops." He added that in addition to providing billets for mariners, the RRF "also helps keep commercial ship operators involved in the 'fourth arm of defense.' It involves longshore workers who load the vessels, and shipyard workers who repair them. In short, the RRF is a winner." Brown called for "our nation's maritime programs, policies, tax and regulatory frameworks to be adapted to today's shipping environment. To successfully accomplish this, maritime labor, management and the government must Below: SIU members from cth~r During an Oct. 2 conference in Washington, D.C., SIU President Michael Sacco (speaking), who also serves as president of the MTD, describes some of the potential benefits of opening ANWR for exploration and development. Also pictured are (first row, from left) Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham, Teamsters Rep Jerry Hood, Interior Secretary Gale Norton, (second row, from left) MESA SecretaryTreasurer Bob McFeeters, IUOE Pres. Frank Hanley, UA Pres. Martin Maddaloni and Laborers President Terence O'Sullivan. ships and appren. tices from the Paul Hall Center attended the festivities. Pictured (from left) are SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Chief Steward McKinley Jones Jr.. SIU Pres. Michael Sacco, ChiM St~ward James Kidd and Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz. In a related development, the AFL-CIO on Oct. 21 launched a television ad campaign calling on members of Congress to vote "no" on the fast track legislation, saying it will be divisive and a further drain on the faltering American economy. In addition to the television spots, the 13 million-member AFL-CIO has organized a grassroots campaign including tens of thousands of telephone calls to members of Congress, en "e-activism" campaign, and member-to-member contact throughout the country. The ads are part of the AFL-CIO's continuing educational outreach program to mobilize America's working families around issues central to their lives. At press time for the Seafarers LOG, some lawmakers were pushing for an immediate vote on the controversial legislation. The same type of legislation was defeated in 1997 and 1998 when groups pointed out that despite including hundreds of pages of protections for business interests, the legislation did not include enforceable protections for workers rights and the environment. The so-called North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was pa sed under previous fast track negotiating authority, which expired in 1994. NAFTA has cost U.S. workers hundreds of thousands of jobs; in Mexico, wages have actually fallen and poverty has increased; and the wages of Canadian workers have dropped below U.S. standards. history, right up to the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Mariners helped evacuate survivors from Manhattan, an operation described by du Moulin and others as "another Dunkirk." "Like our respect for the rescue workers, we must focus on the mariners who sail our merchant vessels," he said. He also noted the "effective cooperation of industry, labor and government" in helping drive the RRF. "Of course, that cooperation goes much further back" than just the past quarter-century. The SIU-crewed Cape Wrath, based in Baltimore, hosted ceremonies commemorating the RRF's 251h anniversary. Pictured below are some of those in attendance. come together to s-upport innovative poli~ies and programs that will increase the pool of trained, loyal, active American mariners and that will keep and attract merchant vessels to the United States flag." The final speaker, du Moulin, described the merchant marine's important role throughout U.S. NaJ1emller 2001 Seafarers LOS 5 �...-----------------------,......_..-.....,.______ - - - -- - - - - SEATO Triennial Convention ldentifies Organizing, Political Action as Priorities During their second triennial convention, held Oct. 15 in Piney Point, Md., members of the SIUaffiliated Seafarers Entertainment & Allied Trades Union (SEATU) met to discuss their plans and goals for the next three years, chief among them, organizing new members. SIU President Michael Sacco (who also serves as president of SEATU) welcomed the delegates and noted how far the union has come since its inception six years ago. "When this union gained its charter in November 1995," he stated, "we represented the crew of one small vessel in Alton, Ill. By the time of our first convention, in 1998, we were up to 2,000 members. Today, 3,000 members are covered by SEATU contracts." He noted that while achieving a 50 percent membership growth in the past three years is a great beginning, there is more to be done to expand and grow. Continuing to diversify ts one way to keep the union strong, according to Sacco. One point he stressed to the delegates was that SEATU enjoys the solid backing of the SIU. Its affiliation with the Seafarers International Union gives SEATU members many benefits; chief among them are enhanced political strength, training opportunities and wide-ranging maritime job opportunities for SEATU members. Valerie Lilja, Union Privilege representative, informed those assembled about the cost-saving programs offered by her organization, which was established by the AFL-CIO to offer union members and their families Left: James Hanson, safety director at the Paul Hall Center, talked about safety training available to SEATU members. Below: Following the triennial meeting, SEATU delegates and officials posed for a group photo. Unions tram Here and Abroad Vow Support for Triaa Mariners Representatives of Brazilian maritime and petroleum worker unions artd U.S . sea.faring unions put into effect a bilateral solidarity pact last month in Rio de Janeiro pledging international cooperation to promote fairness, justice and a voice at work for mariners working on U.S.-flag vessels of Trico Marine Services, Inc. In addition, maritime unions throughout Latin America pledged to work in concert to legally convince Trico to cease its anti-union campaign and allow its mariners in the Gulf of Mexico to have a union. First announced in the United States on Aug. 22, 2001, the solidarity pact states, "The Brazilian and U.S. unions call peacefully and lawfully on the customers of Trico not to engage in any further contracts with Trico from this day forward until Trico ceases its anti-union activilies and. upon demonstration of majority support, recognizes the OMU as the Union representing mariners working on the company's U.S. 6 Seafarers LOG Gulf of Mexico fleet and negotiates in good faith a collective bargaining agreement providing these workers all the protections of union representation." Trico Marine operates a fleet of nearly 100 vessels worldwide. The company's primary markets are the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the North Sea and Brazil. Mariners in the North Sea and Brazil enjoy the protection of a union contract. Four U.S. maritime unions formed the Offshore Mariners United (OMU) to assist U.S. mariners in their struggle for dignity and respect. Trico Marine operates approximately 15 vessels in the Brazilian offshore market. Most of the vessels are under contract with Petrobras. "Trico operates in Brazil with union crews. Trico operates in the North Sea with union crews. But Trico refuses to allow its crews in the Gulf of Mexico to have a union," David Heindel, secretarytreasurer of the SIU, said in Rio at the pact's announcement. Heindel signed the accord on behalf of the attractive rates on various goods and services. The Union Privilege programs serve as a good example of how there is strength in numbers. Included in the offerings are low-interest credit cards, free and discounted legal services, a scholarship program, student loans, and more. James Hanson, safety director at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (which hosted the convention), talked about the training available to SEATU members both at the school and at on-site locations aboard the gaming vessels. In the past year, he stated, he and other instructors from the school have held training sessions on everything from basic and advanced fire fighting to general safety and first aid awareness to newer classes on ergonomics and bloodborne pathogens. He said he and his staff are working on their schedule for the next year and plan to start with two trips per year on each gaming vessel beginning in March. In addition to the safety and health programs, job-specific training courses were held on-site for shop stewards and delegates and have proven very valuable for members who are taking a more active leadership at work through their union. Leslie Tarantola, SEATU general counsel, spoke about this following four U.S. seafaring unions: SIU; American Maritime Officers (AMO); International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P); and Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA). "For over a year, Trico mariners have sought a union. Trico has responded by firing union supporters, blocking union representatives from visiting ships ... and finding all manner of ways to prevent their mariners from being able to communicate with our unions," Heindel said. "Further, Trico has run a strong campaign of harassment, intimidation, interrogation and pressure to scare mariners away from their aim of having a union." "We live in a globalized world," said Severino Filho, president of the Brazilian Confederation of Maritime and Aviation Transport Workers, Fishermen and Port Workers, which represents more than 200 unions with a combined membership of 1,000,000. "We accept that companies will operate freely all over the world. But we believe in the rights of workers as well Michael Gale, boat delegate from Sioux City, Iowa, presented the reports of the credentials and resolutions committees. SEATU Delegate John Benjamin read the report from the auditing committee to the officials and delegates at the convention. The report from the convention arrangements committee was read by Lawrenceburg delegate Justena Duvall. Valerie Lilja, Union Privilege representative, informed convention participants of cost-savings programs available to them. country's labor laws and how they affect the labor movement. She noted that immigrants have played a vital role in making America as strong as it is today, but that many of these hard workers are undocumented and are afraid to openly and actively seek to JOlll a union. She spoke in favor of a new immigration system-one that works, is fair and protects the American worker. In addition to the push for increased organizing efforts, officials and delegates also agreed that SEATU's involvement in political activities is crucial to its continued existence. Issues such as ergonomics, fair trade, health care, cial ecurity, p itical action and support for maritime are among the union's priorities. Prior to adjournment of the convention, delegates reelected Michael Sacco as president, David Heindel as executive vice president/secretary-treasurer, and Augustin Tellez and Thomas Orzechowski as vice presidents. They were elected to three-year terms. and this is a very strong feeling. Therefore it is impossible to accept that Trico will expand in Brazil when it will not recognize the rights of their North American mariners to be in a union .... One of our basic trade union principles is solidarity and we in Brazil will do everything possible to assist the workers of Trico in the United States." The agreement was signed during a meeting of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) for Latin American affiliates. The conference brought together trade union officials from close to 40 unions representing dock workers, seafarers and other maritime trades workers in 15 Latin American nations. At the conference, the Latin American union representatives adopted unanimously a resolution to "support OMU and the Bilateral Solidarity Pact by taking steps to persuade Trico Marine to end its campaign of intimidation, including any and all steps sanctioned by applicable law which would have the effect of limiting Trico's ability to expand its operations anywhere in Latin America, until such time as Trico Marine recognizes the rights of its employees to organize and bargain collectively through the representatives of their choice." SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel signed the solidarity pact on behalf of four U.S. seafaring unions during a recent meeting in Rio de Janeiro. November 2001 �13 Bosuns Attain Recertification Seafarers Like What They See in SIU, School Thirteen of the SIU's newest recertified bosuns addressed their brothers and sisters and accepted completion-of-training certificates Oct. 8 during the membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Finishing the four-week class, considered the top curriculum available for deck department Seafarers, were Tom Arriola, John Baker, William Bratton, Herbert Charles, Emanuel Gazzier, William Henderson, John Nichols, Ron Paradise, Eric Perez, George Perry, Henry Peterson, Fadel Saleh and Thor Young. In addition to their hands-on exercises and classroom work at the Paul Hall Center, the recertified bosuns met at the union's headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. with representatives from all departments. Through discussions with them about the health and benefits plans, contract negotiation and enforcement, and the Seafarers LOG, the deck department upgraders enhanced their understanding of the many facets that must come together to make the union strong. Besides making complimentary remarks during the meeting about the instruction they received and the training center's staff and facilities, the bosuns collectively lauded the SIU leadership and offered words of ncouragement to the audience's unlicensed apprentices and lfti~ll&s. vii"Trr~')? 11r r,. , ,) Arriola sails from the port of Houston and has been going to sea for more than 30 years. He challenged the trainees to be professional in all their dealings and to always put safety first. "Strive to be professional at all times.'' he said. "You can never go wrong by respecting others. I also ask you to be safety-conscious on the job; be especially alert while docking." After thanking the union officials and membership for his opportimity to attend bosun recertifaation training. Arriola offered the trainees one final piece of advice: "Keep gossip and rumors to a minimum. There's no room for either of them in our profos& sion." Baker claims several home ports, having regularly sailed out of Los Angeles, Tacoma, Wash., Hawaii, Piney Point and Jacksonville, Fla. No stranger to Piney Point, Baker has upgraded six times since starting his SIU career in 1982. "T want to say thanks to all Seafarers who made it possible for me to stand up here today. This thanks is not just to the bosun selection committee," he said, "but also to those who built this union and this school." Baker urged apprentices and upgraders to continue taking advantage of all training opportunities available to them. "You as Senfo.rcr~ will continue lo build this union and this school," he said. Bratton hails from the port of Norfolk, Va. and joined the SIU in 1990 in Houston. He joined his classmates in their common November 2001 Thirteen bosuns completed recertification training Oct. 8 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Shortly after graduating, they joined SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (front row, third from left), SIU Asst. VP Contracts George Tricker (front row, far right) and SIU Plans Administrator Lou Delma (second row, far left) for this photo. Pictured are (in alphabetical order) Tom Arriola, John Baker, William Bratton, Herbert Charles, Emanuel Gazzier, William Henderson, John Nichols, Ron Paradise, Eric Perez, George Perry, Henry Peterson, Fadel Saleh and Thor Young. assessment of the valuable training they underwent and collective words of encouragement they offered to fellow Seafarers. He used his time at the podium, however, to reflect on the tragic events of Sept. 11 and how they affected his class as a whole. In short, he said the events were crimes against all humanity, and he labeled the perpetrators as insane, malicious and cowardly. Charles, one of the two recertified bosuns who sails from acksonville, became a Seafarer in 1987. He has upgraded once before at Piney Point. "I'd like to thank everyone involved in the bosun recertification program," he offered. "Your collective efforts have made it a great success." Charles told the apprentices the SIU has the only school of its kind for mariners in the world and that it affords great chances to develop skills. "The opportunities here are tops," he said. "I urge you to continue taking advantage of them to develop and refine your skills." Gazzier currently sails out of Mobile, Ala. This upgrading trip to Piney Point was his fourth since joining the SIU in 1979. Gazzier last attended the school in March for STCW training. "This union offers everyone the opportunity to make higher pay and secure better benefits," he said, "and I would like to say thanks to everyone who made all of these things possible. God Bless America and the SIU." To the apprentices, Gazzier said that the school provides a great opportunity to receive valuable training. "Take advantage of it now," he said. Henderson is the second member of the class who sails from the port of Norfolk, the location at which he joined the SIU. "I'd just like to thank the SIU leadership and port officials in Norfolk for lhe opportunity they have provided me to be here," Henderson said. "I really enjoyed the training because I learned a great deal about how the union works ... everything from contracts to our pension." He told the apprentices that continuous upgrading is the key to a successful SIU career. "Everyone should take full advantage of the training and skills that are being offered here," he said. Nichols' home port is Houston. He joined SIU there in 1990 and has upgraded at Piney Point three times. Besides being pleased with the bosun recertification course and all it taught him, Nichols was impressed with oth the union officials and school staff. "I can't say enough about how knowledgeable and dedicated the leadership and staff are," he said. "They taught me a lot, especially about union history, contracts and the working relationships between the Military Sealift Command and shipping companies." Nichols said he thoroughly enjoyed being at Piney Point again. "My wife and I, as well as my children, have always enjoyed coming here," he said. "The atmosphere is relaxed and very conducive to learning. In addition, there are many extracurricular activities and historical sites nearby." Paradise is the third class member who ships out of Norfolk. He joined the SIU in 1975 in Piney Point and since then has upgraded six times at the school. "I'm proud to be in this union and glad to have met so many good friends over the years," Paradise said. "I'd like to thank the staff and all the good people I have met here this time and those I am going to meet when I come back." He said he learned a great deal about the political ramifications associated with the workings of the union. "I was very impressed with the talks we had with the union leadership about contracts nnd the nmount of effort it takes to sustain our medical plans, vacation plans, pay and so on." To the apprentices, Paradise advised, "Keep upgrading your skills because you can do anything you want to ... the opportu- nities are out there and they are yours for the taking." Perez sails out of San Juan, P.R. and joined the SIU in the same port in 1988. Attending the bosun recertification class was his third trip to Piney Point for upgrading. "To all my brothers and sisters, I just want to say thanks," he said. "I'm real proud to get recertified. And I realize that it was because of you that this was possible for me." Perez, like many of his classmates, also was pleased to become better informed about the union's contracting process and what it takes to maintain and improve Seafarers' benefits. He encouraged apprentices to seize the training opportunities available at the school and noted "upgrading gives you better skills to be more professional and productive on your job." Perry joined the SIU in Norfolk and currently sails out of Jacksonville. The class marked his second upgrading trip. "This [bosun recertification training] is an achievement that I have worked very hard for over the years," he told those in attendance. "I started with the SIU in 1983 and today I'm getting recertified. "I've sailed with a lot of peo- ple and had a lot of ups and downs," Perry continued. "And I now see what President Sacco means about [the importance of] upgrading. I thank everyone for the help you have given me. I could not have done it without your assistance." Peterson resides in St. Louis, the same location in which he joined the SIU in 1987. "Bosun recertification is the pinnacle of my sailing career," he said, "and I thank the SIU for helping me get there." For those in the audience who had never gone to sea, but look forward to it, Peterson said, "When you go out to a ship, you may meet all kinds of people .... Stay focused and keep going," he said. "Take pride in what you do, take pride in the SIU and take advantage of upgrading opportunities every time they present themselves." Saleh, whose home port is Tacoma, joined the SIU m Seattle. Being selected for the recertification class was the greatest thing that ever happened to him, Saleh said. "I have been sailing since 1975 and it has always been the union that has provided me with employment opportunities through their hard work in the political arena," he said. "I want to personally thank President Sacco and the union leadership for all of their efforts, and the members who have stood ready to answer the call by their show of unity in political action. We can all be thankful for the bright future we will enjoy as a result of our being able to upgrade here at Piney Point." Young also calls Norfolk his home port. This marked his second trip to Piney Point for upgrading since joining the SIU in 1987. "I'm very proud to be here.'' he said. "I want to say thanks to the leadership and all my instructors. I learned about many things that go on behind the scenes that I never knew about, especially that our officials are really headstrong about us keeping our jobs -that's their number one priority and I very pleased about that," Young asserted. Young had a special message for the apprentices. "Treat this union, your career, and the shipping life with the utmost respect and professionalism," he said. "Know your union history, where we came from and where you are going. There are a lot of guys out there-and in here-who went to bat for us, and you ought to know that and never forget it." The bosuns took part in all aspects of firefighting during their recertifi- cation training. Above, class members battle a blaze at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting School. Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarer Slater Featured In AFL-CIO Magazine SIU member Kirk Slater, a captain for NY Waterway passenger ferries, is featured in the October issue of the AFL-CIO magazine America@work. Slater is profiled on page 17 of the publication, which features extensive coverage of union members involved in rescue and relief operations stemming from the attacks of Sept. 11. Seafarers aboard NW Waterway boats transported more than 158,000 people from Manhattan during the first 13 hours following the attacks. A few of the boats operated long past midnight, providing help for emergency crews. (For more detailed coverage, see page 3 of the October issue of the Seafarers LOG, or visit the LOG section of www.seafarers.org.) Slater told the federation's magazine that he and other mariners aboard the ferries lately have been keeping an eye out for their regular customers. "You get to know people by their faces. They take the same boat every day. I can't help but wonder about the people I took over there that morning, how many were in those buildings. We're all looking for familiar faces," he said. Coast Guard Port Security at 'AH-Time High' The U.S. Coast Guard last month reported that it has sels, at the discretion of the local captains of the port. implemented "an unprecedented number of maritime • The escort of cruise ships and certain U.S. naval ships in and out of a number of U.S. ports. safety and security measures." • Joint interagency boardings and maritime security "We continue to be at a heightened state of alert and awareness," said Lt. Cmdr. Brendan McPherson, a operations with local, state and federal law enforcement spokesman with the Coast Guard's Atlantic Area head- agencies. As an example of the heightened security, the Coast quarters in Portsmouth, Va. The agency stated that among the most recent safe- Guard reported that in a typical 24-hour period last guards put in place to maintain port safety and security in month, the agency conducted more than 340 maritime more than 360 ports, along 95,000 miles of U.S. shoreline security patrols, conducted 52 vessel escorts and completed 30 air surveillance patrols within the Atlantic are: • 94 security zones, an all-time high, have been region, an area covering 40 states east of the Rockies. Other regulations and security measures implemented established nationwide. •Most commercial vessels bound for U.S. ports are since the Sept. 11 attacks include: Naval vessel protection required to provide 96-hour advance notice of arrival ·zones that provide a 500-yard security zone around U.S. information to the Coast Guard's new National Vessel naval vessels; Authority to control the anchorage and Movement Center. Reporting to the center will streamline movement of any vessel in US. waters; and Recalled the notification process while the longer advance notice more than 2,700 reservists to active duty, and approxiwill allow the Coast Guard and other U.S. law enforce- mately 28,000 Coast Guard volunteers are helping out in non-law enforcement roles, thereby freeing up Coast ment agencies more time to review the information. • Armed Coast Guard boardings of commercial ves- Guard personnel for those duties. Charleston 5 Head to Trial this Month After Release from House Arrest Seafarer Kirk Slater is profiled in .. U)e,f\FL-CIO magazine America@work. Five union dockworkers, known as the Charleston 5, have been released from more than a year-and-a-half of house arrest. In early October, South Carolina Attorney General Charlie Condon removed himself from the case against the Charleston 5 after attorneys for the dockworkers demanded that he be disqualified for gross misconduct. The case was transferred to a local prosecutor, Walter M. Bailey Jr., solicitor of the First Judicial Circuit, near Charleston. The removal of Condon from the case cleared the way for lifting the curfew. On Oct. 15, with Bailey's consent, Judge Vic Rawl signed the order releasing the men. Seafarer-Tumed-Artist On Jan. 20, 2000, about 150 members of the AFL-CIO International Longshoreman's Association locals 1422 and 1771 in Charleston, S.C. assembled for a legal informational picket to protest the use of a non-union crew to unload a Danish freighter. The dockworkers were attacked by 600 police officers in riot gear. That night, eight dockworkers were arrested and charged with misdemeanors, mainly trespassing, by Charleston municipal police and prosecutors. State Attorney General Condon, an announced candidate for governor, intervened and raised the charges to rioting and conspiracy to riot, which are felonies, and took over the prosecution of the Charleston 5. Although a Charleston judge dismissed these charges for lack of evidence in preliminary hearing, Condon secured felony indictments against the men from a secret grand jury. While they were under the curfew, the dockworkers were prohibited from leaving their homes between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. unless they were working or at a union meeting. Travel restrictions prohibit them from leaving the state. The Charleston 5 are still scheduled to go on trial the week of November 12. Continued from page 4 calm, determined performance. "The officers did a great job, and the crew really jelled," he said. "We weren't worried at all. Whenever there's a crisis and you work for MSC, that's where you go." eyes. to be honest. The first thing you want is payback. Then, you think of the families, and you're just glad you're able to help." Allen credited the crew with a Credits School, Union For SoHd Foundation Whether an individual Seafarer makes a career of the sea or utilizes the merchant marine as a springboard to a new vocation, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Ed1,1cation stai1ds rtady to help students increase their knowledge while boosting their earning potential. Despite that basic tenet, former Seafarer James B. Carter made an atypical move when he left the industry_ Carter is one of very few students from the Piney Point. Md. facility to swikh from sailing to earning a living Left: Former Seafarer James B. Carter says the union "straightened me out and took care of me." A sample of his artwork (an 18 KT gold and sterling silver brooch) is pictured above. as an artist. Carter graduated from the Paul Hall Center's entry training program in 1978. He sailed for five years, starting in the engine department before switching to the deck and upgrading to AB. But along the way, he had stumbled on another trade that intrigued him_ Working with Bud Adams, who heads up the school's arts and crafts department. Carter developed his previously untapped talent. He made all kinds of jewelry and also continued his education, eventually earning multiple art degrees. Additionally, he taught classes at the University of West Florida. Those activities were precur- 8 Seafarers LOG sors to Carter's biggest step-becoming a self-employed, popular and profitable artist. He is a "studio goldsmith/ ' specializing in cloisonne enamel technique. "Most of my customers are collectors who collect this type of work," he explained_ "It's creativity on demand_" Carter, who lives in Florida, credits the Paul Halt Center and the SIU with helping him become more responsible and focused. "The union straightened me out and took care of me, and I know it has helped others," he recalled_"I didn't have two nickels to rub together when I went to the school .... "Another thing the union did, it gave me so many opportunities to see the world_ Russia, Egypt, West Africa .. .. Plus, I picked up a lot of self-discipline_" Adams said that Carter's success in disparate fields didn't surprise him because "the basis of what we teach is abstract thinking and problemsolving, and those are things you utiliz~ in many different occupations. " For his part, Carter never will forget his days as a Seafarer. "I really enjoyed the time," he said. " When I had the chance to go to Piney Point in 1978, J just said, 'Thank God.' I sailed a lot during my time with the union, and it was great" Steward Rudy Victa prepares lunch for the ROS crew. Steward Utilities Gerald Filkins, Jr. (left) and Gardner Powell put away stores. November 2001 �At the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, plenty of upgrading opportunities are available for steward department members. The school, located in Piney Point, Md. , offers courses in galley operations, advanced galley operations, and certified chief cook/chief steward, among others. The classes are structured so that students may complete certain components or modules in any order, which allows for flexibility in scheduling. Upgrading is an essential part of any Seafarer's career. It helps students stay on top of the latest trends and technology in the maritime industry, and it helps boost individual earning power, too. For more information about the school and upcoming courses, turn to page 21, visit www.seafarers.org/phc/index.html, or call the school at (301) 994-0010. Post-meal cleanup is part of the day's work for Unlicensed Apprentice Abdul Ali. Cook/Baker Cleto Lingong displays some of his doughy creations, includ· ing a culinary tribute to the Statue of Liberty. ABOVE: Upgrader Elston Yu keeps a close eye on his work. LEFT: Robert Johnson gets into the Halloween spirit. HOLD THE ANCHOVIES? Christopher Deluca slices a tray of delicious pizza. Nor1ember 2001 Seafarers LOG 9 �- - - - --- - -- Ret11111ing to Sea In the September 2001 issue of the Seafarers LOG, Walter Karlak wrote about catching his first ship in 1951, the SS Greeley Victory, which was headed to the Persian Gulf. What follows is a continuation of his learning experiences aboard ship and of his seafaring adventures . A fter many weeks on the beach, it was time to ship out again. Besides, my friends were already tired of my sea stories Each day, I would be at the Beaver Street hall before 9 a.m. and would leave at 4:30 or 5 p.m., thinking possibly I could get a pierhead jump (meaning a member gets off a ship at the last minute). As I rode the subway to the hall, I continually thought about how lucky I was to be a Seafarer. Once aboard a ship, there's no hurrying to get to work, no paying for rent or meals, and I got to visit many places I otherwise would never have seen- and get paid. And at the hall, I was among veteran seamen, including some who sailed in World War IL I felt I was among the best- and was proud of it. As each job was called, I'd throw in my shipping card. only to be beaten by full book members-which is the way it should be. Day after day I threw in for jobs as a wiper. And then I finally got one, aboard the North Platte Victory. It was goingwhere else-but the Persian Gulf. I packed my gear and was ready to go. At that time~ there were 32 to 40 crew members, and we had to wait in a long line until our tum to sign the articles (an agreement to sail aboard the ship and return with it). With gear in hand, I boarded the ship in Brooklyn (at 59th Street) and reported to the chief engineer. Two wipers showed me to my bunk (there were three wipers in one room with double bunkbeds). First, I made it a habit of knowing where my fire and lifeboat station was so I would know where to go and what to do when the monthly drills occurred. I then set out doing my routine work in the engine department, assisting the engineers in whatever they were doing. I liked learning how to use all the tools and taking broken machinery apart and putting it back together in working condition. After loading tanks, trucks and other military cargo, we left for Leonardo, N.J. There was a very long pier there, loaded with ammunition. Marine Guards made sure no one smoked to and from the ship, and all lighters and matches were put in a box before leaving the ship and returned when reboarding. When I later thought about it, I realized that credit was seldom given to the longshoremen who loaded the ships. They worked very hard in the holds, securing the heavy cargo, piece by piece. Just think what would have happened if they didn't know their jobs-tanks might break loose in bad weather, most likely going through the ship's side. No te1ling what the results might by Walter Karlak have been. After a few days, we sailed for Naples, Italy. No sooner had we left the States than we three wipers were ordered to paint the entire engine room. The first engineer had a (advance on salary) or at payoff. This continued the entire trip while at sea. But when in port, no one thought about cards anymore. When we arrived in Naples, I went ashore to take pictures. I recall a medieval fort and was awed by how old it was and ~;=::;:::::::::::~ the fact that it was still standing after all the fighting it had been a part of. Here I was, a kid from Brooklyn, seeing what I'd read about in history books, all because the SIU accepted me as a member. After unloading Army cargo and containers of household goods for American service personnel, we specific color code for each sysleft Naples and headed for a tem. Yellow was for lube oil, red small port in Turkey. I and a few was for hot water and the steam crew members took a long train lines were aluminum. Even the ride to Istanbul. It wasn't too bad water cooler was painted-pink. a trip. One of the train's crew It wasn't too bad when we startborrowed a guitar from a passened, but once we passed through ger, and he sang and played the Suez Canal, it was hot, hot, western songs. He was actually hot, and in the Persian Gulf, it pretty good. After the weekend in Istanbul, we returned to the was even hotter. ship and set sail for Port Said, The bilges had to be cleaned out before we painted them, Egypt. It was a short trip to the long which meant crawling over and under hot pipes. breakwater, where we dropped This period at sea was also the hook and waited for more the time when the playing cards ships to form a convoy before entering the canal. As usual, no came out. I was introduced to sooner had the anchor been games I had never heard of. Even the officers played. There dropped, than the bumboats pulled up alongside to sell their must have been three or four wares. An OS named Pete, who games going at one time in the was making his first trip, bought crew messhall. One guy would a bottle of "whiskey," which record the losses of each player, and the winner would be paid turned out to be anything but. Once I heard the high whinwhenever there was a draw Everyone Performs Aboard the Performance ing of the turbines, I knew we were on our way to Karachi, Pakistan. It was music to my ears because it meant we'd get a nice sea breeze instead of the hot, dry weather that the canal offered. Work involved painting, painting, painting all the way. Before we reached Karachi, we stopped at Aden for bunkers (fuel oil). And then, after hitting all the Persian Gulf ports, we headed back for the States, with only port holes and wall fans to cool us off. While in the Gulf, some of the suppers were held on deck. The steward department really did a wonderful job. One engineer said it was so hot, he could fry an egg on deck. Sure enough, in one Gulf port, the eggs were sizzling. Three weeks later we paid off in New Jersey. Shipping was terrific because of the Korean conflict, so I thought I'd make another trip. The first assistant engineer had me take fuel oil soundings with a reel as the ship was taking on fuel. I would drop the weight into a hold and measure how deep it went in. I did it many times and the rod went down easily. But then one time it happened-I could feel something went wrong. I reeled in the weight. When it cleared the opening, oil came bubbling out. I tried to recap it. The oil was warm and thin at first. Then it thickened. By that time the side of the ship as well as the Army trucks and part of the dock had been coated in it. No doubt you figured out I didn't make the next trip. But it was all a great learning experience. And every time I returned from a foreign port, it didn't take much for me to remember what a great country we live in. Right: GSU Ali Abdulla always has a smile for everyone aboard the U.S. Ship Management Co. vessel. Left: Taking a break prior to docking the Performance in Malta are Chief Electrician Rex Bolin and QMED Sammy Montana. Performance crew members thanked Chief Cook Richard Hick5 for the great food he and his department prepared and served during the voyage. 10 Seafarers LOG At the gangway in Algeciras, Spain are AB Sherman Hudson (left) and Bosun J.R. Wilson. AB Tim O'Brien (left) and AB Bennie Spencer wait at the gangway of the ship before disembarking in Algeciras, Spain. November 2001 �Memo Retlects Merdumt Crew's Bravery Captain Recalls Efforts to Scuttle Ship, Rather than Allow Capture by Enemy Editors note: The following text, forwarded to the Seafarers LOG from retired West Coast VP George McCartney, is from an undated memo written by the late Orel Pierson, master of the SS President Harrison at the dawn ofAmericas involvement in World War II. It tells the gripping tale of how the crew-caught in the Far East as Pearl Harbor fell under attack-tried to scuttle the ship so it wouldn't be captured. A much more detailed account of the President Harrison s saga is told in the book "Captives of Shanghai,,, published in 1989. AMERICAN PRESIDENT LINES INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: Operating Manager American President Lines FROM: Master (Ex.)- SS President Harrison SUBJECT; Loss of Harrison, December 8, 1941 This report is necessarily vague as to exact time and dates as I do not have at hand any data from which I might extract same. Some time late in November 1941 we arrived at Manila P.I. from the Pacific Coast via Honolulu, Suva and the Torres Straits. Here we were informed that we would proceed to Hong Kong whhout discharging cargo and outfit as a transport and proceed to Shanghai to aid in evacuating the U.S. Fourth Marines to the Philippines. Aided in this operation by the room in Manila. The Japanese most certainly knew where we were going and for what reason, or else I have formed a great misconception of their intelligence during the years I have been in contact with them. In fact, I was later informed by the Captain of a Japanese destroyer that "they knew all about our movements." All American ships bound for Chinese ports had been ordered to Manila, and to my certain knowledge all British ships in North China waters as early as December 2"d had been ordered to proceed at full speed to Singapore. Proceeding north from Manila, we again noted heavy Japanese shipping moving to the south. On the night of December 61\ just after dark, we were approached by some sort of a craft which flashed, "stop!" We stopped but as this craft did not come alongside and we were an American ship proceeding upon a peaceful mission, l decided to ignore him entirely and proceed upon our way. As we were faster than this craft we soon outdistanced him. Long afterwards while in a camp in Japan, I learned that this was a small Japanese Naval craft who had stopped the SS Elsie Moeller just before dark and then seeing us coming up on the horizon had left the "Elsie" and proceeded in our direction. The Captain of the Elsiit had left Chingwangtao with a load of coal for Shanghai but had been ordered to make all speed for Singapore instead. He had been told we were bound there SS President Madison we removed rhe and that no doubt he would meet up with Marines and all their equipment and landed them at Olongapo. On December 3"1, we made a rendezvous off the north end of Formosa with four U.S. submarines, and with machine guns mounted ready for instant action and escorted by the subs 1 we delivered thiEI unit successfully at its destinatiort. At this time, it was apparent to all that war was immimmt. We noted, and reported 1 that Japanese Naval units and transports were steaming south in large numbers. On December 4in, we were at Manila once more and on that date were again ordered back to North China, this time to Chingwangtao to evacuate the Peking and Tientsin Legation Guard. The vessel was chartered hy the U.S. Navy on a day-to~ ~y O~$i$ for thi$ purpO$C, We wr;rr; under direct orders of Admiral Hart and were "on the drum" of the Cavite Naval Radio. In other words, we were in constant contact, on a specified frequency and a secret call letter. The only actual orders I ever received were verbal "to proceed to Chingwangtao and bring out the Marines." From the time we left Manila we were entirely on our own, and any subsequent actions taken were entirely of my own volition aided and abetted by my officers and crew who gave me their fullest cooperation, and I have nothing but the us somewhere along the way. Being a China coast skipper and knowing our ships he recognized us. About 2:30 a.m. on the morning of December 7'\ we passed the North Saddles and set course for Shaweishan on the north side of the Yangstze estuary. Somewhere about 3~30 I received a mes- highest praise for their assistance. Consider now the situation in the Far East. Tension was mounting, war or the possibility of it was on every man's tongue, the destination of the Harrison (though it was supposed to be a deep dark secret) was the talk of every hotel and bar November 2001 sage from Cavite that Pearl Harbor had been attacked. The show was on. The vessel was in ballast without a pound of cargo in her. We were in hostile waters, surrounded on all sides by Japanese-held territory or Japan proper. The vessel was completely outfitted for the carriage of troops and if she fell into Japanese hands, could have been loaded and used for that purpose within a matter of hours against our forces in the Far East. I was bound and determined to use every means in my power to prevent this. What to do? I have given some thought to the matter after leaving Manila. The first and obvious thing of course was to try and escape with the ship. Even though this might prove to be a hopeless move, we turned off immediately to the southwest hoping by some miracle we might work our way out through the islands south of Van Dieman Strait, make for the extreme north Pacific and eventually back to some Pacific Coast port. After informing the officers and crew as to what had happened, we started to paint out the stack and superstructure hoping to get on as much grey paint as possible before we met up with any Japanese craft. Being able to make about fifteen-andone-half knots, we had not made many miles when daylight came and with it a Japanese plane with her bomb racks full. She signaled us to stop with a burst of machinegun fire and then after circling us flew off towards another ship that was coming up on the horizon. This ship turned out to be the Nagasaki Maru, a fast twenty-two knot mail boat on the JapanChina run. Apparently, he had been told to tail us and keep us under surveillance while he reported our whereabouts to the naval authorities in Shanghai. I knew this ship well and realized the futility of trying to escape from her. We were in no way afraid of her and as soon as we recognized her we got under way, but try as we would, could not lose her. As often as we changed course, she did the same and stayed on our heels. I thought at one time of ramming her, but she was smart enough to keep well clear of us while still keeping guard over us. Now the problem arose what to do next. l called all my officers together and explained the situation. I pointed out that, as I thought then and still think, with a vessel in a ballast condition and the system of bilge lines and drains, we would never get enough water into the ship to scuttle her in the limited time we would have available. Most of the tanks we could not flood throughout the ship would give her enough buoyancy to keep her afloat, and it would be a simple matter to tow her into port and pump her out. I then pointed to the chart of the China Coast and showed them the many wrecks strewn up and down in this vicinity and pointed out that few of them when once high and dry in these waters were ever floated. My plan, to which they all agreed, was to run for the beach and send the ship up as high as possible at full speed, hoping to accomplish this before any further ships made their appearance. We had nothing to worry about as far as the Nagasaki Maru was concerned (other than her following us) as she was unarmed. We started in the direction of Shaweishan as this was the nearest land and as we approached it I conceived the idea of sending the ship over the edge of it and ripping her bottom out completely. If we could achieve this, the vessel would go down completely and most surely be a total loss. We had provisioned all the lifeboats and had them swung out and the crew standing by for any emergency that might arise. As we approached the island we sighted a Japanese destroyer making toward us under forced draft and the plane again returned overhead. He did not open fire or drop his bombs-the reason, I learned later, they wanted the ship intact. The Captain of the destroyer also informed me that his orders were that if we did not surrender to open fire and sink us so the loss of the Harrison was inevitable, and at best all we could hope to do was to create as much damage as possible. It became a race as to whether we could make the island before the destroyer could intercept us. The Nagasaki Maru had by now turned off as we were getting into shoal water and the destroyer was approaching. Five minutes before we struck, we ordered the engineers out of the engine room, leaving the plant wide open. They had agreed to stay on the job until the very last minute if I would give them time enough to get out before we crashed. The co-operation of Mr. J.C. Smith, Chief Engineer, and his engineers and men made this possible. Shortly after 1 p.m. and making around sixteen knots, we struck the edge of the island in the vicinity of Number One Hatch on the port side. Being thoroughly familiar with the construction of these ships and their sturdiness I knew it would be useless to take the ship in head on. She would only have banged up her bow and most likely backed off and still floated. Several accidents in the past have proved this on vessels of this type. The island is rounded and steep on the side we approached it from. She rode along the edge of the island for a considerable distance, then heeled away over to starboard and rolled off It turned out later we had ripped a hole in her 90 feet long but, unfortunately, she rolled off before reaching the engine room spaces. Not knowing exactly how much damage we had done and whether or not a boiler explosion would shortly occur, I deemed it advisable to get the crew off the ship into the boats. As there were no men in the engine spaces, we shut the steam off by use of the boiler stops on the boat deck and shortly thereafter sent the boats away except for my own with orders to make for the island. We had kept our radio silent until close in, then I gave the operator orders to open up and get a message away as to what we were doing. This message was received and acknowledged, I believe, by a San Francisco shore station. As the boats were getting away I went back to the radio shack and we kept the set going until the power finally died and we had to quit for the lack of power to transmit any further. By now the plane had opened up with his machine gun and was strafing the ship presumably to stop us from using the radio. As there was nothing further we could do 1 we launched the last remaining boat and made for the island. The tide was running strong ebb. the vessel filling fast forward and listing badly to starboard, and at the time we cleared her side both propellers dead in the water. The plane made no attempt to strafe the boats in the water making for the island. The destroyer, run- Continued on page 13 Seafarers LOG 11 �Scholarships Available Through 'Union Plus' APPLY NOW FOR 1 OFB SCHOLARSHIPS TOBE AWARDED IN 2002 Filling out the coupon below is the first step toward pursuing your hopes, dreams and goals for a higher level of education. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college next year are encouraged to send away for the 2002 SIU Scholarship Program booklet. It contains eligibility information and procedures for applying. It also contains a copy of the application form. Eight monetary grants will be awarded next year to three SIU members and five dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. Five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information carefully to make sure that certain conditions are met. No one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Scholarship Program by April 15, 2002. Do it today! In this tumultuous market. the idea of paying for college may be enough to concern any parentespecially as the average cost of tuition rises at a rate almost double that of inflation. Fortunately, BELOW AND MAIL IT TO THE ADDRESS LISTED the U.S. government earlier th1s TO GET YOUR COPY OF THE 2002 SIU SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM BOOKLET. ycur crcutcd :some potential relief by amending section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service of 1986. Essentially. the amendments allow for a tax-free way to invest for a child's higher education expenses while maintaining complete control over the money and r--- -------------------------------------------------------------------------~ lease send me the 2002 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Mariner's Social Security Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Street Address City, State, Zip Code _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: O Self O Dependent Mail this completed form lo Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs. MD 20746 12 Seafarers LOS The application deadline for the 2001-02 school-year scholarships is Jan. 31, 2002. The scholarship application is avail- Revised Tax Laws Offer Options far College Savings FILL OUT THE COUPON P SIU members, their spouses, and dependent children (as defined in IRS regulations) are eligible to apply for college scholarships available through Union Privilege, an AFL-CIO entity. The Union Plus scholarship program, in its 11th year, is open to students attending or planning to attend a four-year college or university, a community college, or a technical college/trade school. As noted by Union Privilege, "Applicants are evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. Applications are judged by a committee of impartial post-secondary educators .... Program judges include representatives from the American Association of Community Colleges, the United Negro College Fund, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities." Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $1.5 million to union members and members of their families who want to begin or continue their secondary education. Last year, 115 students, representing 31 AFL-CIO unions, received $151,000 in scholarships. The program's top $4.000 awards went to 12 students, while 79 students attending four-year institutions received awards ranging from $500 to $2,000. Additionally, 24 others attending community colleges and trade schools received scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000. 11/01 reducing your taxable estate. Each state's 529 plan is different and each has highly customized requirements, investment options, contribution maximums and state income tax treatments. However. certain key components of the savings plan are the same. Participants may contribute up to $50,000 per child up front and not be subject to gift tax. A couple that files jointly may make a taxfree donation of up to $ 100,000 per beneficiary. This contribution is deducted from your taxable estate. Not only does the account grow tax-deferred, when monies are used for higher education related expenses, the funds are distributed tax-free. Typically, any accredited postsecondary institution is eligible. This indudes out-of-state and private institutions as well. Monies may be used for room, board, tuition, books and equipment. The beneficiary may be changed at any time, but the new beneficiary must be related to the previous beneficiary. If the donor(s) choose to take back the money, they must pay a I 0 percent penalty on the earnings. The remainder of the earnings are then taxed as ordinary income. Unlike a "Uniform Gift to Minor's Account" (UGMA), 529 able for download at: www.unionprivilege.org. To receive an application by mail, send a postcard, with your name, return address, telephone number and international union name clearly printed on it, to: Union Plus Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 34800, Washington, DC 20043-4800. Letters will be sent to winners on May 31, 2002. Due to the volume of applications, only those receiving scholarships will be notified. However, if you would like to receive confirmation of your application's receipt, include a self-addressed stamped postcard with your application. Seafarers and their dependents are eligible to apply for the scholarship benefit because of the union's participation in Union Privilege's Union Plus credit card program. Having a Union Plus credit card is not a requirement, but one year of continuous good standing union membership is required when the award is made. In addition, the recipient must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school when the award is issued. Graduate students are not eligible. The scholarship program is funded and administered by Union Privilege and Household Credit Services. The Union Plus credit card program offers a noannual-fee MasterCard with a low variable annual percentage rate. More than 2 million union members carry the Union Plus credi card, which is issued by Household Bank (Nevada), N.A., an equal-opportunity lender. For more information about the card, call 1-800-472-2005. donors maintain control over the assets. With a UGMA, once the beneficiary reaches the age of majority (usually 18), the youngster bas complete control over the account. Additionally, the advantage a 529 plan has over an Education IRA is much greater contribution allowances. Donors may contribute up to $250,000 to a 529 plan while the Education IRA's current contribution limits are $500 per year, slated to rise to $2 000 per year in 2002. Also, there is no limit on the number of people who may contribute to an individual's 529 plan. There are several investment firms that offer the 529 CollegeBound plan. Some are more thorough than others, offering the most investment choices and being the most lenient regarding which expenses and institutions qualify. In any case, the 529 plan is a tremendous benefit. Editors note: This article was 1 submitted by former Seafarer Peter Jablonski, currently a financial advisor at the headquarters of UBS Paine Webber in New York City. He may be reached at 800 635-1983 or by email at: peterjablonski@ubspainewebber.com. This article is l1Q1 meant as an endorsement of the 529 plan by the SIU. Individuals should check with their own advisors for more details. November 2001 �Sumner Assists Relocation Of Japanese Fishing Vessel The Seafarers-crewed USNS Sumner last month supported the U.S. Navy's relocation of the Japanese fishing vessel Ehime Maru. The fishing boat sank south of Honolulu Feb. 9 after being struck by the U.S. submarine USS Greeneville during routine operations. An oceanographic research craft, the Sumner acted as the eyes and ears of the relocation operation's primary salvage vessel, the Rockwater 2. Arriving several months before the operation commenced in the deep water recovery site (DWRS) where the Ehime Maru rested, the Sumner crew conducted a complete bathymetry study (depth measurement) of the entire vicinity. This analysis commenced June 17 and continued in various phases until Aug. I 7. During this period, the crew surveyed the route along which the submerged ship would be moved during the relocation; took conductivity USNS Sumner (T-AGS 61) • Length: 328 feet, 6 inches • Beam: 58 feet • Draft: 19 feet • Displacement'. 4, 762 long tons • Speed: 16.0 knots temperature depth measurements of the area; and collected bottom samples at both the D WRS and shallow water relocation sites (SWRS)-the location where the vessel rested as well as the one at which it would be relocated. In addition, the crew deployed current monitors at both relocation sites to stay abreast of conditions. Finally, they tested an instrument called an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler to measure the area's water currents from the surface to the bottom. The foregoing analysis and assessments were conducted as many times as were necessary to collect the desired data. It would later be used to assure "smooth sailing" for the Rockwater 2 during the actual Oct. 12 relocation. Arriving at the DWRS, the Rockwater 2 deployed cable lines over its sides to be attached to a lifting plate, which previously had been positioned under- neath the Ehime Maru. Once the ning into shoal water, was feeling her way in to am;hor. I landed on the island with my boat crew, including the stewardess, thinking that all was well and all safely ashore_ There I found that one boaL had gone under the quarter and that the port propeller was still slowly turning over, due to steam within the @ngin@ it~@lf not b@ing folly exhausted, and that the boat had been capsized, the crew thrown into the water and three of the men lost. All the others had been picked up by the other boats including Mr. J.L. McKay, Chief Steward. who had sustained several broken ribs. The Chief Engineer was suffering from a dose of fuel oil and from th e shock of being immersed in the icy water. All others were apparently all right. All of the men had climbed to the top of the i~land where the lighthouse is and the light keepers (Chinese) had turned one of the buildings over to them and they had set up a snack bar and were feeding the men. Just as dark came on, which is early at this time of the year in these parts, a Japanese Naval Landing Unit (which is the same as our Marines) from the destroyer landed on the island and made their way to the top, bristling with gun~ and bayoncb fixed. I do not know what they expected to find, but as we had done all we could (however good or bad it was) there was the USNS Sumner and its used its linear winches to crew received a thanks for station and then lined us all up and searched us for weaponswe had none-but anything we had such as money or papers were thrown on the ground and left. The entire crew was then placed under guard on the island and I wa~ taken off to the destroyer where I spent the night. I was taken into the wardroom where I found the officers in a jubilant mood with the radio going full blast, and as I soon learned reports coming in of the sinking of the Prince of Wales, the various ships in Pearl Harbor, ek. Of course. the radio was in Japanese but several of the officers spoke excellent es) and surrendered. First they English and they certainly laid it on. They tr aicd me very kindly, however, and later the Commander made his appeararn;e and, after telling me how easy it would be for Japan to lick the world1 broke out a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black label and treated everybody in the wardroom including myself. Later I was given coffee and rice cakes, a bed was made up for me on one of the settees and I was made as comfortable as possible. In the morning [ was fed the usual Japanese food and they even went so far as to find me a knife and fork to eat with. Around 7 a.m. I was taken on deck- a boat launched and I was told we would return. to the island. The boat, halfway to the island, was ordered back to the ship by a signal-the officer went on board and shortly after returned_ From that moment on their attitude towards me changed entirely-they were curt destroyed the lighthouse radio and abusive, and I spent the bet- nothing left to do but get rid of our guns (we threw the few rev<>lvers we had intC> the bush- llovember 2DIJ1 were atta,hed. the Rockwater 2 President Harrison in WWII Continued from page 11 lines raise the sunken vessel some 90 feet from its deepwater resting place. It remained at this elevation--or very close to it during the transit to the SWRS. And this is where the most vital part of the USNS Sumners mission took effect. The Sumner took the point for a convoy of vessels, which accompanied the Rockwater 2 along its transit route from the DWRS to the SWRS. By referring to its previously collected data, complemented by fresh inputs gathered during the actual transit, the Sumner provided the Rockwater 2 with real-time information about prevailing ocean conditions (bottom profile, depth and current conditions). Armed with this information, the Rockwater 2 could raise or lower the Ehime Maru to match inclines associated with the ocean's bottom profile, and in the process virtually eliminate hazards associated with sudden load shifts or vessel rolls. Although several stops were made along the way, the 14-mile transit went off without a hitch. The final relocation of the Ehime Maru was completed Oct. 14. For its very significant role in the relocation effort, ter part of the next ten days under guard with an officer over me, armed night and day. I am still at a loss to know the reason for their complete about-face unless they realized when daylight came that the Harrison was not the easy prize they expected it to be. As we left the destroyer, she was clearly visible a halfmile away way down by the head and with about a heavy list to starboard. When we got to the island the Japanese officer ordered the entire crew into the boats and back to the ship. Resistance being useless, we carried out his orders and after a hard row boarded the vessel. We found No. 1 hold partly flooded Nos. 2, 3 and 4 flooded into the Upper Tween Deck, No. 5 partly flooded and 12 feet of water in the engine room. After hatches were dry, we were able to relight the fires and get up steam and two men volunteered to relight the fires. Two men vo1unteered to dive into the icy water and open and close the necessary valves to pump out the engine room. We were solidly aground forward but afloat aft. After trying to work the ship off with the engines (which would have no doubt caused her to sink in deeper water) and after breaking a couple of wires trying to pull her off with the destroyer, we suggested the possibility of lightening the ship by stripping her and throwing everything overboard_ The Japanese agreed to this and we passed the word to sabotage everything possible. We threw at least a hundred thousand dollars worth of equipment over the side including motion picrure equipment, pianos, furniture, stores, tarpaulins, hatches and even the strong hooks. When we suggested Bosun Art Cross (on frame), AB Collins Agyemang (center) and Chief Mate Charlie Reina deploy the ship's ADCP transducer assembly. a job well done from Capt. Bret Marsh, supervisor of Diving and Salvage, U.S. Navy Sea Systems Command. The USNS Sumner is unshipping the booms and putting them over, however, they apparently decided it had gone far enough and put a stop to it. Realizing by now that they could not float her without assistance they sent to Shanghai for divers and salvage equipment- at one time they had twelve divers on the job. Then they sent to Japan for the Nippon Salvage Co. and they arrived with a complete salvage unit including a salvage master -a Japanese born in Portland, Oregon and thoroughly familiar -with salvage work. He went at the job in a more scientific manner and after 43 days of diving, patching and plugging they managed to get number one and two holds tight enough so that the heavy pumps could hold the water down . Then by flooding the after holds on the high tide of the month, she floated off and was taken into Shanghai where she was placed alongside the dock and the divers, working inbetween in the slack water plugged the holes enough to eventually get her to Japan and into a dry dock. While on the rocks we faired fairly well for food, but after entering Shanghai the ship's food ran out and the Japanese took over the feeding. We went on very short rations then and I never did get a really full meal again until the war ended in 1945. We lived on the Harrison until the middle of March when the crew was released in Shanghai and the officers sent to a detention camp at Honkew Park. None of the officers were ever released and sixteen of the crew died in Shanghai before the war ended. I was taken to Japan the first of April 1942 to attend. as they one of the seven Oceanographic Survey Ships that is part of the 29 ships in the Military Sealift Command's Special Mission Ships Program. said, a prize court. I was confined along with quite a few China Coast men in the Sasabro Naval Hall and until the middle of August, no person asked me a single question concerning the Harrison (Japanese I mean) and then one day the Court, consisting of one man and his interpreter. made his appearance and asked me a series of routine questions. They informed me that they thought it would go very bad for me for the damage we had caused. At this time I was the only person in the camp except for four Filippinos and I spent the six longest weeks of my life in virtual solitary confinement, being allowed out of doors only one hour per day. At the end of this time, they returned and asked me the same questions over again, apparently to see if they could trip me up. A few days later I was taken under guard and blindfolded (part of the time) to Zentsuj i War Prison Camp on the Island of Shikoko. This was a mi1itary prison and I was sent there apparently because I held a Lt. Commodore's commission in the U.S. Naval Reserve. I arrived at Zentsuji on November 5, 1942 and remained there until June 23, 1945 when the camp was broken up and we were transferred to N okoroshi Camp in the mountains of western Honshu. The story of my years in prison camps closely parallels that of any American held by the Japanese with all the heartaches, abuses, uncertainties and slow starvation accorded to them in the military prisons. I lost 85 pounds, need I say more. Respectfully, Orel A. Pierson Master. SS President Polk Seafarers LOG 13 • �rs tO the Editor s (Editor note: the Sea/arers 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 bas is.) Upgradar Thanks Fellow Students I would like to thank (fellow Seafarers) Brenda Littlefield and Ray Johns for all the help they gave me in my class work at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. I also would like to thank my wife, Linda L. Hoffman, for all the support she has given me and to wish her a happy birthday, which we celebrated Aug. 15 at the school. Lester C. Hoffman Piney Point, Md. Hats Off to Health Plan I want to thank the ladies of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan for all their help in getting my hospital bills paid. I am a retired seaman, and I hope the membership will join me in taking our hats off to the personnel and management of the Plan. They deserve appreciation. Larry D. Rust Houston, Texas Seafarer Shares LessonsLeamed I wish to share with my brothers and sisters of the SIU some lessons I learned, so that no one else has to endure the expense and anguish I experienced. It has to do with avoiding conflicts when on shore leave. While on shore leave in Pusan, (S. Korea), I allowed myself to get into a shoving match in a bar. Although the other guy started it and escalated the problem, I now realize I should have walked away. Hanging around came back to haunt me in ways I didn't foresee. For one thing, it is not a pleasant experience being on the receiving end of a Coast Guard investigation. Don't count on a plea of self-defense getting you out of it cleanly, because chances are it won't. Plus I had to spend a small fortune . . . money I could have put to better uses than giving it to lawyers. So, when you go ashore, don't have an attitude-and don't carry any tool that could be construed as a weapon, even if it's some- thing you may use as a matter of routine in your job. John Cooke Houston, Texas WILL YOU BE SAILING ON FEB. 1, 2002? Yes, I have completed the required STCW training. 0 No, I have not completed the required STCW training. Without STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) and a 1995 STCW certificate, the following unlicensed Seafarers will not be able to sail after Feb. 1, 2002: Bosuns, ABs, QMEDs and FOWTs. {Steward department personnel are not required to possess a certificate.) Also, all unhmited and limited license holders with a near-coastal and ocean endorsement need a '95 certificate. All Seafarers sailing on deep sea or near-coastal vessels must complete BST. Don't wait any longer. Sign up today tar your STCW training. Please contact the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education at this toll-free number: • 1-800-732-2739. 14 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 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 th 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 boar. 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 hannful 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 be 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 distrimination, 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 bis 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. November 2001 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 2001 - *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port . Algonac ,,._:: "";"':",,," '2 ·'Baltimore 4 l 2 _ Gl.KUll 2 l 3 4 4 5 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 1 5 1 1 6 3 11 6 6 6 19 22 16 5 9 7 11 7 3 3 19 19 11 3 2 8 18 1 19 4 10 12 11 2 2 o Honolulu Houston Jacksonville 13 28 31 Mobile 16 New Orleans __New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 22 21 14 2 4 9 16 24 20 227 19 3 14 15 11 5 4 4 11 2 1 13 4 I 12 13 12 127 93 Port ·: ~lgonac ' j;l~ltitn6t~ . · Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile 11 5 9 3 12 6 0 5 14 23 5 1 3 1 0 0 5 5 0 4 4 2 0 0 12 18 8 7 12 6 7 113 106 9 10 32 9 24 17 11 0 10 13 38 11 1 1 9 50 50 418 0 7 0 0 3 0 0 10 24 38 5 1 11 9 67 l 7 3 27 11 3 2 0 0 3 0 6 2 42 ' 0 ',' 21 0 17 3 3 4 0 1 3 13 4 13 21 15 2 3 23 19 8 7 21 203 6 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: December 12, January 16 Honolulu.~............... Friday: December 14, January 18 Houston .................. Monday: December 10, January 14 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 6, January 10 17 19 Mobile ......3... ~ ...... .. .Wednesday: December 12, January 16 2 7 11 24 7 15 16 11 Boston ..................... Friday: December 7, January 11 Jersey City ..............Wednesday: December 19, January 23 0 2 5 1 Baltimore ................ Thursday: December 6, January JO 5 2 5 147 1 Algonac .................. Friday: December 7, January 11 New .Bedford ..........Tuesday: December 18, January 22 ~ew, Ortei:ins ........... Tuesday: December 11, January 15 New York ................ Tuesday: December 4, January 8 11 Norfolk ................... Thursday:December 6, January 10 12 1 Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: December 5, January_9 6 Port Everglades..•.... J'hursday:";Qe¢e~b'er ·{3 ;)m;\uafr l.7: 8 3 8 7 3 0 4 12 12 20 14 10 7 182 165 76 5 2 38 0 35 2 ~-· . ., .. __, ·- -\\- ' - ·. '.'_ ... ~ ·~.•:. :..-::c.: . ·~ . .o 0 :7 1 ,. ":, ··"o· ,.:"· o. 0 l 1 0 2 2 8 0 0 17 17 4 0 10 47 34 111 'l '· l · .6:., ~" ·Jf." :J . 4 1 3 .15 146 :o LOG-A-RHYTHM 5 ""· 0 0 0 6 3 0 3 25 13 58 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 s 3 0 1, 2 ' .·.. 'i' ' o· 0 .... Guam .. 0 Honolulu 6 21 ] ll 4 Houston Jacksonville 1 2 ·: " M4'>hH~(: . ·· · · :::)~!~~- QrJeans .0 4 5 18 17 ·6 18 16 2 10 5 5 33 2 11 1 9 16 7 11 8 6 0 13 9 11 ~4 26 12 10 2 0 Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico 0 0 2 16 5 4 6 3 San.Francisco )::·$~:. ~9µ,ja 6 0 11 8 0 13 1 0 3 2 1 8 0 . ·;.._' 3 2 3 72 37 7 261 81 0 0 0 1 5 2 10 0 13 59 251 0 0 4 3 21 24 27 .. I 6 12 6 . 10 15 50 15 14 55 ·o . 0 0 0 0 0 31 22 1 5 4 3 O· 0 0 1 0 0 0 I 8 5 0 9 30 7 0 13 23 0 79 317 37 26 517 174 940 766 812 0 3 2 2 Tacoma 5 Wilmington Totals 6 13 15 42 180 245 18 89 6 104 528 460 416 420 295 197 0 1 2 7 10 Totals All +"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. Noflember 2001 0 3 24 10 20 4 0 0 2 15 Department§ 10 12 Piney Point .............Monday: December 3, January 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 {) 3 ,·:N¢~Yµrk 3 7 0 6 1 Wilmington ~t~~~~ - 13 45 62 21 37 38 24 7 4 2~ Tacoma Po.-t 3 13 tR(~~~~~~~~*~~~~ Wilmington Totals 9 4 0 0 0 5 0 fii. ;:~;:~~1}f; ·~~*11~~~~2~fff?{t'~:;r.g;;;-?i1~; '; :l· 105 2 0 3 6 11 3 5 4 3 3 2 0 1 0 7 5 44 1 2 2 10 4 Tacoma 4 7 3 4 0 12 ... ;5 4 2 3 ·s **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 3 9 186 114 53 74 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 6 s" ;.~.:~$.t!'touis ·:.-;$~ francfaco .'{St~ L;puis 1 0 2 4 8 18 I ./,NeW. Y<?t~·'<rtf";'~:~~,~~ii',i: :" Totals Port 4 3 4 9 5 3 2 0 .. ·New . Orle~ ..... · ...· lJ . · Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point "XPli~rr~·ttfo" · ;,:. :g~ri-FrahClscd 1 Trip Reliefs December 2001 & January 20IJZ Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Wafers 0 11 10 14 l At Sea by Albert W. Austin Jr. Thought ... I'd go a sailing. Had .. . Nothing more to Yes ... I would do it over. Each and everyday I do~ !was ... Young at the time. My. Age was seventeen. Just .. . Ayoungman. New ... In the Merchant Marine. Sailed ... On every kind of ship. Since .. . That day back then. Doing ... One trip at a time. And ... I'd do it all again! The lifetime ... That I have spent. The years ... I've been away. Why ... Would one do it? You ... Have to go to know. The ocean . .. Is a way of life. The only ... · Life I know. Through ... All the ups and downs. Both .. . Good and bad. A seaman s life ... A good life. Best ... I ever had! AB Albert W. Austin wrote this poem in August while aboard the Global Mariner as it headed to Singapore. Seafarers LOS 15 �Seafarers Inl:ematlollal Union Directory Nml1 monthly S hippi ng A Regi stration Repo rt SEPTEMBER 2001 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel. Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group ID Augustin TeJlez, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters ..- Dean Cori~ey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Kermctt Mangram, Vice President Government Services . - Port DECK DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Harvey, LA Rene Lioeanjie, Jlice President at Large New York Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals ... HEADQUARTERS 5201 Autb Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 {301) 899-0675 10 2 0 11 7 1 0 4 10 3 10 0 5 0 1 0 0 4 0 3 2 6 6 0 1 0 6 0 0 5 0 7 0 4 41 49 11 0 0 0 5 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 1 5 0 17 1 9 42 0 0 0 34 3 0 12 109 4 2 39 0 11 0 16 11 1 9 2 2 59 0 15 199 0 13 ALGONAC 5W St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Port ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B. Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #lC, 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 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals 1 0 0 0 2 1 l 0 2 2 5 1 2 1 4 0 0 2 0 4 I / -~o .... -~? 2 2 16 0 0 0 2 5 5 18 0 2 0 5 2 3 0 7 2 107 0 25 8 11 1 0 16 160 128 26 3 0 19 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 3 89 0 30 2 0 13 0 9 DULUTH 105 Medical Arts Building, Duluth.. MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM Port STEWARD DEPARTMENT BostQn \_- ...-. .. ·,-- 8 0 6 0 0 8 0 0 - 0 0 5 0 7 Houston'··· Harvey, LA New York Norfolk i. ~O.Q ~~(~~~~~ti!~t~~ :t{j.~}{-3:: ·: ;· San Pedro 3 0 Savannah 0 0 0 0 :;0 . 0 HOUSTON -:::.·········· 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX ·77002 (713) 659-5152 Tacoma Totals 0 29 0 0 1 15 0 7 P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E T\11'.1 J~us. Crlsosromo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 · (§7-1) ~?~nso. .' "' uoNOLUl~U . '·:· JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty SL, Jacksonville, FL 32206 . . (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Mor'ltt,omcry St., Jcmy City, NJ 07302 (201) 4~.5-9424 MOBILE N(!;W BEDfORO . . 4S Unfo.n Sc., New ne4fQli;l, MA ~2740 (50&) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Li.pnlco Blvd .. Harvey. LA '70038 (504) 328-7.545 NEW YORK .--:. o:... 1 Boston · 30 4 0 0 3 l 3 0 5 1 2 7 l Norfolk San PedrQ 0 0 0 .- 0 6 l sa.va.nnah 2 0 2 3 0 3 2 18 14 46 112 24 56 Tacoma Totals Tofals All Departments 0 0 0 0 3 ·o 4 2 1 1 5 0 2 0 1 0 16 31 13 0 3 1 14 ... 0 , 0 0 0 18 17 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port Houston Harvey, LA New York 0 0 2 2 0 3 4 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 7 4 .4 . : .0 0. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 9 4 1 83 22 2 :Q .. 9 11 5 111 0 16 2 14 94 92 0 8 0 0 37 16 5 5 0 2 38 2 26 l 0 136 192 131 100 526 397 187 l u3·$ Fourth.Ave., Brooklyn.NY 112.32 ('7'18) 499-6600 : .' NO&ff()LK ":' · L ,' · ·llS Third St., NorfQlk. VA ' ~' -'. 23$1~ PIC-FROM-THE-PAST (75?) 62.2-c 1892 This photo, originally print@d in the May 14, 1954 issue of the Seafarers LOG. was taken the new Penins(J/a Mariner (Waterman Steamship Corp.), one of 35 high-speed ~bo~rd freighters contracted by the gov· 1221 S. ,Aadruw>; Ave., Ft. Lauderdllle, FL 33316 {954) 5:;!2-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 3$0 Fremont St .. San Franciscu. CA 9410.5 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTUliClt 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave,, Stop J (j~ Santurcc, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 631 l6 (314) 7.52-<;i5QO SAVA NAH - 222'o Bull ~l.. Scmlnnu.h. GA 31401 (~ l1)2U.491& l"ACOMA 34 ll South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 'l72-7774 WILMINCTON 16 Seafarers LOG ernment. A unique feature of the Peninsula Mariner was a specially designed deck structure for carrying aircraft. In the photo at right, Bosun Jim Finnell (left) explains how it works to deck department members (from left) AB Andy Anderson, AB Johnny Johnston, OS John Owens, AB Jimmy Crawford, OM Bo Anderson, OS Jimmy Waldrop and AB Ray Vaughan. The steel framework created a new challenge for the deck department since it had to be lifted from the accordion-type hatch i;;overs, section by section. before loading cargo. 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 Spring~. MD 20746. Photographs will be returned. if so requested. November 2001 �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. A captain, a master and a recertified steward are among the 19 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Captain Antonio Colon and Master George T. Decker controlled the helms of vessels in their respective divisions for nearly a half-century, while Recertified Steward Gene Sivley completed the highest level of training available to members of the steward department at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. Including the recertified graduate, 11 of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division. Three plied the Great Lakes, and the remaining five navigated the inland waterways. Seven of the retirees worked in the deck department. four shipped in the engine department and eight sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. DEEP SEA THOMASE. ARNOLD, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in ' 1969 in the port of Houston. The Georgia nati e ' initial sea oyage was aboard the Sabine, operated by Ship Operators Corp. JOSE A. LOPEZ, 55, launched his career with the SIU in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Lopez first sailed aboard an Intercontinental Bulle Corp. vessel. Born in Puerto Rico, the steward department member frequently upgraded his skills at the Sill's training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lopez last worked on Puerto Rico Marine Management's Eli.zabeth. He lives in Pembroke Pines, Fla. ~~~~~__,CHARLES MOLL, 59, began his career with the Seafarers in .. 1967 in the port of New ,, Orleans. Born · in Florida, Brother Moll served in the U.S . Anny from 1964 to 1966. His first ship was Venore Transportation Co. 's Chilore. The deck department member last worked on Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Robert E. Lee. Brother Moll makes his home in Destin, Fla. ro Arnold upgraded his skills in 1982 at the Seafarers Harry Lundberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md . A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Sea-Land Hawaii. Brother Arnold re~ide~ iri Rittggold, Ga. JORGE .E. BERMEO, 57, was born in Ecuador. He started his SIU career in 1969, joining in the port of New York. Brother Bermeo first sailed on Delta Steamship Lines' Del Valle. A member of the engine department, he upgraded his skills nt the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1976 and 1984. Brother Bermeo last shipped on the HxpMitiM1., oper~ted by CSX Lines. He lives in Englewood, N .J. RICHARD N. HATT. 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1987 in the port of Scuttle. Brother Hatt served in the U.S Navy from 1959 to 1984. The Massachusetts native first shipped aboard the USNS Vindicator. Tho :Jfownrd doprui:ment member last wi;:nt to s«;a aboard Dyn Manne Services ' USNS Pathfinder. Brother Hatt makes his home in Seattle. LARRY A. JORDAN, 50, was born in Charleston, W. Va. He started his SIU career in 1968, joining in the port ·,, of New York. Brother Jordan's initial voyage was aboard aterman Steamship Corp. 's Iberville. The deck Norember 2001 department member last shipped on Liberty Maritime's Liberty Sea. Brother Jordan is a resident of Picayune, Miss. GEORGE E. OBERLE, 66, started his SJU career in 1967 in the port of Baltimore. The deck department member wa~ born in Maryland. He first shipped on a vessel operated by lnlerocean Management Corp. Brother Oberle upgraded hi5 5kills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1975. He 1ast sailed aboard the cable ship Global Mariner. Brother Oberle calls Baltimore home. sailed on the Young America, operated by A.L. Burbank Co. The engine department member upgraded his skills in 1987 at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Saleh last went to sea aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Robert E. Lee. He currently lives in San Francisco. GENE C. SIVLEY, 64, is a native of Alabama. He started his career with the SIU in 1967 in the port of Seattle. Brother Sivley served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1957. He first sailed on a vessel operated by Anchorage Tank:ships, Corp. A member of the steward department, Brother Sivley completed the steward recertification program at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md . in 1985. He last worked on the Sea-Land Reliance. Brorher Sivley makes his home in Seattle. INLAND JAMESR. AMBROSE, 54, was born in Virginia. Boacman Ambrose started his career with the Seafarers in I 97 6. The steward department member spent his entire career working aboard vessels operated by Allied Towing Co. Boatman Ambrose resides in Hayes, Va. ANTONIO COLON, 57, started his career with the Seafarers in OLEE. POULSEN. 1976 in his native Puerto Rico. Boatman Colon spent his entire SIU career working aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation vessels. A captain, Boatman Colon upgraded his skills in 1984, 1985 and 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in Catano, PR. GEORGE DECKER, 51, began his SIU career in 197 5 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Louisiana, his initial voyage was aboard a Dixie Carriers operated vessel. A master, Boatman Decker frequently upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school. He last worked aboard a vessel operated by North American Trailing Co. He lives in Pearl River, La. JAMESE. JOHNSON, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1982 in St. Louis. Boatman Johnson first shipped aboard a Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessel. Born in Missouri, he sailed in the steward department and sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Johnson upgraded his skills at the SIU training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1987. He last sailed on the USNS Denebola, operated by Bay hip Management, Inc. Boatman Johnson calls Sea Level, N.C. home. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG Denmark. 1949 sen started his SIU career in 1961 . joining in the port of San Francisco. The engine department member initially shipped aboard a Colonial Steamship Co. vesse1. He makes his home in Federal Way, Wash. ANTONIO QUINTANA, 66, is a native of Puerto Rico. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1977, ...........~~ joining in the port of New York. Brother Quintana first went to sea aboard the Overseas Joyce, operated by Overseas Carriers, Inc. The steward department member last shipped on Crowley American Transport's Ambassador. Brother Quintana now calls Kissimmee, Fla. home. ALI SALEH. 63. started his Sill career in 1966, joining in the port of Baltimore. Brother Saleh first HAD DI AHMED,66, began his SIU career in 1969, joining in the port of Detroit. Born in Arabia, Brother Ahmed first sailed aboard Tomlinson Fleet Corp. 's G.A. Tomlinson. The steward department member last worked on American Steamship Co. 's H Lee White. Brother Ahmed makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. MICHAEL J. KORNMEIER, 55, hails from Ohio. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1967, joining in the port of Detroit. Brother Kommeier served in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1969. He shipped in both the Great Lakes and inland divisions, first sailing on an American Steamship Co. vesse1. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1993. He last shipped aboard a Great Lakes Towing Co. vessel. Brother Kornmeier makes his home in Toledo, Ohio. MOHAMED MADHIGI, 64, began bis SIU career in 1989in Algonac, Mich. Brother Madhig1>s first voyage was EDGAR OCKMAN, 48, was born in Louisiana. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Ockman shipped as a member of the engine department. He spent his entire career working aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing and Salvage Co., Inc. Boatman Ockman resides in Belle Chasse, La. 68. hails from Copenhagen , Brother Poul- . GREAT LAKES aboard the Paul H Townsend, operated by Inland Lakes Management, Inc. Born in Yemen, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Madhigi upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1997. He last worked on American Steamship 's Sam Laud. Brother Madhigi is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. erdl hundred Seafarers and their wives and other guests got under way with a special membership meeting at which Mayor Thomas D'Ale.sandro, Congressman Edward Garmatz and others extended Certified by the NlllB as coUective bargaining agent their congratulations to the men of the SIU for for nine Cities Service making the new building Oil Company tankers, possible. th~ SIU immediately · TUiS MO,J\JTU The new building feacalled upon the compa.f n .f :.f ... .f n tures a modern hiring ny to ent~r negotiations half and meeting half, rr::===================================::;JI for a contract covering the company's unit- JM SJIJ HJST.0 ay .f"' .f ft union offices, cafeteria, 1 1 bar and dance floor, censed personnel. The barber shop, parking lot, contract will culminate pool room and game two years of ·effort by ~=================~ the SIU to obtain union wages, conditions and security for CS seamen. The company began firing crew members by the shipload at the end of each voyage, as the election drew near, but the replacements hired recognized the need for union representation and voted for the SIU. The company's attitude was scored by the 11 NLRB~ • , , it Ill b@hoove~ the employ@r to file objections stemming principally from its own recal· citrance." room, television rooms, shower room and piped music and public address system. 1991 Supporters of a comprehensive energy bill which includes exploratory oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR} will continue to press for the legislation after a vote early last month was unable to prevent a filibuster on the legislation. 1954 With appropriate fanfare in welcoming ceremonies, th~ SIU in Baltimore formally opened the fin~t union h.all In th~ Atl.antl~ .and Gulf Dktrtct .and M~ of the belt of its kind in the country on November 10. Openiog c;eremonles before the throng of sev~ ... On November 1, supporters of the bill fell 10 votes short of the 60 needed to stop an announced flllbwter .•.. U.SAlag ~hipping • interests, including the SIU1 have been seek1ng an opening of ANWR to exploratfon. Seafarers L06 17 �FinafDepartures DEEP SEA Orfano made his home in Geneva, Fla. CLARENCE ANDERSON - Pensioner Clarence Anderson, 58, passed away Aug. 20. He J joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was an Atlantic Carriers Inc. vessel. Brother Anderson briefly left the Seafarers to serve in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967 during the Vietnam conflict. Born in Kentucky, Brother Anderson shipped in the engine department. He last worked on the LTC John U.D. Page. Brother Anderson started receiving his pension in 1999. He made his home in West Virginia. CARMELO ASTE Pensioner Carmelo Aste, 78, died July 28. Born in Italy, he started his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. The steward department member began receiving his retirement salary in 1978. Alameda, Calif. was his home. SAMUEL BARNETTE Pensioner Samuel Barnette, 74, passed away June 1. Brother Sarn~tt~ join!!d the SIU in 1953 in San Francisco. A native of Tennessee, he first sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Barnette shipped in the steward department and last worked aboard the Jeb Stuart, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel·. e began receiving his retirement compensation in 1995. Brother Rarn@t.ll!! mad@ hi~ ham m Sunnyvale, Calif. HORACE BEASLEY Brother Horace Beasley. 44. died July lj, He began his Cfilt!t!r with the SIU earlier this year. Before becoming a Seafarer, 'Brother Beasley served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Elizabeth. N.J .• he shipped as a member of the engine department. Maersk Line's SSG Edward A. Carter Jr. was the only vessel on which Brother Beasley :§ailed during his career. He made his home in Gretna. Va. EARL J_ BRANNAN Pensioner Earl J. Brannan, 72, passed away July 14. Brother Brannan started his career with the Seafarers in 1963 in the pon of New York. L.lffil<i..-.,......,.=;;;.,,_,...-..;;;i The Alabama native served in the U.S. Army from 1951to19.' B . His initial sea voyage was aboard Alcoa Steamship Co. 's Alcoa Pegasus. The deck department member last sailed on the Sea-Land Express. He began receiving ills retirement pay in 1994. Brother Brannan was a resident of Benton, Wash. HENRY DELL ORFANO Pensioner Hi:nry Dell Orfano, 80, passed away July 24. He started his SIU career in 1944 in Bost0t1 . The engine departL....111--"-"-'-'~~~..__ ment member .started receiving his retirement compem:ation in 197·1. Brother Dell 18 seatarers LOG WHIRL L. GARDNER Pensioner Whirl L. Gardner, 72, died June 16. The Alabama native joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of San Francisco. He served in the U.S. Arrny from 1950 to 1951. Brother Gardner fust went to sea aboard Delta Steamship Lines' Santa Mariana. The steward department member last shipped on a Michigan Tankers, Inc. vessel. Brother Gardner started receiving his pension in 1981. He resided in Fairfield, Ala. JAMES GARNER Brother James Garner, 56, passed away June 29. He started his SIU career in 1977, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of Columbia, Mo., Brother Gamer served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1972. The steward department member shipped in the deep sea as well as inland divisions during his career. Brother Gamer first sailed aboard an Allied Towing Co. vessel. His last voyage was on the SPC 5 Eric G. Gibson, operated by Crowley American Transport, Inc. Brother Gamer lived in Norfolk. GILES GLENDENNING Pensioner Giles Glendent'tit'tg1 72 1 died June 9. Brother Glendenning starred his SIU career in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland native served in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 1947 to 1953. Brother Glendenning shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions during hi s career with the Seafarers. He rrt p a y i Inc. vessel. The steward department mi;mber last sailed on the Santa Magdelena , a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Brother Glendenning started receiving his retirement income in 1987. He made his home in San Francisco. MATTHEW GOLDFINGER Pensioner Matthew Goldfi11ger1 831 passed away June 23. He joined the Seaferers in 1959 in the port of San Francisi...---=:~iilii •~-.EJ co. Brother Goldfinger, a World War II Yeteran, served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. A native of Buffalo N.Y.. his f'lrsr voyage was on Suwanne Steamship Co. 's Company s~ntry. The steward department member last sailed on the USNS Mt. Vernon. Brother Go1dfinger staned receiving his retirement pay in 1983. Buffalo, ,Y. was his home. Pensioner Ezekiel Hagger, 66, died Aug. 4. Brother Hagger joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Houston. Born in Garland, La., the steward department member last went to sea on the Champion , operated by Kirby Tank.ships, Inc. Brother Hagger started receiving his pension in 1998. He resided in Beaumont, Texas. KENNETH HALL Brother KeIUleth Hall 54, passed away June J 5. The Florida native joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. Brother Hairs initial voyage was aboard the Ezra Sensibar, operated by Construction Aggregates. He shipped in both the steward and engine departments. Brother Hall last went to sea aboard an American Service Technology, Inc. vessel. He called Bricktown, N.J. home. JOSEPHIDCKS Pensioner Joseph Hicks, 83, died Aug. 8. Brother Hicks joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Louisiana, he first sailed aboard a States Steamship Co. vessel. A member of the steward department, Brother Hicks last worked on the Sea-Land Developer. He began receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Hicks made his home in San Francisco. r-~~....-~~---, LEONARD KARALUNAS career in 1947 in the port of Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania native first went to sea aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.'s Mobilian . He shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Karalunas ' final voyage was aboard Penn Tankers' Ogden Challenger. He started receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Karalunas resided in Kingston, Pa. DAVID KENDRICK Pensione; David lte~ fok-:' t5 ', dted June 21. The Ohio native started his carl!er with the Seafarers in the port of Baltimore in 1960, after serving in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1957. His first ship was the Marore, an Ore Navigation Corp. vessel. Brother Kendrick worked in the engine depanrnent and last sailed on the Sea-Land Freedom. He began receiving his retirement income in 1985. Brother Kendrick lived in Retsil, Wash. OLAF LEFSAKER Pensioner Olaf Lefsaker, 82, passed away June 21. He joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Born in Norway, Brother Lefsak.er sailed on a number of deep sea vessels, among them the St. Louis, Transindiana and Charfos10n. The engine department member started receiving his retirement salary in l 981. Brother Lefsaker lived in his native country. Lesnansky called Keystone Heights, Fla. home. FELIX MUNIZ .---;;;/!~,.,....,"""'"-----, Pensioner Felix Muniz, 89, passed away July 10. Brother Muniz joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, he first sailed aboard A.H. Bull Line's Suzanne. A member of the deck department, Brother Muniz last shipped on the H. Atlantic, operated by Hydromar Corp. of Delaware. He started receiving his retirement compensation in 1976. Brother Muniz was a resident of New Windsor, N.Y. MATTIA OCCHIPINTI Pensioner Mattia Occhipinti, 84, died July 17. A native ofNew Jersey, he started his SIU career in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Occhipinti first shipped aboard the President Fillmore, an American President Lines' (APL) vessel. A member of the steward department, he last went to sea on the President Grant, another APL vessel. Brother Occhipinti began receiving his pension in 1982. He lived in Daly City, Calif. ~-~~~~~ Pensioner Andrew Lesnansky, 78, died Aug. 23. Brother Lesnansky started his SIU career in l 959 in the port of ""-'-"""""--"'-"'--~~~......... New York. The Mingo Junction, Ohio native served in tbe U.S Arrny Air Corps from 1942 to 1949. His first ship was Calmar Steamship's Lo mar. Brother Lesnansky sailed in the deck department and last worked aboard the USNS Aniaras. He began receiving his pension in 1987. Brother PETER SABAN Pensioner Peter Saban, 91, passed away July 20. Brother Saban started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. The steward department member started receiving his pension in 1975. Brother Saban made his home in Oakland, Calif. FRANCISCO SANTANA Brother Francisco Santana, 68, died July 20. He joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Houston. Brother Santana l..d~~=~_Jlllll first sailed aboard the Sea-Land Oakland. Born in Puerto Rico, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Santana last sailed on Delta Steamship Lines' Del Sol. He resided in San Francisco. HARVEYSHERO HENRY OWEN r-All'lll~~--i Pensioner Pensioner ,,,,.,, ..."..-~...-· Harvey Shern, 76, a d away July native of Henry Owen , 78, passed away July 5. He 4- jo!,n ed the ·~ '""=-4!~..-.,~.;;r, ea arers in 1951 in the port of New York. The Norfolk, Va. native first sailed aboard Alcoa Steamship Co. 's G.H Pendleton. Brother Owen shipped in the engine department, last working on Delta Steamship Lines' Def Sol. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1988. Brother Owen resided in Reno, Nev. started his SIU career in 1950 in the port of New Orleans. His first trip was aboard Delta Steamship Lines' Del Santos. The deck department member last sailed on the Fa/con Lady, operated by Seahawk Management. Brother Shern started receiving his pension in 1986. He was a resident of Houston. JOSEPH POZZUOLI AH YOU SOON Pensioner Joseph Pozzuoli, 78, died Aug. 22. 'Brother Pozzu" oli started his SIU career in 194 3 in the port of Baltimore. The New York native first sailed on the Steel Architect, operated by ISCO Inc. Brother Pozzuoli shipped in the deck department and last went to sea aboard the Northern Lights, a Puerto Rico Marine Mgmt. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1988. Brother Pozzuoli called Baltimore home. Pensioner Ah You Soon, 88, died Aug. 3. Brother Soon · joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of San Franci co. Born in China, the steward department member last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Mobile. Brother Soon began receiving his retirement pay in 1978. San Francisco was his home. ALEXANDER PULLES ANDREW LESNANSKY April 13. Born in Hawaii, he joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Mankato Victory, operated by Victory Carriers, Inc. Brother Requiso sailed in the engine department, last shipping on the Sea-Land Patriot. Brother Requiso served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1940 to 1946. He called San Pedro, Calif. home. Brother Alexander Pulles, 91, passed away Aug. 11. He joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Baltimore. L....o...,.""""'""'-"".,,......,...c--.i Born in Estonia, Brother Pulles first went to sea aboard Ore Navigation Corp. 's Oremar. The deck department member last sailed on a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Pulles resided in Baltimore. MARCELINO REQUISO Brother Marcelino Requiso, 81, died A,q ~ l q;:, ~.Y. Br ther r GEORGE THORESON Brother George Thoreson, 41, passed away June 12. He joined the Seafarers in 1987. Brother Thoreson first sailed on the USNS Persistent. He shipped as a member of the deck department. He last worked aboard the USNS Stalwart. Brother Thoreson resided in North East, Penn. JOHN VORCHAK Pensioner John Vorchak, 76, died Aug. 6. Brother Vorchak started his career with the Seafarers in 1959, joining in Seattle. A veteran of the U.S . Navy, the Pennsylvania native sailed in all three departments. His final voyage was on the Sea-Land Endurance. Brother Vorchak began receiving his pension in 1990. He lived in Corona, Calif. Continued on page 20 November 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 for publication. ENTERPRISE (CSX Lines), July 21-Chairman Jay C. Dillon, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Educational Director Dann G. Manthei, Deck Delegate Mohsin A. Ali, Engine Delegate John E. Coleman, Steward Delegate William E. Smith. Chairman read and discussed minutes from last ship's meeting. He noted receipt of wage increase but requested clarification on budget change by company. He also reminded all members to have TRBs signed. Secretary urged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. and take necessary STCW courses for compliance by Feb. 1, 2002 deadline. Educational director tnlkcd nbout STCW nnd fire fight· ing certificate renewals. Treasurer announced $10 in ship's fund. Some beefs reported in engine and steward departments related to travel arrangements and hotel allowances. New ice machine requested for crew's laundry room. EXPEDITION (CSX Lines), July 18- Chairman Norberto Prats, Secretary Larry Ewing, Deck Delegate Joseph A. Osorio, Stc;vy(ln;i Delegate Jose Jor&e. Chairman announced payoff July 20 in Jacksonville. He thanked all departments for working well together and talked about merger of SIU and NMU. He also reminded crew member .of ·ITlpOrlance of contributing to SPAD and of gi:tting required STCW training by Feb. 1, 2002. Secretary noted everythini:; going well nnd thrutlccd member~ for liNplng keep hip clean, including separation of plastic items. Educational director stressed need to upgrade ~kill~ a.t Pinc~ Poim facility. Some disputed OT reported by dc~k delegate. Steward department given vote of thanks for very good job. LIBERTY SUN (Libeny Maritime), July 29-Chairman Joseph W. Moore, Secretary Douglas A. Neubauer. Educational Director Samuel M. Addo, Deck Delc~atc Donald L. Davis. Chairman stated that after rooru inspeetion, those leaving in Malta during ship layup should tum in safety gear along with room key. He also added that company will not pay for extra luggage;, Edw;ational director advised crew member~ to atknd upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center and get required STCW endorsements. No beefs of disputed OT reported. Cost of living ~llownncr; rr;ceived aboard ship. Thanks given to ~teward department for job we11 done;, SGT. MATEJ KOCEK (Waterman Steamship Corp.), July 29Chuinmm Angelo J. Urti Jr., Secretary Stephen W. R9th, Educational Director Morri~ A_ Jeff, Engine Delegate Robert C. Hines Jr., Steward Delegate Clarence C. Robinson. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 2 in Jacksonville. Following discharge in Newport News, vessel will enter shipyard for approximately four weeks. Bosun reminded everyone to practice safe working habits during offload and while in shipyard. Secretary said small stores order, in~luding fresh milk, to be received prior to ~hipyard period . Educational director :sugge:sted November 2001 everyone needing basic safety training to comply with STCW be persistent in trying to get into classes at Paul Hall Center. Classes are full, but sometimes an opening appears at last moment due to no-shows. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension days for all union members aboard Navy vessels. Request made for information about any new changes to insurance policy for members and dependents. Everyone asked to leave room keys on desk, strip beds and have fresh linen in rooms when disembarking at layoff. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. USNS STOCKHAM (Amsea), July 30--Chairman Andrew Barrows, Secretary Stephen Avallone, Educational Director Joseph Jenkins, Deck Delegate William Bratton, Engine Delegate Robert E. Lee, Steward Delegate Debra Gardiner. Chairman praised entire crew for fulfilling their jobs throughout shipyard and cargo-loading period. He talked about arrival in Durban, S. Africa and urged crew members to use caution in pon. Educational director led discussion about STCW 95 . He re iewed ways to obtain nece ary training and stressed its imponance for those wh .wish t continue sailin . Trea~urer reported $275 in ship's fund and asked for suggestions as to how to spend the money. Some di11puted OT rnported in dcok department. Suggestion m~de to get up gym on board ship. ENDURANCE (U.S. Ship Management), Aug. 6--Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Russell B. Beyschau , Educational Director Kenneth Smith. Bosun reported smooth trip and wished everyone a nice vacation. He brought up issue of coveralls. Crew report they are too hot to work in and may be possible sa.fety problem. Requested union officials send lotter to company regarding this matter. Secretary stated great trip with good teamwork in galley. Educational director reminded crew of upcoming STCW deadline. Ship has movie fund from which movies ari: purchased cac;:h trip. Somr; disputed OT reported in engine department. Crew discussed new contract and requested some clarifications. Proposal made for second dryer in crr;w laundry room and new chairs for crew mess and lounge. Thanks given to steward department for good food and ~ervice . Next port: Long Beach, Calif. GUAYAMA (NPR, Inc.), Aug. 19-Chainnan J9seph C. Osvriv, Secretary Gin::t G . Lightfoot, Steward Delegate Ossie D. Statham. Chairman announced inspection Aug. 20 with payoff in Jacksonville the following day. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported . Clarification requested regarding GSU and wiper jobs. Suggestion made to open slop chest aboard ship. Crew member asked to keep noise down on crew declc. Next port~: Jachonville; San Junn. P.R. GUS DARNELL (Ocean Shipholding Inc.), Aug. 12Chairman Michael A. Presser, Secretary Kevin Marchand, Educational Director Chris E. Chambers, Deck Delegate Charles J. Pomraning, Engine Delegate Jacob Teiko, Steward Delegate Sonia N. Felix. Secretary noted ship due in Charleston Aug. 14 for payoff. Coast Guard inspection and fire drills will take place in port. Educational director reminded everyone to get STCW training by first of year. Classes at Piney Point are pretty full, so contact school as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for copies of contract with OSI. Highlights of new contract covered, including vacation time and new benefits coverage for dependents. Clarification requested on rotating out after 75 days. New VCR to arrive in Charleston, S.C. to replace broken one in lounge. New exercise equipment bought by captain apparently off-limits to unlicensed crew. /TB NEW YORK (Sheridan Transportation), Aug. 18-Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Virgilio A. Donghit, Educational Director C. Price, Deck Delegate Ron Webb , Steward Delegate Brian C. Schmeer. Continuing problem noted with TV reception. Chairman thanked crew members for helping out with separation of garbage, trash and plastic items. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and not to wait until last minute before applying for STCW training. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for option of working 2 months off and 2 months on. Also requested information regarding pension benefit increases. Special thanks given to steward department for good meals. ext port: Jackson vi Ile. Mark A. Flores. Chairman thanked everyone for helping with deck work. He reported payoff Aug. 31 in Lake Charles, La. Secretary noted trip to West Africa was good. Some disputed OT reported by deck department delegate. Suggestion made to look into increased retirement benefits and money for return transportation from foreign trip. Request made A Credit to the SIU From J.W. Bert, master aboard the Ewa (a Matson vessel), comes this photo of Chief Steward Patrick Briggs with a mahi mahi he caught off the ship's stern. "Not only did he catch it," Bert wrote, "he cleaned it and made ceviche out of it. This guy is a credit to the SIU and professional chefs everywhere." The captain and crew say "Thank you, Pat." for water filtration system. New washer and dryer on order which should be put aboard in Lake Charles or Houston. Thanks given to steward department for excellent meals. PACIFIC (CSX Lines), Aug. 20Chairman Lothar G. Reck, Secretary Clancy T. Hennigan, Educational Director Keith Jordan Sr., Engine Delegate Knolly T_ Wiltshire, Steward Delegate Subagio Wibisono. Chairman announced shipping is good and will only get better. He reported on new contract and advised everyone to read LOG, con i Management), Aug. 20--Chairman John J. Wells, Secretary Ronald E. Aubuchon, Educational Director Patrick J _Corle§§, Deck Delegttte Funk E. V6gl~l', Engine Delegate Richard Robertson , Steward Delegate Brian T. McEleney. Chairman thanked everyone for safe tour. Everything going smoothly. Secretary reminded crew members to help keep ship clean and set good example. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point school. "You have to learn more in order to earn more." He also advised them to get STCW training before Feb. l, 2002 deadline. Treasurer announced $1,300 in ship's fund, to be used for videotapes, magazine subscriptions, pool parties and gym equipment. Deck dcpo.rtmont delegate reminded crew of safety factors when working on deck, including wearing ear protection and safety goggles when mixing paint or chemii;;als and wearing safety belt when working aloft. Engine department delegate expressed gratitude to deck department for assistance while tying up ship. He also spoke about hazards of throwing aerosol cans into incinerator. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mail service aboard ship very slow to and from U.S. Crew complimented steward department for maintaining high standards of SIU and thanked steward department for job well done. "It is a hard job for the steward to keep up the morale aboard ship during the four-month tour. Thank you again." Singled out was Chief Cook McEleney, who puts a lot of effort and extras in every meal. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Transbulk Carrier Corp.), Aug. 26Chairman Jmm Cutillo, Secretary supplied with fresh linen. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point and be sure STCW and other shipping documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension payment. Crew members asked to help keep ship cleanincluding trash in crew laundry room and gear locker-as well as room for next mariner. Secretary recognized Aug. 20 as Paul Hall's birthday. Educational director told crew that time is running out to comply with STCW training requirements. Treasurer announced $306 dollars in ship's fund and an equal amount in barbecue fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. Crew members happy about SIU-NMU merger. It gives union stronger voice to fight foreign-flag shipping. Suggestion made to relocate gym to more suitable space. Crew thanked steward department for outstanding job. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALAND FLORIDA (U.S. Ship Management), Aug. 5-Chairman Jose F. Caballero. Secretary Jose A. Rivera, Educational Director Eric D. Bnin, Deck Delegate Steven H. Ledermann, Engine Delegate Seller T. Brvvks. Chairman advised crew members to renew STCW endorsements. After Feb. 1, 2002, you can't ship without them. Secretary thanked all three departments for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. Request made that, in future, crew be informed by e-mail of contract negotiation results. Special thanks given to chief cook and SA for excellent work during illness of steward. Next port: Houston. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Sulphur Carriers), Aug. 26Chairman Michael J_ Proveaux, Secretary Tran Nee, Educational Director Wayne F. Gonsalves, Steward Delegate Floyd Bishop. Chairman announced payoff in Tampa, Fla. Secreta.ry reminded those crew members gening off to make sure rooms are clean and removing lint from dryer filter. Request made for ice box in each room. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port Galveston, Texas. PAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholding Inc.), Sept. 2-Chairrnan Harry G. Champagne, Secretary Paul Sullivan, Educational Director Murray W. Roberson, Deck Delegate William H. Bubrig III, Engine Delegate Roy C. Robinson Jr., Steward Delegate Adolphus C. Young. Chairman noted dues are to be paid in port of payoff. A member can be pulled off ship for non-payment of dues. He also reminded everyone of upcoming STCW compliance deadline- Feb. 1, 2002. Secretary stated stores received in Houston and thanked everyone for their patience. Educational director led discussion about STCW. Crew members expressed desire for satellite dish. Crew willing to raise funds if company meets them half-way. Treasurer announced $60 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New standard agreement received aboard ship. All agreed it looked good and expressed gratitude for pay increase. Suggestion made for change in retirement regulations. Next port: Norfolk, Va. SMT CHEMICAL TRADER (Marine Transport Lines), Sept. 2--Chairman Raymond A. Tate, Secretary Henry Greene Jr., Educational Director Nikolay Entcbev, Deck Delegate Mary R. Bado, Steward Delegate Aristide Langlois Ill Chairman announced payoff Sept. 4. Educational director stressed importance of continually upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $3,800 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications from headquarters regarding payoffs. vacation pay, draws and relief read to crew and posted. USNS ASSERTIVE (Maersk Lines Ltd.), Sept. 8-Chairman Michael R. O'Connell, Secretary Jose K. Sialana. Educational Director Geoffrey W. Bagley, Deck Delegate Walter A. Lichotta Jr., Steward Delegate Marjorie L. Harris. Chairman stated odor of fuel detected in water system during shipyard period and upon leaving shipyard. Testing found no contamination. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vessel to go into ROS for two months. Seafarers LOB 19 "' �Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) Graduating from the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course Sept. 28 are (in no specific order) Ashley Nelson , Patrick Kuhn, Jermaine Williams, Angelo Bottoni, Kareem Joseph , Paul Simpson, Brandon Harold, John Herr, Victor Sahagron, David James, Felix Medina, Miguel Hernandez, Daniel Thompson, Jose Cuevas, Christopher Kemper, Brian Manion, Justin Koger, Michael King, Matthew Himes, Oscar Garcia, Delray Brown, Danny Minor, Hanapiah Ismail, Lester Hoffman and Michael Meany. See pages 22 and 23 for additional Paul Hall Center class photos. Weldingcompleting the two-week welding course Oct. 5 are (from left) George Lockett, Arnido Sindac, Nestor Martinez, John Gilston and Buzzy Andrews (instructor). ARPAUpgrading deck bers who completed the ARPA course Sep. are (from left, seated) Scott Welding - Under the in~t(U¢ti¢1'1 ¢f Bully AMraws, this group of engine department members gained weldinQ experience that will help them accomplish basic temporary or emergency tepeir$ while underway on a workboat or barge. Graduating from the course Aug. 1O are {in cilphabetical order) Charle5 Brad5haw, Louis Champa Jr., Richard Grubbs, Mike Kifle, Patrick Mah~r, Lamar Parker, Ricardo Ouinones. Terry Santruce. Christopher Syke~ and Vernon White. operated by Contim1ed from page 18 Great Lakes Towing Co.A member of the INLAND deck depart· ment, Brother Gobrukovich PATRJCK COBBS died July 5. Ite started his cnreer with the Seafarers in 1989. The deck department member sailed primarily aboard Orgulf Trun5port Co. YC66d6. Peoria, I11. was Boarman Cobbs' began receiving --"------his retirement compensaLion in 1984. He lived in Panama City Beach, Fla. home. PETER JONAS Pensioner Peter Jonas, 76, died June DEFINRIVAS 16. Brother Jonas darted his SJU career in 1964, joining in FrMkfort, Pensioner Detin Rivas, 67, died July 14. Boatman Rivas started his SIU career in 1977, joining in the port of Philadelphia. --""'"""'~ Born in the PhiHppines, he served in the U.S . Navy from 1958 to 1977. Boatman Rivas worked primarily aboard Mariner Towing (Maritrans) vessels. A member of the steward depart- ment, he started colleciing his pension in 1996. Boatman Rivas was a rnsident of Vir~inia Beach, Va. GREAT LAKES Mich. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. Brother Jonas fir t sailed aboard a Mackinac TrMsport Co. vessel. The Michigan Earning their pletion sept. 14 are (from left. trcnt row) Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), Horace Wood, Roger Stewart, John Meyers, Donald Bridenstine Jr.. (second row) Jose Marrero, Stephen Votta, William Dekker, Howard Hawrey and Brad Wheeler (instructor). native worked in the engine depart- Chief Wawatam. Brother Jonas started receiving his pension in 1990. He resided in St. Ignace, Mich. ARANTIC FISHERMEN PAUL PARISI Pensioner Paul Parisi, 77, passed ,away June 15. The Massachusetts native joined the Atlantic Fisher- men's Union in 1944 in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the Pensioner Steve Geibrukovick, 86, passed away Aug. 29. The New started drawing his retirement Jersey m1.tive joined I.he Seaforer:s in 19:6 and sp~nt his ~nti ~ c~reer incom@ in 1984. Brother Parisi lived in Gloucester. Seafarers LOS Gl\IDSS - GMDSS certificates of com- ment in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. He last shipped on Straits Car Ferry Service Corp. 's AGLIWD . Brother Parisi spent his entire career working on fishing vessels. The deck department member STEVE GOBRUKOVICH 20 Bakeman, (second row) Ferdinand Gabuten, Dennis Hurley, Stephen Votta and Michael Daniels. aboard vessels Final Departures Boatman Patrick C6bhs, 33, Dickinson, Robert STCW Medical Care Provider - Completing the medical care provider course Sept. 28 are (from left, seated) Mark Watson, Emmanuel Wabe, Zeoko Nikolic, (second row) Skip McCray, Tracy Reed, Louis Gregoire, Jose Marrero and Ken Graybill. November 2001 �.... ~------------------ ----~---- - -- - - - -- - - - · · sEAFAllERSrPAUt·· HALL .,CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule through the end of 200 I 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 reserva. 'lions should be made/or Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses oftered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses y.:A.ble .Searpan. Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler November3 December 14 Welding November24 December 14 Safety Specialty Courses Arrival Date Date of Completion Government Vessels November 10 November 24 November 30 December 14 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW Basic Safety November 10 November 17 November24 December 1 December8 ·Decembet 15 November16 November 23 November 30 December7 December 14 December 21 November 11 Novemher24 Course Date of Completion Arrival Date ·::·Course , ~·ta.o,k.er (i.ncllfding ~imulator • Engine Upgrading Courses Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) * :... ;.steer!'.!¥ a~~~ssments) . (*must have basic ji1l! fighting) November 17 November 16 .. . .. . :~ -:~. / ... "'.:'.~·•·: .> .. }.~~.P~~~,,.(~,. D,R~'J~'!t:.Courses . Ge~er~l ~dtl~~ti6~-·a~~{~~ll~g~"~~~s~~ Jr~'.~~~l~bt~· ~~ ·~e·~~d. I~ addition, basic v:ocari,o.nal suppol! prggrarµ}~ou,rses are offered throughout the year, one week .· iir.il;lrj~o·.·th9 :·:An; ·: Qhlf?P.;::: :F,QWT; . Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water .· Syryiv:~l co~ses; An iptroduction to computers course will be self-study. _ Start Date Date of Completion UPGRADING APPLICATION Name -------~-------------------- Address - - -- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - -- -- - - - - -- With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatimefor 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 FOWT. AB and OMED a11olicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard &e ul SZSO with their anplicadon The nayment should be made with a monev order onlv. payable to LMSS. BEGIN DATE COURSE END DATE Date of Birth -----~--Inland Waters Member D Lakes Member D Telephone _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ Deep Sea Member If the following D information is not fill~d out completely. your application will not be proc~ss~d. Social Security# _ __ _ _ __ _ _ Book# Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ Department _ _ _ _ __ _ __ U.S. Citizen; Yes D No D Endorsement(s) or License{s) rt¢w ----------~ Home Port be1d - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - Rating: _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - -- - - - - - Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No SIGNATURE - If yes. class# - - - - - - -- - - - - -- -- - - - - -- - - - 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: Primary 1anguage spoken 11ovemoe1 2001 D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No - - -- -- - - - - - - 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 APPUCATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Admis!lions 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 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 :studcnt:i in it:i programs or activities. 11/0l Seafarers LOB 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Safety Training Classes Held at Paul Hall Center Photo above and below: Samuel Addo, William Blees Jr., Johny Bolton Jr., Joseph Crandley Jr., Francisco Diego, Edward Ellis, Billy Epps, Clayton Everett, Florencia Farquhar, Allen Faulks, Keith Grandy, Fernando Guity, Johnny Hammock, Mulai Ismail, Gregory Jarvi:s, Shaib Jumil, Lloyd LaBeilch, Ge<:>rge Lavender, Erik Lindgren, Jose MM'$(¢, Mauritio Martine~. William McDonald, Clyde McNatt, Donald Midgette, Elida Miguel, Raymond Natel'lir\ Ar"lgel Pel'e~. Steven Phelps, Delmas Price, Robert Rager, Suzanne Santora, Grant Schuman, William Shelley, Jorge Soler, Thomas Stephens, Roger Stewart, Justin Valencia Rodriguez, Stephen V~tt~ . R~y w~rrAt\ Rudy wattimAru1 , Stev~ Wells, Michael Wende, Ralph Wical, Paul Will~ and Bruce Wright James Reily, Everett Watkins, LaRue Wilkinson, Mark Stewart, Mick Hall, Christopher Janics, Don Tagart, Capt. Bill Turner, David Stillis, Jonathan Weaver, Larry Vouga , Greg Tojong, David Vega, Michael Zoabi. J.O. Willis. Marcelo Solano, Wilfredo Rice. Lionel Taylor, Michael Watson, Terry White and Edwin Taylor. Robert Neal, Alexander Nicholson, Rubin Mitchell, Ralph Moore, John Mensah, Jacob Matthew, Francisco Miranda, Samuel Norteye, Juan Mamaril, William Lowery, James O'Meara, Abad Martinez, Justino Martinez, James Murphy, Bruce Milburn, Ali Mohsin, Eric Manley, Julius Mathias and Rickey Mason. William Dize, Catalino Diaz, Samuel Bracero, David Claypool, John Day, Bgnjamine Cruz, Leo Bonser, Todd Desrosiers, Karmen Crawford, Gary Clark, Gray ! Bruber, Dale Beard and Josef Dudas. I !' I Ali Amran, Ismael Castillo, Flavio Castillo, Mario Bernardez, Joselito Antonio, Roberto Botin, Romeo Azcarate. Bernard Burns, Gertrudis Arzu, Juan Cantalejo, Ar"lthony Brooks, Carlos Castillo, Alex Cheek, Oscar Castillo, William Buhrig Ill, Randolph Bolling, Howard Blake, William Bunch, James Atwell and Martin Allred. Keith D1.1nnaverit, Jeffrey Fi~lds , John Emrich, Hubert Joseph , David Gannoun. Victorino Echague, Macie GrabOwski, Greg Johnson, MarK Godbold, Yuano lsril, Oscar Garcia, John Grosskurt II and Edilberto Guerrero. • Robert Pagan Jr. , Pablo Lopez, Richard McEvoy, Eduardo Munizaga, James McParlaM, Nelson Powers . John Lamprecht. Gregory Melvin, George Lockett, Lon Piner, snane Parrish and 9asil Messer. 22 seatarers LO& W~ldcn Heblich Jr., Melvin Kerns. Carey Heinz. Andy lliscupidez, Jamal Kassim, Rudolph Lopez, Ronald Kitlas, Timothy Hallett. Justo Lacayo, Julio Guity, Julio Guzman, Darryl Jackson, James Jerscheid. Melvin Guerrero. Muslim Khan , Roderick Hall, Amir Kasim and Gloria Holmes. NoJ1embel' 2001 �Paul Hall Center Classes Rubin Casin Jr., Alexander Campbell, Ronald Charles, Jose c1rmer, Randall Brown. Nagmadeen Abdo, Jose Adames, TMrM5 Fra~er. Jeanette Bosworth. Ali Hussein, Larry Adbrous, Stanley Daranda, Robert Albers, James Francis, Terry Bass, Julius Ge>pelend. Albert Alexander. Ngol Allen, Eric Berry, Stephen Castle, John Barcroft. Kenneth Carruth and Lincoln McRae Ill. ., Basic Safety Training Classes Held at Paul Hall Center Kenneth Adams, Efrain Collazo, Anthony Bach, Donte Martin, Ardale Crim, Charlie Carlson, Gregory Carroll, Joseph Bonys, Abdo Ashariki, Sterling Adams, Jesley Callum, Victor Chance, Robert Borchester, Blaga Mircea, Adonis Ard Sr., Nestor Agcaoili, Ernie Aguinaldo, Bryan Patterson, Franklin Coburn, Hussan Bouqfa, James Buchowski, Timothy Dally, Roderick Bright, ~---o:::::;•-"""lilf=""..,..,..,..,,,.....,..,,~~,,..,,,..,...,..,,,,,.,....,.,,.. Anthony Brown, Willie Clemmons and Ramon Camacho. Raynaldo Ramirez, Louis Robinson, Hussain Saleh, DeJesus Santiago, Gloria Shaprio, Grant Shipley, Arnido Sindac, Glenn Snow, Edward Sosa, Stanley Sporna, David Toves, Gary Truvia, Manuel Uy, Jesus Velazquez, Leroy Woods, Warnie Worthy, Rolf Zurstrassen and Stuart Donovan. .,__.._.~=-= Erik Loret, Billy Love, Jose Macadaiim, "'----~-__...,.,icbael Meaay,_S.ye.d Medhi. Ruben Morales. Alejandro Morel, Glenn Naundorf, Domiciano Nonato, Rodolfo Orlanda, Richard Parker, Luis Perez, Nelson Poe , R.afael Prim and George Perry. t Jose Siinchez, Josiah Tucker, Sifrino Sanchez, Charle~ Sneed, Chaerul Salim, Gordon Smith, Richard Sanderson, Arlie Villasor, Louis Holder Jr., Frank Sanchez:, Osvaldo Sanchez:, Carlos Valerio, Guy Prescott, Victor Perez, Kenneth Smith. Clive Steward. Ken Stratton. Brian Wagoner. Mack Revis, Antjuan Webb, Van Watler, Andres Watler and Juan DeRivera. Roberto Nunez, Joseph Perfetto, James Blanchard, Timothy Olvany, Jackie Jones, James Miller, Arvid Friberg Ill. Jigarov Mircea. George Legg, Jean Nicastri. Walter Matt. Lucas Majia, Roger Mosley Jr., Emmett Neathery, Donald Hood, Edward O'Reilly, Chris Pope, George Jenkins, Alice Poree, Dana Naze, Reginald Hunter, James Johnson, Ali Matari, Michael Perez, Donte Martin, Carlos Nunez:, Khalifa Mohamed and Jose Perea. , Steve Ahrean5, Obaid Ali, Carlos Aquino, Ismael Ayala, Anderson Azevedo, Rahal Bagchi, Frank Bennett, Fidel Blanco, Dennis Brown, Gery Byrd, Rene Cal)allero, Rolando Callejas, Dan Davison, Paul Domes, Ronald Drew, David Abdulla Quaraish, Jeffrey Fuller, Rudolph Maycock, Charles Kirksey Ill, Peter Madden, Clyde Luse. Donald Ouellette, Roberto Gonzalez, George Macaluso, Daisy Joseph, Gregory Greene, Larry Halley, Eddie Hall, Alan Nelson, Larry Lopez, Wilfredo Lansangan, Roderick Gordon Sr., Samuel Johnson, Charles Nieves, James Haskins, Michael Johnson Sr., Raymond Johnson, Dunklin, Tnomas Allen, Brian Smitn and Oscar Gomez. Abdalla Gaafar and Jerald Galletta. Norember 2001 Seafarers LOB 23 �Volume 63 Number 11 t..' ecognizes Sacrifices .... en Around the World Each yeart the International Maritime Organization (IMO) celebrates World Maritime Day, a 24-hour period to focus attention on the importance e>f shipping safety and the marine environment. The IMO is the United Nations body whose mandate is to organize coopcrntion betweett governments fot rtgulating international shipping and encouraging the adoption of the highest standards of maritime safety. This year's theme for the Sept. 27 event was "Globalization- The Cost to the Seafarer." Its aim was to celebrate the importance of seafarers and inform the public on the sacrifices they make to help ki:d, clothe and hou~e the rest of the world. A~tivitic;;! wr;rr; pl<lnned by International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) affiliates around the world-from Albania and Australia to the United Kingdom and the U.S.A. The ITF-a worldwide federation of more than 570 transport trade unions in 132 countrir;sCiMtributed $500,000 toward the i;:ost of a m~m.orial ta geafarers, which was unveiled Sept. 27 in Lortd\)11, at the headquarters of the IMO. In Belgium, unions and ship ownr;n arranged a joint press conference to raise their common concerns regarding seafarers and substandard shipping, while in Kenya seafarers and dockers unions joined together for a rally in Mombu;,u to highlight the objectives of th~ IMO. A seminar was planned in C1JlQmbiu to highlight the probkm~ faced by seafarers, and in Trinidad & Tobago, the government was informed of t e ismes relating to employment, safety i111d training of seafarers. All over the world, seafaring unions a~tivdy participated in some way. In Washington, D .C ., STU Secretary-Treasurer David Heind~l, who also serves as the 2"" vice i;hair for ITF ~s Seafarers' Section, met at the office of (Acting) Maritime Administrator Bruce Carlton. Along with MTD Executive Secretary Frank Pecquex and congressional and government officials, they talked about the ITF's campaign against flags of convenience and issues pertaining to safety at sea. Globarzation The shipping industry, much like regulakd air travel, is truly global in its scope. The maritime industry carries most of the world's trade and i~ crucial to the global economy. But mlllly people are unaware that every day around the world, seafarers desperate for work put Making Life Better for Seafarers The ITF believes that the following steps would begin to make a dramatic difference to the lives of seafarers: • • Abolition of the flag-of-convenience system; Recognition by the public of the vital work which seafarers per- form; • Have ports consider banning ships and flags which do not meet minimum standards set by UN agencies; • Reward good shipowners and penalize bad ones; • Fine companies for using substandard ships to deliver their products; World Maritime Day in Washington, D.C. was observed in the office of (Acting) Maritime Administrator Bruce CarltM {l~ft) . With him (from the left) are Stew~rt How<!!rd, ITF assistant general secretary: Patrick Wi@§@, d~puty ehief counsel. MarAd: David Heindel, SIU secretarytrAasurer and 2nd vice chair ITF Seafarers' Section: and ~rank Pecque.x, executive secretary, Maritime Trades Department. to sea in aged ships, uncertain whether they will arrive in port safely or whether they will be paid or even fed. Many of the world's 1.2 million seafarers work aboard flag of convenience vessels-ship~ flying the flag of one country other than that of ownership solely to bypass health, safety and environmental standards as well as de~ent wages and basic human rights. Some mariners work long days with almost no rest, no training, a lack of medical provisions and the risk of being abandoned without wages if the ship breaks down or gets detained in a foreign port. The ITF has identified 30 countries as having flags of conEven landlocked venience. nations like Luxembourg have a n:gi5try, Each year, the crews of about 1,500 ships complain to the ITF about non-payment of wages. In the three-year period from 1998 to 2000, no less than $105 million was rr;covered through the ITF for crews who had not been paid. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which was adopted in 1982 and came into effe~t in 1994, sets out the duties of a flag state and requires that each one should " effectiYely exercise its jurisdiction and control in administrative, technical and social matters over ships flying its flag. " It also lays down requirements on factors such as the maintenance of record~ , legal jurisdiction on board ships, the safety of ships, training, qualifications, conformance with international regulations and the number of people The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) in late July-early August supported a week of a.~tion to carry out ship inspections throughout the world. But inspectors of the ITF are constantly on the lookout for flag of convenience vessels that are frought with danger, poor working conditions and lack of pay. So it was on Sept. 5, when ITF inspectors Tony Sacco and Arthur Petitpas were alerted by ITF Inspector/Coordinator U.S. East Coast Ricky Esopa to a bulk carrier that departed Albany, bound for the scrap metal yard in Chesapeake, Va. The crew members aboard this vessel. the Millenium Africa (which flies the flag of Malta) had complained about back wages owed. When Sacco and Petitpas boarded the ship the following day, most of the crew--consisting of 20 Russians, four Ukrainians and two Romanians -were afraid to spcnk for fear of losing their jobs. The ones who did open up to the ITF inspectors talked about the low wages aboard ship and that they had not been paid in two-and-a-half • Shipowners and unions to discuss and implement the reforms proposed by the International Commission on Shipping (an independent commission of experts); • Increase the number of crew members aboard a ship; and • Retention of cabotage (protection of coastal trade) to encourage the development of maritime infrastructure and to place maritime transport within an integrated and sustainable trans- port policy. ITF inspectors helped erew members aboard the rust-covered, Maltese-flag Mil/enium Africa get back pay and repatriation . months. A number of them want· ed to be paid and repatriat<;d. The captain, however, stated there were no problems. The c1Jmpany port captain boarded the ship Sept. I 0 and said he would contact the owners and make sure the money was wired the next business day, Sept. 11. The devastation caused by the terrorist attack on America temporarily delayed access to the money, but by Sept. 12, $30,800 was made available for payoff. Those crew members who wished to depart, however, had to wait another week before the airports reopened and they were able to fly home. On this date, Sacco also witnessed the final payment of back wage~. Ultimately, the total back wage claim was $53,161. After loading its cargo of scrap metal, the Millenium Africa was heading to Indonesia and then to the shipyard for repairs. In approximately three months, it is going to New Orleans for a load of grain. Rest assured, ITF inspectors there will be on the lookout for this vessel. necessary to crew a ship. It is these duties which many flag of convenience registries fail to carry out. resulting in a loss of protection for many men and women trying to make a decent hfe at~~~- From the left: The captain prepares for a payoff; an AB signs the required form following payment of his back wages; and some of the crew from the Millenium Africa wait for repatriation. � 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 November 2001 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES FILES VOLUNTARY PETITION FOR CHAPTER 11 REORGANIZATION U.S. LAYOFFS TOP 528,000 25 YEARS OF RELIABLE SERVICE HELPING THE HEROES SEAFARERS-CREWED USNS COMFORT PROVIDES RESPITE FOR NY RESCUERS AFL-CIO DEPTS. STATE CASE FOR OPENING ANWR LABOR FEDERATION WARNS OF FAST-TRACK’S PERILS SUPPORT GIVEN TO RRF AT 25 UNIONS FROM HERE AND ABROAD VOW SUPPORT FOR TRICO MARINERS SEAFARER SLATER FEATURED IN AFL-CIO MAGAZINE COAST GUARD PORT SECURITY AT ‘ALL-TIME HIGH’ CHARLESTON 5 HEAD TO TRIAL THIS MONTH AFTER RELEASE FROM HOUSE ARREST RETURNING TO SEA BY WALTER KARLAK MEMO REFLECTS MERCHANT CREW’S BRAVERY CAPTAIN RECALLS EFFORTS TO SCUTTLE SHIP, RATHER THAN ALLOW CAPTURE BY ENEMY SUMNER ASSISTS RELOCATION OF JAPANESE FISHING VESSEL PRESIDENT HARRISON IN WWII ‘DAY OF ACTION’ RECOGNIZES SACRIFICES MADE BY SEAFARERS AROUND THE WORLD 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 11/01/2001 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. 11 2001 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/b14f752ceeb83b5d3ec32d8897941aeb.pdf 22959839d2695c5bd789cb6116fbfab5 PDF Text Text Volume 64, Number 11 November 2002 ... TRANSCOM's Gen. Handy States Powerful Case for Maritime Security Progra Gen. John W. Handy (USAF), Commander, TRANSCOM, last month told Congress that America needs immediate reauthorization of the Maritime Security Program. Page 3. Hands-On Training for Apprentices Practical training is an integral part of the unlicensed apprentice program offered by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Above, student Edward Willis prepares to close a hatch on the training vessel Osprey. Page 8. SIU Member Honored For Rescue at Sea CIVMAR News Page1 ITF Spotlights Treatment Of Cruise-Ship Mariners ~~~~~~~~~~-Page2 JB Joi s SIU Fleet The union last month welcomed Intrepid Ship Management's newest SIU-crewed tug and accompanying double-hulled barge at a ceremony in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. Seafarers are sailing aboard the tug Ocean Reliance and the barge 550-3 (pictured at left). Pictured in the wheelhouse following the christening are (from left) SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Capt. George Sadler and SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. Page 3. SIU Helps Deliver The (Baseball) Goods When volunteers in Pennsylvania began collecting baseball equipment for donation to kids in Puerto Rico , they quickly were overwhelmed by the strong response . SIU-contracted CSX Lines, working with the Baseball Hall of Fame, stepped up to the plate and voluntarily delivered the gear. Helping sort out the details of the transport are SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (left) and former Cincinnati Reds great Tony Perez, a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Page 4. �President's Report Answering the Call In and around the nation's capital, October 's headlines have been dominated by sniper shootings which alarmed the entire ::---ir.......,,..,, region. In fact, the story has received worldwide attention. As of this writing our region finally is breathing a sigh of relief. It appears the killers have been caught. Still, it's rare to get through a conversation around here without the subject coming up. That's understandable, considering both the frequency of the attacks and the fact that everyone Michael Sacco who works at the union's headquarters lives in an area that was at risk. Yet, as consuming as the sniper case has been, the SIU also hasn't taken its eyes off an even bigger story: our nation's potential conflict with Iraq. For some time now, the conventional wisdom across the nation mostly has been, it's not a case of "if' we'll go to war with Iraq, but rather ''when." Whenever the balloon goes up, I know that the SIU and the rest of the U.S. Merchant Marine will deliver. It is our duty as the nation's "fourth arm of defense." It is also our legacy, from the very beginnings of our country. While the Persian Gulf War presented its own unique challenges 11 years ago, the next conflict with Iraq-whenever it might take place-figures to offer a different set of difficulties. For now, it's unclear how our allies from the last war will react. Also, as in any other industry, shipboard technologies have changed dramatically. Presumably, so have the capabilities of our enemies. Despite the uncertainties, recently it has been heartwarming and inspirational to hear the confidence expressed in the U.S. Merchant Marine by the heads of the U.S. Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Transportation Command, respectively. As mentioned in my previous column, MSC Commander Rear Admiral David Brewer truly provided a highlight of the SIUNA convention in September when he enthusiastically spoke about his belief in our merchant marine's readiness. He has seen firsthand that we deliver the goods. A few weeks after the convention, TRANSCOM Commander General John Handy went before Congress and, in the course of promoting the Maritime Security Program, noted the U.S. Merchant Marine's reliability and value. His message was crystal clear: America's national security is best served by maintaining a strong U.S.-flag fleet. There are many other examples of prominent, highly respected people declaring their support for the U.S. Merchant Marine, none of which is taken for granted. It's always reassuring to know that others understand our industry's history and its importance. Soon, it seems, we'll have another chance to prove our worth and capabilities as the fourth arm of defense. You know the old saying: What have you done for me lately? That's the only thing that'll matter whenever we get the call. That's why it's so absolutely critical that Seafarers live up to our patriotic history. We must be willing to make sacrifices- just as we did during World War II. We must be willing to support our troops wherever they need us- just as we did in the Korean War. We must be willing to sustain the war effort for a prolonged period- just as we did in Vietnam. And we must be willing to face new and unprecedented threats in order to protect freedom-just as we did during Operation Desert Storm. Naturally, it would be great if war became a thing of the past. Just as it would be welcome news to hear that Saddam Hussein has learned to behave and cooperate. I'm not counting on either of those things happening. But I'm very much counting on every SIU member as well as all of our brothers and sisters from throughout maritime labor to answer the call and deliver the goods. We may not know when the call will arrive, but we are ready. We know our duty, we love our country, and we absolutely will get the job done. Volume 64, Number 11 November 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, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOB ITF Steps Up Campaign Ta Spotlight Mistreatment Of Cruise-Ship Employees Excessively long hours, very low pay, and management as abusive as anything one might find in sweatshop factories are common on many cruise ships, says a new report jointly published by the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and the British campaigning organization War on Want. Together with ITF-affiliated maritime trade unions in the United Kingdom (RMT and NUMAST), the two organizations launched the "Sweatships" campaign for the rights of cruise ship employees. The SIU is an ITF affiliate and is active in the federation's worldwide campaign on behalf of cruise-ship workers. In recently announcing the report, the ITF said that cruise lines "offer a dream way of taking a holiday, and 12 million passengers do so every year. But for those working on board, particularly those below decks from the developing countries, the reality can be a dream gone sour." The federation further reported that nearly onethird of the 114,500 maritime and hotel/catering staff members working on cruise ships worldwide are covered by union agreements. But some cruise employers remain hostile to union organization on board. "On these vessels, the ITF Cruise Ship Campaign has found serious abuse of human rights below decks in total contrast to the luxury enjoyed by the passengers above," the federation stated. The ITF is particularly concerned that some crewing agents in poor countries charge new recruits $1,500 or more for airfares, medical costs and so-called administrative fees just to get the job. This violates international labor standards. Cruise companies also take an indemnity from the first month's wages against the worker going AWOL. Such practices tum cruise ship workers into virtual bonded labor, the federation declared. The report's author, Celia Mather, says, "It was a shock to interview people such as an Indian crew member who works in the galley, peeling vegetables for 11 hours a day, six or seven days a week, and some receptionists and cabin stewards from Peru and Lithuania put under sexual pressure by their managers just to keep their jobs. Their anger is palpable, particularly because they were sold a dream ---0f working in a luxury industry. But they soon learned that if they complain they will be sent home at the next port." The ITF has taken up numerous cases of individual cruise ship employees who are mistreated by their employers. It has also assisted in the repatriation of several thousands of crew members left abandoned across the globe as the Premier, Renaissance and Commodore lines went bankrupt in recent years. The Sweatships campaign marks a new phase in ITF activity on the cruise industry, now enlisting the support of the general public and consumers. Cruise-goers in particular are urged to take up cruise workers ' rights with their tour operators when planning a vacation, favoring the cruise companies which have union agreements on board. Stephen Cotton, secretary of the ITF Special Seafarers' Department, said, "This is a highly profitable part of the maritime industry, and many cruise companies are maximizing their profits through putting an unfair squeeze on their workforce, particularly those from poor countries who are desperate for an income. Some cruise lines are getting away with abusive labor practices partly because they register ships in 'flag-of-convenience' countries such as Panama and the Bahamas. We hope that raising public awareness will help us to put more pressure on the international regulatory authorities to take stronger action against bad practices." 'Sweatships': Faots.Abaut ~Cruise Industry 1. About 114,500 :seafarers, both marine and hoteVcaterfng staff, are.wor.king on board cruise ships at any one time, with a total workforce of nearly 150,000 worldwide. 2. About 12 million passengers tat<e a cruise ~very year. The figures have been increasing every year since the cruise Industry took off in the 1970s. 3. Cruise passengers by nationality in 2000 were North American 61 percent; Europeap 22 percent; 'Other' approx- · ''imately 17 percent. The number of European passengers has been growing at r,pughly 15 percent a year since the mid-1990s. 4. With.tn tourism, the cruise industry is one of the two fastest growfng seetors•.WithlnJhe maritime industry, cruise shipping has ~ipped the growth of any other sector since the mki-19a0s. 5. At the turn of the millennium, there ~e ~boµt 4l cruise lines operating around th& wortd;'with near1y.200 veS: sels of 4,500 total gross tonnage and above. 6. W~.re ~ qrt.rise passengers sail: America and the ·Caribbean 58 percent; Eorope'21 percent; Asta 1Tpereent; Other 4 percent 7. Miami fsthe top cruise pert, wfth. needy 3 mtlUon:•"' sengers In 1999. 8. Four giant comparnes dominate the cruise industry: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, P&O Prln_cess, and Star Crui~~- They account for more than hal(the total number of farg~· cruise vessels. merger discussions which would tum the cornbinecf ve?ture into the wortd's largest cruise corporation, QirniVal~ :their main rival, has h;;su~ hosttle takeover bids far ,; P-&O Princess, The merger is l}fldef C<)rlsiqerationby U.S. a~ European trade commlssfons. ·.: · ·· .,.. .., · 10. Cunard's Queen Mary 2, currently being built at Chantiers de l'Atlantique in St.•Nazaire. F.rance. and due in service from January 2004, Will be the largest vessel in terms of gross tonnage: 150,000. ·.,,,11,. ·. Royat Caribbean·s AdVenture of the Seas, which started sailing Jn late Z001, is the largest by berths: a total of 5,020 passengers and crew. 12~.Ma.gy c.i;µf$f) vessels are flying lhe so-calle9 flag of convenien~ 9{t~,8ahamas or Panama. This,pta~ these. ships tin~ the' ~f :framework of countries. Wttlch.1'are. notonoos.fot nQJ ~ intemationaf. m(titimtii s@." $'~· .-- ' . ,,,., ":;_f '· ,·~·- Federation's New Web Site Shows Candidates' Records The AFL-CIO in mid-October launched a new web site (www.socialsecuritypledge.org) to document candidates' positions on Social Security privatization and adding a genuine prescription drug benefit to seniors under Medicare. "The next Congress will make key decisions that determine the future of Social Security and Medicare. Many candidates are trying to confuse voters about what privatization means and what plans they support. Whether a candidate signs the pledge or refuses to will clearly define his or her position on saving the program as a monthly guarantee or gutting it and letting Wall Street take over," explained AFL-CIO ''"'· a Royat Caribbean and P&O Prince$$ a~ enga~d in President John Sweeney. The new site will be updated daily so those interested in the issue can easily check to see if candidates in their state have signed the pledge in support of Social Security and Medicare. The site only documents where at least one candidate in a race for elected office has signed the .'.>~:,-~ '"'~:~'' ·--~%t pledge. Pledges were mailed to all incumbents and challengers for federal office. As of Oct. 8, 172 Republicans and Democrats have signed the pledge. Their names, as well as the names of their challengers, are documented on the site. "The pledge asks a straightforward question that the public deserves to hear answered," said Sweeney. "Changing Social Security would affect more than 46 million people today and millions more in the future." Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Wednesday, December 25 for the observance of Christmas Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2002 �Chief Backs MSP TRA Gen. Handy Delivers Airtight Case for Reauthorization The head of the United States Transportation C~m­ mand (TRANSCOM) last month urged Congress to reauthorize the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). In the strongest possible terms, U.S. Gen. John W. Handy declared his support for the MSP and explained in detail how the program benefits America. Gen. Handy appeared before the Merchant Marine Panel of the House Armed Services Committee on Oct. 8. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalif.) chairs the panel. TRANSCOM is responsible for all of the U.S. military's sealift assets. The MSP program, set to expire in 2005, helps maintain a fleet of militarily useful U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American citizens. Participating ship operators agree to make their vessels and other transport-related resources available to the Department of Defense in times of war or national - tr o l and global response capability. As .we look at operations on multiple fron in upport of the war on terrori m it is clear that our limited defense resources will increasingly rely on partnerships with industry to maintain the needed capability and capacity· to meet our most ~eali Rep. Jo Ann Davis (R-Va.) while still maintaining a noted that some foreign . commercial presence). A crews refused to deliver lot of the discussions about U.S. materiel during the MSP reauthorization ultimately have an impact on Persian Gulf War. "A viable U.S. mariner mariner availability- the capacity precludes those lack of viable U.S. shipping sorts of things from becom- determines the success or ing a reality," the general availability of the mariner answered. "Every endeavor pool." of Gen. Segments that we can take as a nation to secure and sustain a Handy's testimony follow: "MSP is a cost-effective viable U.S .-flag shipping and mariner capability, program that assures guarfrom a [Defense Depart- anteed access to required ment] perspective we ab- commercial U.S.-flag shipsolutely, categorically sup- ping and U.S . Merchant Mariners, when needed. port-no questions." In other discussions The alternative to MSP is, with the panel, Gen. Handy ultimately, reliance on forstated that America must eign-flag vessels manned maintain a shipbuilding by foreign crews during crisis. MSP provides the security of resources we "MSP reauthorization is, without must have in a very uncertain world fraught with question, the linchpin in our asymmetric threats. MSP ' ensures the development wartime U.S. commercial sealift and sustainment of critical strategic partnerships favcapability .... MSP reauthorization orable to the United States. And, MSP helps ensure the now is a national security imperative viability of America's merchant mariner pool needed of the highest magnitude" to activate the Reserve Fleet. MSP makes sense. -Gen. John W. Handy,'TRANSCOM Commander We can't afford not to invest in MSP. I strongly advocate for swift reauthorization. At the same time, if the capability. H "MSP is a critical comcribed ealift a P weren' t renewed the rnment would face the greate t ontri utor to our ponent of our strategy untm , multi-billion dol- force projection capability which recognizes and relies lar prospect of replacing over the long term." upon significant augmentathe assets currently availThe general was asked if tion from the U.S. commerable through the program. America has the mariner cial sealift industry to supThe latter ceaario, though pool needed for an activa- port the warfighter's needs. it seems very unlikely, tion. He answered, "As a We limit our organic fleet would require planning that nation, we ought to be con- to those assets Jhat the already would be late if it cerned about our mariner commercial sector cannot began today. pool. Today, we probably provide. Only 33 percent of After submitting his tes- have the mariners we need the vessels we may require timony, Handy answered to operate the ships that we reside in our organic fleets. questions from the panel. would activate (in war The remainder of the sealift demanding wartime scenarios. That makes MSP reauthorization even more important as we look toward the future." SIU This summer, President Michael Sacco led a group of maritime union officials in urging Congress to extend the program by an additional 20 years and expand the MSP fleet to at least 60 vessels. The maritime labor delegation pointed out that the nation can't afford to wait for MSP reauthorization, in part because operators need time to plan for replacement tonnage and other considerations to sustain the program beyond 2005. Seafarers Crew Up Newest ATB Foul weather didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the more than 100 people who celebrated the christening of Intrepid Ship Management's newest SIU-crewed tug and accompanying double-hulled barge Oct. 18 in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. Seafarers are sailing aboard the 9,280-hp tug Ocean Reliance and 155,000-barrel barge 550-3, which together form a state-of-the-art articulated tug-barge (ATB). The ATB was built by The Manitowoc (Wis.) Company, Inc . . SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and SIU Representative Todd Brdak represented the union at the christening, which took place in a steady downpour of rain and sleet. An ATB has a hinged connection system between the tug and barge, which allows movement in one plane in the critical area of fore and aft pitch. The new ATB tank vessel incorporates the latest advances in environmental protection and safety while addressing increased efficiencies in hose handling, anchoring, mooring, discharge and The barge 550-3 is designed for safety and loading of product. · efficiency. The 550-3 is double hulled and the tug is double sided. The barge ria, and has a foam-capable fire monhas an inert gas system as well as an itor; twin fuel-efficient reduced emisenhanced cargo system and a fully sion electronic diesel engines; a noise reduction package and other upgrades redundant ballast system. The Ocean Reliance meets all to increase crew comfort. The comSOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and munication and navigation equipment American Bureau of Shipping crite- is among the most technologically advanced in the industry today. Left: SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski (right) and Chief Engineers Bob Carroll (left) and Marc Grantham were on hand to welcome the new ATS . Right: SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (center) and Seafarers Marc Grantham (left) and Bob Carroll examine the Ocean Reliance after its christening. Naflember 2002 Gen. John W. Handy (USAF), Commander, TRANSCOM capacity needed to transport military equipment and supplies comes from the commercial sector. Looking ahead, the War on Terrorism could eventually push our baseline requirement for commercial sealift even higher. "MSP reauthorization is, without question, the linchpin in our wartime U.S. commercial sealift capability, through its integral support of the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). VISA is a threeprogram that pha ed enables time-phased access to militarily useful U.S.flag commercial dry cargo sealift capacity. VISA is cost-efficient because it contractually provides assured access to commercial U.S. sealift assets, mariners, and intermodal capacity when required, releasing the American taxpayer from otherwise bearing the procurement, overhead, and maintenance costs of a profoundly larger organic military capability. Our current organic military fleet is much improved over just 10 years ago and is structured to support our surge requirements in time of conflict. However, the bulk of large-scale sustainment sealift in times of major conflict resides with the commercial sector ·that we also depend on for day-today support of peacetime requirements. That is what makes the VISA-MSP link such a perfect fit. MSP and VISA are truly complementary force multipliers. We need both MSP and VISA. MSP's guaranteed access to vessels, combined with VISA's capacity and supporting global intermodal infrastructures fulfills the sealift requirements to meet war fighter needs.... · "We need MSP now. MSP in it~ current construct Continued on page 10 NY Waterway Adds 2 Ferries SIU-contracted NY Waterway recently added two more boats to its rapidly expanding fleet of passenger ferries. The company, based in Weehawken, N.J., christened the Fred V. Morrone on Aug. 13 and the Enduring Freedom on Sept. 3. NY Waterway owns 35 ferries and charters about a dozen more. Five more ferries are on order. The Enduring Freedom and the Fred V. Morrone each can carry 97 passengers at more than 30 knots. They will transport customers from Queens to lower Manhattan and back. NY Waterway noted that the Enduring Freedom was named in honor of the heroes of September 11 and the war against terrorism, while the Morrone was named for the 37 port authority police officers who died during the attack at the World Trade Center. Fred Morrone was the superintendent of police for the Po·r t Authority of New York and New Jersey. The SIU represents captains and deckhands aboard NY Waterway ferries . Those Seafarers evacuated more than 160,000 people from Manhattan on September 11. NY Waterway is the largest privately owned commuter ferry operator in the United States. This past summer, the company became the first private ferry operator in the nation to require its captains and deckhands to complete a formal course in crowd management. Two years ago, NY Waterway became the first to estab.lish STCW Basic Safety Training as a requirement for captains and deckhands. Seafams LOG 3 �Quickly But Cautiously, Sealarers Help Rescue 5 Cuban Refugees Editors note: AB Tom Komenda recently submitted the following article about a rescue at sea that involved special security considerations. On Friday, August 9 at 1135 the Maritrans/Interocean Ugland Management tanker Perseverance (bound for Beaumont, Texas) was two days west of her last port of call, Guayanilla, Puerto Rico. She was on a course of 290 degrees, her position was 22-47N, 078-34.5W and 11 nautical miles north of Cayo Coco, Cuba when the 1200-1600 AMO 3n1 Mate (on bridge watch) Bill McNiel noticed a small craft in the distance. After a closer look, the persons on board appeared to be waving their arms and oars. At 1136 the mate on watch notified the captain of a possible refugee craft. Once confirmed, he contacted the Coast Guard in Miami. At 1145 the Coast Guard advised our vessel to "slow, maneuver and pick up migrants." The mate on watch then sounded the general alarm and all hands to emergency stations. The wind and seas were calm that morning so Captain Jim Todd decided to lower the accommodation ladder instead of launching a lifeboat. By the time the ladder was rigged into position the tanker was stop-dead, making no headway, and the refugee vessel bore 500 yards off her starboard bow. The refugees paddled desperately but with smiling faces toward the ship. As the rickety craft, rigged with inner tubes, a sheet for a sail and five sunburned Cubans inched closer, Capt. Todd wondered out load if he were doing the right thing. In light of the aftermath of 9/11, shipboard security is para- Lakes Pact Inked The new Great Lakes Standard Freight Ships Agreement was signed Sept. 10 during the 35th annual meeting of the Paul Hall Center Advisory Board in Piney Point, Md. Bargaining committee members present during the signing were (from left) Chris Kamm and Joe Sullivan of Kinsman/Great Lakes Associates; Kevin McMonagle of American Steamship Company (ASC); SIU VP Great Lakes Tommy Orzechowski; Roy Walker of Kinsman/Great Lakes Associates; Kathy Elinski of ASC; and SIU Algonac Port Agent Don Thornton. Also serving on the negotiations committee (but not pictured here) were John Young of U.S. Great Lakes Fleet; Gerry Grammenos of Cleveland Tankers; Jeff Covinsky and Ed Hogan of Hannah Marine; and SIU Representative Todd Brdak. SIU members on the Lakes unanimously approved the contract. Seafarers-Crewed CSX Hawaii Carries Baseball Gear to Kids It began with a charitable but seemingly small-scale idea. A man in Newtown, Pa. wanted to donate some old youth baseball equipment that still was in great shape. Soon, volunteers from throughout the community joined the effort- leading to a packed garage full of quality baseball gear. Enter SIU-contracted CSX Lines, the Baseball Hall of Fame Meeting last month in Washington, D.C. to help cement plans for voluntarily transporting youth baseball equipment to kids in Puerto Rico are (from left) Mark Ruge of the law firm Preston Gates Ellis & Rouvelas Meeds; SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez; Baseball Hall of Fame member Tony Perez; CSX Lines CEO Chuck Raymond; and Baseball Hall of Fame President Dale Petroskey. 4 Seafarers LOG mount and even more so on board tankers. Various security alerts and bulletins, including updated terrorist threats learned by the U.S. government, have become routine. "Isn't the terrorist prison camp for the al Qaeda and Taliban at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba?" quipped one crew member. The migrant vessel was now alongside and the crew was in place for a humanitarian rescue. First aid equipment, stretchers, automatic external defibrillators and fresh water were laid out and available next to the top of the ladder for emergency assistance. In case there was to be any unruliness on the part of the migrants, the first man to greet them was 215 lb., former Puerto Rican police officer, AB Hector Cumba. Next up was a 6-foot-4, 250-lb. AB named Dave Harvey, equipped with baton and plastic cable ties for handcuffs if needed. They boarded one at a time and were searched thoroughly for contraband. Their confiscated baggage was searched; it contained old clothing and identification. They were five males, ages 25-45 and spoke no English (AB Cumba translated). They appeared sun-weary and seasick. The men had said they had been out at sea for five days and had not eaten since, although they did have a small amount of fresh water on board. The men were then led to the decontamination showers on the main deck. Capt. Todd instructed the emergency party to sink the small craft. Bosun Jim Bishop had the honors. Equipped with PFD (personal flotation device) and lifeline, he made his way down the ladder, slashed the tubing, flooded the small compart- Key Transportation Forum Tackles Treatment of Crews, Shipboard Security Issues The National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) tackled a wide range of security-related issues at its recent forum in Greensboro, N.C., and the maritime industry got its share of attention. SIU President Michael Sacco served on the maritime panel, headed by the chief of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Rear Adm. David Brewer. Also appearing on the panel were Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert; Bethann Rooney, manager of port security for the Port of New York & New Jersey; Raymond Ebeling, president and chairman, American Roll-on Roll-off Carriers; and John Reinhart, CEO of Maersk Line, Ltd. The 56th annual forum-with the theme "Transportation Security-Global Changes, Challenges and Solutions"-took place Sept. and the Roberto Clemente Sports City, which coordinated efforts to transport the equipment to kids in Puerto Rico. CSX Lines voluntarily carried the cargo from Elizabeth, NJ. to Carolina, P.R. aboard the SIU-crewed CSX Hawaii. The parent company also arranged for ground transportation in the U.S. and in Puerto Rico. "Youths are the future of baseball. By providing baseball equipment to those less fortunate, we are ensuring that baseball continues to develop for a new generation of aspiring athletes," said Brad Hom, a spokesman for the Baseball Hall of Fame. "The generosities of CSX Lines, the Roberto Clemente Sports City and the volunteers that provided this equipment are symbols of the enduring spirit found in this great game." The Clemente Sports City is a popular, multi-purpose athletics and education center named in memory of the Pittsburgh Pirates' late right fielder who died in a plane crash while on a humanitarian mission in December 1972. Clemente posthumously entered the Hall of Fame the following year. 29-0ct. 2. It featured high-ranking officials from throughout all sectors of the nation's transportation industries. The forum's sponsor is a nonprofit educational association organized in 1944 and dedicated to Defense Transportation preparedness. Sacco told the audience about some of the security concerns shared by maritime labor; steps n o that h un·on h , improve security; and some additional possible solutions. He emphasized the need for a reliable means of verifying identities of foreign mariners arriving at U.S. ports. He also noted the recent lack of consistency from port to port, both within the U.S. and internationally, in enforcing security measures-and specifically in the treatment of crews. For example, Sacco pointed out that by some estimates, 20 syste ' In a retat ment with a firehose and sank the craft. The migrants were given showers and the 2nd mate's clean clothing, then quarantined on board in the crew lounge where they were fed a hot, hearty meal. The Coast Guard was made aware of the situation. A time and position was set up for a rendezvous with the Coast Guard vessel Block Island out of Key West for transfer. All the Cuban men departed safely. So congratulations to the crew of the tanker Perseverance in their professionalism to duty and concern for the safety of fellow man. They handled the situation in the true tradition of the U.S. Merchant Marine, by hearing the call and answering without delay. I would have liked to have been on the main deck to see the uien and their boat but I was summoned by Capt. Todd to be the helmsman. - AB Tom Komenda percent of the private oil terminals in Houston have denied leave to crews, including those from U.S.-flag ships. Some ports also at least occasionally have barred crew changes. "Obviously, no one is arguing against being cautious," Sacco told the forum. "The problem is consistency." He described the anti-terrorism training received by every student at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (based in Piney Point, Md.) as well as other security-related courses offered at the school, such as damage control and CBRD (chemical, biological, radiolo ical defense . In summary, he stated, "The SIU and the other unions are extremely committed to working with the NDTA, MSC, the Maritime Administration, the Coast Guard, the Office of Homeland Security, the numerous international organizations including the IMO and ILO, the ports and the shipping companies to improve and ensure maritime security. We will do whatever it takes." ment. members from the ~U now may fufly uti· lize the u ortunities available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Tff!fQJttj''attd Education in Piney Point, Md. Previously. they could on!Y -·· io certain courses as diptated by NMU funding. tne MSC Commander Promoted Rear Admiral David Brewer, USN, a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, became the U.S. Navy's newest three-star admiral when he was promoted Oct. 23, 2002, by Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Vern Clark at ceremonies on the historic Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. Rear Adm. Brewer is the commander of the Navy's Military Sealift Command, the command responsible for the Navy's 120 noncombatant ships operating worldwide. Many of those vessels are crewed by Seafarers. Rear Adm. Brewer becomes one of only 32 officers that hold the Navy's second-highest rank. As commander, Rear Adm. Brewer has led the MSC support of the war against terrorism. MSC has been at the forefront of the U.S. response, delivering a variety of services and supplies to U.S. and allied forces around the world. November 2002 �.... ............................_ _..~-----------~----------------------------~~~-- - Maersk Missouri Joins U.S. Fleet Seafarers Begin Crewing 'G-Class' Vessel SIU members last month began reporting to the newly reflagged (and renamed) Maersk Missouri, one of the modem Panamax "G-class" vessels which Norfolk, · Va.-based Maersk Line, Ltd. will operate in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). The Maersk Missouri reflagged under the Stars and Stripes on Oct. 18. It was scheduled to sail from Crete on Nov. 3. As previously reported, Maersk Line, Ltd. on Sept. 25 announced plans to purchase four G-class vessels for operation in the MSP. The vessels replace four older and slower ships enrolled in the program. For Seafarers, the announcement car·ried good news on several fronts. Not only are the G-class vessels-the Maersk Missouri, Maersk Carolina, Maersk Georgia and Maersk Virginia-newer than those they replace, they also carry more unlicensed personnel. Also, the contract covering the new ships calls for increased · wages for Seafarers. The G-class ships were built between 1997 and 2002. Each has 4,300 TEU capacity, nearly three times as much as the vessels they're replacing. Additionally, each of the G-class vessels is 958 feet long, with a 106-foofbeam and a 44-foot draft. Each ship can travel at greater than 24 knots. Maersk plans to operate the four ships between the U.S. East Coast and ports in Cruise Ship Conman Still At Large, ITF Cautions Maritime unions worldwide have received a new warning to be on the lookout for a conman who has cheated more than 120,000 desperate job seekers out of millions of dollars. The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) early last month issued a warning to its affiliates about the shady "businessman" who has di appeared after embezzling million in o- ailed health · check fees from ap licants for work on cruise ships that do not exist. The ITF believes that the perpetrator may already be setting up a new racket under a different name. Job seekers in nine countries have been cheated, an investigation by the maritime magazine Fairplay revealed. The man is unlikely to stop trying his scheme unless prosecuted, the ITF warned. "There are two ways to stop this scam," said ITF General Secretary, David Cockroft. "One is to ·arrest and prosecute those involved. The other is to In May, the ITF was make the fraud so well known that no one can be first to publicly label the Al cheated by it." Najat scheme as a fraud. "One of the features of The ITF has called on this racket was the speed governrnents that harbored with which the victims lost . or cooperated with the their money," he added. company to prosecute "We are asking affiliated Pasha and to act to recover unions worldwide to in- the millions he has stolen. form us as soon as they At least in Kenya and become aware of any sight- Morocco, the key to the ing of Ali Pasha or a new success of the fraud was the active participation of scam." Muhammad Ali Pasha, those countries' employwho may also use the ment ministries in promotname SA Mohammed Ii ing the scheme, the ITF Pasha and Sajjad Akbar, stated. The ITF has passed a has cheated thousands across Kenya, Syria, Indo- file on Al Najat to the internesia, India, Pakistan and national police organizaMorocco. The operation in tion Interpol, as well as the Kenya was halted in May, British Serious Fraud only after the ITF revealed Office. Pasha has boasted it as a fraud. of frequently doing busiVictims of the con part- ness in London, though his ed with up to $1,600 in claim to British and Pakmedical examination fees, istani passports has not illegal charges made by been confirmed. local agents of Pasha's "We call on all those company, Al Najat Marine governments to do now Shipping, and passport what they should have charges levied by govern- done long ago, and begin ments. Many sold all they real investigations into had to pay the fees, after Mohammed Ali Pasha and being promised high wages how they came to support him," said Cockroft. on board a cruise ship. SIU VP, Calif. Governor Discuss U.S. Fleet SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (left) took advantage of the chance to discuss the U.S. Merchant Marine with Calif. Governor Gray Davis during a recent forum in San Francisco. "It was a great opportunity to talk about a number of maritime-related issues, including port security and the importance of the U.S.-flag fleet," noted Marrone. November 2002 the Mediterranean, Middle East and Indian Subcontinent. Maersk Line, Ltd. supports each of the branches of the U.S. military by providing ocean transportation services under con- tract with the Military Traffic Management Command and vessel operations services for the Military Sealift Command. The company is a participant in the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement. ITF Affiliate Unions Promote Safety ·on World Maritime Day Maritime trade unions affiliated to the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), including the SIU, celebrated World Maritime Day's focus on safety Sept. 26 by organizing events under the theme "Give Seafarers the Freedom to be Safe." ITF-affiliated unions in an estimated 50 countries marked the day with events expressing the safety and employment concerns of their members. The activities included seminars, demonstrations, and meetings with governrnent officials and shipowners to explore the best .ways to achieve safer shipping. World Maritime Day is promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to highlight the importance of the maritime industry and areas of concern such as safety and environmental protection. ITF General Secretary David Cockroft noted, "The ITF and it affiliates worldwide are glad to participate in an event designed to unite governments, seafarers and employers in a mission to improve the lives of- and recognize the importance of -all those who work at sea." He added, "Safety must be the primary concern of everyone involved in shipping. Human and trade union rights are an essential part of this. Giving seafarers the freedom to be safe means developing a fair and sustainable industry, where seafarers' expertise and training is respected. We have no doubt that respect for th_e human and trade union rights of seafarers is inextricably linked to the safety of the ship on which they serve." ITF affiliates participated in activities in the United States, Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Bulgaria, Brazil, Cameroon, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, France, Georgia, Ghana, Great Britain, Greece, Guyana, Honduras, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kenya, Kiribati, Lithuania, Mexico, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu and Ukraine. World Maritime Day Letter Signals New Support in Energy Sector For Offshore Mariners United Efforts to promote the rights of Gulf of Mexico mariners to choose for themselves whether to be represented by a union have been boosted significantly by strong support from a coalition of labor unions in the nation's oil capital of Houston. The expanded support was demonstrated on World Maritime Day (Sept. 26) when leaders of the Harris County (Texas) AFL-CIO Central Labor Council (CLC) delivered a letter to Houston-based Trico Marine Services Inc. demanding that Trico end its longstanding anti-worker campaign and agree to fully respect the freedom of association and freedom of speech rights of its employees. The letter was signed by Harris County AFLCIO CLC President E. Dale Wortham and Sec- retary-Treasurer Richard Shaw, and delivered in person to Trico's Houston headquarters. A copy of the letter was also mailed to Trico's Houston headquarters. In delivering the letter, the two union officials were accompanied to the Trico offices by a delegation of more than 20 mariners and representatives of unions from throughout the Houston area. A day earlier, repre· sentatives of OMU had addressed a gathering of officials and members of some of the 74 labor organizations affiliated to the Harris County CLC. At that gathering, numerous council-affiliated unions, including a number of organizations deeply involved in the energy sector, pledged support for OMU's campaign against Trico's anti-worker policies. The OMU's campaign seeks an end to the Trico · policies and practices that have created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among workers. The World Maritime Day letter specifically calls on Trico to stay neutral on the question of union representation for Trico mariners, to allow freedom of speech between mariners and union representatives and to engage in the Constructive Resolution Agreement put forward by the U.S. maritime unions. The four U.S. maritime unions that jointly form the OMU are the American Maritime Officers (AMO); International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P); Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA); and Seafarers International Union (SIU). Seafarers LOB 5 -- - - - �Highly Regarded CEO Mt:Millen Dies at 67 named a building after. He set the standard for labor relations in our company and he took a lot of pride in good relationships." Garvey described McMillen as someone who treated everyone respectfully-from the doorman to the fellow CEO. "That was part of his character that I really liked," Garvey said. "Also, he always was a really charitable guy. He didn't talk about a lot of those types of activities, but I know for a fact he was quick to help-financially and with his time." Saltchuk President Mark Tabbutt called McMillen "an amazing person. At TOTE, he was so popular with the customers and all the employees -every employee. The labor leaders and the competitors respected him. In a job like he has, to win over all those audiences is pretty remarkable." Tabbutt added that McMillen "was probably the best listener I've ever met. When he talked to you, he was so focused on what you were saying. But it went beyond just the words- he read people so well." At the simulator dedication, Robert Magee, president and CEO of TOTE, said McMillen's lasting legacy to the transportation industry will be the reinvestment that he has helped promote. He also said McMillen "always demonstrated respect for the men and women who work in our company and respect for the people who represent them in labor. He always attempted to understand their point of view because he recognized that we are all in this together." McMillen previously served as president and CEO of TOTE, from 1977 to 1993. A native of suburban Pittsburgh, he graduated from Denison University of Granville, Ohio and served in the U.S. Air Force. His list of civic activities is overwhelming. He was a past member of the Board of Trustees of the Seattle Chamber of Commerce and past chairman of the Alaska Committee; a member of the Board of Directors of the University of Washington Foundation, chairman of the Tyee Board of the University of Washington (which advises the athletic department) and a vicechairman and a member of the Board of the Swedish Medical Center Foundation; a member and director of the Washington Roundtable; member of the Seattle Rotary Club; member of the Board of Directors of the Sports and Events Council of Seattle/King County; member of the Board of Directors of Northwest Racing Associates of Auburn, Wash.; member of the Board of Directors for Key Bank of Washington; member of the Board of Trustees of the Washington State Chapter of Leukemia Society of America; member and director of the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce; member of the Board of Trustees of the Transportation Institute in Washington, D.C.; member of the Propeller Club of the United States; and a member on the Board of Trustees of Alaska Pacific University, Anchorage, Alaska, and Life Center Northwest. He also was a member and past chairman of the Board and past president of the Management Council of the American Trucking Association. Services were scheduled for Oct. 24 at the First Presbyterian Church in Bellevue. Remembrances may be made to the Northwest Kidney Center Foundation, P.O. Box 3035, Seattle, WA 98114, or Harborview Medical Center, McMillen Memorial Fund, N.W. Lipid Research Clinic, Box 359950, Seattle, WA 98104. Seafarer Barrett Mitchell· Recognized for Rescue zation. Mitchell was a crew member aboard the USNS Charlton while the vessel was at anchor in Diego Garcia on the night of March 30, 2002. He was on a launch returning to the ship when a stop was made to discharge two passengers to the Gus Darnell at anchorage. Gusting winds and rough waters hampered the operation, and the two individuals fell overboard as they tried to reach their vessel's accommodation ladder. According to a letter of com- mendation to Mitchell from Maersk Line, Ltd. (which operates the Charlton), the launch operator moved away from the ship because he feared that the people in the water might be caught in the propellers or crushed between the hulls of the two vessels. At the same time, his deckhand tossed two life rings. "The wind and current quickly swept both rings out of the struggling victims' reach," notes the letter. "You quickly realized that rescue efforts had stalled and the tiring swimmers were in danger of drowning before the ship or launch could rescue them. You dove into the water, retrieved one of the drifting life rings and swam to the aid of the victims. Your actions gained precious minutes, which allowed the ship time to lower its gangway into the water and retrieve the crew members. Your lifesaving aid to fellow seafarers upheld the oldest tradition of the sea and gained the respect of all those who know and serve with you.': Robert "Bob" McMillen, a widely appreciated maritime company official and philanthropist, passed away Oct. 12 after battling both kidney and heart disease. McMillen, 67, died at his home in Bellevue, Wash. "He was an exceptional guy and a genuine man of his word," said SIU President Michael Sacco. "Bob was honest and kind-a real partner and friend. He was very charitable in the community and a very valuable ally in the effort to strengthen the U.S. fleet." McMillen served as co-chairman and chief executive officer of Saltchuk Resources, Inc. (the parent company of TOTE). In June 2001, the new simulator building at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. was named in his honor. ''He was extremely proud of having that annex named after him," noted Michael Garvey, cochairman/CEO of Saltchuk. "What made him particularly proud is, he's only the second businessman that the school has Brown, Crowley Tapped for AOTOS Awards GUDE Barrett Mitchell is scheduled to receive an award this month for his heroic actions earlier this year when he helped save two mariners from another ship who had fallen into the water in Diego Garcia. Mitchell will receive a "Mariner's Rosette Award" during the 33rd annual Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) ceremony, hosted by the United Seamen's Service. This year 's event is slated for Nov. 8 in New York. The primary AOTOS awards will be presented to Thomas Crowley Jr., president of Crowley Maritime Corp.; and Capt. Tim Brown, president of the Masters, Mates & Pilots. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta will present Crowley's award, while International Longshoremen 's Association President John Bowers will present Brown's 'Something Drastic Was About lo Happen' GUDE Barrett Mitchell award. Additionally, a special AOTOS award will be given to Tal Simpkins, president of the United Seamen's Service, for two decades of service to the organi- Discussing Maritime in Seattle SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (left) recently participated in a breakfast reception for U.S. Rep. Brian Baird (D-Wash.) (second from left) in Seattle. Approximately 70 people attended, many from the maritime industry. Among the topics discussed by Rep. Baird and the attendees were U.S. Maritime Security Program reauthorization and expansion; port security and homeland security; and pro-maritime legislation cosponsored by U.S. Reps. James Oberstar (D-Minn.) and Don Young (R-Alaska). Pictured with Powell and Baird are (from left) MEBA Representative John Mccurdy, MEBA Patrolman Mike Jewell, SUP Branch Agent Mike O'Halloran and Puget Sound Pilots President Capt. Bill Bock. 6 Seafarers LOG Bob McMillan addresses the crowd at the simulator building dedication in June 2001. As Barrett Mitchell watched the pair of mariners struggUng in the water, he quickly realized two things. One, "something drastic was about to happen." Two, "I never would have forgiven myself if I hadn't tried to hetp. I knew I at least was capable of retrieving the fife ring and bringing It to them." With those thoughts. Mitchell dove into the water, retrieved a drifting life ring and gave it to the other mariners (a man and a woman). "They took it and that kept them afloat until the gangway was lowered to -them," Mitchell noted. The Seafarer said he was confident throughout the ordeat "I'm a pretty strong swimmer, and the only time I thought about the sharks was when I was swimming back to the launch,• he added with ~ chuckle. MitcheU, one of about 10 people aboard the launch, said he didn't g~t the names of the people he assisted. Their vessel departed early the fotlowing morning. "The current was rough, and you could tell they were getting exhausted;' he said. "The situatiof) was becoming dire." Evidence Suggests Terrorists Attacked French Oil Tanker, Killing One Mariner Investigators recently uncovered compelling evidence that the Oct. 6 explosion which heavily damaged a French oil tanker off the coast ofYemen and killed one mariner was the result of terrorists using a small boat. The Limburg, chartered by Malaysia International Shipping Corp., a subsidiary of Malaysia's state-owned oil company Petronas, was loaded with 400,000 barrels of crude oil from Saudi Arabia. A newly built double-hulled super tanker, the French-flagged ship was on its way to Yemen's Ash-Shihr oil terminal to load another 1.5 million barrels of crude when the attack occurred. An explosion left a gaping hole in the vessel's hold near the waterline, causing the discharge of more than 50,000 barrels of heavy crude into the ecologically sensitive Gulf of Aden. One crew member, a Bulgarian mariner, lost his life during the incident. As many as 17 others from the 25-man crew were injured. Despite early claims by Yemeni officials that the explosion was an accident, French investigatorsworking with U.S. and Yemeni counterparts aboard the Limburg-have found pieces of wood, metal and other materials believed to be debris from another boat. Officials close to the investigation say this physical evidence reinforces the account of a mariner aboard the Limburg that he saw a small vessel about to ram the tanker just prior to the explosion that caused a massive fire. "The preliminary results of the inquiry conducted by French, Yemeni and American investigators lead us to believe that the explosion suffered by the French oil tanker Limburg was due to an attack," the French Foreign Minister said in an Oct. 10 statement. "The course of the inquiry will enable the verification of these first results and determine the exact causes of this explosion." The former evidence was discovered as investigators scoured the tanker's hold in the vicinity of a huge hole near the waterline. Authorities said that experts from France's premier anti-terrorism agency, the DST, determined that the materials were consistent with a small boat and suggested a seagoing attack with explosives. Published reports quote a French law enforcement official as saying, "They found pieces of wood and other materials that apparently come from a small boat. This looks more an more like a terrorist attack." Investigators also found metallic debris at the blast site that they suspect came from such a craft, another French official said. Yemeni officials are investigating the possibility that the explosion may have been set off by remote control. November 2002 �Lakes Cargoes Increase in September A much-welcomed increase in the U.S.-flag carriage of dry-bulk cargos in September was realized on the Great Lakes. According to a Lakes Carriers' Association (LCA) release, cargos totaled 11.5 million net tons during the month-a nine percent hike over the mark registered during the same period a year ago. Officials said that with the foregoing increase to its credit, the Great Lakes fleet now has narrowed the margin with last season to 4.3 percent. And while they say that the remaining fall-off still is significant, they remain optimistic because the gap was 19 percent at the end of April of this year. In the iron ore cargo sector, carriage totaled 5.2 million net tons in September-an increase of 13.6 percent compared to a year ago. For the season, the U.S.-flag ore float is still 6 percent behind last year's total. In other developments, stronger demand for western coal pushed the fleet's September coal total to 2,546,951 net tons. This mark represented a 14 percent increase compared to a year ago. For the season, the coal total through September remains virtually unchanged compared to last year. OS Jeff Hester, left, poses with SIU Patrolman Joe Basilice and Engineer John Macari in Chicago during a servicing of the tug Hannah D. Hannah. early 1,000 people are dead in Senegal, the result of one of the deadliest ferry accidents ever in Africa. The MS Joo/a, a Senegalese state-owned ferry, operated by the army, on Sept. 26 capsized off the West Coast of Africa in high winds. At least 1,034 people were on board at the time of the catastrophe. Not included in the figure were a number of children, who were allowed to board the vessel as unticketed passengers. The Latest reports say there are only 64 known survivors, but no official count has been released. The boat quickly overturned in stormy seas, and those who escaped did so by hanging onto the doomed vessel's exposed hull for hours. Many victims were trapped beneath the overturned platform, according to accounts from rescue divers. About 150 military personnel, fishermen and rescue divers from Senegal, neighboring Gambia and France initially were deployed to participate in the recovery. Gambian and Senegalese authorities retrieved more than 360 bodies from inside the ferry before decomposition made recovery of intact victims impossible. Refrigerated ship containers holding bodies now are lined up at Dakar's port. Five crisis centers were set up in Dakar to display photos of those retrieved, for identification purposes. Approximately 1,000 military, rescue, medical and security personnel have been deployed to assist family members. Bad weather initially was November 2002 Elsewhere, a slight increase in stone cargo in September helped narrow the gap in that commodity. For the season, however, lethargic demand from the construction industry has produced a 2.1 percent decrease in limestone moved in U.S. bottoms. Also during September, the SIU-crewed Kinsman Independent ended its summer-long Layup and resumed moving grain between Duluth/Superior and Buffalo. The vessel is the only U.S.-flag "straight-decker" to see service in recent years. The LCA is the trade association representing U.S.-flag vessel operators on the Great Lakes, many with SIU contracts. The association is made up of 12 American companies that operate 57 U.S.-flag self-propelled vessels and integrated tug/barge units ranging in length from 383 to 1,013.5 feet. In recent years, cargo movement by LCA fleets has soared to more than 125 million tons during the 10-month Great Lakes shipping season. Iron ore, coal and limestone are the primary commodities carried by LCA members. Other cargoes include cement, salt, sand, grain and liquid-bulk products. SIU Patrolman Basilice looks over the engine of the Great Lakes Towing tug Colorado in Chicago. blamed for the disaster, but that assessment soon changed. According to published reports, a German shipyard built the Joo/a some 12 years ago specifically for voyages on the placid Rhine River-between the southern Senegalese province of Casamance and the capital, Dakar. The vessel was designed to accommodate no more than 536 passengers and 64 crewmembers -nearly half the number Senegal says was aboard at the time of the disaster. Senegalese television footage showed a video of the ferry tilting heavily to one side as it left southern Senegal, bound for Dakar. Passengers were massed at the ship's rails as it moved out, the skies darkening under heavy clouds. Then the film showed the ship disappearing into a driving rainstorm. Some hours later, around 11 p.m., the large redhulled vessel capsized. Senegal President Abdoulaye Wade, in the days that followed, acknowledged the ferry was overcrowded when it capsized and tumbled under the waves during a heavy gale. He blamed "an accumulation of errors" for the tragedy and promised criminal prosecution for those responsible. Ferries are the main mode of transportation between north and south Senegal, in part because travel by road is slowed by border checks passing through Gambia. Merchants carrying dried fish, mangos and other goods from Casamance make up many of the usual travelers. AB Grant Hult conducts a tour for SIU officials aboard the tug Colorado in Chicago. OS Jeff Hester, left, and Engineer John Macari, aboard the Hannah Marine tug Hannah D. Hannah in Chicago, display a bumper knot that Macari made by hand. Union, MSC Continue CMPI Negotiations The union and the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) have been negotiating changes to the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction provisions (CMPI) over the past several months, as reported in previous issues of the Seafarers LOG. Most recently the union and MSC have been working on Instruction 553, Allotments of Pay and Instruction 750, Discipline. Instruction 750 is one of the largest and most significant sections of the CMPI and includes processes and procedures for employees who may face minimum disciplinary action such as a logging, up through discharge proceedings. This section involves such topics as oral reply rights, employee representation during disciplinary matters and who will have the authority to determine a penalty to address misconduct. The Command has proposed many changes to the CMPI involving disciplinary matters. The union believes that many of these changes will have a detrimental impact on CIVMARS who may face disciplinary action during the course of their careers. The SIU expects that these negotiations will be prolonged. To continue with negotiations, union representatives will submit a complete set of counter proposals to the agency. These counter proposals will include more comprehensive language that protects the rights of mariners who may face disciplinary measures. Once proposals have been exchanged, the parties will meet in Virginia Beach, Va. to complete negotiations on this subject. 'Open Seasan 1 far Federal Warkers 1 Health Benefits Plan Starts Nov. 11 Beginning Nov. 11, mariners working for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Army Corp of Engineers and the Military Sealift Command (MSC) will have a chance to review their health benefit coverage and change to a new provider. The "open season" runs through Dec. 9, 2002. Choosing a health plan to meet your needs and the needs of your family is one of the most important decisions you can make. Premiums for HMO's and Fee for Service Plans offered through the program are expected to increase an average of 11 percent in 2003. Mariners who only have coverage for themselves will pay approximately $4.45 additional per pay period. Mariners who select family coverage will pay approximately $10.21 more per pay period. In 2003, employees will have 188 plan choices so it is important to get as much information as you can about your current plan coverage and how it compares to other plans in the program. The Office of Personnel Management web site contains a great deal of information to help make this very important decision. It includes a complete description of plan offerings, the 2003 premiums, plan changes for 2003, a guide to choosing quality health care, health plan report cards and satisfaction surveys. The site can be found at www.opm.gov/insure/health. You can also receive health plan comparison information and prices in book form by contacting Washington Consumer Checkbook, 733 15th Street NW, Suite 820, Washington, DC or at 800-213-7283, or at http://www.checkbook.org/. Seafarers LOG 7 �Apprentice Program: Springboard for Maritime Careers The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is committed to providing the U.S. maritime industry with skilled, physically fit and responsible deep sea and Great Lakes mariners and inland waterways boatmen. The school, based in Piney Point, Md., believes that the men and women who choose careers as professional seafarers or boatmen must be provided with the know ledge and skills to keep pace with technological advances within their industries. A key component of that commitment is the highly regarded unlicensed apprentice program, a staple of the school since its founding in 1967. The apprentice program begins with 12 weeks of introductory train- their careers at the school, those ing at the Piney Point campus, latter curriculums- included in then shifts to the invaluable Phase III--<lon't mark the cul"Phase II," during which the stu- mination of their training. The dents spend at least 90 days. Paul Hall Center facilitates proaboard Seafarers-contracted fessional advancement through ships. Phase II includes assign- career upgrading programs that ments in all three shipboard students may utilize over the departments. Finally, appren- course of many years. Additionally, the school oftices return to Piney Point for more advanced and department- fers the academic education which is an essential complespecific training. For most mariners who start ment to the modem technical Jimmy Orr (above left) and Brian Goeson (below left) keep close eyes on their paint jobs. Left: Students in the unlicensed apprentice program practice routine maintenance aboard the training vessel Osprey. skills needed in today's maritime industry. This includes everything from a GED program to Adult Basic Education to a college degree program and more. Still, the unlicensed apprentice program probably is the school's hallmark. More than 21,000 individuals have completed the entry-level curriculum. The Paul Hall Center also offers a program for veterans who have qualifying sea time in a deck or engine rating. Separated and retired personnel who Adam Revels does his part to have the neces- spruce up the vessel. sary deck or engine ratings required by the U.S. Coast Guard to sit for the Naval/Coast Guard rating. For more information about able bodied seaman's endorsement or the fireman/oiler en- the apprentice or veterans' prodorsement may take advantage grams or the school in general, of this program. Those individu- call the admissions office at als must have at least two years · (3 01) 994-0010 or visit of sea service in an accepted www.seafarers.org. Edward Willis prepares to close a hatch. Notice Unlicensed Apprentice Program For individuals interested in attending the unlicensed apprentice program at the Pauf Halt 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 inctudes 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.org. B Seafarers LOG November 2002 �QMED Douglas Speer gets a chance to check his e-mail on the PFC Dwayne T. Williams. The Petersburg's cargo line gets a coat of paint from AB Alexander Burmudez. Leopoldo Viernes, an AB aboard the Petersburg, wears the proper safety glasses and ear protection while performing his job. Bosun Christopher informs AB Jimmie Casey about safety issues aboard the PFC Dewayne T. Williams. AB Armondo Alvarez tightens lashing gear aboard the PFC Dwayne T Williams. SIU Guam Port Agent Matthew Holley (standing, center) serves as treasurer for the Labor Council of the Western Pacific, seen here following one of their meetings. Bosun Terry Armas shows the essential guide needed for conducting a shipboard union meeting. Armas is the bosun on the USNS Dahl. The Matson ship Mahimahi brings everything to the island of Guam-from paper towels tot-bone steaks. Protecting the Environment Swift and immediate response to an oil spill can make all the difference when it comes to both personal safety and environme!}tal protection. To this en4 the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point. Md. offers a number of safety and environmentaJ classes. One example is the one-week oil spill prevention and containment course, which consists oflaboratory and on-the-job training. Students learn about different types of oil and petroleum products and their behavior on water, pollution prevention regulations, spill prevention and small boat operations. As seen in these photos> students also receive instruction in spill containment booms and boom towing configurations and anchoring operations. Additionally covered in the course are the selection of adsorbents, suction equipment and skimmers and their proper use. November 2002 Sealamrs LOG 9 �about sailing is, you can always go to another ship. "I've met a lot of good people and I wouldn't trade it for anything," he c'ontinu~s. "Plus, the travel is great. The thought of being a professional 'tourist' is appealing." Before joining the SIU, James was a bartender and unemployed Seafarer, who first sailed during ironworker. In the late 1990s, he the Persian Gulf War following wound up working part-time at a his graduation from the old restaurant whose manager largetrainee program at the Paul Hall 1y was unfamiliar with wines . Center in Piney Point, Md. "They gave me the green light to "Writing the column has been a redo the wine list, and it was a lot of fun since I started last trial by fire," James recalls. "I May, and the restaurant is enjoy. had worked at other restaurants able, too. We have wine-tasting and already was good, not great, events, and I also consult for in terms of knowing my way other restaurants in the area." around.wines. Each place you He is equally enthusiastic · worked at, you had to know about shipboard life--so much what was selling." so that he encouraged his brothJames made the most of the er, David, to join the union four chance, completing numerous years ago. David currently sails classes and seminars along the as ail AB. way, and now enjoys balancing "It's a good life," states Rick his time at sea and ashore. James. "I've been sailing for 11 Similarly, he and the weekly years and I'll say one thing: It's paper have proven a good fit. "I never boring. You hear comwas reading a wine column in plaints that people have about another newspaper and thought I their jobs, but the great thing could do better, so I found [a publication] that didn't have a wine column," he notes. "I went to them with two columns and they said, 'Sure, we'll run your articles.' I set up an email account, and all of a sudden 45 people sent questions." (A common one: What wine goes good with crabs?) The Seafarer adds that people read his column "because they're trying to find a (suggestion for) . good bottle of wine and keep it under $20 per bottle. You can go Bosun Rick James enjoys his anywhere and find a $65 bottle work as an SIU member (left) and know it's going to be good.'.' and, when on the beach, as a James' email address is beverage manager in Baltimore. info ine@yahoo.com. BosunJames Blends Shipboard Life With Shore-Side Avocation Equipped with a keyboard · and wine list, Bosun Rick James is taking the cliched image of the drunken sailor and .turning it on its ear. James, a member of the SIU since 1991, is a state-certified wine specialist and a wine consultant. He writes a column for the popular weekly newspaper The Baltimore Guide, which began publishing 76 years ago and currently enjoys an estimated circulation of 45,000. When he's not sailing, James works as the beverage manager at a pair of restaurants in Baltimore's Little Italy (Luigi Petti Italian Restaurant, and Soprano's Italian Ristorante). "You try to separate the two lives," notes the 36-year-old Gen. Handy Backs MSP Continued from page 3 ships sail under the U.S. flag, are crewed by U.S. mariners, are offers great return on investment, operated by U.S. companies, and are subject to U.S. laws. As a supporting a sizeable and capable warfighter and as a concerned fleet of 47 U.S.-flagged vessels American this is what I must for relatively little annual cost. If have, and I have it in MSP. we fail to reauthorize or make Currently, MSP comprises both program participation unattrac- · Section 2 and Documentation tive, the potential erosion and Citizens. Both Section 2 and eventual disappearance of a Documentation Citizens must viable U.S.-flagged fleet and, execute the same contingency ultimately, the U.S. Mercliant contracts with DOD committing Mariner pool, would force vessels to VISA Stage III and increased and potentially total thereby assuring us we will have reliance on ships of foreign reg- access to their 'vessels. This is istry, entrusting precious military important because VISA Stage III cargo to non-U.S. crews in times is our highest sealift mobilization level and provides government of great crisis .... "While MSP offers guaranteed access to all 47 ships enrolled in capability, it also provides the MSP. As a warfighter, my resecurity we, as a nation, must quirements are met by both have to 'go it alone.' While for- Section 2 and Documentation eign companies dominate the Citizens. "We simply cannot, as a world maritime market, MSP Hard Work Pays Off During the October membership meeting at Piney Point, Vernon S. Thibodeaux (right) is presented the high school diploma she earned through the academic program at the Paul Hall Center by SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Thibodeaux sails in the steward department. 10 Seafarers LOG nation, fight the fight without the partnership of the commercial maritime industry. We rely on the commercial maritime industry to provide the primary source of manpower to crew our organic vessels. Our nation's organic sealift capability, in the form of highly capable prepositioned, fast sealift ships , large medium speed roll on and roll off ships (LMSR), and Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships which provide emergency and surge response capabilities to globally deploy our combat and support forces, would literally be useless without the support of the commercial maritime industry. As such, MSP supports not only our commercial wartime sealift, but is absolutely essential to providing the labor pool of U.S. Merchant Mariners for our organic fleet. This is a huge aspect of MSP. Given that the events of 9/11 have forever changed how we view the world, the absolute, unequivocal necessity for U.S. mariners, ready and able to .crew a guaranteed fleet ofU.S.-flagged vessels in times of crisis, mandates MSP reauthorization .... "We need MSP reauthorization soonest. Guaranteed access to U.S.-flag shipping, the viability of the U.S. Merchant Marinet pool, and the associated security requirements mandate MSP reauthorization. An improved, longterm program, adequately funded, which provides stability for the government and industry is the right approach from the warfighting perspective. MSP reauthorization now is a national security imperative of the highest magnitude." Capt. Rice Retires After a 36-year career in the inland division of the SIU, Henry Rice Jr. (center) is given a retirement party at Express Marine, Inc. in Camden, N.J. Rice most recently sailed as a captain aboard the EMI tug Russel B. Murray. Helping him celebrate are (from left) Chief Engineer Roy Gritz, Mate Dennis Gaskill, Rice, AB/Cook Steve Jones and Second Engineer Roland Mason. John Zalusky (left} and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan agree that the ship model Young America has found an appropriate home at the Paul Hall Library in Piney Point. Sbip Model a Good Fit At Paul HaD Library When John Zalusky began considering a new home for the valuable ship model he'd safeguarded for the AFL-CIO, he quickly realized the answer. "I really wanted the Seafarers' school to have it, to show others. It is a marvelous model, and it will be best appreciated at the Seafarers," stated Zalusky, a retired senior economist for the AFL-CIO who also headed the federation's office of wages and labor standards for more than 20 years. The la,test addition to the Paul Hall Library and M~ritime Museum's collection .o f approximately 40 ship models has a history longer than that of its new home in Piney Point, Md. It has indirect SIU connections, too-Zalusky's sons Timothy and John sailed with the union years ago, while the elder John has worked with several SIU officials on various labor campaigns and events. Built during the mid-1950s, the model is a three-foot wooden replica of the clipper ship Young America, a vessel that Zalusky said is fairly well known in sailing circles. It was built by trade unionist Hank MacKennel and given to George Meany, the first president of the AFL-CIO. MacKennel "said it was a gift for all the good things the AFLCIO had done for him and other working people," Zalusky recalled. "For a time it was displayed in the lobby of the AFL-CIO (based in Washington, D.C.). ·It was then moved to the (AFL-CIO) library." Zalusky was asked to take possession of the model when the library was moved from Washington to the George Meany Center for Labor Studies, located in Silver Spring, Md. "When the library moved, the librarian did not want to take it to the new location," he noted. "Because the model had no cover, it collected dust and resulted in breakage. I repaired it a number of times and built a plastic cover for it." "We're grateful that John wanted the model displayed at the Paul Hall Library," stated Don Nolan, vice president of the school. "It's a fitting adqition, and it will be seen by many people." November 2002 �Birth announcements, anniversaries, retirement . . . 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 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. November 2002 Seafarers LOS 11 �Whether sailing aboard U.S.-flag ships. upgrading at t for Maritime Training and Education, participating in activities or supporting brothers and sisters from othe remain extremely active across the United States. SIU members work aboard a wide variety of vessels, in containerships and tankers, military support ships, tugbm senger vessels and others. Seafarers have been part of the I· of defense" since the union's founding in 1938. The SIU prides itself on providing the best-trained, mo At the union hall in Norfolk, Va. , SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) congratulates Recertified Bosun Bobby Riddick on his retirement. At the hall in San Francisco, Port Agent Vince Coss displays an oil painting on canvas that was done by retired Recertified Steward Joe Williams. The painting depicts the late SIU Patrolman Kwong Jin Hom-much better ~~~~~~~ known as "Tom Tom." Brother Williams' painting is on display at the hall. 12 Seafarers LOB •om·'···~<··'·e ..··J.·"..,,........ QM ED/Electrician Gibbons (left) demonstrates with striking IBEW Local 50 members in Norfolk, Va. The workers in early September approved a five-year contract with Dominion Virginia Power, ending their first strike in 38 years. Roughly 3,700 IBEW members are covered by the agreement. P141iCC;.;~ November 2002 �1e Paul Hall Center grassroots political unions, Seafarers luding commercial ts and barges, pasation 's "fourth arm t efficient crews in the world. The key to sustaining that mission.is the Paul Hall Center, a worldclass vocational training facility based in Piney Point, Md. (The school also offers academic support, including programs for GEDs and college degrees.) Additionally, Seafarers recognize that the maritime industry is heavily regulated-a fact that makes political action a matter of survival. With that in mind, the union's officials and rank-and-file members actively support candidates who back the U.S. Merchant Marine. Their activities on this front include participating in maritime port councils, volunteering for campaign work, and donating to the union's voluntary political action fund. Similarly, Seafarers are active in AFL-CIO central labor councils and state labor federations throughout the nation. Those organizations help union members advance the working families' agenda at every level of government. They also facilitate solidarity among unions-a principle the SIU has promoted since its earliest days. The union's activities don't stop at America's coastlines. The SIU is active in the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO). For more information about the SIU, visit www.seafarers.org. Crew members on the former NMU ship Cape Alexander, docked in Baltimore when these recent photos were taken, include (left) Chief Steward Romeo Arquines and {above, from left) Electrician Mohamed Hafid and Bosun Peter Frigolett. �... • Above: It's the last trip to the Overseas Juneau mess hall for these crew members. Enjoying their meal aboard the vessel before it arrived in Alang, India for scrapping are, from left, Bosun Kissinfor Taylor, DEU Earl Shakes and Chief Pumpman Christopher Kirchhoffer. Bosun Kissinfor Taylor Overseas Juneau .-------------------~~­ Lee, OveneasJ11neau Finish Final Voyages The Overseas Juneau is pictured in Alang, India. Recertified Bosun Eugene Grantham, left, and AB Tom Stephens on the Robert E. Lee A pair of SIU-crewed vessels recently made their final voyages when they charted course for a ship graveyard in Alang, India. The vessels-the Robert E. Lee and the Overseas Juneau- were scrapped June 11 and June 12, respectively, at the direction of ownership. Both had been operating on the high seas for nearly 30 years. A LASH ship, the Robert E. Lee was built in 1974 and was operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. OSG Ship Management owned the Overseas Juneau. A crude oil tanker, it came off the assembly line in 1973. Both vessels were built by the Bethlehem Steel Company in Sparrow's Point, Md. Seafarers aboard the Robert E. Lee during its final voyage were: Bosun Eugene Grantham, AB Bernard Blunt, AB Gregory Hickman, AB John Holmes, AB Burlin Left: Chief Cook Anthony Bach, Recertified Steward Miguel Pabon and Steward Utility Janet De La Oliva on the Robert E. Lee Pinion, GUDE Justice Agha-Kuofie, GUDE Romel Holland, QMED Alton Hickman, Chief Electrician David King, Chief Cook Anthony Bach, Steward Baker Miguel Pabon, Steward Utility Janet De La Oliva and Steward Utility Christopher Love. Donning the SIU colors aboard the Overseas Juneau during its last run were: Bosun Kissinfor Taylor, AB Joseph Archer, AB Nathaniel Rivera, AB Michael Earhart, AB Adel Shaibi, AB Ray Hebert, Oiler Michael Drost, Oiler Lionel Taylor, Oiler Joseph Egan, DEU Earl Shakes, Chief Pumpman Christopher Kirchhoffer, Recertified Steward Brenda Kamiya, Chief Cook Mohamad Shibly and SA Ronald Dewitt. Right: AB Burlin Pinion Robert E. Lee Recertified Steward Miguel Pabon (left) and Steward Utility Janet De La Oliva on the Robert E. Lee Members of the Overseas Juneau crew gather after bidding farewell to their vessel. Pictured in photo above are, from left, OL Joseph Egan, DEU Earl Shakes, SA Ronald Dewitt (bending), Chief Cook Mohamad Shibly, AB Adel Shaibi, Chief Pumpman Christopher Kirchhoffer, and OL Michael Drost. In photo below are, (kneeling, from left) AB Nathaniel Rivera, AB Adel Shaibi, and GUDE Earl Shakes. Standing are AB Michael Earhart, OL Michael Drost, DEU Earl Shakes, OL Lionel Taylor, SA Ronald Dewitt, and Recertified Steward Brenda Kamiya. Recertified Bosun Eugene Grantham Robert E. Lee The crew of the Robert E. Lee gathers one last time for a photo before their vessel is beached in India. 14 Seafarers LOS Going about their duties aboard the Overseas Juneau as the vessel makes its way to India are AB Nathaniel Rivera, left, and AB Joseph Archer. Novem,_. 2002 �I Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - I I· *TOTAL REGISTERED 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 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma ·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 4 8 0 9 27 30 16 17. 28 10 7 7 8 17 1 22 18 229 0 4 DECK DEPARTMENT l l 2 3 4 4 2 2 3 3 0 9 10 2 7 2 8 24 4 21 2 11 2 2 16 1 6 3 0 1 0 2 4 0 9 24 8 20 13 10 59 3 42 27 36 2 17 7 0 11 15 111 1 6 4 24 5 6 18 4 3 7 8 4 5 4 10 -6 2 1 2 0 7 3 11 7 _J 25 18 160 0 0 2 3 0 4 15 11 6 15 IO 7 2 1 11 3 l 10 15 10 2 12 5 8 6 146 123 60 91 11 23 2 8 13 10 4 5 1 18 0 0 2 5 4 11 5 1 0 3 4 4 4 0 4 10 1 6 } 0 4 0 21 21 14 151 67 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francis·co St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 4 I 4 1 3 9 0 0 0 3 2 0 7 5 39 Totals All Departments 565 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 2 2 2 18 22 15 5 1 42 4 3 6 .31 23 4 3 7 7 2 2 2 10 5 81 0 0 0 5 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 20 l Q 7 8 13 4 6 0 2 2 2 5 0 0 1 8 30 11 0 6 15 .1 6 6 14 0 7 3 28 14 12 11 205 193 105 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 3 2 0 0 5 46 0 1 11 6 46 31 12 2 3 8 0 1 3 1 4 178 180 23 108 63 0 0 538 380 393 337 158 135 0 0 0 2 2 8 5 0 7 1 1· 7 0 1 1 0 2 39 0 0 2 4 3 36 36 22 3 6 6 0 1 3 2 3 0 5 17 6 . 11 8 11 57 Norfolk: ...................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Philadelphia ............ Wednesday: December 4, January 8 Port Everglades .......Thursday: December 12, January 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 12, January 16 San Juan..................Thursday: December 5, January 9 St. Louis .................Friday: December 13, January 17 Tacoma ................... Friday: December 1.0, January 24 Wilmington ............... Monday; December-16 Tuesday: January 21 * ~-""' *(change created by Marlin Luther King's birthday) Eat:h ptid's meeting starls at 10:30 a.m. Aboard MSC Ships in Norfolk, Va. ~~~~5::;::~~~-i Crew members aboard the USNS Arctic take a look at the latest LOG. From the left are OS Gary Turner, OS Benjamin Wilson and AB Dwane Bazemore. 38 38 10 19 58 16 0 5 4 0 7 7 JO 26 2 46 12 62 313 24 352 952 883 702 l New Orleans ............Tuesday: December 10. January 14 53 11 0 27 0 January 21 11 109 6 5 1 14 6 17 5 10 2 258 0 4 7 9 9 21 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 4 6 15 4 2 2 0 32 0 4 7 5 13 11 3 0 14 5 14 22 35 0 5 0 3 9 23 13 17~ 11 6 9 16 New Bedford ... :......Tuesday: December New York. ...............Tuesday: December 3. January 7 3 17 8 4 0 3 17 ] 24 18 0 0 3 4 l 9 10 36 13 0 2 23 2 20 12 22 0 13 0 6 0 8 5 8 21 8 0 13 1 12 0 10 206 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 0 0 I 6 0 0 1 3 0 .1 3 1 1 2 268 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 4 427 0 30 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: December 5, January 9 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 11, January 15 6 38 1 0 2 6 0 6 3 Houston ..................Monday: December 9, January' 13 17 23 8 7 10 4 0 0 2 Honolulu .................Friday: December 13, January 17 26 25 2 . l 3 Duluth ........................Wednesday: December 11, January 15 Jersey City ............... Wednesday: December 18, January 22 5 2 0 5 10 20 21 6 26 37 12 Boston .....................Friday: December 6, January 10 9 4 4 3 1 119 33 4 6 0 2 8 2 2 2 6 37 6 2 1 1 2 ..J? 2 21 62 32 4 0 2 5 13 54 28 1 5 0 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 16 24 0 0 1 2 9 8 63 ENGINE DEPARTMENT I 0 0 2 l 0 0 10 2 12 4 0 S 0 9 4 40 8 5 3 6 10 3 1 . 1 2 10 6 11 5 3 4 9 0 4 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 5, January 9 24 lO 16 18 170 0 56 9 22 15 Algop.ac ..................Friday: December 6, January IO 27 14 19 19 7 9 Piney Point .............Monday: December 2, January 6 2 0 6 4 . 3_ 13 10 116 0 • December 2002 & Janua,, 2003 Me~bership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 4 4 3 6 2 -~~ 0 3 13 2 13 0 5 11 11 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 5 3 4 10 22 5 0 2 6 0 0 13 -Trip Reliefs 19 35 10 32 16 21 7 12 10 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C '1 0 18 26 6 11 OCTOBER 15, 2002 ,,,,, 2 18 Meeting with the crew of the Mt. Baker, when it arrived in Norfolk, is SIU Rep Maurice Cokes (directly behind seated member in front). 8 18 . 0 35 *"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 th~ port. November 2002 Seafarers LOS 15 �I"!!"""----------------------------- ----- - --- -.. Seafarers lntemalional Union Ditectory :Nm11 monthly Shipping A Registration Report OCTOBER 2002 Michael Sacco, President John Fay, Executive Vi~ TOTAL REGISTERED President All Groups Group I Group II David Heindel, Secretary-Treas.urer TOTAL SIDPPED Group ID Group I All Groups Group II REGISTERED ON BEACH Group m Trip Reliefs All Groups Group I Group Il Group III Augustin Tellez, Jlice President Contract$ Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and lniancl Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President GulfCoast Nicholas J. Marrone, Jl'ice President West Coast Joseph T. Sorest, Pice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, Jlu:e !'resident Government Services Ren~ Lioeanjle, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice l'residenl at Large II( • HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk DECK DEPARTMENT 1 12 1 0 0 4 4 6 5 1 2 2 0 0 5 5 l 0 0 1 Tacoma 13 6 7 8 Totals 52 3 San Pedro 0 9 Port 325 Market St.. Suite B, Alton. IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #tC, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 5614988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269- 7877 DULUFJl 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705. Duluth. MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Batrigada, Guam 9692J 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalih.i St., Honolulu, ill 968 l 9 (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 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 5 4 9 0 0 0 9 0 24 6 20 30 4 25 0 0 58 108 57 48 0 0 0 19 5 0 3 5 22 10 7 5 0 4 3 Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma 3 2 I 0 6 1 2 0 0 2 3 2 9 6 2 26 0 0 5 Port _,_.,,.,., .o,,.,_ -·· 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 16 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 0 0 10 3 0 0 2 18 1 6 21 58 16 31 1 3 2 0 14 5 5 15 0 0 0 11 3 8 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT l 1 1 6 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 16 0 4 1 1 0 0 2 2 2 4 3 2 0 4 6 Port Totals All Departments 0 0 1 Totals 0 0 0 Tacoma l 16 0 5 Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro 4 6 3 ~------· ~-.,..., 3 Totals 0 10 11 34 9 16 0 0 6 Boston Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma 4 18 12 0 13 Houston Totals 0 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT (810) 794-4988 ALTON 0 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 13 3 0 3 7 0 6 2 22 4 17 64 21 27 18 1 26 62 0 38 12 67 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 11 I 2 0 14 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 4 1 3 3 5 0 3 0 0 10 15 28 3 0 8 104 27 52 62 1 15 2 3 0 0 5 3 12 0 8 28 0 0 52 32 2 8 0 18 11 35 101 122 171 127 331 216 277 0 (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 510N. BroadAve., Wilmingto°' CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 t6 Seafarers LOS PI CS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the LOG by Charles A. Bortz of Hellertown, Pa. They were taken during a voyage aboard the SS Steel Recorder on an around-the-world trip from May through August 1963. Bortz notes that "it was a great trip and a great ship, and that when the vessel landed in New York, nobody wanted to get off!" The bosun , who is running the chipping gun (seated), was on the Steel Recorder for five years. Harry, the day man (standing at left), sailed about three years. And Bortz, himself (coiling line, inset), stayed on for 18 months. Bortz has been retired 11 years now and says he enjoys every minute of it, thanks to the union's generous pension and health plans. "Never thought I would have it so good," he noted in a letter accompanying these photos. Some of the oldtimers may remember Bortz's story, "The Ship's Cat," which appeared in the July 1984 LOG. He also wrote a followup story in September 1995 as well as an article about Kenya in May 1986. November 2002 �e come As ore ; 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 inland captains and a recertified bosun are among the 20 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Captains Henry R. Rice Jr., and John Toups navigated the inland waterways at the helms of ves els for a combined time of nearly 81 years. Bosun Gerald Westphal completed the highest level of training to members who sail in the deck department when, in 1989, he graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Including Westphal, 12 of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division. Three plied the Great Lakes and five navigated the inland waterways. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. Brother Edwards is a resident of Neptune Beach, Fla. DEEP SEA JAMES BOVAY, 62, started his SIU career in 1963 in Houston. Brother Bovay, who ~ served in the , U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1959, sailed in the deck department. He last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Challenger. Brother Bovay make hi horn in ~ m_ t n, ALFRED LANG, 55, hails from Mobile, Ala. Brother Lang began his SIU career in 1965 in the port of New York. His initial SIU voyage was aboard the R. Semmes, a CSX Lines vessel. The engine department member upgraded hi kills frequently at the Paul Ia enter in Pin ' P · t. 1 H a t nt t • n the Overseas Boston. Brother JOHNA. Ala. T ALBERTO GARCIA, 66, is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He started his career with the Seafarers in 197 6 in Puerto Rico. A member of the engine department, Brother Garcia worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions. Brother Garcia enhanced his skills on seven occasions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed aboard the San Juan, a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. Brother Garcia lives in his native commonwealth in the city of Carolina. Lang makes his home in BROWN, 70, wa born in Alpine, Texas. He joined the Seafarers in 1988 in Honolulu. Brother Brown is a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served from 1951 to 1955 and again from 1962 to 1966. His initial SIU voyage was aboard the Seabulk Trader. The deck department member last shipped on Maersk Line's USNS Victorious. Brother Brown resides in his native city. ROBERT CROOKS, 71, joined the SIU in 1966 in San Francisco. The Illinoisborn mariner is a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving honorably from 1947 to 1961. Brother Crooks sailed in the Great Lakes as well as deep sea divisions. The deck department member upgraded his skills in 1978 at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. He last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Enterprise. Brother Crooks lives in San Francisco. BOBBY EDWARDS, 64, hails from North Carolina. The U.S. Navy veteran joined the Seafarers in 1960.in the port of New York. A member of the engine department, Brother Edwards upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in 1975. He last sailed aboard the Ultramax, a Westchester Marine Corp. vessel. Nove111ber 2002 obile, SPIRIDON PERDIKIS, 70, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York. Born in Greece, he shipped in the engine department and was a frequent upgrader at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Perdikis last went to sea on the Overseas Chicago. Jupiter, Fla. is his home. JOHN J. RODE, 64, started his SIU career in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Rode's first ship was the Fair Port, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. The Maryland-born mariner worked in the engine department and last went to sea on the Sea-Land Panama. Brother Rode lives in his native Baltimore. ALVIN SMITH, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1992 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Smith's initial voyage was on the Cape Florida. The Alabama-born mariner worked in the steward department. He most recently sailed on the Sea-Land Motivator. Brother Smith resides in Mobile. LARRY THOMPSON, 64, served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1955 to 1959. Brother Thompson started his SIU career in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Born in Iowa, he shipped in the deck department and upgraded his skills in 1978 and 2002 at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Thompson last sailed on the Sea-Land Endurance. He makes his home in Las Vegas. GERALD WESTPHAL, 54, started his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in Chicago, working in both the inland and deep sea divisions. The U.S. Navy veteran was a member of the deck department and shipped as a bosun. Brother Westphal upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center and completed bosun recertification training in 1989. He last worked aboard the Sea-Land Performance. Brother Westphal calls Belgium, Wisc. home. DONE. WHITLOW, 53, joined the SIU in 1975 in San Francisco. Born in Vallejo, Calif.. hi initial 'O) age wa ab ard the Santa fagdalena. a D lta t am hip Lines vessel. Brother Whitlow shipped in the steward depart- ment and upgraded hi skill at the Piney Point, Md. training facility in 1988 and 1994. He last worked on the Sea-Land Enterprise. Brother Whitlow is a resident of Des Moines, Iowa. INLAND LARRY GASTON, 55, was born in Texas. The U.S. Army veteran joined the Seafarers in 1977 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Gaston was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills in 1999 in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Gaston calls Ho1,1ston home. HOWARD IRELAND, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia. The New Jersey-born mariner is a veteran of the U.S. Navy (1957 to 1961). Boatman Ireland worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transport Co. He resides in Lehighton, Pa. HOMER RABIDEAU, 63, began his SIU career in 1980. The Indiana-born manner shipped in the steward and deck departments and upgraded his skills in 1997 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Rabideau lives in Mooers Forks, N.Y. HENRYR. RICE JR., 63, is a veteran of the U.S. Army ( 1963 to 1965). Born in Pamlico ounty, . ., ~...,..__..;.;...........,............... he joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Philadelphia. The deck department member shipped as a captain and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in 2001. Boatman Rice last worked on an Express Marine Inc. vessel. Bayboro, N.C. is his home. JOHN TOUPS, 62, hails from Sabine Pass, Texas. Boatman Toups began hi~ career with the Seafarers in 1961 in Port Arthur, Texas. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a captain. Boatman Toups worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Moran Towing Co. He continues to live in Port Arthur. GREAT LAKES LAWRENCE KACZROWSKI, 58, started his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in Chicago. He worked in the Great Lakes and inland divisions. Born in Green Bay, Wisc., Brother Kaczrowski worked in the engine department. He last sailed on the Richard J Reiss. Brother Kaczrowski lives in Mishicot, Wisc. MARVIN LARSON, 65, served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1958. He joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Algonac, Mich. and worked in both the Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. Brother Larson shipped in the steward and deck departments, sailing primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Co. He is a resident of Alpena, Mich. JOSEPH SAYLES, 64, hails from Michigan. He started his SIU career in 1965 in Frankfort, Mich. Brother Sayles' first voyage with the Seafarers was on a Mackinac Transportation Co. vessel. The engine department member last worked on the Chief Wawatam, a Straits Car Ferry Corp. vessel. Brother Sayles makes his home in East Lansing, Mich. Editors Note: The following brothers and sisters, all members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. JOED. HAWTHORNE, 55, started his career with the NMUin 1971. Born in Waynesboro, Miss., he first shipped out of the port of Mobile, Ala. aboard the Norman Lykes. Brother Hawthorne shipped in the steward department and last went to sea aboard the Cape Knox. DONALD KLOPP, 63, was born in Minnesota. He joined theNMUin 1965.and initially shipped aboard the Polaris out of the port of Chicago. A member of the deck department, he last sailed aboard the Green Lake. BOOKERT. OLIVER, 76, joined the NMUin 1973. The Dallas County, Ala. native's first voyage was aboard the USNS Gen. Maurice Rose. Brother Oliver worked in the steward department and last went to sea on the SS Rover. JUAN RIVERA, 66, began his NMU career in 1977. Born in Puerto Rico, his initial NMU voyage was out of the port of New York and was aboard the Export Champion. The deck department member last sailed on the Enterprise. In addition to the members listed above, also going on pension recently were: Antonio Fonseca, 65 William Hall, 60 Lillian Medina, 67 Tyrone Patrick, 62 ± Seafarers LOS 17 �DEEP SEA SALVATORE ALPEDO Pensioner Salvatore Alpedo, 79, passed away Dec.11, 2001. Born in Reading, Mass., he served in the U.S. Marines from 1940 to 1945. Brother Alpedo joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Yaka. A member of the deck department, Brother Alpedo sailed as a bosun. He last worked aboard the Great Land. Brother Alpedo began receiving his pension in 1987. He lived in Arlington, Wash. CHARLES ALSTON Pensioner Charles Alston, 60, died July 28. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Brother , Alston started his SIU career in 1974 in Seattle. He worked in the steward department. The Warren, N.C. native started collecting stipends for his retirement in 2000. Brother Alston lived in Bellington, Wash. JAMES CAMP Pensioner James Camp, 63, passed away Aug. 1. Brother Camp began his SIU career in 1968 in the port of ew York. he U.S. Army veteran was born in Rutherford County, N.C. Brother Camp shipped in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Chemical Explorer. Brother Camp started receiving his pension earlier this year and made his home in Mooresboro, N.C. STEVE COPELAND Brother Steve Copeland, 49, died July 8. He started his SIU career in 1972 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Copeland's initial voyage was on the Mohawk. The California native worked in the deck department and last sailed aboard the El Morro. Brother Copeland lived in Vacaville, Calif. GENEROSO CORPUS Brother Generoso Corpus, 68, passed away July 4. He joined the SIU in 1997. A member of the steward department, Brother Corpus worked primarily aboard American Hawaii Cruises vessels. Born in the Philippines, he made his home in Waipahu, Hawaii. RAFAEL CUEVAS ~ 'IB Pensioner Rafael Cuevas, 79, died July 26. Brother Cuevas began his career with the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Seafarers LOG Born in Puerto Rico, the steward department member last went to sea aboard Puerto Rico Marine Management's Arecibo. Brother Cuevas lived in Pembroke Pines, Fla., and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1982. JAMES FORTSON Pensioner James Fortson, 99, died July 4. Brother Fortson began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in Washington state, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Fortson began collecting his retirement in 1969 and lived in Los Angeles. RUFINO GARAY Pensioner Rufino Garay, 75, passed away Aug. 74. Brother Garay started his career with the Seafarers in ~, 1956 in the port of New York. A U.S. Navy veteran, he worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. The deck department member shipped as a bosun and last worked aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation Co. vessel. Brother Garay began receiving his pension in 1992. Born in New York, he was a resident of Guayama, P.R. RICHARD GRAVES Pensioner Richard Graves, 61, died May 3. Brother Graves started his career with the MC&S in 1977 in San Francisco. The California-born mariner shipped in the steward department and first sailed on the Santa Magdalena. His last trip to sea was aboard the President Johnson. Brother Graves lived in Richmond, n r i ing i p na i . an sion in 1994. Pensioner Pauli Johnson, 77, passed away July 28. Brother Johnson joined the SIU in 1946 in Galveston, Texas. Born in Seadrift, Texas, he first sailed on the Cedar Rapid. The engine department member last worked aboard the Cove Leader. Brother Johnson started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1989. He lived in Galveston, Texas. SANG LEE Pensioner Sang Lee, 83, passed away Aug. 4. Brother Lee joined the MC&S in 1954 in the port of New York. Born in China and a U.S. Navy veteran, he shipped in the steward department. Brother Lee worked primarily aboard Delta Steamship vessels. He made his home in Oakland, Calif. and started collecting retirement compensation in 198 l. Brother Ploppert started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 and lived in St. Bernard, La. EDWARD PUCHALSKI Pensioner Edward Puchalski, 78, died Aug. 4. The Trenton, N.J. native started his SIU career in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Puchalski sailed in the inland and deep sea divisions as a member of the deck department. He most recently shipped as a bosun. Brother Puchalski's last trip to sea was aboard the Santa Barbara. A resident of Spring House, Pa., he began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1981. Boatman John Baker, 53, passed away July 19. Born in Panama, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1999. A member of the deck department, Boatman Baker worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Westbank Riverboat Services, Inc. He was a resident of Jefferson, La. WILLIE WILLIAMS Pensioner Willie Williams, 85, passed away Aug. 9. Born in Alabama, Brother Williams was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He began his SIU career in 1943 in Tampa, Fla. Brother Williams sailed in the deck department. His final voyage was on the Sea-Land Consumer. The Attalla, Ala. resident started receiving his pension in 1982. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM LOTZ JOHN BAKER GILBERT BROOKS Pensioner Gilbert Brooks, 79, died Aug. 8. Boatman Brooks joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Philadelphia. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. His initial voyage was aboard the Arizpa. Born in Virginia, he shipped in the deck department. Boatman Brooks started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1985. He made his home in Richmond, Va. DAVID TOLER Boatman David Toler, 35, passed away Aug. 5. He joined the Seafarers in 2001 and shipped in the deck department. The Alabama native worked primarily on Orgulf Transport Co. vessels. Boatman Toler lived in Bay Minette, Ala. Pensioner William Lotz, 88, passed away June 19. Boatman Lotz joined the SIU in 1965 in Port Arthur, Texas. He first worked aboard an Ellis Towing & Transport Co. vessel. A member of the deck department, the Texasborn mariner shipped as a captain. He last worked on a vessel operated by G&H Towing. Boatman Lotz started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 and lived in Trinity, Texas. ARANTIC FISHERMEN FRANK DOMINGOS Pensioner Frank Domingos, 92, passed away July 24. Brother Domingos started his career with the Gloucester Fishermen's Union in Gloucester, Mass. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1974. A Massachusetts native, he lived in Gloucester. The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. WILLIAM BECKER PABLO PENA >I > passed away Aug. 8. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. he joined the NMU in 1969. Brother Becker worked in the deck and engine departments during his career. He began receiving his pension in 1985. WILLIAM FARRELL Pensioner William Farrell, 77 ,died Aug. 2. He started his career with the NMU in 1962. Brother Farrell first went to sea aboard the City Service Missouri. A member of the steward department, he last worked aboard the Edgar M Queeny. Brother Farrell started collecting his pension in 1986. ,p away July 23. The steward department member was born in Puerto Rico and shipped for the NMU out of Kenosha, Wisc. He first sailed on the Flying Spray and last worked on the American Aquarius. Brother Pena started receiving his pension in 1985. PIERRE LA PLACE Pensioner Pierre La Place, 82, died Aug. 20. Brother La Place joined theNMU in 1947. His initial voyage was aboard the Bear Paw. The engine department member started receiving his pension in 1968. WILFREDO RIVERA PAUL FUECHSLIN SR. Pensioner Paul Fuechslin Sr., 79, passed away Aug. 26. The Pittsburgh native began his NMU career in 1943. A member of the deck department, he first shipped on the William L. Davidson. Brother Fuechslin began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1987. FRANK PLOPPERT Pensioner Frank Ploppert, 78, passed away July 14. Born in Philadelphia, Brother Ploppert was a U.S. Navy veteran. He joined the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. The steward department member last worked on the Sam Houston. INLAND Pensioner Wilfredo Rivera, 72, passed away Aug. 23. Born in Puerto Rico, he started receiving stipends for his retirement in 1993. MIKEJAMPAS Pensioner Mike Jampas, 91, died Aug. 8. Born in the Philippines, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Jampas began receiving payments for his retirement in 1978. In addition to the foregoing, the following NMU brothers and sisters passed away on the dates indicated. The NMU Pension and Trost office was notified of their respective demises during August. Robert Chandler, July 29 Joseph Hance, Aug. 8 James Moore, Aug. 20 Rue Phelps, Ju]y 25 Clyde Cummings, July 25 Clarence Conaway, Aug. 20 Alexander Bell, Aug. 17 Paul Sze, Aug. 15 Farish Selig, July 22 Harold Bretz, July 17 John Guillory, June 11 Edward Haskins, July 29 Pedro Da Silva, Aug. 27 Sebastian Torres, July 31 Enrique Casanova, July 30 Michael Buters, Aug. 4 George Taparuskas, June 26 Robert Bently, July 5 Bernard Petro July 27 John Karpovich, July 28 Thomas Hicks, Aug. 8 John Damiens, July 4 Ludwig Ladtkow, Aug. 6 Melvin Ross, July 29 George Topin, July 26 Rudolph Morgan, July 27 Santiago Machahilas, July 29 Luis Miranda, Aug. 2 Pedro Perez, Aug. 2 Pablo Rodriguez, Aug. 26 Roman Arabski, Aug. 5 Robert Angel, Aug. 26 Ernest Ervin, Aug. 17 Richard Williams, Aug. 17 Walter Schultz, Oct. 28, 200 I Fernando Cora, May 4 William Larkin, Feb. 3 Alfonso Remon, July 6 Arthur Farmer, March 5 Jesus Manautou, Oct. IO, 2001 Thomas Meehan, Jan. 27 Walter Bonner, April 13 William Spencer, Feb. 25 Juan Basurto, April 16 Albert Demly, Oct. 1, 200 l Thomas O'Brien, Jan 19 Robert Dalzochio, April 18 Lee Poin, Feb, 12, 2001 James Sanders, April 8 November 2002 �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 unions contract depadment. Those issues requiring attention or resolution a1e addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG tor publication. CHALLENGER (CSX Lines), Aug. 12--Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Clive A. Steward, Deck Delegate Efrain Alvarez, Engine Delegate Jose A. Quinones, Steward Delegate Donald L. Huffman. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 15 in Jacksonville, Fla. He reported on pending sale of CSX and that Matson is building two new ships, which means more jobs for steward department members. He said union members need to do all they can to prevent U.S. ships from reflagging. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He said STCW is good for five years provided member has met one-year seatime qualification. Treasurer announced $40 in crew fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to provide transportation from ship to port gate from 1200 to 1300 when seamen are not on duty. Currently no shuttle service exists at that time. Suggestions also made to purchase TV monitor 25-inches or larger for crew lounge, raise daily maintenance and cure rate and lower time needed to qualify for health benefits. Vote of thanks given to Chief Cook Huffman for job well done. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla. and an Juan. P.R. """""~~Jr~votfRANCeft-r~\1n-mro~. ~­ Chairman Mauro G. Gutierrez, Secretary Russell B. Beyschau, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Darrell E. Peterson, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter. Chairman reported smooth trip with payoff expected Aug. 21 in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary thanked everyone for great teamwork. Educational director looking forward to vacation. He advised crew members to stay current with shipping documents and take advantage of upgrading opportunities available in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held about new gym equipment. Steward noted all rooms received new curtains. Vote of thanks given to galley gang for great job. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), Aug. 11--Chairman Samuel Reed III, Secretary Doyle E. Cornelius, Educational Director Tony Burrell, Deck Delegate James P. McCarthy, Engine Delegate German C. Valerio, Steward Delegate Julio Guity. Secretary thanked chief cook and GSU for job well done. Educational director stressed importance of supporting SPAD as well as obtaining required STCW training and upgrading regularly at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for gym equipment. Suggestions also made for new furniture, including sofas for crew lounge, mattresses for crew bunks, new chairs for crew quarters and larger ice machine. INNOVATOR (USSM), Aug. 11Chairman Abdulla R. Alwaseem; Secretary Benedict N. Opaon, Educational Director Olie E. Webber, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Abdul November 2002 Mohamed. Chairman reported new mattresses received and distributed. He announced payoff Aug. 15 in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary advised crew members to check shipping documents and make sure all are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Response from VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding previous inquiry received and posted. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Dutch Harbor, Alaska; Yokohama and Nagoya, Japan. LIBERATOR (USSM), Aug. 25Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Hans F. Schmuck, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford, Deck Delegate William Foley, Engine Delegate Jesse Manard, Steward Delegate Amer A. Ghaleb. Chairman thanked all departments for jobs well done. Educational director reminded crew members to keep track of shipping documents and keep them current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck and engine department members thanked for using second washing machine for greasy clothes, thereby leaving one for regular laundry. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Line, Ltd.) Aug. 25-Chairman ott . Heginbotham ecretary James H. Rider, Educational Director Eugene . edar , Delegate Earl Jones, Engine Delegate Chris Graham, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Chairman announced vessel going into shipyard in Panama Sept. 2. Everyone asked to give valuables to captain for safekeeping since there are no room keys. Also, there will be no watches during shipyard period. Secretary stated that following time in shipyard, vessel will load grain in Gulf port and head for West Africa. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer noted $50 remain in ship's fund following purchase of rowing machine for gym. No beefs or disputed OT reported, although question raised regarding lack of ferry service in Hong Kong. Discussion held about importance of contributing to SPAD. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into lowering age needed to receive pension benefits. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Balboa, Panama. MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), Aug. 25-Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Pedro V. Ramos, Steward Delegate Albert Sison. Chairman announced vessel to depart for shipyard Sept. 2. Upon arrival, ABs will be released; all other unlicensed personnel will remain on board. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility. Treasurer stated $3,332 in unlicensed fund and $145 in TV fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for hiring halls to be updated on extra day vacation procedures. Three refrigerators currently on order. Captain and chief engineer looking into lack of hot water in staterooms. Crew reminded to separate paper and plastics and keep trash out of cans for cigarette butts. Next ports: Port Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. MOTIVATOR (USSM), Aug. 11Chairman Allan A. Rogers, Secretary Matthew Scott, Educational Director Ernest L. Gibson, Deck Delegate Joseph Carrillo, Engine Delegate George H. Bixby, Steward Delegate Andres Caballero. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 12 in Houston. He said be hoped dryers for crew laundry will be brought aboard at that time and thanked everyone for job well done. Secretary reminded mariners to keep all documents current or risk losing their jobs. Educational director stressed importance of paying dues, donating to SPAD and buying MDLs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to outbreak of West Nile virus, particularly in southern states, deck department requested bug repellent. Vote of thanks given to trustees of pension plan along with request to increase benefits. announced arrival Aug. 13 in Anacortes, Alaska. He hoped boarding patrolman could clarify apparent change in benefits at that time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Anacortes and Nikolski, Alaska. SPIRIT(CSX Lines), Aug. 12Chairman Daniel Teichman, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Engine Delegate Gregory L. Howard. Chairman explained and posted rules for trip off for rated seamen. Those who completed 22- Educational Director Andrew Hunt, Deck Delegate Timothy L. Smith, Engine Delegate Dennis S. Adjetey, Steward Delegate Patrick L. Durnin Jr. Chairman announced vessel going into drydock at Todd Shipyard in Seattle to replace shroud on propeller. Payoff to take place Aug. 31 at sea. Secretary reminded everyone to turn in room keys when leaving ship or leave in desk drawer. Steward thanked all departments for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised Seafarers to read safety circulars, especially one on accident avoidance. He also recom- Independence Day BBQ on the O/S Joyce PERSEVERANCE (Mari trans), Aug. 11--Chairman James E. Bishop, Secretary Kenneth A. Roetzer, Educational Director Kenneth W. Pinchin, Deck Delegate David Harvey, Engine Delegate Daniel Tapley, Steward Delegate Marvin James. Chairman announced clarification received Enjoying the festive barbecue aboard the Overseas Joyce are regarding tours of duty for current Capt. James Salano Ill, Chief Mate Matt Pouliot, 3n1 Mate Bob contract. He thanked entire crew for Meyer, Chief Engineer Robert Smith, 1•1 Engineer Leonard Buck, efficient job rescuing and caring for 2nd Asst. Engineer John O'Brien, 3n1 Asst. Engineer Josh Lemmon, five Cuban refugees picked up on Recertified Chief Steward James Willey (who sent these photos raft in Gulf of Mexico. Educational to the LOG), Chief Cook Julita Crodua, GSU Hernan Sanga, director urged crew members to take Wiper David Johnson, OS Anthony Antonio, AB Bernard Essiful, advantage of opportunities for AB Abdulkarim Mohamed and AB Aubrey Benjamin. Not pictured upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No are 2nd Mate Ted Duke (on watch), Bosun Roger Tupas (taking beefs or disputed OT reported. Some photo) and OS Inocencio Roxas (on watch). Seafarers waiting for medical cards. New scale purchased for weight mended they check expiration dates room. Hoping to buy microwave month tour of duty will get three on STCW and z-cards and look over oon. Vote of bonus vacation days. He thanked o en for crew me course listings for Paul Hall Center, everyone for following safety procethank given to te-. ard department located in monthly LOG. No beefs for great meals and service. Next <lures, especially while loading and irort ca.nm - -,---,- 11-Trrrtnadin·g cargo. . . 1-nrr-r+n,·nn+ed OT repo~- ~ tor talked about Paul Hall Center, mendations sent to headquarters ROVER (Intrepid Ship Mgmt.), both a an educational facility as regarding pension plan. Bosun to Aug. 11--Chairman John S. Habib, well as for family vacations. Bosun investigate and fix or replace broken Secretary Fernando R. Guity, holds $249 in movie fund. New lock. Steward department given vote of thanks for excellent job in galley, Educational Director William Stone, DVD player has been installed and mess halls, lounge and passageways. Deck Delegate Jam es Shepard, crew hopes to buy larger TV for Engine Delegate Walter Bagby, Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; lounge. No beefs or disputed OT Steward Delegate Eduardo R. Anchorage, Alaska; Seattle, Wash. reported. Crew members asked to Elemento. Chairman spoke about add any needed room maintenance BLUE RIDGE (Intrepid Ship good trip to Israel and announced to repair list. New mattresses and payoff Aug. 16 in New York. He pillows are on order. Steward depart- Mgmt.), Sept. I --Chairman Willie urged everyone to upgrade at Piney M. Marsh Jr., Secretary Demont A. ment thanked for good job. Next Point. No beefs or disputed OT Edwards, Educational Director ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, reported. Clarification requested on William M. Hudson, Deck Delegate Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. vacation on board Intrepid vessels Celso Fernandez. Chairman advised and about ship's funds. Crew memcrew members to make sure all docUSNS SISLER (Maersk Line, uments required for shipping are up Ltd.), Aug. 10-Chairman Glenn P. bers were asked to use separate to date. He also talked about faciliBaker Sr., Secretary Susan K. washing machines for street clothes Bowman, Educational Director ties available at Paul Hall Center and and greasy clothes. Thanks given to Timothy Chestnut, Deck Delegate that union is always available to and steward department for excellent meals and keeping very clean ship. Godofredo F. Milabo III, Engine supportive of its members. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Delegate Wilfredo Custodio, SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Steward Delegate Adele E. Suggestions made to improve optical Shipholding), Aug. 14--Chairman Williams. Bosun thanked all departand dental benefits for self and Michael R. Hester, Secretary ments for their hard work during the spouse. Big vote of thanks given to Thomas C. Barrett, Educational day in Charleston. He also comsteward department for "best food." Director Henry M. Cacal, Engine mended steward department for Next ports: San Francisco and Los Delegate Juri Novozilov. Chairman good food and reminded everyone Angeles, Calif. reported receipt of letter of clarificathat safety gear and PPE must be utiCHICAGO (ATC), Sept. ! tion from headquarters regarding lized at all times while working. Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, standard contract. Educational direcSecretary added that union literature Secretary Mike Callahan, Educator reminded crew members of and forms are available on the table. tional Director LeBarron West, upgrading opportunities available at Educational director advised crew Deck Delegate Marshall Turner, Paul Hall Center. Treasurer members to upgrade skills at Piney Steward Delegate Arthur Edwards. announced $2,380 in ship's fund. No Point, make sure all training requireChairman announced vessel returnbeefs or disputed OT reported. Crew ments have been met and re-register ing to coastwise trade after successasked to keep noise down in pasat hiring hall with 72 hours. No sageways. Request made for repair ful clean-up and shipyard period in beefs or disputed OT reported. of portside door to crew lounge. Discussion held regarding new Singapore. He is awaiting clarificaAlso, DVD player needs to be agreement signed Aug. 6. Numerous tion on AB status of those who were shipped as reliefs. No beefs or disquestions arose, resulting in letter secured for sea. Next port: Hawaii. sent to headquarters for clarification. puted OT reported. Recommendation made that medical bills be paid in SEABULK PRIDE (Seabulk Crew reminded to use proper washing machine for street clothes and full, deleting term "usual and cusTankers), Aug. 12-Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Ernest greasy clothes. Ship currently in tomary." Everyone reminded of mess deck courtesies: i.e., no hats, tankDiego Garcia. J. Dumont, Educational Director tops or sandals without socks. Moses Mickens Jr., Deck Delegate Thanks given to steward department Bartow H. Bridges, Engine WESTWARD VENTURE (IUM), for great job. Next ports: Valdez, Delegate Andrea Simmons, Steward Aug. 26-Chairman Roger J. Alaska; Cherry Point, Wash. Reinke, Secretary Larry Lightfoot, Delegate Sisto DeAnda. Chairman Seafarers LOG 19 -' �(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 wel-: comes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) 1996 as an OS and worked his way up to AB/Splicer Joiner. His last ship was the Global Sentinel. Recertified Bosun J. Olsen adds, "He was a great shipmate, and his jokes and tricks will be missed." flags from stem to bow. It turns out we were the first ship since the war to go up the Garonne River. We received a ticker-tape parade with thousands of people and flags waving to honor the ship and the merchant veterans. We stayed four days. We then went to England and took 700 troops aboard bound for Boston, Mass., where there was a big welcome home for the troops. S. Fujiwara, Chief Steward CS Global Sentinel Else Sorensen Acworth, Ga. Remembering a Fallen Shipmate Seafarer Recalls Best Voyage "Lou" and "Cecll" What a teaml We, the unlicensed crew of the Cable Ship Global Sentinel would like to pay a special tribute to a fallen shipmate. AB/SJ Kamal Moore passed away suddenly on Sept. 20, 2002 in Oakland, Calif. Moore first joined the cable ships on board the CS Global Mariner in July I came aboard the Liberty Ship Charles Brantley Aycock in New York as a troop cook in July 1945. The destination was France. We arrived in the port of Bordeaux. When the captain gave the orders to clean up, he also said to r~ise all the navigation A lot ofpeople who sail this ship Started out skinny and lean of hip. We eat gourmet cooking day after day And sooner or later we have to pay. Our pants are tighter and ready to split, Man, I've got to get off this good-feeding ship. Letters to the Editor ... .. ... . ... .. I don ~ know how you do it day after day In all kinds of weather, all kinds of heat. It s always "great " when we get there to eat When your belly s full, theres a smile on y our face. We thank you guys. You 're just great. " Tom Larkin SUP Delegate Aboard tbe Mahimahi (Editors Note: The Mahimahi steward department members referred to in the above poem are Steward/Baker Sivasa Laupati and Chief Cook Cecil Gubisch.) < Buying? ?elling ·Refinancing? ou time & money. We Cail save lal Estate program can help you.navigate The Union Plus Mortgage & e ' b ing selling or refinancmg. the lending process, whether you re uy Special pro~ms for first-time buyers!· ' We work with one of the largest lenders in the country to offer competitive rates and low down payments.* · Cal\-800-848-6466 se habla espanol Union ~Plus® Working For Working Families 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 . members~ip 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. Member should get to know their shipping right . opies of these contracts are posted and a\ ailable in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the umon 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 20 Seafarers LOii 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. Con sequently, no member may be disc riminated against because of race. creed, color, sex, national or g OJaphic origin. If any member e 1 that he or she is denied the equal rights to which or she is entitled, the mem ber should n tify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY D0>~1UJ~....-~ SPAD. 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 ·m embership 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. November 2002 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE f Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. from November 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. For classes ending on a Friday, departure rese"!a.. tions shoul4be made for Saturday. Seafarers:-who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (30 l) 994-0010. Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Oiler Novemberll DecemberlO Welding November18 December6 Engine Utility (EU) November 25 December20 Safety Special"' Courses A~vanced FiJ;efighting Date of Arrival Date Completion December 2 December 13 December2 Decemberl3 Noveniber 18 November 22 December9 December 13 Decemberl6 December20 ':t:• Tanker Fami~irizatfonl Assistant Cargo (DL)* Deck Upgrading Courses Date of Arrival Date Completion November 11 November 15 (BRM) - Inland December9 December 13 GMDSS (Simulator) November4 November 15 December2 December 13 November4 December9 November IS December20 Course ~ .~ B~~ilge Resource Managetiient Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (S',I'OS) (*must have b~ic fire fighting} Basic Fire Figllting/STCW Academic Deparl111ent 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 Stewattl.Upgradlng COUISl!.S courses. An introductio~ to computers course '!fill be self-study. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. lbe lleaemla edlllOn of tbe Sealarel's I.OS will contain ..,. CGW'S8 listlngs Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every -other week, most recently torti:. ·~year. b~lnning OeL 2s. _;_ ..Js:::___ ,_o_Y_o_C._o_•_•-•-•-•-•-•-·- · -•-Y- •-•-•-·-~ -·-·-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-•---Y-·-·-Y-0With thi 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 slart USMMD (z-card fmnt and bac_k, 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 «JWlicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order on{y. payable to LMSS. BEGIN DATE COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Date of Birth Lakes Member D END DATE - - - - - - - -- - 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 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ LAST VESSEL: _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On: 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: D Yes Primary language spoken Noflember 2002 D No CPR: D Yes DNo ---~~~------ SIGNATURE Date Off: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 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, PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. wo2 The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, noq-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 LOS 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Damage Control - Paul Hall Center instructor Stan Beck conducted on-site damage control, CBR-D and EPA training aboard the USNS Soderman. SIU and AMO members successfully completing that class Sept. 8 are (in no specific order) Mark Zarynoff, J. Michael Murphy, Charles Ducharme, Ronald Von Drachek, Lewis Kitzmiller, John Fleming, Eric Overby, Vance Sisco, Patricia Hausner, Isaac Diaz, Michael Mayo, George Collier, Jonathan Leck, Christppher Hale, Claudia Kammeyer, Linda Rotter-Canon, Shawn Canon, John Herget, Russell English, Dale Harrison, Richard Gathers, Jeffrey Artingstall, Nathan Elliott, Adel Shahter, Robert Brown, Willie GMDSS - Completing the GMDSS course Oct. 18 are (from left) Chris Kalinowski, Leo Bonser Sr., Clifton Noe, Chad McCaulay, Mark Marler, Brad Wheeler (instructor) and Thomas Hulsart. Harrington, Clinton Gillins, Richard Abbott and Keith Mcintosh. Government Vessels.Upgrading Seafarers who successfully completed the government vessels cours~ Oct. 4 are (from left) Porfirio Amaya, Leon Smith, Edvaldo Graver, Eli Falcon, Clinton Cephas and Domingo Sesante. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, stands in back. Water Survival - Graduates of the Sept. 27 upgraders er survival class are (in alphabetical order) Ritche Acuman, Michael Aikens, Joseph Arnold, Weston Beres, Eric Bourdon, Herbert Daniels, Tonald Garber, Charles Huggins, Miguel Matos, Mohamed Mohamed, Thomas Muncy, Kris Piper, Gerry Querubin, Otis Reynolds, Raymond Ryan, Charles Sadler, Michael Sottak, Mark Vidal and Christopher Waldo. Government Vessels - Upgrading Chief Cook - Working their way up to chief cook are steward department members (from left) Theresa Ballard, Barbara Smith, Juan Boisset, Nannette Yant, Chef/Instructor John Dobson, Velonder Alford, Manes Sainvil, Alex Aguinaldo and Taffi Khaled. Seafarers who graduated from the government vessels course recently are (from left, front row) Justin Bowe, Robert Stevenson, Robert Grable, William Roy, (second row) Christopher Bartholmey, Brent Midgette, Caleb Buckley and Jayson Ray. Their instructor, / Greg Thompson, stands in the back. Computer Lab Classes Recent graduates of the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center pose with their certificates. In photo at left are (from· left, seated) Vernon S. Thibodeaux and Diane L. Wilkins . "( - In the photo at right are (from left, seated) Bartow Bridges and Michael Hester. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, stands in back in both pictures. 22 Seafarers LOB 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. November 2002 �J Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) - Completing the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course that ended Oct. 11 are (in no specific order) David Burnham, John Stephenson, Angelina Willoughby, Jill McGeorge, Vernon Thibodeaux, Shane Petschow, Jeffrey Hawkins, Ryan Johnston, Joseph Whitmore, Jerry Solangon, Sjarifundin Noor, Shwe Aung, Mark Vidal, Brent Williams, Masteredseed Paletaoga, George Velez-Rivera, Javier Gonzalez, Michael Fernandez, Andrew Peprah, Otis Reynolds, Edward Black, James Martin, Paul Riley, Trevon Mobley, Michael Graham, Martin Cooper, Kevin Steen and their instructor, Jim Sha~~(N~~N~allare~ctured . ) Fast Rescue Boat - Oct. 4 was graduation day for members of the most recent fast rescue boat course. In alphabetical order are Janet Baird, Eric Baliantz, Archi Bodden, Timothy Burke, Bartley Lane, Roy Matteson, Bruce Murphy, Michael Presser and John Stegeman. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ pecia aioed OS - Members of the specially trained OS class, graduating Sept. 27 under the instruction of Tom Gilliland, are Xavier Alfaro, Shwe Aung, Mohamed Fara, Kenneth Holly, Constantin Josan, George Lavender, Hector Pilgrim, Arthur Quinney, Daryl Spicer, Abe ARPA - Welding - The two-week welding course was completed Oct. 11 by (from left) Randolph Patterson, Scott Lucero and Joseph Roderiques. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is at far right. azquez an Leonard With instructor Mike Smith (far left) are Seafarers who graduated from the ARPA course Sept. 27. From the left are Smith, Richard Dozier, Ralph Kirby, Robert Minor, Charlie Pierce, James Brady and Bartow Bridges. e come. Oil Spill Containment - Seafarers working at Penn Maritime who completed the oil spill class Oct. 11 are (in no specific order) William Whited, Alvin Moore, Jimmie Ordoyne Jr., Archi Bodden, Albert Bodden, Andrew Packer, Jeffrey Rydza and Joseph Leech. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes Eric Baliantz, Alexander Bendoph, Gilbert Castillo, Alaa Embaby, Brenda Grays, Vance Holly, David Hudgins, Johnny Kemper, Jose Maisonet, Terrance Maxwell, Francis Oglesby Jr., Mark Schultz, Edward Shamburger, Phillip Spoerle, Theordore Wallace, Ricky Williams and Richard Wythe. November 2002 . Najib Camry, Robert Cando, Robert Gates, Elwin LeBouef, Cameron Peterson and William Thomas. Their instructor, Dave Martin, is at far right. Seafarers LOG 23 �November 2002 .. Joins Pleased with their initial voyage on the new USNS Soderman are (from left) Supply Officer Chuck Ducharme, Chief Steward Chris Hale and Chief Cook Claudia Kammeyer. The SIU-crewed USNS Soderman-the last of eight new LMSRs (large, medium-speed roll-on/roll-off ships) built at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO) in San Diego-was delivered to the U.S. Navy Sept. 24. Prior to delivery, the Watson-class vessel successfully completed sea trials with SIU crew members aboard. Named for Army Pfc. William A. Soderman (19121980), a World War II recpient of the Medal of Honor Bosun Michael Mayo (left), who sent the LOG the photos appearing on this page, meets with Electrician Russell English to make sure everything's running properly. for his heroic actions in Belgium in 1944, the newest member of the MSC fleet is a non-combatant vessel that will carry U.S. Army equipment, vehicles and supplies and will be prepositioned to quickly deli er the cargo to potential areas of conflict around the world. The ship is 950 feet in length, has a beam of 105.8 feet, displaces approximately 62,000 long tons when fully loaded, and can sustain speeds of up to 24 knots. Its cargo carrying capacity exceeds 394,000 square feet. Wiper Isaac Diaz does his part unreeling the hose to help make the fire drill successful. Right: Posing on deck is AB Richard Gathers. ,, I Gathering on deck for a group shot are (from left, kneeling) Chief Cook Claudia Kammeyer, Wiper Isaac Diaz, Bosun Michael Mayo, QMED Keith Mcintosh, (standing) Chief Steward Chris Hale, Electrician Russell English, AB Patrtician Hausner (hidden), QMED Robert Brown, OS Dale Harrison, OS Nate Elliot, Supply Officer Chuck Ducharme, AB Clinton Gillins, AB Willie Harrington, AB Richard Gathers and OS Adel Shahter. (Not pictured are SA Linda Rotter-Canon, Shawn Canon, Electronics Officer George Collier, AB Jeffrey Artingstall and QMED Richard Abbott.) . All hands take part in the shipboard fire and emergency drills. At right, simulating his actions in a "smoke-filled" room is AB Jeffrey Artingstall. Manning the hose on deck are (from left) Electronics Officer George Collier, Wiper Isaac Diaz, OS Nate Elliot, AB Clinton Gillins, AB Jeffrey Artingstall and AB Richard Gathers. '! \ \, \ AB Clinton Gillins (above) and QMED Robert Brown (right) are two of the hard-working crew members aboard the USNS Soderman who helped ready the latest LMSR for delivery to the U.S. Navy's Strategic Sealift Program. 1, ... , ' • 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 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 November 2002 Description An account of the resource Headlines: ITF STEPS UP CAMPAIGN TO SPOTLIGHT MISTREATMENT OF CRUISE-SHIP EMPLOYEES FEDERATION'S NEW WEB SITE SHOWS CANDIDATES' RECORDS TRANSCOM CHIEF BACKS MSP QUICKLY BUT CAUTIOUSLY, SEAFARERS HELP RESCUE 5 CUBAN REFUGEES KEY TRANSPORTATION FORUM TACKLES TREATMENT OF CREWS, SHIPBOARD SECURITY ISSUES SEAFARERS-CREWED CSX HAWAII CARRIES BASEBALL GEAR TO KIDS MSC COMMANDER PROMOTED MAERSK MISSOURI JOINS U.S. FLEET ITF AFFILIATE UNIONS PROMOTE SAFETY ON WORLD MARITIME DAY CRUISE SHIP CONMAN STILL AT LARGE, ITF CAUTIONS WORLD MARITIME DAY LETTER SIGNALS NEW SUPPORT IN ENERGY SECTOR FOR OFFSHORE MARINERS UNITED HIGHLY REGARDED CEO MCMILLEN DIES AT 67 SEAFARER BARRETT MITCHELL ERCOGNIZED FOR RESCUE EVIDENCE SUGGESTS TERRORISTS ATTACKED FRENCH OIL TANKER, KILLING ONE MARINER LAKE CARGOES INCREASE IN SEPTEMBER SENEGAL FERRY DISASTER CLAIMS NEARLY 1,000 UNION, MSC CONTINUE CMPI NEGOTIATIONS 'OPEN SEASON' FOR FEDERAL WORKERS' HEALTH BENEFITS PLAN STARTS NOV. 11 APPRENTICE PROGRAM: SPRINGBOARD FOR MARITIME CAREERS SIU-CREWED SODERMAN JOINS MSC 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 11/1/2002 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. 11 2002 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/578c49fef504ff886dc9e21e4d8b8178.pdf 93c2d43e79591277250823ebfe369c75 PDF Text Text 20117_P1,2,4,6,18.qxd 10/26/2003 3:27 PM Page 1 Volume 65, Number 11 November 2003 Car Carrier, Prepositioning Ship Signal New SIU Jobs The newly reflagged car carrier Freedom (below) and the refurbished prepositioning ship USNS Roy Wheat (right) last month joined the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Page 3. Matson Ship Arrives in Hawaii Paul Hall Honored by DOL SIUNA’s 2nd President Enters Hall of Fame The new Matson vessel Manukai arrived last month in Honolulu on its inaugural voyage. Page 7. The U.S. Department of Labor on Oct. 1 inducted the late SIUNA President Paul Hall into its Hall of Fame, along with two other individuals. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao (second row, center) chaired the ceremony, while SIU President Michael Sacco (standing to Chao’s immediate left) spoke on behalf of Hall and the union. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (standing to Chao’s immediate right) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (directly behind Heindel) were among many other union and school officials in attendance. Students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education provided the color guard. Page 3. Strikes Driven By Health Care Page 2 LNG Libra Crew Rescues 2 Page 4 ITF Progresses In FOC Campaign Page 24 �20117_P1,2,4,6,18.qxd 10/23/2003 7:52 PM Page 2 President’s Report Taking a Stand In the ongoing debate over U.S. health care, so many statistics are reported in the media, it can be tough sometimes to see the forest for the trees. But if the general public and our representatives remember only one figure, here’s a revealing one: 80,000. That’s the approximate number of union members across the country who were on strike late last month—on strike mainly because of health care issues. It’s also a number that speaks volumes about how serious and widespread America’s health care crisis has become. Michael Sacco The average person who’s never been in a union probably can’t appreciate just how serious and difficult it is for workers to go on strike. Make no mistake, it is an absolute last resort—a powerful and occasionally needed tool, but also one that’s very rarely used. Most union members go through their whole careers without a strike. Usually, it’s an agonizing decision, and it comes with no guarantee of success. Without question, the right to withhold one’s labor is a basic human right that should exist all over the world. Equally without question, it’s not something that workers do on a whim. That’s why the respective job actions involving our brothers and sisters from the United Food and Commercial Workers Union and the Amalgamated Transit Union drive home the desperation being felt by patients all across the nation. The striking (and locked out) union members and their families have reached the point where the sacrifices and uncertainty of hitting the bricks appear less painful than accepting the unfair burden of costlier or reduced health benefits. In many cases, they previously have given up wage increases to maintain their benefits. Now, those benefits are threatened anyway. So, in essence the workers have said, “Enough!” And who can blame them? Who in this country hasn’t been affected by health care costs that are out of control? Who isn’t concerned about getting or maintaining affordable, decent coverage? Just last month, several new studies shed even more light on this situation. Amid the sea of statistics, a few jumped out. If you’ve followed this issue, you probably know that almost 44 million Americans have no health insurance. What may come as a surprise is that the average yearly out-of-pocket costs for employees of large companies have more than doubled during the past five years. The average employer contribution has dropped to 70 percent from 75 during that same period. In just the past three years, the average amount that workers pay toward their premiums for family coverage increased by almost 50 percent. During that same time, employees’ out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs jumped by as much as 71 percent. One figure that particularly surprised me is that only about four percent of large employers still pay 100 percent of the premiums for family coverage. That’s a giant drop from what workers enjoyed a decade ago. So that I don’t fall into that forest-for-the-trees trap, I’ll repeat the most revealing statistic: 80,000. That’s 80,000 union members who are taking a stand for every worker, whether or not they belong to a union. It’s also 80,000 families who are on those picket lines— spouses, children, parents. And it’s 80,000 people who are experiencing the fastest-growing trend in contract negotiations. In many contract talks, health care has become the number one issue, ahead of wages and everything else. That’s the case for the UFCW and ATU workers, as it was for the United Auto Workers members who last month approved a contract in which health benefits played a dominant role. The same was true for union workers at General Electric who went on strike earlier this year because of health care issues. I believe it’s no exaggeration to say that health care very well may be the top issue in next year’s national elections. At the very least, it’ll be up there with the war on terrorism, the overall economy and employment. Ten years ago, the need for viable and affordable health care was front-page news, inspiring a long, heated debate. National leaders put a bandage on this problem and hoped it would go away. Today, the bandage has fallen off. We no longer have a scab, but an infected wound. Today, America needs more than a bandage. Let’s hope that the national debate over health care that takes place between now and the elections provides not a bandage, but real treatment and cures for all Americans. The courageous actions of our brothers and sisters who are on strike may be the wake-up call that starts righting the ship. Volume 65, Number 11 November 2003 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 Health Care Costs Drive Transit, Grocery Strikes Nearly 80,000 trade unionists —most of them members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW)—either were on strike or were locked out in several states as this issue of the LOG went to press. An estimated 70,000 UFCW members were walking picket lines in California, Missouri, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky. In Southern California, roughly 2,200 mechanics who are members of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) were on strike, while some 6,000 drivers and train operators in that region who also are ATU members walked off the job in solidarity. Also, some Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies reportedly engaged in “sick-outs” in a show of unity with the ATU and to protest burgeoning health care costs. In fact, out-of-control health care costs are at the heart of the disputes. “Our nation is facing a health care crisis of colossal proportions. The tens of thousands of workers who are on strike for quality, affordable health care are taking a stand for all American working families who are being squeezed beyond their limits by our broken and inadequate health care system,” stated AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “We commend the grocery store workers and Los Angeles transit workers who are exercising their unified voice on this issue through their respective unions and insisting that they will not sacrifice affordable health care.” Although the details vary from contract to contract, the dilemma faced by Kroger workers in Charleston, W. Va. is representative of the problems caused by continually growing health care costs. There, workers are striking in part because of a company proposal that either would cut their health benefits or cost them up to $100 more per week—per worker —to maintain their current coverage. The story is similar at other grocery stores where workers are on strike or are locked out, including Kroger Company’s Ralphs, Safeway Inc.’s Vons, Albertsons, Shop ’n Save, Schnucks, and Dierbergs. In San Diego, for example, the Albertsons chain pays $3.78 into the workers’ insurance fund for each hour an employee is on the job. UFCW members there turned down a proposal to reduce contributions for new hires to $1.35 an hour—a reduction that the union noted would weaken the overall fund to 50 percent of its current value. “Nearly every major labor action this year has been the result of runaway health care costs and employers’ attempts to foist those skyrocketing costs onto workers,” Sweeney noted. The federation president pointed out that between the years 2000 and 2002, the premiums paid by workers for family health insurance in the most widely used type of health plan soared by 20 percent, while employers have been cutting the benefits families get from their health plans. SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper (far right in photo above, second from right in bottom photo) delivers water to appreciative members of UFCW Local 655, who are on strike. Nearly 44 million Americans were uninsured in 2002, an increase of 3.7 million over 2000. Many of those who have lost health care still have jobs—80 percent of the uninsured live in working households—but can’t afford the employer-provided coverage. “When employers shift costs to workers, entire communities suffer because they are expected to pick up the tab for the increased public health care costs,” Sweeney said. “Both employers and workers need relief from high costs. “The legislation recently enacted in California to develop strategies to do this is a welcome start and other states, as well as the federal government, would be welladvised to follow California’s lead in finding long-term solu- tions to moderating health costs. In the meantime, pushing the bill for increasing health costs off on workers is no solution.” Health care costs are hurting workers in other ways. Ron Blackwell, the federation’s director of corporate affairs, recently told the Associated Press, “In some cases, workers could have probably gotten higher wages (in their contracts) had they not had to bargain for health benefits.” On average, employees nationwide pay approximately 16 percent of the cost of single coverage and 27 percent of the cost of family coverage. According to news reports, the University of California next year will charge employees who cover two-adult households double the premium paid by single-employee households. Notice Documentation of STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) As previously reported, because STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) is renewable via sea service, the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center recently announced that STCW certificates no longer will indicate the dates when mariners complete BST. SIU members who hold STCW certificates that don’t list BST expiration dates should carry documentation verifying their most recent 12 months’ sea time. This is vital because when renewing BST via sea service, the renewal date is a “running calendar” in which credit for competency in BST extends for five years beyond the date at which the mariner has completed one year of sea service. For instance, if on October 1, 2003, you count backward and determine the mariner completed one year of sea service on June 1, 2002, then the mariner is considered to be competent in the four elements of BST through May 31, 2007. The mariner’s documented sea time is proof of that competency. Members who carry STCW certificates with BST expiration dates should carry documentation of their most recent year’s sea time once the expiration date is reached. The union is developing a computer program for the registration/shipping system that will automatically calculate sea time and issue a verification letter. Once developed, the union will submit a proposal to the NMC for approval. November 2003 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/23/2003 8:28 PM Page 3 SIU Gains Car Carrier, MSC Ship October brought more new job opportunities for Seafarers, as the union welcomed the reflagged car carrier Freedom and the prepositioning vessel USNS Roy Wheat. The Freedom is the fifth ship in American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier’s (ARC) fleet of U.S.-flag car carriers. It previously traded as the Takamine and was scheduled to reflag American Oct. 30 during a ceremony in Baltimore. Pacific-Gulf Marine (PGM) is managing and operating the Freedom, built in 1997. The 623foot ship has a total capacity of 5,890 cars (or 803 trucks) and is ideally suited for roll-on/roll-off, project and “heavylift” cargoes. A sister ship to the Tanabata, the vessel will be deployed in ARC’s service between the U.S. East Coast and Northern Europe. “This is great news for the union, and we look forward to providing the unlicensed crews for the Freedom and the USNS Wheat,” noted Seafarers Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “The reflagging of the car carrier and the addition of the prepositioning ship also signals good news for national security, because it helps maintain a strong pool of trained, loyal U.S. mariners.” PGM Chief Executive Officer Todd B. Johnson stated, “We are looking forward to performing the ongoing management and operation of the Freedom. This is an exciting project for PGM and a welcome addition to the U.S.-flag fleet.” Earlier in the month, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) conducted a naming ceremony for the 864-foot USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat, a new addition to the agency’s afloat prepositioning fleet. U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (DMiss.), a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine; Lt. Gen. Martin R. Berndt, USMC, Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Atlantic; and Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, Commander, MSC, delivered remarks at the Oct. 7 ceremony at Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Fla. “Our civilian mariners are essential to our nation’s strength and the readiness of our armed forces,” Brewer noted. “They have served in every conflict, car- The prepositioning ship USNS Wheat has a total cargo capacity of 200,000 square feet and can sustain speeds of more than 20 knots. Renamed the Freedom and reflagged under the Stars and Stripes, the newest SIU-contracted car carrier offers new job opportunities for Seafarers. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003 for the observance of the Christmas day holiday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2003 Vice Adm. David L. Brewer III, USN, said the prepositioning ship USNS Wheat will improve our nation’s combat readiness. U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) thanks the Wheat family for Roy Wheat’s heroism. Lt. Gen. Martin R. Berndt, USMC, said the USNS Wheat’s crew “will take Wheat’s name around the world in defense of freedom.” rying combat gear and supplies for America’s war fighters.” Lance Cpl. Wheat was the only Mississippian to receive the nation’s highest military honor during the Vietnam War. He died in combat on Aug. 11, 1967 after diving on an exploding anti-personnel mine in order to protect fellow Marines. Wheat posthu- mously was awarded the Medal of Honor. Operated by Keystone Shipping, the vessel named in Wheat’s memory will preposition materiel for the U.S. Marine Corps, enabling quick transport to trouble spots as Marines sail or are flown into theater. The USNS Wheat is one of about three dozen MSC prepositioning ships, most of which are located in the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean and in the Western Pacific. The U.S. Navy purchased the Ukrainian-built former Soviet auxiliary ship in 1997. The vessel originally was 746 feet long, but gained an additional 118 feet through refurbishment. Labor Department Inducts Paul Hall into Hall of Fame The Seafarers International Union received a tremendous honor Oct. 1 when the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) inducted the late SIU President Paul Hall into its Hall of Fame. Active and retired Seafarers, as well as members of Paul Hall’s family, attended the induction ceremony at the DOL offices in Washington, D.C. “Paul Hall fought for good pay and benefits for American mariners, and he also fought for their education,” noted U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. “It’s fitting that the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education today is instrumental in ensuring that young people have the opportunity to pursue careers at sea.” SIU President Michael Sacco addressed the audience of approximately 200 people, which also included past and present SIU officials and students from the Paul Hall Center—the SIU’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. “Today, we honor the memory of a man who was totally committed to the rank-and-file Seafarer,” Sacco stated. “I think it’s worth noting that through his unwavering support of the U.S. Merchant Marine, he also was dedicated to the national and economic security of the United States. Not only that, he was also a great champion of many, many other workers throughout the trade union movement.” Two other individuals were inducted: Steve Young, former national president of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP); and Milton Hershey, founder of Hershey Foods Corporation as well as the M.S. Hershey Foundation. “The leaders we honor today were visionaries of courage, conviction, and service. Their ideals made a positive and lasting impact in improving the lives of working Americans,” said Chao. In announcing the selections, the DOL noted that the Labor Hall of Fame was founded in 1989 to honor posthumously those Americans whose distinctive contributions enhanced the quality of life for America’s workers. Open to the public, the hall itself is composed of kiosks of memorabilia and is located in the North Plaza of the Department of Labor on Constitution Avenue. Paul Hall served as the second president of the Seafarers International Union of North This painting of Paul Hall America. He contribis part of his display in the uted significant and farreaching aid to the U.S. U.S. Labor Hall of Fame. SIU President Michael Sacco recalls some of Paul Hall’s many accomplishments as U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao enjoys the remarks. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao says it is fitting that the Paul Hall Center keeps alive the memory of the SIUNA’s second president. maritime industry. Hall was known by several U.S. Congressmen as the “father of the American Merchant Marine” for his role in the passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. “I worked with Paul for many years,” Sacco told the crowd. “He was tough and demanding and not always easy to work for. But he was 100 percent devoted to improving the lives of Seafarers and all workers, and he would accept nothing less than a 100 percent commitment from everyone around him. Paul was a man who wouldn’t ask you do to anything that he wouldn’t do himself. Ultimately, that’s a big reason why people worked so hard for him.” He added, “What really set Paul apart was his foresight. Though he came from poverty and didn’t complete much schooling, he was a true visionary and was very much ahead of his time.” Among Hall’s proudest accomplishments were securing good benefits for Seafarers and their families, and founding the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1967. The main campus was renamed in Hall’s memory in 1991. He died of cancer in 1980, at age 65. Seafarers LOG 3 �20117_P1,2,4,6,18.qxd 10/26/2003 3:32 PM Page 4 LNG Crew Rescues Filipino Fishermen Filipino fishermen Marcelo Corrales and Ronnie Natinga owe their lives to the captain and crew of the Seafarers-contracted LNG Libra. The vessel on Aug. 20 saved the duo from certain doom some 85 nautical miles north northeast of Kandi Sulawesi in the Celebes Sea. According to AB Eduardo Morre, who regularly sails on the vessel, the Libra lookout spotted two fishermen drifting in their 13-foot fishing boats and signaling that they were in distress. The word was passed to Libra Captain Thomas S. Laird who altered his course and maneuvered into position to render assistance. The Libra at the time was on course to Bontang, Indonesia. Once in position, Libra crew members extracted the fishermen from their boats. Aside from being hungry, thirsty and tired following their rescue, Natinga and Corrales were in relatively good medical condition. They were clothed, fed and questioned about how they had managed to get themselves into such a precarious situation. The duo revealed that they, along with fishermen in three other small vessels, had departed Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines during the early morning hours of Aug. 16. Once in the open sea, however, they lost contact with their comrades and drifted some 200 miles south of their original location. Having exhausted all means for requesting assistance from the Philippine Coast Guard/Indonesian Search and Rescue authorities over the next four days, they were left at the mercy of the sea. At the time of their rescue, Natinga and Corrales had no food or water remaining on their boats. ‘The example of professionalism, teamwork and generosity speaks highly of the crew . . .’ —Thomas S. Laird Captain, LNG Libra Following the rescue, Libra crew members set the fishermen’s vessels adrift, and the captain resumed his course. Meanwhile, Natinga and Corrales rested for two nights and three days. After arriving in Bontang, Captain Laird made arrangements to repatriate the two fishermen back to their country. The captain also thanked everyone for their efforts in the successful rescue. “The example of professionalism, teamwork and generosity speaks highly of the crew of the LNG Libra on voyage 481,” Laird said. “I know that Mercelo, Ronnie, and their families and loves ones will always be very grateful for the kindness and compassion that was shown by all. “Being good shipmates and watching out for one another do not apply only on board our vessel,” the captain concluded. “Aug. 20 showed that it applies to everyone at sea as well.” Seafarers aboard the Libra at the time of the rescue were: Bosun Frank Hedge, ABs David W. Collins, Eddie R. Ponteres, Richard T. Spence, Pedro Ramos, Rodolfo C. Antonio and Osmond Raji; QMEDs Richard E. Wilson, Jose A. Quinones and Leonides B. Bacal; GUDE Julian L. Lacuesta; Chief Steward Abraham M. Martinez; Chief Cook Paul F. Diesner, and Steward Assistants Monty E. Smith, Carlos D. Boiser Jr. and Roserlina A. Commager. Those involved in the actual rescue included Bosun Hedge; ABs Ponteres, Antonio and Raji, GUDE Lacuesta Jr.; and SAs Boiser and Commager. The LNG Libra maneuvers alongside the small boats of Marcelo Corrales and Ronnie Natinga to commence rescue operations. Members of the LNG crew join the rescued fishermen for a lighthearted moment. From left to right are AB Rodolfo Antonio, AB Eddie Ponteres, Third Mate Don Bridenstine Jr., rescued fisherman Ronnie Natinga, SA Roserlina Commager, Capt. Thomas S. Laird, rescued fisherman Marcelo Corrales, Bosun Frank Hedge, and AB Osmond Raji. Crowley Tug Crew Does ‘Excellent Job’ Towing Car Carrier The SIU-crewed Crowley tug Sea Cloud on Sept. 13 came to the aid of the Sunbelt Dixie, a car carrier that was stranded some 190 miles offshore from the port of Long Beach/Los Angles, according to Jim Penny, Crowley vessel operations manager. “We got a call that the Sunbelt Dixie was broken down as a result of some maintenance problems,” Penny said. “The car carrier had left San Diego and was en route to some place in the Far East … Japan, I believe. We were asked to get a crew together and get out to her Contract Department News The union’s contracts department is reporting wage increases and other gains for members at a number of SIU-contracted companies. Seafarers employed by Dyn Marine will receive a three percent increase in total labor costs (wages, vacation benefits, etc.), retroactive to Sept. 17, 2003. Seafarers sailing aboard the Maersk Rhode Island also will receive a three percent increase in 4 Seafarers LOG total labor costs, retroactive to Sept. 1, 2003. Members employed on Maritrans tankers will receive a three percent increase in total labor costs, retroactive to June 1, 2003. And, SIU members employed aboard Sealift, Inc.’s Bennett and Merlin are scheduled to receive a three percent increase in total labor costs retroactive to Oct. 1, 2003. The Crowley tug Sea Cloud tows the Sunbelt Dixie, a car carrier, toward port after the latter vessel broke down about 190 miles offshore near the port of Long Beach/Los Angeles. as quickly as possible.” Not long after receiving the call, a crew had been assembled and the tug Sea Cloud departed port. “The tug and its crew got under way at 1430 hours on Aug. 13,” said Penny. “They went out to the location of the Sunbelt Dixie, fitted her with an emergency tow bar and then brought her home. The Sea Cloud returned at 1700 hours on Aug. 16.” Those aboard the Sea Cloud during the towing operations were Captain Wayne Byrd, Chief Mate Ed Brady, Second Mate Benny Guillot, Engineer Bob Bouton, and ABs Mike Restivo and George Siegel. “The crew did an excellent job in dealing with this quick response situation,’ said Penny. “They were very efficient as well as professional in their approach and actions. The customer was very happy.” Flu Shots Offered at Tacoma Hall As offered in the past, the Tacoma union hall will have an on-site nurse from the port clinic giving out flu shots to eligible members and dependents. The shots will be available Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. To find out if you or your dependents are eligible for this benefit, please contact the Seafarers Health & Benefits Plan at (800) 252-4674. Massachusetts WWII Mariners Eligible for $300 Veterans Bonus All U.S. veterans received a $300 bonus (as well as other benefits) at the end of World War II—all, that is, except for members of the U.S. Merchant Marine. In 1988—42 years after the war, most merchant mariners were given official status as veterans. Ten years after that, another victory was secured when the mariners’ cutoff date for veterans’ status was changed to match the date used by the armed forces. Now, 57 years from the end of the war, the question of the $300 bonus is being addressed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Anyone who sailed in the U.S. Merchant Marine at any time from Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946 and who lived in Massachusetts for six months before entering the Merchant Marine is eligible for the $300 bonus. Applications must be for those veterans still alive, not their heirs. For application information, call the Massachusetts treasurer’s office at (617) 367-3900, ext. 543, and ask about the Massachusetts veterans bonus. No fewer than 6,795 merchant mariners were killed during the war; more than 460 of them were from Massachusetts. November 2003 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/26/2003 3:24 PM Page 5 Union Presidents Stand Up for Jones Act Maritime Cabotage Task Force Also Reiterates Support The presidents of five maritime unions recently wrote to U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) to convey their unified, strong opposition to legislation that would gut the Jones Act. SIU President Mike Sacco; Masters, Mates & Pilots President Tim Brown; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association President Ron Davis; American Maritime Officers President Mike McKay; and International Longshore & Warehouse Union President James Spinosa in early October urged Young—the chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure—to join them in opposing bills introduced by U.S. Rep. Ed Case (DHawaii) that would repeal the application of the Jones Act to the carriage of cargo in the U.S. noncontiguous domestic trades. The legislation (H.R. 2845, H.R. 2846 and H.R. 2847) would allow foreign-built and foreignflag vessels that are owned by subsidiaries of foreign corporations to operate between American ports. “We recognize that the proposed legislation would require that American citizens be employed aboard the foreign-flag vessels that are given a coastwise endorsement to operate in the domestic trades,” the letter states. “In fact, we believe that one of the important lessons learned from Operation Iraqi Freedom is that our country must have a sufficient number of trained American citizen maritime personnel to crew the government-owned and -chartered and private commercial vessels called into service during time of war or other emergency. “However, notwithstanding this clear recognition of the important role that American sea- faring personnel play in our nation’s commercial sealift capability planning, it is contrary to the overall defense policy of our nation to allow foreign-owned and foreign-flag vessels to capture control of America’s domestic trades.” Under Case’s legislation, U.S. citizens working aboard these foreign-flag ships would be robbed of the protections of American labor laws and other regulations covering U.S. crews on American-flag ships. Additionally, the letter notes, “Equally important, by allowing foreign-flag vessels to operate between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Alaska without having to comply with all U.S. standards and without having to pay U.S. taxes, existing U.S. vessel operations in these trades will be severely threatened and the investments made by these companies in U.S.-built, U.S.-flag ships will be lost. “Notwithstanding what the opponents of America’s cabotage laws contend, the implications for our national security are great if America loses American-owned domestic shipping companies. If this occurs, the U.S. will be forced to rely instead on the good will of foreign companies to make their foreign-flag vessels available to provide the sealift sustainment capability needed by the Department of Defense to supply American forces overseas.” Meanwhile, the Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), a broad-based coalition to which the SIU is affiliated, recently wrote to Case detailing the numerous economic and security benefits of the Jones Act, which requires that cargo moving between U.S. ports be carried on U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built vessels. “The Jones Act is widely recognized as an important component of U.S. national security,” states the MCTF letter. “The Jones Act has been supported by all modern Commanders in Chief, from President Carter to President George W. Bush. Similarly, the Jones Act has been supported by the U.S. military’s top transportation officials. For example, the November 2003 The following year, Pfeiffer began his long association with Matson and its parent company, Alexander & Baldwin. He became vice president and general manager of Matson Terminals, Inc. in 1960, where he was instrumental in helping negotiate an historic labor agreement that made containerization of cargo the standard method of shipping, thereby transforming the maritime industry. Two years later, he was elected president of Matson Terminals, and he continued to rise through the ranks, eventually being named CEO and chairman of the board at Alexander & Baldwin. He retired in 1999 and served as chairman emeritus, continuing to attend meetings and keeping regular office hours at Matson headquarters in San Francisco until shortly before his death. Pfeiffer was widely respected by both labor and management, and he earned many accolades over the years, including three honorary doctorates. One measure of respect shown to him while he was still living was the naming of a Matson ship in his honor. The SIU-crewed R.J. Pfeiffer went provided vital support to military operations,” the MCTF letter continues. “This support included use by the Defense Department of a Jones Act roll-on/roll-off vessel from the Alaska trade to transport military equipment to the Persian Gulf, as well as the efforts of hundreds of American civilian seafarers to crew the 40 ships activated from the U.S. Government’s Ready Reserve Fleet to aid in the sealift effort.” Seafarers Back Maersk Application Thousands of Seafarers last month submitted letters to the Department of Transportation (DOT) supporting a request by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) to directly operate their vessels that are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). At SIU membership meetings across the country, Seafarers eagerly signed the letters after reading and hearing about the issue. The letters were mailed to the DOT docket clerk ahead of the Oct. 24 deadline for public comments. “Our members deserve credit for understanding the issue and supporting the position that benefits not only their job security, but also U.S. national security,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “Seafarers realize that Maersk’s application is consistent with existing law. Congress also is positioned to approve MSP reauthorization legislation that would allow the exact same arrangement as proposed by Maersk Line, Limited.” A letter detailing the issue was signed by Sacco; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association President Ron Davis; and Masters, Mates & Pilots President Tim Brown on Oct. 3 and then circulated among the respective memberships. In part, the letter pointed out that MLL is based in Norfolk, Va. and was incorporated in the United States in 1947. The company is independently controlled by a board of directors composed entirely of U.S. citizens including two retired Admirals from the U.S. Navy. MLL also is the largest sealift contractor with the U.S. Department of Defense. “Our duty to our respective members dictates that we preserve your jobs,” the union presidents noted. “Accordingly, we ask that you not be tricked into believing that you will lose your jobs or be looked upon as un-American (if you support MLL’s position). Instead, know with certainty that when MLL takes over direct control of the MSP vessels you will keep your job, be sailing on an Americanflag vessel as a U.S. Merchant Mariner and be working for a U.S. company.” The presidents also pointed out that the DOT’s Maritime Administration “has already ruled that MLL is an eligible transferee of the MSP Operating Agreements should MLL desire to become the MSP contractor.” The letters signed by Seafarers read in part, “It is important to U.S.-flag shipping, national security, and the stability and reliability of defense sealift for the Maritime Administration to approve the MLL’s request…. Transferring the vessel operating agreements to MLL provides the long-term certainty about crewing and the future of the vessels in the program that are critical to the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine and national defense sealift. “MLL is a respected commercial operator that provides vital assets and systems needed to meet defense sealift requirements, including employment opportunities for seafarers. The SIU is proud to provide unlicensed crew to many Maersk ships performing defense missions, not just those in MSP. Allowing Maersk to directly operate these ships, instead of through a middle-man like USSM, is the best way to ensure our jobs and the future of the program.” Study: Unions’ Gains Benefit All Workers Former Matson Chairman/CEO Robert J. Pfeiffer Dies at 83 Robert J. “Bobby” Pfeiffer, a well-respected leader in the maritime community and chairman and CEO of Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. and its corporate parent, Alexander & Baldwin, Inc., succumbed to cancer Sept. 26, 2003 at his home in Orinda, Calif. He was 83. Pfeiffer, who was born in Fiji in 1920 and grew up in Hawaii, came from a long line of sea captains. When he was 12, he began working summers as a deckhand on a harbor tug. Within four years, he had a master’s license for small vessels and later served as a captain on interisland ships, working full-time for Inter-Island Steam Navigation after his graduation from high school. He served in the Navy during World War II and remained in the Naval Reserve until 1965, retiring with the rank of commander. He returned to InterIsland Steam Navigation, where by 1950 he had risen to the position of executive vice president. He then moved to Alhambra, Calif. in 1955 to become vice president and general manager of Pacific Cut Stone and Granite Co. former heads of the Defense Department’s U.S. Transportation Command, General Walter Kross, USA, and General Charles T. Robertson, USAF, each characterized the Jones Act as ‘a proven performer that supports both our nation’s military security and economic soundness.’ “During Operation Iraqi Freedom, U.S.-flag domestic operators, shipyards, and American seafarers from Jones Act ships Robert J. “Bobby” Pfeiffer into service in 1992. The only commercial vessel built in a U.S. shipyard since 1984, it was the last containership built for the Hawaiian trade in the 20th century and the last new build to enter the Matson fleet. (Since then, the SIU-crewed Manukai has joined the Matson fleet, to be followed in mid-2004 by the Maunawili.) His leadership skills also extended to charitable and community causes. Pfeiffer’s wife, Mary, whom he met in the Navy, died in 2002 after 57 years of marriage. He is survived by three daughters, a son, and nine grandchildren. Memorial services were held Oct. 16 in San Francisco. A new report by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) details the benefits unions provide for both unionized and unrepresented workers. Titled “How unions help all workers,” the report notes that employees with collective bargaining agreements have a substantial advantage over nonunion workers, as union wages are approximately 20 percent higher. Overall union compensation (wages and benefits) is about 28 percent higher. Unionized workers also are more likely to receive paid leave. They are up to 28 percent more likely to have employer-provided health insurance and up to 54 percent more likely to participate in an employer-provided pension plan, according to the study. “Unions are instrumental in establishing and enforcing an extensive array of labor laws, including protections that give workers unemployment insurance, Social Security, safety and health standards in the workplace, and extra pay for overtime,” the EPI noted when announcing the report. “Unions educate their members on their rights and protections under the law, and encourage them to exercise their rights and participate in programs that are open to them. When union members exercise their rights, unions act to limit employer reprisals, correct disinformation, provide resources to make a claim, and negotiate solutions to disputes on behalf of workers.” The EPI is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research group based in Washington, D.C. The study points out that in unionized industries or regions, the better pay and benefits that unions have won for their members raises the standard that nonunion employers frequently follow. According to the report, “Generally, unions have set norms and established practices, like fringe benefits and grievance procedures, which have become widely accepted practice, thereby improving pay and working conditions for the entire workforce.” “The research evidence clearly shows that the labor protections enjoyed by America’s entire workforce can be attributed in large part to unions,” said EPI President Lawrence Mishel. Seafarers LOG 5 �20117_P1,2,4,6,18.qxd 10/23/2003 7:52 PM Page 6 SOCP Tackles ‘Short Sea Shipping’ The Short Sea Shipping initiative (SSS) and how it potentially will be impacted by ongoing maritime security practices took center stage of the agenda Oct. 7-8 during the Ship Operations Cooperative Program (SOCP) Conference at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Principal speakers during the program’s packed slate included U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Schubert; Rear Adm. Thomas H. Gilmour, assistant commandant for Marine Safety and Environmental Protection, U.S. Coast Guard; and Raymond Barberesi of the U.S. Maritime Administration. SIU President Michael Sacco also was featured on the agenda. On day one of the program, he welcomed conference attendees to the Paul Hall Center on the occasion of their 10th anniversary meeting and congratulated the entire SOCP for its success in U.S. Coast Guard Captain Ernie Fink addresses the audience. promoting a strong U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. “As the name of your organization indicates,” President Sacco said, “cooperation throughout our industry is key. We’re all in this together.” Speaking specifically about the conference site and providing some background about its reputation, Sacco noted, “The Paul Hall Center is recognized as a model of labor-management cooperation. It (the school) is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when we work together…a great place for people to begin their careers as merchant mariners.” In addition to providing entrylevel training for merchant mariners, Sacco told conference attendees that the school is a hub where mariners can return to hone and expand their skills. “The school also is designed for continued vocational training, so students can come back and advance all the way from the entry ratings to becoming officers,” Sacco pointed out. “And we offer academic support, too. Students can earn a GED here at Piney Point…and receive college credits for many of our vocational classes, which are part of our degree-granting status for an Associate of Arts degree in Nautical Science or Marine Engineering.” Barberesi provided a detailed explanation on current and future cooperative efforts involving SSS, which aims to encourage cargo movements by water. After noting that the initiative became a SOCP is a private/public partnership formed 10 years ago to share resources and the application of technology to improve ship safety, training and other aspects of the maritime industry. ` Lakes Boatmen Get the Job Done SIU Port Agent Don Thornton recently met with SIU boatmen employed by Great Lakes Towing, including AB William Hermes (top photo) and Deckhand Steve Rodziczak (at left) aboard the tug Indiana in Green Bay, Wis. 6 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco welcomes SOCP attendees for their conference in Piney Point, Md. focal point after Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta assumed his post, Barberesi told those in attendance that the SSS, which will increase water transportation while also easing truck highway congestion, also will: „ Result in lower surface transportation improvements and maintenance costs, „ Reduce the amount of hazardous materials moving on the nation’s surface system, „ Improve the overall security and safety of the nation’s transportation system and „ Create industry opportunities through the Jones Act and cabotage laws. Barberesi also stressed the importance of international cooperation, noting the necessity of working closely with the Canadian, Mexican and European communities. During a question and answer session following his presentation, Barberesi was asked how new and possibly confusing and/or conflicting SSS licensing requirements and federal regulations will be handled. His response was that he was not ex- pecting anything different from what we currently do. “I don’t think short sea shipping will necessitate the need for any new licensing or regulations.” On this issue of whether or not the trucking industry is opposing SSS, Barberesi said dialogue is the key. He noted that the more discussion that takes place, the more concerned parties would realize that the initiative would complement truckers’ interests. Admiral Gilmour addressed the impact of maritime security on SSS during his remarks and noted that “Safety and security are two sides of the same coin.” The admiral said numerous situations have presented themselves since 9/11 in which the Coast Guard had to make determinations whether issues were related to possible terrorist activities or safety concerns. “Ports and maritime are both valuable and vulnerable to terrorists attack,” he said while emphasizing that maritime security must be a global effort. Gilmour said it was critical that the Coast Guard continue its practices of dual inspections, which address both safety and security. “The task is daunting; failure is not an option,” he said. The admiral concluded his presentation by highlighting efforts to combat marine invasive species as well as current work on ballast water standards. Captain Schubert reaffirmed his commitment to the continued success of the SCOP and making SSS a reality. “While the Department of Transportation serves the nation as an advocate of safety and pioneers in transportation,” he said, “the SCOP plays an integral role in assisting DOT to improve the competitiveness of U.S. vessel operation. This in turn, leads to a more productive transportation network overall.” Schubert emphasized the importance of educating the nation’s youth about the vital role the maritime industry plays in the U.S. and outlined programs which his agency—along with the Departments of Labor and Education— are developing that are geared toward initiating merchant marine vocational training programs. “Within the Maritime Administration, with help from the U.S. Coast Guard, other federal agencies and the industry, I see programs developing that show much promise for serving the maritime community,” he said. At the top of the list, Schubert said, are workforce development and the Maritime Career initiatives that are either currently in the works or have been implemented over the past few years. Alaska Tanker Company President Anil Mathur (standing) discusses shipboard safety on the first day of the SOCP meetings. Pictured from the left at the table are Captain Tom Tomasovic, Captain Tom Bushy and Todd Ripley of MarAd. AFL-CIO Study Documents Wal-Mart’s ‘Race to the Bottom’ on Health Coverage Wal-Mart exemplifies the harmful trend among America’s large employers to shirk health insurance responsibilities at the cost of their workers and the community, according to a new report by the AFLCIO. With reduced coverage and increased workers’ premium fees, Wal-Mart—the largest private employer in the U.S.—sets a troubling standard, according to the federation. Fewer than half of WalMart workers are insured under the company plan (46 percent). This rate is dramatically lower than the 66 percent of workers at large private firms who are insured under their companies’ plans, according to a new Commonwealth Fund study released Oct. 21, which documents the growing trend among large employers to drop health insurance for their workers. Wal-Mart’s workers also pay an exceptionally large proportion of health plan coverage, the AFLCIO pointed out. The typical employee at large companies pays 16-25 percent of total health plan premiums, according to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation report. The AFL-CIO’s study reports that Wal-Mart requires its workers to make unusually large contributions to health care costs—42 percent of the total cost of the plan. “As 70,000 grocery store workers are on strike to keep affordable health care, Wal-Mart’s role as the force driving the race to the bottom in health care benefits has risen to center stage,” the federation said in a news release announcing the study. “The grocery store workers striking with the UFCW are taking a stand for all American working families who are being squeezed beyond their limits by our broken and inadequate health care system,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “As WalMart continues to leech off communities, forcing taxpayers and workers to pick up health care costs, it does tremendous damage as it drives other companies to do the same.” While historically providing good health benefits to their employees, the supermarkets now argue that they must shift greater costs onto workers in order to counter the cutthroat competition they face from Wal-Mart. Workers who do not receive health coverage on the job and cannot afford the rising cost of private plans seek out health care from the public system, or go without, according to both studies. “This downward spiral translates into even greater demands on public health care programs, and ultimately our nation must find a policy and legislative solution to take this burden off working families and communities,” said Gerald Shea, the AFL-CIO’s director of governmental affairs. Shea pointed out that the state of California recently passed a health care bill that mandates employers to cover their employees. “This policy attempts to end the cost shifting onto its public health care system by employers. Federal policy to moderate rising costs of private health care is also needed,” Shea said. November 2003 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/23/2003 8:29 PM Page 7 New Matson Ship Arrives in Hawaii The Seafarers-crewed containership Manukai arrived last month in Honolulu on its inaugural voyage. Matson Navigation Company’s new 712-foot vessel is the first new containership built for Hawaii in the 21st century and is the first new build to enter the Matson fleet since the R.J. Pfeiffer in 1992. The ship has the capacity to carry 2,600 containers and will be deployed in the company’s Hawaii service between Long Beach, Calif. and Honolulu. The Manukai is the first of two new Matson containerships being built at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. The second vessel, the Maunawili, is scheduled to be delivered in mid-2004. Bosun Mike Wittenberg sailed on the Manukai when it was brought out of the yard. “We just took it down the Delaware River, up and down the East Coast. Went as far south as mouth of Chesapeake, as far north as north Jersey,” he noted. “It’s brand new, of course, so it’s nice and clean, with beautiful staterooms.” Wittenberg pointed out that because of the ship’s newness, crew members had a very full schedule in preparing it to sail. “First, we had to prove to the Coast Guard that we could handle any situation—fire drills, things like that,” the bosun stated. “All that equipment was new, so we had to get everything organized —fire fighting gear, oxygen tanks. They were still in the original boxes. We had to get everything out and test it. We had to put up a lot signs, too. “The cargo holds had to be painted, and the Coast Guard spent a lot of time with me testing the anchors,” he continued. “Top to bottom, it was a lot of work. The crew was very cooperative.” The vessel is equipped with enough generator capacity to support the refrigerated container requirements of the Hawaii trade. Other features include a fuel-efficient diesel engine, modern shipboard technology and a number of environmentally friendly design elements. Crew members sailing aboard the Manukai during sea trials included (from left) AB Troy Mack, Chief Cook Hazel Johnson, SA Ali Alnassiry, Chief Steward Kris Hopkins, AB Daniel Cruz, Bosun Mike Wittenberg, SA Erik Marlowe and SA Wilson Peniston. With Seafarers on the Atlantic Forest Pictured below are SIU members who were part of the first crew that sailed Waterman’s Atlantic Forest from Russia to the U.S. after the ship reflagged American. The Atlantic Forest is a LASH vessel. Kvaerner Philadelphia is building a second new ship for Matson, due in mid-2004. CC Gerardo Frederick AB Armando Medina QMED Robert Scrivens CE Frank Quebedeaux Bosun Burlin Pinion and AB Finn Jacobson GUDE Wayne Watts BREC Eugene Grantham 2 More RRF Ships Complete Exercise U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert in late September announced that two Seafarers-crewed Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships successfully completed readiness activation exercises. The two activated ships were the Flickertail State and the Cornhusker State, both berthed in Newport News, Va. and operated by Interocean Ugland Management. Schubert said, “Readiness exercises such as these keep our ships in shape to provide the support our armed forces need. Forty ships of the RRF provided sealift for the Iraqi conflict, and they had an operational reliability record of 98 percent. Success like that comes with practice.” “Turbo Activations,” sponsored and monitored by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the U.S. A 22-year member of the SIU, Bosun Mike Wittenberg helped bring the new vessel out of the shipyard. Transportation Command, are made without notice. During an exercise, RRF ships are directed to shift from a reduced operating status to a fully crewed status, with the quarters made habitable and cargo gear ready, within four or five days. Activations are often followed immediately by a sea trial. The Flickertail State and the Cornhusker State were successfully prepared for delivery to the U.S. Military Sealift Command well within their readiness time frames. They were supposed to be ready in five days but in fact were ready in four days, 23 hours and 50 minutes, according to MarAd. The two vessels are auxiliary crane ships used to carry cargo. In addition, they can be used to load and unload other ships anywhere in the world and are particularly useful when port facilities have been damaged. MarAd maintains the RRF, which is a fleet of 68 militarily useful ships. This fleet, located throughout the country, is maintained in a reserve status in the event that the Department of Defense needs these ships to support the rapid, massive movement of military supplies and troops for a military exercise or large-scale conflict. The Flickertail State (right) and Cornhusker State (left) are part of the RRF—a civilian-crewed fleet that helped supply U.S. troops during Operation Iraqi Freedom. November 2003 Seafarers LOG 7 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:25 AM Page 8 Phase 2: An Invaluable Experience With assistance from Chief Steward James Willey (left), Unlicensed Apprentice Michael Henry learns how to retrieve recipes from the computer and prepare a menu. The Unlicensed Apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. is based on the philosophy that every new person coming into the maritime industry needs certain basic skills and knowledge. It consists of three phases of instruction. The first is a 12-week vocational curriculum focusing on maritime organization, basic seamanship, emergency action and social responsibility. Phase 2 involves 12 weeks of actual training aboard ship, serving in each department (deck, engine and steward) for four weeks. The apprentice then returns to the Paul Hall Center for the third phase, which consists of specific training based on the student’s choice of departments. Take Michael Henry, for example. A graduate of unlicensed apprentice class 641, Henry recently completed his Phase 2 training aboard the Overseas Joyce. The photos on this page show Henry during his rotation in the steward department—learning the ropes by studying, listening and on-the job training with help from more seasoned crew members. . . . checking the proper temperature of a pork roast. . . . practicing his stir-fry technique. . . . cleaning a shower under the watchful eyes of GSU Hernan Sanga. After watching Chief Cook Julito Crodua make pizza dough (above), Michael Henry tries his hand at it (below). Left: In his spare time, Michael Henry takes time to study a cookbook about spices, seasonings and cooking terms. Decorated birthday cakes are a great morale builder aboard ship. Here, Michael Henry gets pointers from Chief Steward James Willey on frosting a cake. Left: GSU Hernan Sanga (right) observes the young trainee as he perfects his hospital corners. Eating Well on the Overseas Joyce Chief Steward James Willey is famous for his decorated birthday cakes which he recently presented to celebrants (from left) AB Anton Tunjic, AB Anthony Antonio and Electrician Anton Popescu. 8 Seafarers LOG Steward/Baker Jack Hart shows off one of his specialities—baked flounder stuffed with shrimp and crabmeat. November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:26 AM Page 9 ABOARD THE RHODE ISLAND: (from left) AB John Carr and the crew of the tanker Rhode Island take lifeboat drills very seriously; Readying the stern lines in Sicily are AB John Mensah, AB John Carr and 3rd Mate Kelvin Eagleton; Chief Cook Gloria Baker and Chief Steward W. H. Watson III make final preparations for dinner aboard ship. Seafarers at Sea and Ashore SIU member Rafael Alvarez (below) writes a column reviewing books about the sea for Professional Mariner magazine. Anyone with suggestions on books to be reviewed—classics or brand new, fiction or non-fiction—is welcome to contact Brother Alvarez at (410) 327-5254 or through r@alvarezfiction.com Newly retired Seafarer Jake Joyce (center) picked up his first pension check during the October membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Joyce joined the union in 1960 in Philadelphia and spent his whole career sailing in the inland division, most recently as a tugboat captain for McAllister. He also served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. A frequent upgrader who was one of the first Seafarers to earn a license through the Paul Hall Center, Joyce lives in Philadelphia. He was greeted at the membership meeting by (from left) SIU Executive VP John Fay, SIU President Mike Sacco, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Seafarers aboard the USSM vessel Developer helped the vessel earn U.S. Ship Management’s “Best in Fleet” award for 2003. AB Kadir Amat (third from left, with other Seafarers) sent this photo to the LOG. The deck department gang on the Major Stephen W. Pless pose on deck for a group photo. Standing (from left) are AB Harold Dome, AB Ed Huntley, AB Ed Sosa, AB Paul Laborde and AB Alton Glapion. Seated (from left) are Bosun Robert “Red” Hagood and AB Curtis Newman. Steward department members aboard the Capt. Steven L. Bennett put out some great food. They include SA Charlie Drumm, Chief Steward Gary Favalora and Chief Cook Curtis Pollard. Seafarers were busy when the Gus Darnell pulled into the port of Norfolk. From the left are AB Adolofo Majica, AB Joe Merriweather, Recertified Bosun Stanley Daranda, QEP Todd Moreland and AB William Dukes. Steward department members on the Gus Darnell include (from left) SA Eddie Urbina, SA Rafael Borja and Steward/Baker Exxl Ronquillo. Right: After earning the chief steward’s position aboard the Rhode Island, W.H. Watson III was presented with a certificate of excellence by Captain R. Cook (left) and Chief Mate S. Marchant. November 2003 The Major Stephen W. Pless recently held a payoff at the Atlantic Marine Shipyard in Mobile, Ala. Those responsible for some of the great meals and service aboard ship include (from left) Steward Mike Pabon, SA Robert Weeks, Chief Cook Linda McPhetridge, Third Cook Fred Gilbert and BR Phillip Parisi. Seafarers LOG 9 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:26 AM Page 10 Snapshots from The Great Lakes AB Charles Lamb hoses down the cargo hold of the Adam E. Cornelius at the Ajax Stone Dock in River Rouge, Mich. Abdul Said is the gateman on the American Mariner, which was in Essexville, Mich. when this photo was taken. Left: Operating the boom on the American Mariner is AB Art Beauchamp. Second Cook Carolene Vitek (left) and Bosun Charles Neigebauer complete paperwork during a servicing visit to the St. Clair at the DTE energy plant in St. Clair, Mich. DEU Christopher Mermuys rows the workboat to shore to pick up Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak and Patrolman Chad Partridge so they can board and service the Adam E. Cornelius in River Rouge, Mich. Filling out some forms in the galley of the Adam E. Cornelius are Second Cook Marine Lawrence (left) and SA Steve Lukowski. Bosun Al Brzezinski operates the hatch crane aboard the American Mariner. Crane Training Aboard Regulus Seafarers and members of the American Maritime Officers recently completed crane operations training aboard the USNS Regulus in Norfolk, Va. Paul Hall Center instructor Greg Thompson conducted the course Oct. 68 aboard the fast sealift ship. Crew members from the USNS Denebola (operated by AMSEA, as is the Regulus) also completed the training. The following mariners (most are pictured above, on the Regulus) finished the course: Bosun Larry Ambrous, Bosun Francisco Bravo, AB Josephus Willis, AB Rafael Clemente, OS Gary White, OS J. Smith, Electrician Ken Ennenga, Second Engineer Rick Pritchard and Third Engineer George Eldemire. 10 Seafarers LOG November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:27 AM Page 11 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, EIN 51-6097856, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. 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 through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $1,227,712. These expenses included $218,684 in administrative expenses and $1,009,028 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,078 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 $8,507,070 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $9,758,591 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,251,521. 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 negative income of $(23,809) including realized loss of $(184,274) from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $384,856 and unrealized depreciation of assets of $(224,391). 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 the plan assets; 4) Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; and 5) Financial information and information on payments to service providers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees of MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6.00 for the full annual report or 15 cents 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. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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 SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, EIN 13-5557534, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The Board of Trustees has committed itself to pay all claims incurred under the terms of the plan. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $11,397,458 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $19,670,283 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year the plan experienced an decrease in its net assets of $8,272,825. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $59,500,353 including employer contributions of $58,023,561, realized gain of $75,076 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $968,768, other income of $72,530, and unrealized appreciation of assets of $360,418. Plan expenses were $67,773,178. These expenses included $5,982,176 in administrative expenses and $61,791,002 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. You 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) Transaction in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 4) Financial information and information on payments to service providers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.15 for the full annual report, or 15 cents 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 the 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 (5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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. Request 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. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS MONEY PURCHASE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, EIN: 52-1994914, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. 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 through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $627,910. These expenses included $217,944 in administrative expenses and $409,966 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 10,810 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 $16,163,494, as of December 31, 2002, compared to $13,723,415 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,440,079. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $3,067,989 including employer contributions of $3,807,803, employee contributions of $59,744, earnings from investments of $325,870 and unrealized (depreciation) of assets of $(1,125,428). Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual November 2003 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 the plan assets; and 4) Financial information and information on payments to service providers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees of Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full annual report or 15 cents 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. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 GREAT LAKES TUG & DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, EIN 13-1953878, Plan No. 003, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. 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 through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $1,433,580. These expenses included $231,267 in administrative expenses and $1,202,313 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 264 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 $22,634,736, as of December 31, 2002, compared to $24,217,068 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $(1,582,332). This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 negative income of $(148,752) including employer contributions of $140,740, realized losses of $(808,854) from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $921,050, unrealized depreciation of assets of $(401,688). 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 the plan assets; 4) Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; and 5) Financial information and information on payments to service providers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees of Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.20 for the full annual report or 15 cents 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. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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. Apply Now for Scholarship Students are facing doubledigit tuition increases at some colleges and universities this fall, and those figures are expected to continue to rise in the coming years. Financial aid is not easy to get, and many students who are able to secure a loan must eventually repay the sum. As in past years, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is offering eight scholarships to Seafarers and their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising tuition rates. Three of the scholarships for 2004 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The deadline for submitting the application and other required paperwork is April 15, 2004. That leaves five months from now in which to send away for the program booklet and start working on collecting the items needed for inclusion with the application (such as transcripts, certificates of graduation, letters of recommendation, a photograph and certified copy of birth certificate). Applicants should also arrange to take either the SAT or ACT no later than February 2004 in order to ensure the results reach the selection committee in time to be evaluated. Anyone who truly wants to continue his or her education beyond the high school level should be able to do so—and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is trying to help. Apply now! P lease send me the 2004 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name ________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number __________________ Street Address ________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ____________________________ Telephone Number______________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/03 Seafarers LOG 11 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/27/2003 10:48 AM Page 12 ` Jobs, J S SIU Fleet Makes A R I D s 2003 nears its end, the SIU steadily keeps adding to its fleet of contracted vessels. That has been the case throughout the year, although the union’s progress in securing work aboard new and newly contracted ships was justifiably overshadowed by the role Seafarers played in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Still, SIU members say they’ve noticed the gains. Since January, the union has welcomed no fewer than 15 new vessels, including a passenger ferry. Some are outright additions to the Seafarers-contracted fleet, while others signify renewed or extended contracts or replacement tonnage. But the most important common attribute among the new ships is that they represent job opportunities for SIU members. “It’s wonderful,” said AB Arnaldo Avila at the SIU hall in New Orleans. “The union has a job for each member, and I know the officials are looking out for us. They’ve done an excellent job.” At the union hall in Tacoma, Wash., QMED Jason Powell pointed out an additional benefit to the newer vessels. “I took the Midnight Sun out of the yard, and I’d say the newer ships offer a better atmosphere, better accommodations,” he said. “People were happy to be on a new ship, learning new things.” AB/Oiler James Buckowski, speaking in the Norfolk, Va. hall, observed, “We’re gaining a lot of jobs and a lot of ships. It’s awesome. Mr. (Mike) Sacco and all the other leaders of the union are doing a damn good job. “I also think that the gains show SPAD works,” Buckowski added, referring to the union’s voluntary political action fund. In January, Seafarers and SIU officials in c Honolulu took part in a ceremony tended a strong year for the union comed Transoceanic Cable Ship built Tyco Dependable, a 495-foo based in Hawaii. A new sister ship, the Tyco De entered service a few months late Also early in the year, the SIU Government Services Division g when the National Oceanic and A Administration (NOAA) commis former U.S. Navy ship Oscar E. Honolulu. The ship will help ass tect the region’s fisheries and liv resources for NOAA. Even as thousands of Seafarer U.S. mariners sailed in support o who ultimately toppled Saddam regime, the union also upheld its to protect the jobs and job securi membership as well as fulfill its cial sector. Before spring arrived aboard TOTE’s new trailership M Keystone’s newly added tanker D Additionally, Alaska Tanker C ing for the Alaskan Frontier, the tankers being built for ATC on th Interesting possibilities for job sector surfaced with Norwegian in April that it had purchased the S.S. Independence—the latter cre Seafarers. The company said it p to a state-of-the-art cruise ship an U.S.-flag fleet. The potential add a fifth vessel in NCL’s U.S.-flag by the company. Summertime sa TOTE christened t sister ship to the M new ships is 840 fe capable of carrying 53 feet in length. T marine technologie Tacoma to Anchor New vessels we boatmen at Starligh voted to join the un Buffalo Industrial D The Delaware R second SIU-contra RiverLink service Camden, N.J. The McGovern Marine crew and needs six ries its maximum n It is more modern a J P 12 Seafarers LOG November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/27/2003 10:48 AM Page 13 Jobs, Jobs! R s Great Gains in 2003 mony that porunion. They welShip Co.’s newly 95-foot vessel F co Decisive, hs later. e SIU’s ion gained jobs and Atmospheric mmissioned the ar E. Sette in p assess and prond living marine afarers and other port of U.S. troops dam Hussein’s ld its commitment ecurity of the ll its obligations in the commerrived, Seafarers were sailing hip Midnight Sun and on nker Delaware Trader. ker Co. announced the keel layr, the first of four double-hull on the West Coast. or job opportunities in the cruise gian Cruise Line’s announcement d the S.S. United States and the er crewed for many years by d it plans to convert “The Big U” hip and add her to its planned l addition of the Independence as -flag operation is being evaluated ny. me saw continued good news as ned the new RO/RO North Star, the Midnight Sun. Each of the two 840 feet long, 118 feet wide and rrying highway trailers as large as gth. They employ the latest in ologies and sail in TOTE’s chorage service. ls weren’t the only additions, as arlight Marine in San Francisco the union, as did mariners at trial Diving Company. are River Port Authority added a ontracted passenger ferry to its vice between Philadelphia and The Freedom ferry, operated by arine, has a minimum four-man ds six crew members when it carmum number of passengers (600). dern and better equipped than its D predecessor. Also during the summer months, Matson christened the containership Manukai at Kvaerner Philadelphia. The Manukai is 712 feet long and can carry 2,600 containers. It’s part of a two-ship contract between the company and the shipyard. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) accepted delivery of the USNS Benavidez, part of the Bob Hope class of LMSRs which proved so valuable during the war. Built at Avondale Shipyard, the Benavidez is 950 feet long. Seafarers also gained or maintained jobs on the Observation Island, MSC’s lone missile range instrumentation ship; the MV Virginian, a 480-foot freighter; and the 688-foot Chemical Pioneer, which features 48 cargo tanks. There has been no letup in the fall. The Government Services Division again welcomed new jobs recently as the USS Rainier transferred to MSC from the Navy. It’s the third of four Navy supply class fast combat support ships to leave commissioned service “for an even more active role” with MSC. The new double-hulled barge 550-3, companion to Intrepid’s tug Ocean Reliance, was christened in Washington. IUM’s long-term charter of the Great Land in Hawaii signaled an extension for the Ponce-class vessel and continued employment for Seafarers. E S At the end of last month, Seafarers and SIU officials participated in the christening of the new car carrier Freedom in Baltimore. S B November 2003 Seafarers LOG 13 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:27 AM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR WELFARE FUND OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6700827, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) Insurance Information The plan has contracts with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company to pay medical claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2002 were $481,186. Because they are so-called “experience-rated” contracts, the premium costs are affected by, among other things, the number and size of claims. Of the total insurance premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2002, the premiums paid under such “experience-rated” contracts were $470,798 and the total of all benefit claims paid under these “experience-rated” contracts during the plan year was $315,440. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $13,512,967 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $21,694,222 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $8,181,255. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $7,461,514 including employer contributions of $6,126,687, realized gains of $274,725 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $1,056,570. Plan expenses were $11,145,172. These expenses included $1,636,979 in administrative expenses and $9,508,193 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, SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN 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 the plan assets; and 5. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of the administrator: Mr. William Dennis, Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; or telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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 NMU PENSION PLAN AND ANNUITY PLAN 401K PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Plan and Annuity Plan 401K Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 002, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance and through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $266,525. These expenses included $266,525 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,063 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,331,419 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $2,571,889 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $240,470. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $26,055 including employee contributions of $358,070 and earnings from investments of $(348,175). 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; 3. assets held for investment; 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of the administrator: Mr. William Dennis, Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; or telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.90 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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. NMU SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS 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 the plan assets; 5. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; 6. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and 7. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of the administrator: Mr. William Dennis, Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; or telephone (212) 3374900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $8.30 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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. This is a summary of the annual report of the NMU Vacation Plan, EIN 13-6700828, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,103,859 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $1,463,692 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $640,167. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $6,826,332 including employee contributions of $6,771,349 and earnings from investments of $54,983. Plan expenses were $6,186,165. These expenses included $707,553 in administrative expenses and $5,478,612 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 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. Seafarers LOG Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $34,693,050. These expenses included $2,574,251 in administrative expenses and $32,118,799 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 9,728 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 $322,332,229 as of December 31, 2002, compared to $357,980,940 as of January 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $35,648,711. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $(955,661) including employer contributions of $938,959, realized losses of $10,728,719 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $7,982.189. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU VACATION PLAN IMPORTANT NOTICE SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE 14 This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Trust of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) service providers; 3. assets held for investment; 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of the administrator: Mr. William Dennis, Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; or telephone (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.20 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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. 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 November 2003 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/23/2003 8:30 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2003 *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 Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 4 0 10 31 29 11 15 25 13 7 0 7 15 0 26 20 214 2 4 3 6 19 32 7 16 20 16 2 12 6 9 7 23 12 196 1 3 4 1 19 10 2 10 12 10 0 7 1 1 4 12 12 109 3 9 1 6 23 24 10 10 20 5 2 1 7 16 0 20 18 175 1 2 2 5 15 17 5 7 12 11 1 8 4 4 6 16 10 126 0 4 1 0 5 4 2 2 2 3 0 2 2 2 2 9 5 45 1 3 0 3 7 13 5 1 6 3 0 0 5 5 1 12 8 73 1 3 1 14 45 56 17 36 48 26 11 2 10 37 4 55 32 398 2 7 6 11 19 43 14 28 37 29 2 13 16 19 3 32 33 314 3 3 5 4 30 24 5 21 24 11 4 7 1 6 7 30 28 213 1 2 0 4 1 5 3 0 1 1 0 1 0 6 2 10 2 39 0 12 2 10 23 32 10 17 21 12 7 2 5 18 1 25 9 206 1 3 1 13 13 30 6 15 14 18 6 7 1 13 6 24 15 186 2 3 2 3 18 14 2 8 12 5 1 3 1 3 1 8 11 97 0 0 0 3 4 7 0 2 5 2 1 0 1 6 0 7 5 43 1 5 1 15 28 25 7 18 26 14 4 6 0 47 1 26 32 256 0 1 2 8 7 8 9 5 9 14 1 10 1 7 1 4 8 95 0 0 0 2 3 4 2 3 7 9 0 1 0 1 1 7 2 42 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 8 1 7 14 24 8 7 11 4 5 3 5 7 3 13 8 128 2 1 0 8 5 14 5 10 9 8 2 5 1 8 2 11 10 101 1 2 2 2 7 5 1 3 4 5 0 2 2 2 1 3 6 48 1 2 0 14 17 10 6 9 13 5 2 3 0 26 0 21 18 147 0 1 0 4 2 8 7 3 5 10 2 5 1 4 0 1 5 58 0 1 0 1 0 3 3 0 5 5 0 2 0 0 0 4 2 26 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 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 0 3 0 6 10 14 6 3 4 4 3 3 2 4 3 13 6 84 1 3 1 4 2 10 6 4 8 10 0 0 0 5 1 8 7 70 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 12 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 2 1 8 10 12 2 5 12 8 2 2 0 13 2 17 13 109 0 1 0 0 0 6 3 3 1 11 1 0 2 4 0 2 2 36 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 1 3 5 0 1 2 0 0 0 2 19 Piney Point .............Monday: December 8, January 5 Algonac ..................Friday: December 12, January 9 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 11, January 8 Boston.....................Friday: December 12, January 9 Duluth .....................Wednesday: December 17, January 14 Guam ......................Friday: December 26* ................................Thursday: January 22 ................................*(change created by Christmas holiday) Honolulu .................Friday: December 19, January 16 Houston ..................Monday: December 15, January 12 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 11, January 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: December 18, January 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 17, January 14 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: December 23, January 20 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: December 16, January 13 New York................Tuesday: December 9, January 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 11, January 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: December 10, January 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: December 18, January 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 18, January 15 San Juan..................Thursday: December 11, January 8 St. Louis..................Friday: December 19, January 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 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 0 0 10 4 2 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 4 0 9 3 37 0 0 2 6 19 24 1 6 30 9 0 13 1 10 1 23 10 155 1 3 1 6 15 20 2 4 25 4 0 28 3 7 1 17 12 149 0 0 0 3 3 4 1 1 6 0 0 0 3 4 0 5 1 31 0 0 1 4 10 13 2 6 17 7 0 4 2 3 1 12 3 85 0 1 1 4 1 11 0 2 6 4 1 17 1 5 0 3 1 58 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 4 3 0 1 4 1 1 0 1 5 0 8 6 46 2 1 3 22 29 37 5 10 45 11 1 18 4 23 1 31 17 260 3 3 1 13 37 39 4 15 55 10 1 17 2 12 2 37 26 277 Totals All Departments 526 510 332 399 317 134 155 906 855 629 *“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. November 2003 December 2003 & January 2004 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Tacoma ...................Friday: December 26, January 23 Wilmington ...............Monday: December 22 ................................Tuesday: January 20* ................................*(change created by Martin Luther King holiday) ................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH BETTY SMITH Betty Smith, who recently retired from the Paul Hall Center, would like keep in touch with the membership. Anyone wishing to write her may send their letters to Betty Smith, P.O. Box 314, Piney Point, MD 20674. LOUIS MASTROTOTARO JR. Please contact Louis Sr. at (702) 658-9983. Todd and the Teddy Bear Eric Manley and his wife, Noime, are the proud parents of their first born son, Todd Eric (who is about the same size as his teddy bear). Born Aug. 20 in Silverdale, Wash., Todd weighed in at 7 lbs. 11 oz. and was 21 inches long. Manley is working as chief steward on board the Green Mountain State. Seafarers LOG 15 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/23/2003 8:30 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2003 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 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 Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 0 5 3 7 10 1 1 7 34 0 1 3 2 1 0 1 3 11 0 2 2 5 0 0 0 5 14 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 2 3 1 0 0 2 8 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 5 0 7 8 2 13 0 0 3 33 0 28 17 17 47 3 17 22 151 0 4 3 2 11 0 10 7 37 0 14 6 12 11 0 9 3 55 0 1 1 0 5 1 0 0 8 0 14 11 7 19 3 10 9 73 0 4 6 1 8 0 7 4 30 0 23 15 9 15 0 3 0 65 1 3 1 0 3 0 0 1 9 0 7 9 9 17 5 2 9 58 1 3 1 4 8 0 5 4 26 0 7 10 4 10 0 1 2 34 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 3 4 2 1 2 5 19 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 4 0 1 6 2 0 0 0 1 10 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 4 4 7 11 3 3 10 42 0 3 2 5 6 0 2 2 20 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 2 4 3 1 4 17 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 7 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 5 Port 0 3 2 3 8 0 0 2 18 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 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 3 0 3 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 1 0 0 2 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 0 3 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 Totals All Departments 70 22 32 80 19 9 52 282 93 157 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 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 Port Seafarers LOG PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the LOG by Lloyd “Doug” Richardson, 82, the oldest active Seafarer in the SIU. He is registered for employment in the port of Norfolk, Va. The photos were taken in 1948 aboard the Anna Dickinson, which was en route to Korea. Richardson has been sailing for 67 years, having begun his career at 15 aboard tugs and barges hauling coal along the East Coast. His deep sea career commenced when he was 22 years old, sailing as an OS aboard the Alexander G. Bell. His last tour of duty was as an AB aboard the SPC5 Eric G. Gibson. When asked what prompted him to go to sea, Richardson replied, “I love the water.” When asked why he continues to sail, he said, “It’s all I know.” If anyone has a vintage unionrelated 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. November 2003 �20117_P3,5,7,15,16,17.qxd 10/23/2003 8:31 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 MOHAMED ABOBAKER, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1979. His first ship was the Cape Mohican. Brother Abobaker sailed in the engine department and enhanced his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1986. He last went to sea on the Sea-Land Producer. Brother Abobaker makes his home in Malla Aden, Yemen. SAIF AZOOKARI, 64, hails from Yemen. He started his SIU career in 1966 in Detroit. A member of the deck department, Brother Azookari worked in the deep sea as well as Great Lakes divisions. His final vessel was the Kinsman Enterprise. Brother Azookari lives in his native country. SEBASTIAN BERMUDEZ, 65, joined the SIU in 1967 in New Orleans. His initial trip was aboard the Transhudson. Brother Bermudez worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Liberty Wave. New Orleans is his home. JOHN G. BRIGGS, 65, initiated his SIU career in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Virginia, Brother Briggs shipped in the steward department. He enhanced his skills in 1983 at the Seafarers training school. Brother Briggs’ last ship was the USNS Prevail. He calls Clinton, N.C. home. ARMANDO BUSTAMANTE, 66, began his career with the SIU in 1990 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Bustamante’s first ship was the S.S. Independence. Born in the Philippines, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Bustamante lives in San Leandro, Calif. He last went to sea on the Maersk Arizona. SALVADOR CORDERO, 65, was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Cordero joined the ranks of the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. He first worked aboard the American Pride. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 1975 and 1976 at the Seafarers training school. Brother Cordero makes his home in Rome, N.Y. He last worked aboard the Pride of Texas. ROBERT CASTILLO, 59, joined the SIU in 1978 in the port November 2003 of New York. His first voyage was aboard the Cantigny, an Interocean Management Corp. vessel. Born in Chile, Brother Castillo sailed in the steward department. He upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., including in 1993 when he completed steward recertification training. Brother Castillo makes his home in San Francisco. He last went to sea aboard the SeaLand Developer. ROBERTO FELICIANO, 57, joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard Mayflower Steamship Corp’s Mayflower. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Feliciano sailed in the deck department. He upgraded his skills in 2000 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Feliciano resides in his native commonwealth. He last sailed on the Horizon Discovery. NORMAN J. FOX JR., 64, commenced his career with the SIU in 1960 in Detroit. Brother Fox worked in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions during his career. He initially went to sea aboard A.H Bull’s Edith. Born in Ohio, he worked in the engine department. Brother Fox last sailed aboard the J.J. Boland. EDWARD GOOCH, 64, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1967 in Seattle. Brother Gooch was born in the Philippines and worked in the deck department. A resident of Seattle, he last worked on the Northern Lights. BLANTON JACKSON, 64, hails from Marion, S.C. He started his career with the SIU in 1963 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Fanwood, a Waterman Steamship vessel. The Knoxville, Tenn. resident sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Jackson last went to sea on Westchester Marine’s Ultramax. LINDMORE KUBECKA, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1954 in the port of New York. The Baltimore-born mariner initially sailed on the Santore, an Ore Navigation Corp. vessel. Brother Kubecka sailed in the engine department and makes his home in Baltimore. THEODORE KUBECKA, 65, started his SIU career in 1954 in the port of New York. Brother Kubecka first sailed on the President Taylor. Born in Baltimore, he shipped in the engine department. Brother Kubecka makes his home in Baltimore. MELVIN LAYNER, 55, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Layner’s first ship was the Sea-Land Pacer. Born in Parkersburg, W.Va., he shipped in the engine department. He upgraded his skills on four separate occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Layner last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Patriot. He resides in his native state. JAMES M. NOLAN, 57, began his SIU career in 1974 in San Francisco. Brother Nolan first went to sea on the Santa Magdalena, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. He worked in the steward department and enhanced his skills on four separate occa- sions at the Seafarers training school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Nolan calls Tacoma, Wash. home. He last worked on the Kauai, a Matson Navigation Co. vessel. THOMAS SCHROEDER, 70, joined the SIU in 1982 in the port of Honolulu after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Schroeder’s first ship was the S.S. Independence. He worked in the engine as well as deck departments during his career and last went to sea aboard the Horizon Kodiak. Born in Hawaii, Brother Schroeder now calls Tacoma, Wash. home. GARY D. SMITH, 64, started his seafaring career in 1967 in San Francisco after serving in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Coast Guard. The deck department member makes his home in Paradise, Calif. He last went to sea aboard the Horizon Navigator. INLAND KENNETH ALBAUGH, 62, launched his career with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia after serving in the U.S. Army. The Pennsylvania-born mariner sailed in the deck department. Boatman Albaugh is a resident of Cherry Hill, N.J. FLOYD BERTRAND, 62, began his SIU career in 1996 in the port of Houston. Boatman Bertrand worked primarily aboard Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1951 After many months of building preparations, the SIU moved into its new headquarters over the weekend of November 17. The building at 675 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, was acquired over a year ago and was made necessary by the fact that SIU outgrew the old headquarters building at 51 Beaver Street in downtown New York. The move was made by the headquarters staff, and the office staff, with many rank-and-file members assisting…. It is only a little more than seven years since the move from the small and dingy office at 2 Stone Street near South Ferry in downtown New York which used to house the headquarters of the union. vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. The Louisiana-born mariner shipped in the deck department as a captain. He makes his home in Lake Arthur, La. RICHARD L. BLOODSWORTH, 49, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. The deck department member upgraded his skills on three occasions at the Piney Point, Md. training facility. Boatman Bloodsworth is a resident of Princess Anne, Md. IVEY BROWN, 63, was born in Panama City, Fla. He commenced his SIU vocation in 1975 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Boatman Brown worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions during his career, first working on Delta Steamship Lines’ Del Monte. The deck department member upgraded his skills on six occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Brown last worked on a Maritrans operated vessel. He lives in Youngstown, Fla. GREAT LAKES JAMES FISHER, 61, hails from Toledo, Ohio. He joined the SIU in 1979 in the Port of Algonac, Mich. after serving in the U.S. Army. The deck department member honed his skills in 1995 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Fisher still liqves in Ohio and was last employed aboard a Higman Barge Lines vessel. of the steward department recertification program. Five veteran stewards are enrolled in the first class. The program, developed over the past couple years, is the result of a recommendation by a committee of rank-and-file members of the steward department. It features both classroom and practical work to upgrade the steward and teach him the skills necessary for a chief steward’s rating. This Month In SIU History 1962 The latest in a series of important advances to assure all Seafarers the best possible food and food service aboard ship is now under way at SIU headquarters with the launching of a new refresher school for SIU chief stewards as part 1989 Four officials of the independent trade union Solidarity (Solidarnosc in Polish) looked to the SIU and the Lundeberg School for ideas that can be adapted in Poland. The Polish trade unionists were brought to the United States last month as guests of the AFL-CIO, the federation of national and international unions in the United States. In a meeting with SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, the four union activists discussed how a trade union can protect its members’ job security. Of particular interest to the Solidarity officials was the concept of the hiring hall. Seafarers LOG 17 �20117_P1,2,4,6,18.qxd 10/23/2003 7:53 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA PERCIVAL BELGRAVE Pensioner Percival Belgrave, 87, died Aug. 24. Brother Belgrave started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in San Francisco. Born in Panama, he worked in the steward department. Brother Belgrave made his home in Brooklyn, N.Y. and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1973. TERRY COWAN Brother Terry Cowan, 57, passed away July 1. He joined the SIU in 1969 in Seattle after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Cowan’s first ship was the Vantage Progress. Born in Ronan, Mont., he sailed in the engine department. Brother Cowan lived in Dixon, Mo. He last worked aboard the Sea-Land Voyager. HENRY CROCKERHAM Brother Henry Crockerham, 54, died Jan. 27. The New Orleans-born mariner began his SIU career in 1966 in Seattle. The deck department member last worked on the Sea-Land Commerce. Brother Crockerham resided in the Philippines. VIRGE DIXON Pensioner Virge Dixon, 76, passed away Dec. 29, 2002. Brother Dixon started his career with the MC&S in 1959 in San Francisco. Born in Texas, Brother Dixon shipped in the steward department. He worked primarily aboard American President Lines’ vessels, including the President Grant and the President Cleveland. A resident of San Francisco, he began receiving payments for his retirement in 1989. JOSEPH DONOVAN Pensioner Joseph Donovan, 82, died June 3. Brother Donovan joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he first sailed aboard the Ft. Hoskins. The Boston native worked in the deck department as a bosun and made his home in Massachusetts. Brother Donovan started receiving retirement compensation in 1986 and last sailed on the Sea-Land Pioneer. REGALADO FIGUERA Pensioner Regalado Figuera, 78, passed away July 23. Brother Figuera began his seafaring career in 1968 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first ship was the USNS Maury. Born in the Philippines, Brother Figuera worked in all three shipboard departments. The Delano, Calif. resident last sailed on the SeaLand Pacific. Brother Figuera started receiving his pension in 1993. his pension in 1991 and resided in Lenoir, N.C. JOHN GENTRY Pensioner John Gentry, 87, died July 1. Brother Gentry started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in Arizona, he worked in the steward department. Brother Gentry began receiving his pension in 1977. He lived in Pleasanton, Calif. GILBERT GONZALES Pensioner Gilbert Gonzales, 72, passed away July 15. Brother Gonzales joined the Seafarers in 1951. A native of San Antonio, Texas, he worked in the steward department. Brother Gonzales last worked on the Sea-Land Performance. He began receiving his pension in 1989 and made his home in Texas. SIMON GUTIERREZ Pensioner Simon Gutierrez, 82, died Aug. 12. Brother Gutierrez launched his career with the Seafarers in 1951. His first ship was the Cantigny. Born in Texas, Brother Gutierrez sailed in the steward department and last worked aboard the OMI Charger. He started receiving pension payments in 1984. He made his home in Houston CLARENCE HEMBY Pensioner Clarence Hemby, 77, died July 9. Brother Hemby joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. The engine department member last went to sea aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Stonewall Jackson. Brother Hemby lived in Melbourne, Fla. and began receiving his pension in 1990. AH HO Pensioner Ah Ho, 89, passed away Aug. 1. Brother Ho started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in China, he worked in the steward department. The San Francisco resident started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1970. JULIUS FRANCUM JEFFREY MATEER Pensioner Julius Francum, 73, died July 17. Brother Francum joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Army. The Caldwell, N.C. native worked in the deck department and shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He last sailed on the OMI Missouri. Brother Francum began receiving Brother Jeffrey Mateer, 45, died July 10. He started his seafaring career in 1990 in Seattle. Brother Mateer initially went to sea aboard the USNS Pollux. The Texas native shipped in the deck department and last sailed on the Horizon Trader. Brother Mateer made his home in Tahoe Pines, Calif. 18 Seafarers LOG CHARLES J. MILES Pensioner Charles J. Miles, 75, passed away July 8. Brother Miles embarked on his SIU career in 1964 after serving in the U.S. Army. Brother Miles’ first voyage was on the Fair Port. A native of Mobile, Ala., he worked in the steward department. Brother Miles started receiving his pension in 1994. He last shipped aboard the Charles L. Brown and made his home in Alabama. JAMES O’MARA Pensioner James O’Mara, 67, died July 30. A native of Buffalo, N.Y., he started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Army. The deck department member lived in Tacoma, Wash. and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. ROBERT SULLIVAN Pensioner Robert Sullivan, 80, passed away July 28. Brother Sullivan joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. Born in Mounds, Ill., Brother Sullivan shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Maine. He began receiving retirement stipends in 1985. Brother Sullivan lived in Illinois. STEWART SWORDS Pensioner Steward Swords, 91, passed away July 6. Brother Swords was a charter member of the SIU, having joined in 1939 in the port of Savannah, Ga. Born in Tift, Ga., he sailed on many vessels including the Robin Gray, the Ponce and the Alcoa Master. The engine department member made his home in Thunderbolt, Ga. and started receiving his pension in 1971. Seafarers in 1961 in Houston after serving in the U.S. Army. Boatman Allemond worked primarily aboard vessels operated by National Marine Service. Born in Plaquemine, La., he shipped in the deck department as a pilot. He began receiving his pension in 1984 and resided in the city of his birth. Pensioner Thomas Blackmon Sr., 73, died June 22. He embarked on his seafaring career in 1967 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Blackmon shipped in the engine department and worked primarily aboard Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessels. The Range, Ala. native and resident began receiving his pension in 1992. WOODROW BURNHAM ALFREDO MORALES THOMAS BLACKMON SR. Pensioner Woodrow Burnham, 89, passed away June 21. Boatman Burnham joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He shipped as a member of the engine department. Born in Walton County, Fla., he was a resident of Freeport, Fla. Boatman Burnham started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1979. WILLARD GRIFFITH Pensioner Willard Griffith, 88, died July 30. Boatman Griffith began his SIU career in 1956 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Alabama, the deck department member lived in his native state. He started receiving his pension in 1979. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN FRANCESCO LOGRASSO Pensioner Francesco Lograsso, 84, passed away July 31. He started his career with the Atlantic Fisherman’s Union in 1967 in Gloucester, Mass. Brother Lograsso, who was born in Italy, shipped in the deck department. He began receiving pension payments in 1981 and made his home in Gloucester. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away: LOUIS T. BROWN Pensioner Ralph Trotman, 80, died July 4. He joined the SIU in 1968. Brother Trotman first sailed aboard the Western Comet. Born in St. Michaels, Barbados, he shipped in the steward department. The Brooklyn, N.Y. resident last sailed on the Long Lines. He began collecting stipends for his retirement in 1992. Pensioner Louis T. Brown, 66, passed away Sept. 29. Brother Brown started his career with the NMU in 1963. Born in Missouri, he worked in the engine department as an electrician. Brother Brown began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1994. INLAND Pensioner Lionel Joubert, 61, died Sept. 21. Brother Joubert joined the NMU in 1961. Born in Louisiana, he first sailed from the port of Baltimore aboard the General Heart Vandinburg. Brother Joubert worked in the steward and engine depart- Pensioner Antoine Allemond, 79, passed away Aug. 28. Boatman Allemond launched his career with the ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ Pensioner Alejandro Martinez, 85, passed away Sept. 15. Brother Martinez began his NMU career in the port of New York. He first went to sea in 1955. Born in Puerto Rico, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Martinez last worked aboard the American Trader and began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1981. RALPH TROTMAN ANTOINE ALLEMOND ments and began receiving his pension in 1997. LIONEL JOUBERT Pensioner Alfredo Morales, 88, died Sept. 3. Brother Morales embarked on his NMU career in the port of New York. His first voyage was aboard the America. The engine department member started collecting retirement stipends in 1980. 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 Bennett, Tom 78 Carbajal, Nicolas 90 Dancy, Austin 87 Diaz, Emiliano 76 Ebanks, Lester 84 Fugate, Gene 75 Giddings, John 87 Gray, Ovid 93 Hall, Joseph, Jr. 83 Hilton,Thomas 79 Idoyaga, Isadoro 79 Jackson, James 76 James, Charles 76 Lee, Mose 90 Little, Mack 78 Maynard, Edward 84 Millet, Davis 90 Myatt, Hilary 78 Neamonitos, Demetrios 77 Nommik, Johannes 82 Pack, Walter 79 Perpall, Rupert 86 Sanchez, Evangelista 90 Sanchez, Luciano 90 Sanchez, Roberto 82 Santinac, Warren 61 Schumate, Clarence 94 Skriba, John 87 Swaby, Hedley 98 Winton, Clifford 77 DOD Aug. 30 July 1 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Aug. 26 Aug. 30 Sept. 22 Sept. 23 Sept. 10 Aug. 29 Sept. 14 Aug. 13 Sept.4 Sept. 13 July 7 Sept. 8 Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Aug. 25 Aug. 29 Aug. 31 Aug. 23 Sept. 3 Sept. 13 Aug. 27 Sept. 20 Sept. 8 Sept. 2 Sept. 27 NMU’s Oldest Retiree, William McPherson, Dies On October 2, 2003 a memorial celebration service was held for William G. “Mac” McPherson at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Harlem, N.Y. McPherson was the NMU Pension Plan’s oldest pensioner; he would have been 106 years old this November. He died in New York on Aug. 14. For those who knew him, the length of his life was no more remarkable than the dignity and strength of his character. He was a highly competent seafarer and good shipmate. He first sailed in 1928 and joined the NMU in 1941. He served in the steward department, rising to the position of headwaiter and chief steward, primarily on Moore McCormack vessels. He retired in 1969. His last vessel was the S.S.Independence. In the autumn of 1997, McPherson addressed NMU members at the New York hiring hall, where a 100th birthday celebration was held in his honor. He gave a spirited talk expressing his great devotion to strong trade unionism, the Merchant Marine and civil rights. Throughout his 30-plus years as an NMU pensioner, he contributed monthly to the union’s political action group. The major theme emerging from McPherson’s memorial service was of a man who was universally respected and who gave respect to everyone he met. William Mc Pherson is survived by his daughter, Barbara Shelton of Las Vegas; two nieces; and two nephews. November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:27 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. GREAT LAND (IUM), Aug. 24— Chairman Benedict B. Born, Secretary Antoinette M. Spangler, Educational Director Azeem A. Modak. Chairman announced vessel heading for shipyard Sept. 3. He advised everyone to carry shipping documents at all times and wear hardhats and reflective vests while walking in TOTE terminal areas. He also spoke of possible check for contraband and noted no visitors allowed on board and no walking or biking allowed in discharge area. He asked that passageways be kept quiet. Those leaving ship asked to clean rooms for next person. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer noted purchase of additional refrigerators for unlicensed personnel rooms. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman led discussion on rising medical costs and how that might affect next contract. Request made for plugs and cables for individual rooms as well as ice machine for crew and mattress for electrician. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. GREEN POINT (Central Gulf Lines), Aug. 24—Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary Victor J. Wolf, Educational Director Rodolfo M. Menchaca, Deck Delegate Norman Hancock, Steward Delegate Robert Harris. Chairman thanked deck department for hard work and cooperation during difficult voyage due to missing man. “Hats off” to VP Contracts Augie Tellez and his office for resolving question of missing man wages. Secretary reminded crew members to fill out official SIU ship’s crew list for headquarters. Educational director advised mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. He thanked everyone for helping keep ship’s library squared away and noted that Green Point’s book-of-the-month selection is Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea.” Treasurer discussed purpose and uses of ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked crew for compliments and support. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Port Hueneme, Calif. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), Aug. 24—Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary Edward P. Herrera, Educational Director Roy Waiting for Payoff Bosun Michael Sinclair and SA Ingra Maddox pose on deck prior to the shipboard meeting aboard the SP5 Eric G. Gibson. November 2003 S. Frett Jr., Deck Delegate Macario Torre, Engine Delegate Therman Ames, Steward Delegate Vincent Igneri. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. and noted return of Capt. G.L. Gimble. He stated safety is first priority aboard ship and reminded crew of no smoking rule on deck due to nature of HAZMAT cargo. Educational director encouraged crew members to take advantage of upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center, donate to SPAD, make sure shipping documents are current and bring discharges and pay vouchers when filing for vacation. Crew members asked to help keep laundry room clean. Some disputed OT reported in all three departments. Discussions held about rotary shipping, burial fees for spouses and children and extra day on vacation check for safety work. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. INDEPENDENCE (USSM), Aug. 10—Chairman Teodulfo A. Alanano, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Randall C. Firestine. Chairman announced ship is still on 70-day payoff cycle with one day off for 60. Smooth sailing reported to ports in Kuwait and Oman but weather extremely hot and humid. Secretary advised crew to make sure necessary shipping documents and training requirements are up to date. He warned everyone to be aware of effects of heat and keep hydrated at all times. Educational director spoke about training and upgrading skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman and secretary to start ship’s fund for purchase of movies, etc. Clarification requested on day off and imposed curfews in port. Requests made for cool water on board ship for drinking and showers, and as per posted heat caution, light-colored work uniforms. INDUSTRIAL CHALLENGER (PGM), Aug. 8—Chairman Kyle F. Schultz, Secretary Norman S. Bush, Educational Director Glenn A. O’Leary, Steward Delegate Clarence Robinson. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 12 in Houston. He requested patrolman meet with company reps on issues not covered in agreement and clarification of STCW issues. Educational director urged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. He also spoke of benefit allowing Seafarers and families to spend up to two weeks summer vacation at that facility. He advised everyone to keep all shipping documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into better benefit package as well as reduce seatime needed for retirement to 20 years, regardless of age. Requests also made for deepfat fryer and drinking fountain. ITB GROTON (USS Transport), Aug. 8—Chairman Sidney L. Wallace, Secretary Brenda C. Grays, Educational Director Pedro J. Santiago. Chairman spoke about importance of contributing to SPAD and commented on goals of ITF. Secretary stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point school. Treasurer noted $200 available each month for purchase of movies. Anyone going ashore can buy videos for ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made that tank cleaning, a dirty and potentially hazardous job, should be compensated for. Clarification requested in writing regarding portion of shipping rules. Request made for new microwave oven. Thanks given to Bomarico Hinayon for good job filling in for steward. Crew also welcomed Brenda Grays to ship. ITB NEW YORK (USS Transport), Aug. 31—Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director Ronald Miller, Deck Delegate Ronald Webb, Engine Delegate Anthony Sanchez and Steward Delegate Breon Lucas. Chairman announced arrival Sept. 3 in Corpus Christi, Texas. Patrolman expected to address disputed OT issues at that time. Secretary asked crew to help keep laundry area clean when DEU stands cargo watch and is unable to do his regular sanitary work. Educational director reminded everyone of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center and to check expiration dates on all shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported in Engine and steward departments; some disputed OT noted by deck delegate. LYKES MOTIVATOR (Marine Transport), Aug. 10—Chairman Raynaldo G. Ramirez, Secretary Margie L. Leite, Deck Delegate Charles V. Sneed, Engine Delegate William Vargas, Steward Delegate Henry Richardson. Educational director spoke about applying for upgrading courses at Piney Point and of making sure STCW and other shipping documents are kept current. Ship’s fund contains $2,697. Suggestion made to obtain satellite dish. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for curtains in rooms and mess hall be cleaned or replaced and for clarification of shipping rules regarding vacation. Chief cook asked to be excused after muster has been taken. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. MAERSK ARIZONA (Maersk Lines), Aug. 19—Chairman John A. Coleman Jr., Secretary Lloyd C. Hall Sr., Educational Director Walter S. Filleman Jr., Engine Delegate Carlos Castillo. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 24 in Houston. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep ship clean and noted thank-you letter received from SIU President Michael Sacco for good job. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Galley to get new freezer; ice machine now in galley will be moved and installed on main deck. Fumigation needed aboard ship to exterminate insects (due to carrying grain). Requests also made for new washer and dryer for crew laundry, fans in each state room and repair of elevator. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Lines), Aug. 26—Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary John G. Reid, Educational Director Donald D. Williams Jr., Deck Delegate Reuben M. Brown, Steward Delegate Victor M. Acevedo. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 1 in Newark, N.J. He thanked everyone for good, safe trip and asked those getting off to clean rooms for next person. He also requested everyone’s help in keeping ship clean and reminded them to renew expiring z-cards early. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills and work safely. Beef reported in engine department with clarification requested on rotary shipping. Requests made for repair of VCR and purchase of heavy-duty ice machine and coolers of potable water for use especially when in hot climates. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. SEALAND ACHIEVER (USSM), Aug. 10—Chairman Herbert Charles, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Seller T. Brooks, Deck Delegate Frank L. Thompson. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep crew lounge and mess hall neat and clean. Educational director advised members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center both for personal advancement and to keep union strong. No beefs or disputed OT reported. On behalf of crew, chairman thanked steward department for job well done in providing tasty food. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston. reported. New furniture requested for crew lounge. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Sept. 7—Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Donald F. Dwyer, Deck Delegate John T. Emrich, Engine Delegate Gregorio Abalos, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman announced ship out of yard and back on “pineapple run”—Los Angeles to Honolulu to Oakland. Payoff to take place Sept. 9 in Oakland. Secretary noted new washer installed and everything running smoothly. All’s Well on the Eric G. Gibson When the SP5 Eric G. Gibson arrived in the port of San Francisco recently, crew members indicated the voyage was a good one. From the left are AB Bill Powell and AB Robert “Mango” Hinkley. The Gibson, A RO/RO vessel, is operated by Osprey Ship Management, Inc. USNS IMPECCABLE (Maersk Lines), Aug. 16—Chairman James Gregory, Secretary Grady C. Ingram III, Educational Director Kanin T. Bennett, Deck Delegate Luqman A. Ali, Engine Delegate Leportre L. Jasper. Chairman requested clarification of time obligations of both licensed and unlicensed crew. Secretary suggested company reserve crane and get stevedore assistance during extremely difficult on-loading of provisions for overseas missions. He also would like company to provide second SA during underway periods to help with galley workload. Educational director asked for new books, magazines, games and for satellite TV and phone access. Next ports: Key West, Fla.; San Diego, Calif. USNS SUMNER (Dyn Marine Services), Aug. 9—Chairman Samuel Duah, Secretary Eriberto B. Bulalacao, Educational Director Charles G. Sadler, Deck Delegate William Joquin, Engine Delegate Jun Labrilla, Steward Delegate Brenda Jackson. Chairman announced arrival in Hawaii Sept. 11. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point; applications available on board ship. Movies received monthly aboard Sumner; magazines, every two months. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun Duah apprised unlicensed crew of change in overtime to 3 hours per day (21 hours per week). CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), Sept. 16—Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca, Deck Delegate Cliff Lattish, Engine Delegate Marco Rodriguez, Steward Delegate Ruben Ong. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 20 in New Orleans and thanked everyone for good job cleaning cargo hold. He reminded crew to make safety top priority. Secretary informed crew members of room inspection by chief mate before payoff. He thanked them for helping keep mess hall clean and asked that they return all movies, clean room for next person and turn in key. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to check LOG for schedule of upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT Educational director urged crew members to utilize Piney Point facility for upgrading skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department thanked for great food and barbecues. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), Sept. 3—Chairman Howard W. Gibbs, Secretary Rang V. Nguyen, Educational Director Prescilo P. Zuniga, Deck Delegate David Smolen, Engine Delegate Randolph Clans, Steward Delegate Dana Washington. Chairman reported smooth trip with payoff Sept. 6 in Tacoma, Wash. Blanket relief available for crew that day. He stated $25 in ship’s fund. Chairman thanked everyone for donations to purchase fresh tuna in Guam. Secretary asked those leaving ship to clean room and leave fresh linen for next person. He thanked members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. INNOVATOR (USSM), Sept. 7— Chairman Dirk W. Adams, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Jim Meyers, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Mohamed M. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Kristen M. Swain. Chairman thanked all departments for maintaining safety and cleanliness of ship, both inside and outside house. He announced payoff Sept. 10 in Los Angeles. Ship will then dry dock next trip in Nantong, China. He reminded crew to lock quarters at all times when in dry dock. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary thanked hard-working bosun, all ABs, engine department, unlicensed apprentice and riding gang for help in keeping all areas clean, especially dining halls. He thanked Chief Cook Swain for super cooking. Educational director advised seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point for better jobs and more pay. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into increase in living allowance in pension benefits during retirement. Thanks given to steward department for good food. Seafarers LOG 19 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:38 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.) Need for Single-P Payer Universal Health System I read the August issue of the Seafarers LOG on the U.S. health care situation with interest. It just reinforced my belief that our system, in which benefits are dependent upon an individual having a job that provides coverage (employment-based), is ineffective and morally wrong. The statistics you quoted are incredible. I believe we need to implement a single-payer, universal health coverage system. Even though I have good coverage as an SIU member, I believe the unions must work for what is best for all of us. And the fact that only about 13 percent of U.S. workers are in unions shows that we must organize together with others who lack or have poor medical coverage. Our benefits are imperiled in the current system. The biggest objections to a single payer system are that it is too expensive and that the government is inefficient. But how can we afford NOT to invest wisely in our best resource, the American people? As for inefficiency, our current system takes the cake in that regard! We should be debating how generous we can be with our benefits and ways to maintain vigilance so that a single-payer system is run effectively. But the solution itself is a no-brainer to me. Mark S. Lance Chico, Calif. Irish Mariner Warns Seafarers To Protect Union and Jobs I am writing as a retired seafarer of 42 years. I remember starting on 60-year-old rat-infested tramp steamers. Since starting, I was always a member of the Seafarers Union of Ireland. I decided to take a trip down memory lane recently to re-visit Rotterdam Holland. I stayed at the Maritime Hotel Seamen’s Club. The facilities were excellent. The reason I am writing this is to say that while the club was full, there was not, to my knowledge, one member of a union there. In my days, a majority of the seamen, no matter what nationality, were all union members. Unfortunately, the Irish merchant marine has disappeared due to very negligent management, despite a strong fight put up by the union. My best wishes to all American seamen. I am familiar with the seafaring scene, thanks to regularly receiving the Seafarers LOG. I would advise all your members to be ever vigilant to protect their union—and their jobs. 20 Seafarers LOG Walter Karlak Woodside, N.Y. 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. Frank Gaughan County Dublin, Ireland Thanks to Paul Hall Center For Aid During Hurricane The clients and staff of the Seafarers Addiction Rehabilitation Center sincerely thank Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center; Howard Thompson, hotel manager; and the entire staff at the TRC for their outstanding services and accommodations to us during our recent stay with them due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Isabel. Their efforts had significant positive impact on the recovery process of our clients and allowed for uninterrupted therapeutic service to our membership. We can be proud of their aid, efforts and contributions to our fellow Seafarers in this time of hardship. Once again, thank you for your hospitality and a job well done. John M. Gallagher Director, Seafarers Addiction Rehabilitation Center Saving the Plans Money On Prescription Drugs After reading the article in the September issue of the LOG concerning medical costs, I’d like to write of my experiences with prescriptions drugs. 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 Also, I have my prescriptions filled at Eckerd (Genovese). Recently, I read the results of a survey taken of pharmacists in the New York area and the prices being charged. Genovese turned out to be the least expensive. Other SIU members may wish to adopt these two cost-saving measures. I have needed to use prescription drugs over the past 17 years for many medical conditions. Often, I will get a prescription filled, only to go back for my next visit and have the prescription changed. I get angry since I still have so many pills left. What I am doing now is asking the doctor to prescribe half the amount, if possible. Otherwise, it’s a waste of the Plan’s money. 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 November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:28 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. 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. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 10 December 5 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman December 1 December 12 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Oiler November 3 December 12 Welding November 3 November 21 Engine Utility (EU) November 17 December 12 Safety Specialty Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* – (5-day course) November 3 November 7 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW November 3 November 10 November 17 December 1 December 8 November 7 November 14 November 21 December 5 December 12 Government Vessels November 3 November 7 Tanker Familiarization December 1 December 12 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* November 17 November 21 (*must have basic fire fighting) (STOS) (*must have basic fire fighting) 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 October 27. 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. 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/03 Seafarers LOG 21 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:28 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 642 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 642 (in alphabetical order) Brannon Adams, Tranell Bordley, Richard Caceres, Jaime Diaz, David Guthrie, Christopher Hodder, Ramsey Ingram, Ryan Krom, Joe Legree, Joseph Lynch, Lance McFarland, Robert Patterson, Xavier Rivera-Valentin, Henry Sanchez Jr., Gregory Scott, John Selman Jr. and William Tuer. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Advanced Fire Fighting — Completing the advanced fire fighting course Sept. 12 are (in alphabetical order) Ehtesham Ahmed, Eric Bridges, Johnie Chavis, Theodore Cooke, Armando Evangelista, Frank Guido, Robert Leija, Anthony Lowman, Jeffrey Mangler, Glen McCullough, Robert Minor, Thomas Minton, Carl Montoya, James Morris, Oscar Palacios, Jawaid Pardesi, Charles Pomraning, Ovidio Santos, Ron Schexnayder, Charles Walker and William Yore Jr. Welding — Certificates of graduation for completion of the welding course were given Sept. 26 to (front row, from left) Daniel Rhodes, Christopher Zaucha and Floyd Ellis. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is in the back row. Government Vessels — Upgrading Seafarers and unlicensed apprentices who took part in the government vessels course ending Sept. 26 include (in no specific order) Michael Sanchez, Dorian Edwards, William Boardman III, Douglas Lowry, Richard Reynolds, Jose Quinones, Marc Simpson, Kevin Koch, Pedro Ocampo, Rubio Ramiro, Tess Flickinger, Miguel Baerga, Raul Colon, Jector Serrano, Jay Pierce, Anthony Mohler, Michael Merrell Jr., Edward Tanaka, Carl Williams, Curtis Tobey, Steven Richards, Edward Boyd, Raymond Searles II, Scott Martin, Prescillano Gamboa, Karen Laycock, Donald Cooper, Ron Schexnayder, Carlos Grillasca, Nicholas Smithing, Daniel Caballero and Munassar Ahmed. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat— Oct. 3 was graduation day for members of instructor Stan Beck’s recent fast rescue boat course. They are (front row, from left) Robert Bakeman, Basil D’Souza, (second row) Stan Beck (instructor) and Jennifer Senner. Computer Lab Classes Recent graduates of the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center pose with their certificates of achievement. In photo at left, graduating Oct. 3 are (seated, from left) Alejandro Mejia and Floyd Ellis, who both completed the Computer Basics/Windows Operating System course. Instructor Rich Prucha is standing in both photos. In photo at right are Christopher Bosado (left) and Virgilio Rosales, who received their certificates Sept. 26. 22 Seafarers LOG Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survial endorsements Sept. 26 are (in alphabetical order) Julio Alvarez, Agustin Arriaga, Jose Blanco, William Born, Scott Bowmer, Theodore Cooke, Armando Evangelista, Mariano Guerrero, Stephen Hammelman, DeCarlo Harris, Eric Kjellberg, Rudy Lopez, David Miller, Jose Reyes, Jason Simon, Joseph Slater, Milan Taigan, Patrick Tucker, Abel Vazquez and Delmar Webster. 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. November 2003 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:29 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes ARPA — ARPA — Graduating from the ARPA class Sept. 12 are (from left) Mike Smith (instructor), Jose Boza, Michael McErlean, Ian Ferguson, James O’Meara, John Mullen, David Flatter, Kendall Diehl and John Gilston. Allied Towing mariners who upgraded their deck skills in the ARPA class, which ended Oct. 3, are (from left) Lance Riggs, Neil Johnson and George Urban III and their instructor, Mike Smith. Medical Care Provider — Graduating Sept. 19 from the medical care provider course are (front row, from left) Jawaid Pardesi, James Bond, Carlos Grillasca, Ron Schexnayder, (second row) Frank Guido, Barry Freeman, Jonathan Eitz, Johnie Chavis, Jennifer Langford (instructor), Anthony Lowman and Carl Montoya. GMDSS — Completing the GMDSS course Sept. 26 are (from left) Ian Ferguson, Robert Minor, Emiddio Massa, James O’Meara and Michael Moore. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far right. Specially Trained OS — Alaskan fishermen who completed the STOS course Sept. 26 are (front row, from left) Erin O’Toole, Brack George, Melvin Gruelle, John Harper, (second row) Roy Nathan, William Farmer, Christen Christensen, Jeffery Perez, Christopher Boyd and David Hays. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Social Responsibility Class: King Scott, Sam Baffoe, Celso Ordonez, James Coleman, Michael Lawson, Gilberto Padilla and Daluz Celestino. STCW — Sept. 19: John Barrett, Donald Cooper, Robert Davis, Roert Easley, Vernon Edwards, Michael Fay, Greg Lynch, Terry Murley, Lorance Pence, Charles Pomraning, Mark Poor, Micah Sanders, Ramond Searles, Edward Tennyson, Michael Valencia, Sven Vilborg and Steven Westfall. (Note: Not all are pictured.) STCW — Sept. 5: Christopher Boyd, Chris Christensen, William Farmer, Brack George, Mel Gruelle, John Harper, David Hays, Roy Nathan, Erin O’Toole, Jeff Perez and Carlos Majao. November 2003 STCW — Oct. 3: Roosevelt Allen, Charles Archie, John Bumgarner, Henry Cook, Jerome Davis, Steven Hynes, Kenneth Kramlich, Margie Leite, Brian Murgotten, Gregory Noble, Virgilio Rasales, and Wallace William. Seafarers LOG 23 �20117_P8_14,19-24.qxd 10/24/2003 7:29 AM Page 24 Volume 65, Number 11 November 2003 A S P R P M L S P &D T H P P &B P P P 1 F &A R P o t i F N P 4 &W P N P &W P P T N V 1 N o t P P N F Federation Secures Back Wages, Contracts for Many Crews Runaway-Flag Registries The following 28 countries have been declared flag-ofconvenience registries by the ITF’s Fair Practices Committee (a joint committee of ITF seafarers’ and dockers’ unions), which runs the ITF campaign against FOCs: Antigua and Barbuda Bahamas Barbados Belize Bermuda Bolivia Burma/Myanmar Cambodia Cayman Islands Comoros Cyprus Equatorial Guinea German International Ship Register Gibraltar Honduras Jamaica Lebanon Liberia Malta Marshall Islands Mauritius Netherlands Antilles Panama São Tomé and Príncipe St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sri Lanka Tonga Vanuatu T he International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in late September issued a 50-page report packed with details about its ongoing campaign against flag-of-convenience shipping, also known as runaway flags. The SIU, an ITF affiliate, strongly supports the fight against runaway flags. “We may be closer to seeing fundamental changes to the flag-of-convenience system than at any time in the last 50 years,” stated ITF General Secretary David Cockroft and Special Seafarers’ Department Secretary Stephen Cotton in the report’s co-authored introduction. “Governments are being forced by the events of September 11, 2001 to pay much greater attention to the lack of transparency in world shipping and the ease with which flags of convenience can be used not just by bad employers but also criminals and even terrorists. The lack of effective control in shipping was demonstrated once again by the sinking of the oil tanker Prestige off the coast of Spain in November 2002.” The report later notes that the Prestige flew the Bahamian flag, was Greek-owned through a shell company based in Liberia, chartered by a Russian/Swiss company and classified by an American entity. “It took skilled researchers several weeks to uncover this information,” the federation reported. Based in London, the ITF ITF Contracts Prove Key In Fight vs. Runaway Flags One of the main goals of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section—of which SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is vice chairman—is ending the scandal of runaway-flag shipping. With that in mind, ITF inspectors across the globe help crews of such ships and work to ensure that the shipowners are held accountable. Because the federation realizes that eliminating runaways won’t happen overnight, one of its immediate goals is bringing such ships under ITF contract. That part of the campaign has been particularly successful, as more than 6,500 vessels are covered by ITF agreements. By signing on with the ITF, crews of runaway-flag ships have some recourse against the shipowners. They are protected by a written contract that establishes wage rates meeting international standards; provides for overtime and holiday pay and manning according to ITF policy; and includes clauses covering medical attention, sick pay, death benefits, disability insurance and other benefits. The federation doesn’t limit its work to flags of convenience. The ITF assists as many crews as possible that need help, whether or not their vessels are runaway-flag ships. Mariners on the Liberian-flag tanker Merlin were among those assisted by the ITF in 2002. SIU ITF Inspector Enrico Esopa (seated at left in group photo) obtained $105,000 in back wages for the Filipino crew of the runaway-flag ship. comprises more than 600 unions representing a combined 5 million workers. Among the many notable items reported by the ITF in its yearly report: „ Federation inspectors (including those from the SIU) recovered $32.4 million in unpaid wages for crews in 2002. „ Approximately 6,500 runaway-flag ships are covered by ITF contract or other agreements which the federation deems acceptable. „ There are 137 ITF inspectors and coordinators in 123 ports in 43 countries. They made 8,886 reported inspections last year, of which 7,375 were on FOC vessels. (The ITF’s Seafarers Support Team handles cases in ports lacking a permanent federation presence.) „ As of the end of last year, 28 registers were formally designated FOCs by the ITF’s Fair Practices Committee. Three countries were added to the list in 2002 (Comoros, Jamaica and Tonga), while four were removed (Aruba, the Canary Islands, the Cook Islands and Tuvalu). „ Through joint negotiating forums, the ITF continues to illustrate that its campaign “builds good relationships with good employers. It targets bad ones to isolate them politically and to get their signatures on agreements covering working terms and conditions.” „ Citing the Prestige disaster and other incidents, the federation pointed out that some ship officers unfairly are being made scapegoats in pollution cases. The Prestige’s captain was held for four months—and released only after ITF intervention. “Seafarers continue to face criminal proceedings when unseaworthy ships founder or run aground on uncharted rocks,” the report notes. “By contrast, there are few, if any, instances of the arrest of an owner or charterer who places seafarers in danger by putting a substandard ship to sea.” In Denmark, the work of an ITF inspector led to a Russian shipowner getting a six-month prison sentence and a $4,000 fine, after he had directed thugs to attack mariners who had complained about unpaid wages. Cockroft and Cotton also noted, “Even if FOCs were to be eliminated entirely, it wouldn’t guarantee that seafarers were well treated everywhere. Bad shipowners will always try to exploit seafarers, and there will still be a need for the global network of union solidarity represented by the ITF.” FOCs at a Glance A flag-of-convenience ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. More than 50 years ago, U.S. maritime unions dubbed them runaway registers, or runaway flags, because of their use as a device for shipowners to pay a nominal fee to the government of a non-maritime nation seeking to raise revenue. The shipowners then escape from a maritime nation’s safety regulations, procedures and inspections, tax laws and higher wages. Their avoidance often is further insulated with dishonest managers and registries, making it difficult for authorities to hold the shipowners accountable for mistreating crews and operating unsafe ships. When such conditions are discovered, it’s usually quite difficult to pinpoint who is responsible—even for lawyers, government agencies and other professionals who have the resources to investigate such matters. The ITF believes there should be a genuine link between the real owner of a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). There is no genuine link in the case of FOC registries. Some of these registers have poor safety and training standards, and place no restriction on the nationality of the crew. Sometimes, because of language differences, seafarers are not able to communicate effectively with each other, putting safety and the efficient operation of the ship at risk. � 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 November 2003 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CAR CARRIER, PREPOSITIONING SHIP SIGNAL NEW SIU JOBS HEALTH CARE COSTS DRIVE TRANSIT, GROCERY STRIKES SIU GAINS CAR CARRIER, MSC SHIP LABOR DEPARTMENT INDUCTS PAUL HALL INTO HALL OF FAME LNG CREW RESCUES FILIPINO FISHERMEN CROWLEY TUG CREW DOES ‘EXCELLENT JOB’ TOWING CAR CARRIER CONTRACT DEPARTMENT NEWS MASSACHUSETTS WWII MARINERS ELIGIBLE FOR $300 VETERANS BONUS UNION PRESIDENTS STAND UP FOR JONES ACT MARITIME CABOTAGE TASK FORCE ALSO REITERATES SUPPORT SEAFARERS BACK MAERSK APPLICATION FORMER MATSON CHAIRMAN/CEO ROBERT J. PFEIFFER DIES AT 83 STUDY: UNIONS’ GAINS BENEFIT ALL WORKERS SOCP TACKLES ‘SHORT SEA SHIPPING’ AFL-CIO STUDY DOCUMENTS WAL-MART’S ‘RACE TO THE BOTTOM’ ON HEALTH COVERAGE NEW MATSON SHIP ARRIVES IN HAWAII 2 MORE RRF SHIPS COMPLETE EXERCISE PHASE 2: AN INVALUABLE EXPERIENCE SIU FLEET MAKES GREAT GAINS IN 2003 ITF REPORTS PROGRESS IN FOC FIGHT 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 11/01/2003 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. 11 2003 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a841753ae42d04178fed268b174943d4.pdf 18bc9ba9e238b8fe811bb2b3479be821 PDF Text Text p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 11 November 2004 Construction Starts th On 4 BP Tanker Construction began last month on the fourth double-hull oil tanker being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego. Like its three sister ships—including the Alaskan Frontier, pictured at right—the newest vessel when completed will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. Page 3. Maersk Line, Limited Brings Newer Ships into MSP Fleet Six modern containerships are entering the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet thanks to an agreement between SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited and the U.S. Maritime Administration. The vessels, including the Comet (above) and Meteor (below), are replacement ships for older tonnage. Page 3. Ferry Crews Vote SIU Page 2 Union, School Mourn Major Ken Conklin Shipboard Training: Vital Part of Apprentice Program Page 4 New Tug on Lakes Page 2 Benefits Conferences Begin Early Next Year Page 5 The unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education emphasizes practical training, including a 90-day shipboard phase that gives students experience working in each of the three departments. Above, Unlicensed Apprentices Tim Cullen (left) and Mike Esterheld perform their duties, aboard the Freedom in Baltimore. Pages 12-13. �p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 2 President’s Report More on OIF3 Although the year is winding down, this remains a busy and productive time for Seafarers. Once again, our members are answering the call of Operation Iraqi Freedom, this time for OIF3. As with the first two phases of the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Seafarers during this current stage are fulfilling their role as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. Rock-solid professionalism, performance, patriotism and reliability are nothing new for the SIU. It has been that way since our founding in 1938. It will always be that way. I applaud our members who are sailing in support of our troops. You are an ongoing source of pride for your brothers and sisters throughout the union, for merchant marine veterans and for the soldiers and citizens of our nation. You are a vital part of the U.S. effort in Iraq, in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas. It goes without saying that this is an enormously important mission, one that continues to involve sacrifice and risk. The same is true with Operation Enduring Freedom, the war against terrorism. At the same time, Seafarers also are doing an excellent job meeting our obligations in the commercial sector of the U.S.-flag fleet. That, too, is an important mission. SIU Elections This month marks the start of balloting in the union’s elections, which take place every four years. The current and previous issues of the LOG contain a list of voting locations and other balloting information, including how to vote by absentee ballot. That same information remains available on the SIU’s web site. As I’ve said before, the SIU’s direction begins with the individual Seafarer. You elect the officials to lead the way in improving your union. You hold the power to decide the outcome of proposed constitutional amendments like those on this year’s SIU ballot. That power only works if you vote. Regardless of whom you support in the SIU election, and wherever you stand on the proposed amendments, make the effort to cast your votes. Encourage your brother and sister Seafarers to do the same. Tonnage Tax Last month, President Bush signed into law H.R. 4520, the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. The new law includes a provision that should help provide a more level playing field for companies operating U.S.-flag fleets. Specifically, the law allows American-flag operators engaged in the international trades to pay a yearly tax based on their fleet’s overall tonnage instead of paying an annual corporate income tax. This is good news for our industry, in part because most foreign maritime competitors already operate under a similar tax structure. And once again, the new law reminds all of us that politics in many ways governs our industry. Whether we’re talking about tax structures, training requirements, shipboard and port security procedures, cabotage laws or some other rule or regulation that affects maritime, the bottom line is that we must remain politically active in order to make our voices heard. Thanksgiving On a personal note, I extend warmest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all Seafarers, SIU pensioners and their families. I especially want to offer best wishes to our brothers and sisters who are at sea for the holiday. It’s never easy being away from home at this time of year, but, as mentioned, your work is helping ensure America’s national and economic security. That’s no exaggeration, and your commitment is noticed and appreciated. Professionally, I believe we in the SIU have much to be thankful for as we look back on the year so far. We have organized new vessels, ratified good contracts, and maintained excellent health care benefits at a time when medical coverage is the top, most difficult issue in virtually every contract across the country. We have helped make numerous improvements at our affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. And of course, we have delivered the goods for U.S. troops overseas. Again, I wish you a safe and happy holiday. Volume 66, Number 11 November 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 Philly Ferry Crews Stick With Seafarers Seafarers once again are sailing aboard the Philadelphiabased passenger ferry Freedom. Hornblower Marine Services became the ferry’s new operator this past summer. In August, with pledge cards in hand from all of the crew members, the union filed for recognition as the mariners’ collective bargaining representative. The company agreed to recognize the union based on the card check. As this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, both parties were awaiting finalization of a first contract for signature. In the interim, the crews are covered by a temporary agreement. “The mariners made it clear that they wanted SIU representation, and the company respected their wish,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “Both sides have bargained in good faith.” The Delaware River Port Authority in the summer of 2003 added the Freedom to its RiverLink service between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. The boat eventually replaced its predecessor. The Freedom has a minimum crew of three and a crew of six when it carries its maximum number of passengers: 600. The ferry is equipped with two decks, a steel canopy, an insulated cabin and dual wheelhouses (one at each end). The SIU has represented RiverLink crews since March 1992. At that time, the ferry service’s rebirth marked the resumption of a route that had stopped 40 years earlier. In 1952, the Haddonfield, also manned by Seafarers, made its final voyage across the Delaware River. The ferry closed because of new bridge construction and the rising operating costs, including insurance and fuel. The SIU-crewed Freedom transports passengers between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. BIDCO Adds New Tugboat Seafarers-contracted Buffalo Industrial Diving Company (BIDCO) has added a new tugboat to its operation. The Ruby is the first in a series of tugs that the company plans to add over the next few years. The boat is used for assistance in marine construction and also helps the SIU-crewed dive-support vessel M/V Pipeline Surveyor. The Ruby is covered under a separate three-year contract— one that provides wage increases in each year of the agreement, top-of-the-line medical benefits and pension benefits. BIDCO mariners earlier this year voted to join the SIU. The original crew members work aboard a 110-foot former survey boat which now tends to 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. Pictured aboard the SIU’s newest contracted tugboat are (from left) Seafarers Tom Schultz, Mark Jones, Tom Maciejczyk and Brendan Murphy. NCL America President Tours School NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch last month toured the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Veitch examined all aspects of the school’s operation, including the fire fighting and safety school (above, left, with Safety Director Jim Hanson) and the manpower office (below, with Bart Rogers, head of the department). NCL America operates the SIU-crewed U.S.-flag cruise ship Pride of Aloha. November 2004 �p01_03.qxd 10/29/2004 5:02 AM Page 3 Construction Starts on 4 BP Tanker th SIU-Contracted Alaska Tanker Co. Earns Safety Milestone, Award Construction began last month on the fourth double-hull oil tanker being built for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego. Like its three sister ships, the newest vessel when completed will be operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. (ATC). The first ship in the group— the Alaskan Frontier—was christened at the shipyard in May and was delivered in August. A naming ceremony for the second vessel, which was floated out in July, is slated for early next month. Delivery dates for that ship and the other two range from 20052006. NASSCO describes the four double-hull vessels as among the most environmentally friendly ships ever built, incorporating the latest in tanker design and construction. The design of the four 1.3-million-barrel-capacity tankers in the Alaska Class is intended to allow maximum flexibility for oil deliveries to West Coast ports, including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. Each of the vessels is 941 feet long and has a beam of 164 feet. According to the shipyard, the vessels employ the latest in international marine technologies, including twin-screw, mediumspeed, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 15 knots. The ships come fitted with the most modern machinery and cargo control systems and an integrated navigation system. Earlier this year, the SIUcrewed ATC fleet quietly reached another safety milestone: six million man hours without a lost time injury. The company also earned accolades in the form of a “Legacy Award” issued by the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force. The award is given for oil spill prevention, preparedness and response. In announcing the award, the task force noted, “ATC has conclusively demonstrated that preventing spills and injuries is not only the right thing to do, but is cost effective as well. ATC has saved millions of dollars in injury claims, spill response costs, and insurance premiums. During 2002 and 2003, ATC transported 13 billion gallons of crude oil with just 2.2 total gallons being spilled and completed more than five million man hours without a lost time injury. ATC firmly believes that openly reporting near misses and losses of containment—and using this information as the basis for improvement—is a key factor in instilling the awareness and behaviors that prevent pollution…. “ATC has worked with the Seafarers International Union to establish a dedicated employment pool of individuals who meet specific medical, fitness, training, and performance requirements. ATC has also made a point of hiring Alaskans and maintaining an office in Valdez, thus underscoring its commitment to the Alaskan community. ATC has also partnered with the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens’ Advisory Council and with the Pacific States/BC Oil Spill Task Force on spill prevention projects such as the Ice Detection Radar System, efforts to promote voluntary spill prevention efforts industry-wide, and efforts to plan for requests for Places of Refuge by ships in distress.” Voting for officers of the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, to be con- Transfers Executed for Six Replacement Vessels; Planning Continues for Transfer of Other Ships November 2004 The Sealand Lightning (above) and SL Charger (below) are two of six modern containerships that will replace older vessels in the MSP fleet. The SIU-crewed ships are managed by Maersk Line, Limited. operating under the U.S. flag with a U.S. crew. The disposition of the six replaced vessels will be determined in the near future, but they are ultimately expected to operate in Maersk’s international fleet. Each of the replacement vessels will be integrated into Maersk’s existing U.S.-flag fleet, streamlining operations and creating efficiencies in MLL’s network of intermodal assets, Last year, seven Seafarerscrewed ATC ships received vessel safety awards at an annual industry gathering in New Orleans. Also last year, the Alaska state legislature formally congratulated the company for its outstanding safety and environmental record. ATC then earned a major Washington State award for excellence in marine safety and environmental stewardship. Union Election Voting Begins Nov. 1 Maersk Line, Limited Replaces Maritime Security Program Ships Agreements were signed Oct. 1, 2004 between Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) and the Maritime Administration to transfer the Maritime Security Program (MSP) contracts on six existing SIU-crewed MSP vessels built in the 1980s and managed by U.S. Ship Management, Inc. (USSM) to six newer containerships. The new replacement vessels are the Sealand Intrepid, Sealand Lightning, Sealand Charger, Sealand Comet, Sealand Meteor and Alva Maersk. The replacements were approved by the Maritime Administration and U.S. Transportation Command and represent a significant improvement in the ability of MLL’s U.S.flag fleet to serve its military and commercial customers. “This is a major milestone in MLL’s plan to enroll newer, faster and larger U.S.-flagged vessels into the maritime security program,” said Ken Gaulden, MLL’s senior vice president for marketing and government relations. “The end result will be a much impoved MSP.” In an Oct. 1 news release, Maersk noted that MSP age limits require that older vessels be replaced in the current program before reaching 25 years of age. The first of the new replacement vessels was expected to enter the U.S- flag fleet late last month. The replaced vessels (the Explorer, Defender, Innovator, Patriot, Liberator and Endurance) will continue to sail under the U.S. flag until their replacements begin The Alaskan Frontier (above) is a sister ship to the one on which construction began last month in San Diego. including terminals, cranes, logistical platforms, computerized management systems, containers and chassis. The transfers will strengthen the MSP for military purposes and enhance the U.S.flag presence in international shipping. Maersk Line, Limited is based in Norfolk, Va. and is one of the Department of Defense’s primary shipping contractors. ducted by secret ballot, begins Nov. 1 and continues through Dec. 31. This election also includes two proposed constitutional amendments. Full-book SIU members in good standing are eligible to vote in the election, which will determine union officers for the 20052008 term. Such members may pick up their ballots at any of 21 SIU halls throughout the country. Ballots may be obtained from 9 a.m. until noon, Mondays through Saturdays, except legal holidays, until Dec. 31. The ballot includes the list of candidates seeking the posts of president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, eight vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents (for a total of 27 positions). It also includes the two proposed constitutional amendments. In accordance with the union’s constitution, a credentials committee composed of six rank-andfile Seafarers, elected by their fellow members, reviewed the nomination applications to ensure each candidate’s eligibility. The committee’s report was prepared Aug. 19 (after the nominations period closed) and approved by the membership at the September meetings. The secret ballots are accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” as well as postage-paid envelopes bearing the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee. Each Seafarer must present his or her book to the port agent or agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the member receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be stamped with the word “Voted” and the date. Members who are working aboard an SIU-contracted vessel during the election period or who have a hospital stay during the first 10 days of November may request an absentee ballot. Such requests should be made in writing, by registered or certified mail, to SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Requests for absentee ballots should be postmarked no later than Nov. 15 See page 17 for a list of the voting locations. Article XIII of the union’s constitution spells out the procedures by which an election will be conducted. The entire text of Article XIII, along with a sample ballot, a list of voting locations, the constitutional committee’s report and other related information appears on pages 6-11 of the October 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG. The same information is available on the internet at www.seafarers.org, in the Seafarers LOG section. Additionally, a notice of the election was mailed in October to all members at their last known address, with a list of all voting locations as well as a sample of the official ballot. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004 for the observance of Veterans’ Day; Thursday, Nov 25, 2004 to celebrate Thanksgiving Day; and Friday, Dec. 24, 2004 for the Christmas holiday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 3:07 AM Page 4 Remembering Major Ken Conklin (1918-2004) Trainee Program’s Founder Wanted Others to Have Opportunities Even the most optimistic, resolute person surely would have tipped his cap to Major Ken “K.C.” Conklin, founder of the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Looking back on his service in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, Conklin described the experience as “a break” that helped him turn his life around. Surveying the awesome challenge of building a maritime training center on a largely barren patch of southern Maryland land in 1967, Conklin once remarked —with a sincerity not to be questioned—“I had no doubts about the long-term success of the school.” That type of determination and can-do attitude characterized Conklin, who died Sept. 20 in Dover, Pa. at age 86. Family members and former co-workers remembered the retired Paul Hall Center vice president as tough but generous, indomitable but understanding—the type of man who could view wartime military service as a blessing. Most of all, they recalled his fondness for the Paul Hall Center, a facility that has evolved into a premier maritime school enhanced by academic curriculums including GED and college degree programs. Much of that growth took place during Conklin’s tenure, from 1967 until he retired in 1993. “Right until his absolute dying breath, he was (connected to) Piney Point,” said Conklin’s daughter, Andrea, herself a longtime employee at the school before moving last year to care for her parents. “He remained ever in Piney Point—that was the love of his life.” SIU President Michael Sacco, who served as the school’s vice president from 1968 to 1978, said Conklin “was a hard-working, dedicated guy. He brought that Marine spirit and discipline. He instituted (the trainees) marching to and from class, posting the colors. He was a tough commandant, but someone you could go to if you had a problem.” The school’s current vice pres- ident, Don Nolan, also met Conklin in 1968 during the facility’s earliest days. “He was our very first commandant and one of the most committed and tireless Rogers, who met Conklin in 1980, described him as a father figure with remarkable attention to detail. “His organizational skills were incredible,” Rogers Clockwise, from upper left: Past and present Paul Hall Center VPs Ken Conklin and Don Nolan; Conklin as a high school senior; giving a tour of the Paul Hall Memorial Library; with his wife, Jane. individuals I’ve seen in my entire life,” Nolan recalled. “He’s a person no one will forget. People who haven’t been to the school for 30 years come back and ask about him. He was a true mentor.” Bart Rogers, head of the manpower office at Piney Point, pointed out that despite the school’s commendable growth and virtually mandatory broadening, “The basis of the school is the trainee program, and the foundation for the program is K.C. It’s really that simple. The system and procedures he put in place are still there today.” said. “They’d bring 50 kids in for a class, and the next day he’d be calling each one of them by name.” Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jim Hanson said Conklin “was very dedicated to the kids and the school. It seemed like he was always here and he loved it very much. You could feel it.” Sharon Farr worked for Conklin for more than 10 years. “He had a gruff exterior, but he wasn’t all that gruff, once you got to know him. He had a soft heart and he cared about everybody Tough Commandant Took Pleasure In Helping Trainees Ken Conklin had a strict air befitting a retired U.S. Marine Corps major who served in two wars, but his greatest professional joy was anything but tough. “My father was absolutely committed to giving anybody who may be on the wrong track the break they needed to turn themselves around,” noted his daughter, Andrea. “He and his brother and sister were orphaned very young. As he put it, he and his brother kind of ran wild after they were orphaned. He had influences in his life that he credits with turning him around. “When he went into service to help found Piney Point, the thing that most appealed to him was the opportunity to give people a break, an opportunity.” During a 1992 interview for an article on 4 Seafarers LOG who worked here,” Farr stated. During a shipboard meeting a week after Conklin’s death, the crew of the LNG Libra wrote, “He was a good man and made us the school’s 25th anniversary, Conklin said, “Working with young people is a big part of what attracted me to this job. The truth is there’s nothing wrong with the youth of today. It’s just that we, as adults, don’t have enough time to talk with them. “The reason I’ve stuck with it all these years is, helping people. We’re in the business of giving people an opportunity to better themselves— financially, educationally, every way.” Conklin believed that unyielding effort plays a big part in success. “You’re going to run into a roadblock, and you can either go under, over, around or through,” he said. “But don’t quit. You can do anything you want to do, if you want it badly enough.” understand the steps that we were taking in our lives. Many of us knew the Major from attending the school, either as trainees or upgraders. He taught us about loyalty and the meaning of the U.S. Merchant Marine. He showed us to walk tall and be proud.” Thomas Horton, an accomplished television documentary producer who served under Conklin during World War II, called him “the best Marine officer I ever knew. He was such a straight shooter, never bragged or tried to impress you. It was his job to keep us on the narrow path of doing a good job.” Ken Conklin was born in Clifton, N.J. He served in the Marine Corps from 1941 to 1964, retiring as a major. He was hired by the late SIU President Paul Hall to start the original training program at the Lundeberg School, later renamed for Hall. Conklin is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jane Conklin. He also is survived by daughter Andrea McCranie; two sons, boatman Craig Conklin and QMED Kevin Conklin, both active Seafarers; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a sister, Rita Ryerson. Funeral services were scheduled for Oct. 28 at the Fort Belvoir (Va.) Chapel, followed by burial at the Arlington National Cemetery. The family encourages a donation in his name to a charity of one’s choice. Notice Pre-Signed Certificates of Discharge The union recently fielded questions about the practice employed by some ships’ masters involving the pre-signing of certificates of discharge. According to the union’s legal department, it is not illegal to have mariners sign their respective certificates of discharge at the outset of a voyage and then fill in the actual discharge date at the end of the voyage. Some captains ask for presigned discharges as a matter of convenience. However, such a practice legally cannot be made a condition of employment, and no mariner can lose his job for refusing to sign the certificate prior to the actual date of discharge. A question was raised concerning a potential problem with this practice; specifically, what would happen if someone filled in an incorrect date on the certificate which differed from the actual discharge date. The concern was that this could be problematic for injury or illness claims if the injury or illness occurred after the date of discharge on the certificate. However, SIU members should be assured that, for the purposes of establishing a legal claim, the mariner simply must demonstrate that he was a seaman working on the vessel at the time of the injury. Thus, even though a seaman may have been technically discharged prior to the injury, he nevertheless can establish his status as a mariner by showing that he was performing duties consistent with the operation of the vessel when he was injured (through payroll records or witness accounts, for instance). The date included on the discharge would not be determinative. Mariners are advised if they do pre-sign their certificates that, upon discharge, they should make sure the correct date of discharge appears on the certificate. If any SIU members have any questions about this practice they may direct them to a union official; however, SIU members should note that this practice is not something about which they need to be overly concerned. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/29/2004 6:29 PM Page 5 Shore Leave Spotlighted on World Maritime Day Maritime unions and shipowners, in a show of solidarity with seafarers on World Maritime Day (Sept. 30) over the denial of shore leave, urged governments not to prevent mariners from enjoying their entitlement to go ashore. In an unusual cooperative venture, members of the Round Table of shipping organizations—BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and International Shipping Federation (ISF), Intercargo and Intertanko—tackled the issue of maritime security and jointly wrote an open letter to U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell expressing the shipping industry’s concerns. The industry also is engaging with U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide as part of a global effort to raise awareness of the shore leave problem. Roundtable members aligned with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) in a further show of unity to further their agenda. “On World Maritime Day we are all joining to back the basic rights of those who work at sea and to remind the U.S. and other governments that enhanced security will be achieved by cooperation, not confrontation,” said ITF General Secretary David Cockroft. ICS/ISF Secretary General Chris Horrocks added: “We are all committed to improving security, as demonstrated by the implementation of the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code), but we want to remind governments— especially the U.S.—that this is best achieved by working together, not by treating visiting seafarers as potential terrorists.” Efthimios Mitropoulos, secretary-general of the IMO, while praising the rapid work done in the maritime community to progress and implement the ISPS Code has called for balance between the need to strictly implement the new security regime and to facilitate global trade. Mitropoulos said that balance also was also necessary between the need to tighten security precautions against terrorists who might pose as seafarers, “the rights of seafarers themselves” and the “traditional and legally enshrined rights of ships to enjoy freedom of navigation on the high seas.” On security matters, Mitropoulos urged unceasing preparedness. “Now that the new international maritime security measures are in force, we must not make the mistake of resting on our laurels and assuming the work has been completed,” the secretary-general said. “The risks are too high to allow for any hint of complacency and we must make sure that high levels of vigilance and awareness are maintained and built upon until they become second nature throughout the shipping and port industries. “Terrorism is not a matter of concern to just one country or a group of countries—it is a global issue that affects us all,” he said. “We should spare no effort to ensure that, together, we build a robust and resilient defense.” The text of the alliance’s letter to Secretary Powell, dated Sept. 30, follows: Seafarers play a significant role in the smooth operation of the world economy, with around 90% of trade in the world’s raw materials, food and products being transported by sea. On the occasion of World Maritime Day, we are therefore writing to draw your attention to a particular problem confronting the global shipping industry and the 1.25 million seafarers working on board merchant ships that service international trade. Due to the special nature of seafarers’ employment—with crew working at sea during voyages of several weeks’ duration—the provision of shore leave in the foreign ports that seafarers visit is vital to ensure their wellbeing and welfare. However, one of the unresolved problems created by post 9/11 security concerns is the tighter restrictions being placed on the movement of seafarers by certain governments, not least the United States. Apart from concerns about welfare, the entry into force of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code has conferred a major new security role on seafarers. Maritime employers and seafarers’ trade Rep. Vitter Salutes Mariners U.S. Rep. David Vitter (R-La.) made the following statement in the House of Representatives on World Maritime Day (Sept. 30). Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize September 30 as World Maritime Day. I urge the members of Congress to join me in saluting the hard-working men and women of the Merchant Marine. Each day, mariners perform a vital service in the global economy by ensuring that international trade proceeds without interruption. They work long hours in all kinds of weather. Whether they sail on the storm-tossed waves of the North Atlantic or the U.S. Rep. David Vitter tropical heat of the South Pacific, these men and (R-La.) women perform their duties without recognition or fanfare. Mariners and many others contribute to homeland security, and we must give them the support they need to effectively keep our ports safe. As we recognize Maritime Day, we cannot overlook the human element. Mariners sail for many weeks without being ashore or hearing a loved one’s voice on a call home. We thank the mariners for their continued commitment to keeping us all secure, and we focus our attention on the challenge in their industry of balancing security needs with mariners’ need for shore leave. I urge members of Congress to join me in working to reach a solution that provides the utmost in security for ports and harbors around the world while allowing for the personal needs of the men and women who sail these great ships. I come to the floor of the House of Representatives to salute and honor the men and women of the Merchant Marine on this World Maritime Day. November 2004 unions therefore believe that unreasonable restrictions on shore leave are counterproductive. They simply generate ill feeling amongst those who have such an important part to play in ensuring the security of ships, port facilities and society at large. The most acute problems have been experienced in the United States, where in addition to the frequent denial of shore leave some companies have been required to hire armed guards to prevent foreign seafarers from leaving their ships. However the problem is widespread, with many other countries no longer adhering to the principle that seafarers should not be required to obtain visas in order to enjoy shore leave, established in international law by the IMO Facilitation Convention, 1965, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention, 1958. To address concerns about security following the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, but in a manner compatible with providing seafarers with shore leave, ILO has adopted, in June 2003, a new Convention on the Security of Seafarers’ Identity Documents (ILO 185). Crucially, the Convention maintains the principle that port states must afford special treatment to seafarers for the purpose of facilitating shore leave or crew transits, and that seafarers holding the new ID should not normally be required to apply for a visa in advance in their home country. The global shipping industry and seafarers’ trade unions are especially concerned that seafarers must now hold individual visas for entry to the US in order to have any possibility of being granted permission to enjoy shore leave. Apart from the practical difficulties this policy creates, it also gives a negative signal to other governments that are considering whether to ratify the new ILO Convention. As we celebrate World Maritime Day, we respectfully urge the United States to do all that it can to facilitate the movement of seafarers and the provision of shore leave. Yours sincerely, David Cockroft General Secretary International Transport Workers’ Federation Chris Horrocks Secretary General International Chamber of Shipping/International Shipping Federation (On behalf of the Round Table of international shipping associations) Meanwhile, as members of the Round Table were observing World Maritime Day 2004 in London, Pope John Paul II prayed for seafarers worldwide. At a meeting at his summer residence, the Pope said that his thoughts went out to all who worked at sea, and prayed “that they may be able to live with dignity and security.” Elsewhere, World Maritime Day for the first time was commemorated in Port Arthur, Texas. As in other locations around the world, the issue of shore leave took center stage during the Port Arthur observance. Rev. Sinclair Oubre of the Apostleship of the Sea and the Port Arthur International Seafarers ITF Inspector Shwe Aung told those who attended World Maritime Day activities in Port Arthur, Texas how difficult life is for seamen who work aboard flag-of-convenience (FOC) vessels. He also discussed the difficulties he encounters when attempting to gain access on FOCs to perform inspections. Rev. Sinclair Oubre of the Apostleship of the Sea holds a press conference in Port Arthur, Texas on the campus of Lamar State College during the World Maritime Day commemoration. During his remarks to the media, Oubre called for the support of shore leave for mariners coming into U.S. ports. Center, called for ways for foreign seafarers to have shore leave on U.S. soil, The Beaumont Enterprise reported. “With three liquid natural gas facilities in the planning stages for the Port Arthur area, our maritime future is bright and exciting. I pray that as we move into that future that the seafarers who are essential to our community will not be seen as a ‘problem,’ but an opportunity to welcome and serve,” said Oubre, who is an SIU member. Benefits Conferences Will Take Place at SIU Halls in 2005 The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) will conduct conferences at SIU halls beginning early next year to update members, pensioners and spouses on the latest happenings with the various Plans. SHBP Administrator Bill Dennis said the conference dates will be firmed up some time this month; they’ll be published in the December issue of the Seafarers LOG and also will be made available at the halls and on the union’s web site (www.seafarers.org). Information on all of the Seafarers Plans will be available at the conferences. Seafarers, pensioners and family members are encouraged to attend. “I’m very confident that the benefits conferences will be worthwhile for all who attend,” Dennis stated. “Plans representatives will present plenty of information and of course will welcome questions from Seafarers, pensioners and their spouses. If we can’t immediately answer a question, we’ll write it down and get the answer back to the member or spouse.” Two of the more prominent topics at the conferences will be the SHBP’s recent affiliations with First Health Network and (separately) Prescription Solutions. As previously reported, the First Health Network agreement took effect Nov. 1. By utilizing First Health, the SHBP is helping to eliminate applicable out-of-pocket costs for Seafarers. Additionally, one of the biggest expected advantages is that Seafarers using the network no longer will have to worry about doctors’ charges exceeding the “reasonable and customary” coverage limit, since the network and its participating physicians agree to a set fee schedule. More than 4,500 hospitals and some 425,000 physicians and ancillary providers participate in First Health Network. According to the company, 99 percent of hospitals and 96 percent of physicians and ancillary providers normally renew their respective contracts with the network. A quick visit to First Health’s web site (www.firsthealth.com, login ID SHBP) backed up the company’s status as a large network, giving Plan participants plenty of choices. A search for participating clinics and physicians within 20 miles of the SIU’s Algonac, Mich. hall returned 984 matches. A search for providers located within 5 miles of the Baltimore hall yielded 2,674 matches. Large numbers also were the norm for searches within 5 miles of the halls in Boston (8,850 participants), Houston (3,794), Honolulu (560), Jacksonville (1,069), New Orleans (937), New York (4,315), Norfolk (804), San Francisco (2,847), Tacoma (1,056), Wilmington (1,116) and others. At the start of 2004, the SHBP entered into an agreement with Prescription Solutions, a national pharmacy management company, to provide pharmacy benefits to all eligible participants. Under this agreement, the cost of prescribed drugs has been greatly reduced, resulting in a savings to the Plan and to participants. Eligible members and dependents participating at Plan Level G pay only small co-payments for certain prescribed name brand drugs. In addition, maintenance drugs are available without a co-pay when a participant uses the mail-order system. The program provides coverage for new as well as refill prescriptions filled at participating retail pharmacies and through the Prescription Solutions Mail Services Pharmacy. To use the program, members present their Prescription Solutions ID cards to any participating pharmacy. Seafarers LOG 5 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 1:10 AM Page 6 Left: SIU Honolulu Port Agent Neil Dietz and SEATU Assistant Vice President Elizabeth Brown wave their campaign signs in front of the union hall in support of Rep. Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii). Abercrombie is one of maritime’s strongest allies in Congress and a good friend to the SIU. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU Right: This photo of SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell (left) and Tim Farrell, executive director of the port of Tacoma, was taken at a recent meeting during which discussions were held pertaining to the Jones Act and short sea shipping as well as maritime and port security issues. Kenneth McLamb, bosun aboard the Blue Ridge, sent in this photo of unlicensed apprentice John Niday flying in the bosun’s chair in order to work on block and slushing wire. Since this photo was taken, Niday has returned to the Paul Hall Center to upgrade to AB. Seafarers come to the aid of Teamsters Local 830 in setting up picket lines at Bell Beverage in Philadelphia. At left are SIU members Bill Kelly and Mike Joel. At right is SIU member Andrew Austin with help from his son. Local 830, which is in the process of organizing drivers at Bell Beverage, is trying to raise public awareness of the firm’s substandard wages and benefits. After 36 years with the SIU, Tugboat Captain John Rakyta (front center) is retiring. Helping celebrate the event at the Crowley Maritime office in Oakland, Calif. are Javier Montoya, Bruno Kalmeta, Dragi Odak, Bob Bouton, Craig Perry, Homer Roberson, Ed Brooks, Mike Restivo, George Cox, Jim Penny, Chad Macaulay, Mike Privette, George Esponge, John Ivankovich and Marijan Masnov. Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (below) is at the control station of the boom aboard the Alaskan Frontier, waiting for a signal from AB Mike Bedney (right). Below right, AB Domingo Cazon stands by during a fuel oil transfer. The Alaskan Frontier is one of several new vessels operated by SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Co. to transport crude oil from Valdez, Alaska to oil refineries along the U.S. West Coast. These photos were taken in Long Beach, Calif. Working in the galley aboard the Overseas Joyce are Steward/Baker Jack Hart (left) and GSTU Hernan Sanga. These photos were taken when the car carrier recently docked in Long Beach, Calif. Left: SIU member Paul Jernstrom is the captain aboard an American Marine Corp water taxi in Long Beach, Calif., while his brother, Nils, works as a deckhand. 6 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 4:07 AM Page 7 Women’s Work Is in All Three Departments Once a Rarity, Female Seafarers Are More Common Sight Women in the late 1800s smashed the blockade that once prevented them from working in the male-dominated U.S. maritime industry. At that juncture, women worked primarily as stewardesses, hairdressers and in other similar capacities aboard passenger ships. When those vessels were taken over by the government— after the U.S. entered World War II—many of those women lost their jobs. They were required to relinquish their positions when their vessels returned to U.S. ports after Dec. 7, 1941. One of those women, says the www.usmm.org website, was Betty Jackson. Jackson, in correspondence to President Franklin D. Roosevelt about the plight of women mariners, said: “We are not afraid of the dangers and we are willing to put up with any AB Tina Lester hones her skills during a marlinespike seamanship class. inconvenience as long as we can be reinstated and go back to sea.” Her calls for women to be allowed to return to their professions and serve the country during the war were met by deaf ears. Admiral Emory Scott Land, head of the Maritime Commission and War Shipping Administration, replied to Jackson and said simply that there were no provisions on wartime ships for women crew members. Although Jackson’s request was turned down, official records show that three women were awarded the merchant marine combat bar after their ships were torpedoed, and four women were POWs. Fast forward to the present and it’s evident that the old ideologies regarding women and their supposed “place” in the maritime industry have changed. Some 200 years after women initially broke into the maritime business and more than 50 years following pleas by pioneers like Jackson to allow them to remain there, today’s women merchant mariners—especially those in the SIU—are fast becoming trailblazers. Women mariners prominently are represented in jobs found within each of a vessel’s shipboard departments. While little information exists about the number of women who sailed under the SIU’s banner at its inception in 1938, figures since 1951 paint an unmistakable portrait of significant progress. Overall membership went from 19 in 1951 to its pinnacle in 1993 when 693 women sported the SIU said. “You can be gone for days on end, and being the only woman in a house with 30 guys potentially could be nerve-racking. It really does not bother me, though, because I think of them as my brothers, and they have always been nice and very respectful to me. “I love what I am doing and I can’t begin to thank the SIU for the success I have had,” Nunes concluded. “I know I would not be where I am if it was not for the union. Being in the SIU is like a dream come true for me, because I love my job and I defiFemale students routinely populate the Paul Hall Center, as evidenced nitely plan to stick around for a by this photo from last month showing upgraders and unlicensed lot of years.” apprentices enrolled at the facility in Piney Point, Md. Nunes’ reflections about choosing a maritime career were difference is that women now are colors. In 1951, seven women echoed by Phase III Steward held deck department ratings, two going into work areas that previDepartment Trainee Jamey ously were dominated by men to worked in the engine department Russell. A newcomer to the include management. I think this and 10 served as stewards. union, Russell came aboard this is good news not only for Today’s numbers for the same year in January in women, but also ratings are 72, 10 and 309, Anchorage, respectively, with another 39 sail- for the union and “Being on a ship Alaska. the maritime ing in entry ratings not confined “I was the only industry as a to one department. with the rest of the female in a crew whole because “The number of women in the of 27 on my trainwomen can do SIU definitely is growing now crew is just like ing ship—the any job that men compared to when I joined three being with family.” Sealand years ago,” said Natalie Nunes, a can.” Defender—and I A native of steward department member who really did not – Chief Cook Kim Strate Honolulu, Nunes joined the union in 2001 in the have any major has sailed aboard port of Honolulu. Nunes recently problems working the USNS Charlton and the USNS with the men,” Russell said. upgraded to chief steward at the Watson as well as aboard SIUSeafarers-affiliated Paul Hall “They all treated me as an equal contracted passenger ships. She Center for Maritime Training and and showed me the utmost in returned to the USNS Pomeroy Education in Piney Point, Md. terms of respect, so I really did after completing requirements for not have any problems. “When I first came to school her chief steward certification. here as an apprentice, there were “From my perspective, women “Working at sea is challenging are just as capable as doing every only three women in 200 stubecause you are away from your dents. Now that number is about job on a ship that men do,” she family and for the most part away one in three, so the landscape is Continued on page 20 from civilization as well,” Nunes changing” Nunes said. “Another PL 480 ‘Food for Peace’ Program Celebrates Fiftieth Anniversary When President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Agricultural Trade and Development Act into law five decades ago, he said the purpose of the legislation was to “lay the basis for a permanent expansion of our exports of agricultural products with lasting benefits to ourselves and peoples of other lands.” The measure, now known as the Public Law (PL) 480 “Food for Peace” program, has done that many times over, facilitating the sale of some $30 billion worth of commodities and 107 million tons of food aid. In addition, by generating an important source of cargo for U.S-flag vessels, it has helped preserve a viable American maritime industry and enhanced critical U.S. security interests. In any given year, anywhere from 47 to 106 nations will receive some kind of humanitarian food aid from the United States. Last year, 133 million people across the globe were the recipients of American generosity. One hundred thirty-five nations have received some kind of humanitarian aid since 1954. Some, like Taiwan and South Korea, have gone on to become thriving democracies and economic powerhouses. On average, the United States provides 60 percent of the world’s food aid. As President John F. Kennedy observed early in his presidency, “Food is strength, and food is peace, and food is freedom, and food is a helping hand to people around the world whose good will and friendship we want.” Farmers are not the only group of workers involved in the program. Secretary of State Colin Powell recently noted that the PL 480 program also “is the work of ... businessmen, grain elevator operators, truckers, bargemen, freight forwarders, port operations, NGOs, PVOs and government officials. Together, they form an unbroken chain of humanity stretching from this country’s fertile fields to hungry families half a world away.” It is important to remember that in the same year that Congress passed the Agricultural Trade and Development Act, the elected officials also strengthened existing U.S.flag shipping requirements for government-generated cargo by enacting the Cargo Preference Act of 1954. Both bills came at a pivotal time in the history of the American November 2004 maritime industry. The U.S.-flag merchant marine played an instrumental role in supporting American troops in both World War II and Korea. However, it was hit hard by the Ship Sales Act of 1946, which sold surplus U.S.-flag vessels overseas at bargain-basement prices, and the adoption of the Effective U.S. Control Doctrine in 1947, which effectively gave rise to the “flag-of-convenience” (FOC) system. The effect of these two developments on America’s deep-sea industry had become clear by the early 1950s: the U.S-flag merchant marine, once the largest in the world, was fast losing its preeminence to the notorious fleets of Panama, Honduras and Liberia, disreputable “for rent” registries that allowed ship owners to evade paying taxes and skirt existing health, safety, environmental and labor standards. Concerned about this, Paul Hall, the late SIU president, worked with Sen. Warren Magnuson (D-Wash.) and others on Capitol Hill to alleviate the situation. While the maritime industry continued to wage a campaign against FOC fleets, a quick resolution to that problem wasn’t possible. International oil companies, which had helped engineer the FOC scheme, held too much political power. Strengthening Cargo Preference To compensate for this, Magnuson decided to strengthen existing cargo preference requirements for foreign aid cargoes that were passed in the wake of World War II. The 50 percent requirement was only met twice, in 1946 and 1954. Calling this record “a tragedy,” Sen. John Marshall Butler (D-Md.), another supporter of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, put the matter into perspective by observing on the Senate floor, “No other nation in the world having a merchant marine of any size would be content to have it carry such a small portion of its own foreign trade. Instead of reaching our stated objective of 50 percent, we seem to be retreating from it. I am confident that Congress did not intend and will not permit this competitive decline in our maritime strength to continue long.” Bags of lentils are one of the many products shipped overseas on U.S.-flag vessels under the PL 480 Food for Peace program. The Cargo Preference Law of 1954 is hardly unique. Most nations impose national-flag requirements on certain types of government-impelled cargoes. They do so because cargo is the lifeline of any merchant fleet. As the MTD executive board observed earlier this year, “In order to remain healthy, American bottoms need a steady supply of cargo. The longstanding U.S. law to require at least 50 percent of government sponsored cargoes and 75 percent of certain agricultural cargoes be carried on U.S.-flag vessels crewed by U.S. citizen mariners has responded to that need.” By marrying humanitarian food aid programs and the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, Congress also scored an important diplomatic coup. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then so is a national flag flying over a vessel laden with humanitarian goods. At a time when the Cold War was at its hottest, this was an important consideration. Fifty years later, when America is in a life-and-death struggle against agents of terror, it still is. And so are the irreplaceable benefits that both the PL 480 program and the Cargo Preference Act of 1954 continue to generate by helping ensure the continuation of a strong U.S. maritime industry. Seafarers LOG 7 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 12:39 AM Page 8 Spotlight on San Francisco PRESIDENT GRANT Ali M. Quraish (right) is the ACU aboard the President Grant (below). MOKIHANA The galley gang aboard Matson’s Mokihana include (clockwise from top left) Chief Cook Richard Walker, Steward/Baker Reynaldo T. Magpale and ACU Eduardo Munizaga. MILLENNIUM STAR Timothy Manes works as a deckhand on the Millennium Star, an SIU-crewed escort vessel operated by Starlight Marine Services, Inc. in the port of San Francisco. APL SINGAPORE When the APL Singapore recently sailed into the port of San Francisco, working in the galley were (clockwise from right) Chief Steward Duane Bergeson, ACU Fadhel Hasan and Chief Cook Dominador Guerrero. KAUAI — Working as a team aboard Matson’s Kauai are (from left) Room Steward Mosa Mohamad, Steward Carol Grycko and ACU Ahmed Mohamed. Safety instructor Mitch Oakley from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. was in San Francisco recently to conduct a general security awareness course for SIU members. From left (kneeling) are Oakley, Gene Aruta, Willie Alataua, (second row) John Stein, Rey Dimacale, Louella Sproul, Greg Blasquez, Steve Biles, Kevin Cooper, (last row) John Blasquez, John Schoenstein, George Pino and Jason Schoenstein. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 2:12 PM Page 9 The Horizon Spirit transports containerized cargo to and from the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii as well as providing transpacific service to the Pacific islands of Guam, Saipan and Tinian. The photos of crew members appearing on this page were sent to the LOG by Jevon C. Vontoure, the electrician aboard ship during an August voyage. Left: ABs prepare for docking operations in port. Right: James “Jimi” Spranza, the 12-4 oiler, grabs a bite to eat. Working Aboard the Horizon Spirit Chipping is one of the shipboard tasks being carried out by Recertified Bosun Ralph Gibbs. Standing the 12-4 watch is AB Joseph Loyal. Working on deck is Leopoldo Viernes Jr., the 4-8 AB aboard the Horizon Spirit. Electrician Jevon Vontoure, who sent the Seafarers LOG the photos of crew members appearing on this page, checks the vessel’s electrical system. AB Shawn Strand helps secure the lines for docking. November 2004 Chief Cook Wilfred Scales and Wiper Luis Aguirre find a place in the freezer for this neatly packaged fish. Abdul Rahman presses a button to blow the tubes. Rahman is the 4-8 oiler on the Horizon Spirit. Seafarers LOG 9 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 3:45 AM Page 10 Initial Mobilization For OIF3 Includes 9 SIU-Crewed Ships The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month accelerated its pace for mobilizing and deploying civiliancrewed vessels for the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom 3 (OIF3). As of press time for the Seafarers LOG, no fewer than nine vessels—all crewed by members of the SIU, including the union’s Government Services Division—recently had been mobilized for OIF3. These included (MSC vessels) the USNS Arctic, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, Sgt. William R. Button, USNS Charlton, and U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) Cape Rise, Cape Race, Cape Douglas, Cape Knox and Cape Wrath. The MSC fast combat support ship USNS Arctic on Oct. 13 deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group for a six-month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. Crewed by 160 civil service mariners and 60 embarked ships, the 1st Lt. Baldomero Sailors, the 754-foot Arctic is Lopez, Sgt. William R. Button one of more than 30 civilian- and USNS Charlton from Oct. 3crewed MSC ships that provide 13 took turns pulling into the at-sea logistic support to deployed U.S. Navy ships. Ships like the Arctic enable Navy combatant ships to remain at sea, on station and combat ready for extended periods of time. The Arctic will provide food, fuel, supplies and ammunition to the carrier strike group throughout its deployment. With a top speed of 25 knots, the Arctic is ideal for resupplying Navy ships at sea. Additionally, two on-board Navy MH-60 helicopters will provide vertical replenishment. The 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez is underway Three other MSC supporting U.S. troops. Apply Now for 2005 Scholarship There’s no escaping the fact that college costs are continuing to rise. The cost of higher education has been increasing significantly faster than the rate of inflation or the growth in family incomes for decades. According to recently released reports from the College Board, most students and their families can expect to pay, on average, from $231 to $1,114 more than last year for this year’s tuition and fees, depending on the type of college. The bad news is that this crisis in America’s higher education system threatens to push the dream of college out of reach for millions of students and families. The good news, however, is that help is available. One example is the Union Plus Scholarship Program (see article on this page). Another one— solely for Seafarers and their eligible dependents—is offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. This year, the Plan is funding eight scholarships to SIU members, their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising rates for a college education. Three of the scholarships for 2005 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. The deadline for submitting the application and other required paperwork is April 15, 2005. That leaves five months from now in which to send away for the program booklet and start working P lease send me the 2005 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________ Mariner’s Social Security Number ____________________ Street Address __________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________ Telephone Number________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/04 10 Seafarers LOG on collecting the items needed for inclusion with the application (such as transcripts, certificates of graduation, letters of recommendation, a photograph and certified copy of birth certificate). Applicants also should arrange to take either the SAT or ACT no later than February 2005 in order to ensure the results reach the selection committee in time to be evaluated. Anyone who truly wants to continue his or her education beyond the high school level should be able to do so—and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is trying to help. Take advantage of this unique benefit. Fill out the form below and start the process. The SIU-crewed Cape Race loads materiel in Norfolk, Va. port of Philadelphia. The vessels loaded more than 400,000 square feet of combat gear destined for deployed U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The SIU-crewed, noncombatant cargo ships were loaded with five-ton trucks, trailers, generators, helicopters and ambulances for use by the U.S. Army National Guard’s 42nd Infantry Division, also known as the Rainbow Division, based out of Troy, N.Y. MarAd vessels to deploy included the Cape Rise, Cape Race, Cape Douglas, Cape Knox Brother Butts Given Burial at Sea On Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2004, Brother Herman Burnell Butts Jr. made his final voyage as his ashes were scattered upon the waters by members of the SIUcrewed Sealand Florida. The burial service, conducted by Capt. Robert C. Sargeant at Latitude 26-18 North, Longitude 088-12 West, included prayers and a poem. Born in Mobile, Ala. in 1956, Butts, who died July 15, 2004, was a 1973 graduate of the trainee program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. He shipped from the port of Houston, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Herman B. Butts Sr.; daughter Mandy Butts of Dripping Springs, Texas; sisters Rhonda Faye Davis of Houston and Lisa Eileen Walker of Columbia, Miss.; brother Steven Butts of Rio Medina, Texas; and grandchildren Logan M. Park and Madison M. Albarado. Seafarers aboard the ship during the ceremony included Bosun Frank Thompson, ABs Miguel Guity, Robert Arneel, Bartow Bridges, James Rush and Curtis Williams; Electrician Eric Bain, QMED Jeffery Roddy, DEU Joaquin Martinez, Steward/Baker Donna DeCesare, Chief Cook Daniel Wehr and SA Younis Saleh. Union Plus Provides Funding For Higher Education Goals Applications for the 2005 Union Plus Scholarship Program —which offers $150,000 in scholarships annually to eligible applicants—now are available. Those eligible to apply for this offering include SIU members, their spouses and dependent children who are beginning or continuing their secondary education. Awards are based on academic achievement, character, leadership, social awareness, career goals and financial need. To download an application, go to www.unionplus.org/scholarships or send a postcard with your name, return address, telephone number and international union affiliation to: Union Plus and the Cape Wrath. Part of MarAd’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF), these vessels—each laden with huge caches of military supplies and equipment— last month departed ports in Norfolk, Va., Charleston, S.C., New Orleans, and Baltimore for several destinations in the Middle East. They are part of a fleet of 68 ships owned and maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. The ships are crewed by Seafarers who volunteered for this potentially hazardous duty. Education Foundation, c/o Union Privilege, P.O. Box 34800, Washington, DC 20043-4800. The application deadline is Jan. 31, 2005. In 2004, 106 students, representing 38 AFL-CIO unions, were selected to receive $150,000 in scholarships. Funding for the Union Plus Scholarship program is provided through the Union Plus Education Foundation. Since 1992, the Union Plus Scholarship program has provided more than $2 million to help fulfill the educational dreams of students who represent more than 13 million working families across the nation. Union Plus Scholarship awards are presented annually. Winners of 2005 scholarships will be announced on May 31, 2005. However, due to the high volume of applications, only winners will be notified. The Union Plus Education Service features college planning help, union scholarships and education and consolidation loans. Visit www.unionplus.org/education or call 1-877-881-1022 to speak to a financial aid counselor. Union Privilege, founded by the AFL-CIO in 1986, develops and manages the Union Plus consumer benefit programs. These programs are designed to help the families of the 13 million members of the AFL-CIO affiliated unions save time and money. For more information about all the Union Plus programs, visit www.unionplus.org. November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 2:08 AM Page 11 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Pension Trust, (Employer Identification No. 13-6100329, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. 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 a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $37,032,955. These expenses included $6,473,794 in administrative expenses and $30,559,161 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 16,726 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 $638,855,090 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $584,834,167 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $54,020,923. This increase 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 $91,053,878, including employer contributions of $4,306,990, gains of $7,777,428 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $78,967,208. 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 the 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: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.95 for the full report, or $0.15 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: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 516097856, Plan No. 001) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. 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 a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $715,588. These expenses included $204,240 in administrative expenses and $511,348 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,001 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 $8,844,324 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $8,507,070 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $337,254. This increase 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 $1,052,842, including gains of $335,449 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $717,393. 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 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-1953878, Plan No. 003) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). 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 the plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. Basic Financial Statement To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: William J. Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust (benefits are provided in whole from trust funds). Plan expenses were $1,437,588. These expenses included $234,898 in administrative expenses and $1,202,690 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 255 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 $24,672,779 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $22,634,736 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $2,038,043. This increase 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 $3,475,631, including employer contributions of $135,641, gains of $792,149 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $2,547,841. 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 November 2004 The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.05 for the full report, or $0.15 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: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 3. 4. 5. service providers; Assets held for investment; Transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; Insurance information including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 6. 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 William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 The charge to cover copying costs will be $5.40 for the full report, or $0.15 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: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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 SEAFARERS VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Vacation Plan, (Employer Identification No. 13-5602047, Plan No. 503) for the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. 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 The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $15,257,627 as of December 31, 2003 compared to $15,571,521 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $313,894. 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 $49,029,365. This income included employer contributions of $47,627,023, realized losses of $64,502 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $1,466,844. Plan expenses were $49,343,259. These expenses included $5,883,481 in administrative expenses and $43,459,778 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 the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 or the Plan Administrator The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.60 for the full report, or $0.15 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: William Dennis, Administrator 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 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. Seafarers LOG 11 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 6:39 AM Page 12 2 Shipboard Training Is Key PHASE Of Unlicensed Apprentice Unlicensed Apprentice Ryan White helps bring stores aboard ship (top photo) and selects the correct bolt in the tool room (below). Practical training is an important part of the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Through all three phases of the curriculum, students utilize hands-on schooling, along with classroom instruction in the program’s first and third segments. When it comes to gaining practical experience, however, nothing tops Phase II of the apprentice program. During this period, students spend at least 90 days aboard a vessel, alternately working in each of the three shipboard departments. Since the school revamped the trainee program in the mid-1990s, Phase II has proven beneficial to all concerned. It helps turn out more qualified mariners from the program. It also has increased the retention rate and puts mariners on a quicker track toward career advancement. “By and large, most of them come out of here never having seen a large ship,” noted J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the Paul Hall Center. “The experience they gain during Phase II helps them make an informed choice as to which department they want to work in long-term.” Students earn sea time credit for Phase II. For more information on the unlicensed apprentice program or the school, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org or call tollfree 1-877-235-3275. The photos accompanying this story were taken last month in Baltimore aboard the Freedom, an SIU-crewed vessel operated by American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier. Crew memb ABOVE: Unlicensed apprentices spend 30 days in each shipboard department. Here, UAs Tim Cullen (left) and Ryan White examine equipment in the engine room. ABOVE: The shipboard fare apparently agrees with (from left) UAs Esterheld and Ryan White, SA Fabian Aguilar and UA Tim Cullen. LEFT: UA Mike Esterheld unloads a pallet aboard the Freedom. RIGHT: Chief Steward Frank Starling and UA Mike Esterheld load stores. Chief Cook C 12 Seafarers LOG November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 6:39 AM Page 13 Unlicensed Apprentices Eager to Uphold Legacy Key Component ce Program ABOVE: UA Mike Esterheld works with valve controls. LEFT: UA Tim Cullen washes dishes in the galley. Students in the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program come from all over the country and, not surprisingly, typically have diverse backgrounds. One thing they normally share, however, is an eagerness to tackle new challenges while helping uphold the U.S. Merchant Marine’s traditional role as the nation’s fourth arm of defense. That spirit was reflected in a Phase III graduation speech given last month by Carlo Balajadia, bosun of Class 646. Some of his comments follow. Our Biggest Assessment “It wasn’t about tying knots or putting out a fire. It wasn’t about giving davit commands or BELOW: UAs Ryan White (kneeling) and Mike Esterheld are on duty in the engine room. Carlo Balajadia, bosun of Class 646 in the unlicensed apprentice program, takes the wheel. embers watch as cargo is loaded into the Freedom’s hold. ok Cecil Scieio provides service with a smile. The apprentices find a way to relax during some off-time. November 2004 knowing the different parts of the MSDS. “All of the assessments we took during our classes were definitely important, but the biggest and most important one was the fourand-a-half months we spent in the dorms during Phase I and Phase III…. The rules that we lived by provided the structured environment that it takes to make a quality person. How do we know if we passed that assessment? We know we passed because we are here today…. “The U.S. Merchant Marine has played a vital role supporting our troops overseas. Through two world wars and many conflicts thereafter, including our continued fight in the war on terrorism, the merchant marine continues to be called upon and continues to face sealift challenges undaunted. It is a legacy that is being handed down to us and, in time, it will be our legacy to hand down to future generations of Seafarers. “Today, I am proud to present to the SIU 31 of the most qualified individuals for the quality, in-demand jobs that are out there. These jobs are unconventional and often times dangerous, but we have answered the call of the sea and we are ready to sail.” Seafarers LOG 13 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 2:11 AM Page 14 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR WELFARE FUND OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6700827, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Insurance Information The plan has contracts with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company to pay dental claims incurred under the terms of the plan. The total premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2003 were $309,225. Because they are so called “experience-rated” contracts, the premium costs are affected by, among other things, the number and size of claims. Of the total insurance premiums paid for the plan year ending December 31, 2003, the premiums paid under such “experience-rated” contracts were $309,225 and the total of all benefit claims paid under these experience-rated contracts during the plan year was $153,342. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $10,996,837 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $13,512,967 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $2,516,130. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $6,903,149 including employer contributions of $6,262,300, realized losses of $219,307 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $860,153 and other income of $3. Plan expenses were $9,419,279. These expenses included $1,522,131 in administrative expenses and $7,897,148 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; 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of the plan assets; and 5. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.40 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of Welfare Fund of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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 NMU VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the NMU Vacation Plan, EIN 136700828, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $1,937,315 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $2,103,859 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $166,544. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $8,063,067 including employer contributions of $8,019,888 and earnings from investments of $43,179. Plan expenses were $8,229,611. These expenses included $719,071 in administrative expenses and $7,510,540 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 the plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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. NMU SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $35,789,474. These expenses included $2,417,720 in administrative expenses and $33,371,754 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 10,023 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 $324,293,997 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $322,332,229 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,961,768. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $37,751,242 including employer contributions of $917,551, realized gains of $5,659,439 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $30,758,729 and other income of $415,523. 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 the plan assets; 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and 6. 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 Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 3374900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $8.40 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 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. This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Plan and Annuity Plan 401K Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 002, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance and through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $185,135. These expenses included $185,135 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 936 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,941,892 as of December 31, 2003, compared to $2,331,419 as of January 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $610,473. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $795,608 including employee contributions of $413,399 and earnings from investments of $382,209. 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; 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. Seafarers LOG This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU Pension Trust of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU PENSION PLAN AND ANNUITY PLAN 401K PLAN IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE 14 FOR NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN 3. assets held for investment; 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. William Dennis who is Administrator, Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001; (212) 337-4900. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, 360 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001) 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. 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 November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 4:18 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2004 & January 2005 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2004 *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 Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 1 5 4 10 22 29 0 11 16 21 4 2 13 7 13 3 30 11 1 4 1 1 3 18 16 1 2 6 8 12 2 1 1 6 0 19 10 1 0 5 0 4 24 21 0 5 13 19 8 2 1 3 15 0 24 16 0 3 3 2 4 16 13 0 8 11 11 12 0 8 7 6 2 22 14 1 1 1 1 1 8 6 1 2 2 4 5 1 0 0 1 0 7 7 0 1 1 0 1 8 5 0 1 5 11 3 1 0 3 12 0 21 8 3 0 10 3 18 45 59 1 22 29 46 21 7 1 13 35 2 53 26 5 4 7 7 18 26 53 1 17 28 32 17 4 15 12 24 5 51 34 0 5 2 4 5 30 31 0 5 18 33 18 4 3 2 5 2 36 20 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 9, January 6 193 204 112 161 142 49 81 394 360 223 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 9, January 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 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 0 0 3 0 5 9 22 1 5 8 9 6 1 1 2 8 1 9 8 0 1 2 2 3 13 22 0 4 8 9 12 3 1 2 10 3 14 10 0 0 0 1 1 8 8 0 3 5 3 2 0 0 0 3 1 9 9 0 0 2 0 4 7 13 0 4 6 4 4 0 1 4 6 1 9 4 0 1 1 0 4 3 13 1 0 5 5 10 4 0 3 5 1 11 9 1 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 3 1 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 4 4 1 0 1 0 0 3 6 0 1 6 0 2 1 1 2 8 1 3 4 0 0 8 1 10 20 35 1 8 13 19 14 5 1 2 18 2 19 10 1 0 5 3 6 22 37 0 8 18 21 20 3 3 1 13 3 26 16 1 0 2 1 1 16 10 0 3 8 13 6 1 1 0 3 2 13 13 Totals 98 119 53 69 76 24 40 186 206 94 0 0 4 0 1 10 17 0 5 8 11 9 1 3 0 19 3 16 18 0 0 0 3 4 4 14 0 3 7 8 12 0 2 2 5 2 7 12 0 0 1 2 1 2 5 0 0 0 4 6 1 0 1 1 0 1 5 0 0 2 0 7 11 11 0 1 7 8 7 0 2 0 19 1 13 10 0 1 1 1 2 4 6 0 2 3 4 7 1 1 2 3 0 3 4 1 0 0 2 0 4 2 0 1 1 2 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 4 0 0 3 4 1 1 0 1 13 0 8 4 1 0 6 2 9 26 33 0 7 15 28 18 1 6 2 36 2 32 29 0 0 1 3 8 7 30 0 6 10 17 18 3 2 2 9 2 13 18 0 0 1 0 1 5 8 0 1 2 7 7 1 0 0 4 0 7 10 125 85 30 99 45 18 45 253 149 54 0 0 0 0 6 5 2 0 0 3 5 0 0 0 3 4 0 6 0 2 3 3 0 4 9 21 2 7 12 32 10 0 4 4 11 0 18 5 5 3 3 1 3 26 24 1 1 7 22 14 2 25 2 6 0 20 12 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 4 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 5 10 9 1 0 5 13 10 0 12 0 10 0 8 3 0 1 0 0 1 6 3 0 0 5 10 8 0 11 0 2 0 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 6 5 0 1 4 9 0 0 0 3 6 0 10 3 4 4 4 4 11 24 33 1 15 17 55 13 0 13 8 17 1 45 11 8 6 6 1 8 45 48 1 3 21 64 22 4 39 2 19 0 27 28 34 147 177 16 88 61 0 52 280 352 450 555 372 345 351 152 166 885 995 723 Port Totals Totals Totals All Departments Boston.....................Friday: December 10, January 7 Duluth .....................Wednesday: December 15, January 12 Guam ......................Thursday: December 23, January 20 Honolulu .................Friday: December 17, January 14 Houston ..................Monday: December 13, January 10 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 9, January 6 Joliet .......................Thursday: December 16, January 13 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 15, January 12 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: December 14, January 11 New York................Tuesday: December 7, January 4 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: December 8, January 5 Port Everglades.......Thursday: December 16, January 13 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 16, January 13 San Juan..................Thursday: December 9, January 6 St. Louis..................Friday: December 17, January 14 Tacoma ...................Monday: December 27* ................................Friday: January 21 ................................*(change created by Christmas holiday) Wilmington ...............Monday: December 20 .................................Tuesday: January 18* .................................*(change created by Martin Luther King holiday) ............................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 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 Algonac ..................Friday: December 10, January 7 1 0 6 0 10 23 29 1 14 14 18 9 2 0 6 18 0 27 15 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 Piney Point .............Monday: December 6, January 3 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. November 2004 Procedure for Absentee Ballots In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2004 voting period, absentee ballots are 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: „ Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. „ Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. „ Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. „ The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2004 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2004. „ The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designed in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2004. „ Upon receiving the ballot and envelopes, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. „ 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. „ 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. „ The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight Dec. 31, 2004 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2005. Seafarers LOG 15 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 12:24 AM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 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 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 15 4 2 9 1 1 4 36 0 2 5 3 5 0 0 3 18 0 6 3 5 6 1 1 1 23 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 1 3 0 5 0 0 3 12 0 4 3 0 6 1 1 1 16 3 6 3 0 14 1 1 1 29 0 40 13 12 32 4 2 16 119 0 10 3 6 7 1 0 8 35 0 32 0 17 0 0 2 0 51 1 2 0 2 2 0 1 0 8 0 9 6 7 12 2 2 14 52 0 1 3 4 2 0 0 3 13 0 17 1 15 0 0 1 2 36 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 9 8 6 19 2 0 5 49 0 5 1 3 13 0 1 3 26 0 21 2 9 0 2 1 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 3 1 7 2 0 3 18 0 1 3 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 4 1 5 0 0 1 1 12 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 20 2 4 17 4 1 3 51 0 4 2 1 4 1 0 0 12 0 0 4 1 2 0 0 0 7 0 4 1 0 0 0 1 0 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 2 3 3 2 1 0 12 0 3 0 0 5 0 0 0 8 0 4 3 3 1 1 0 0 12 Port 0 2 5 2 5 1 1 2 18 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 4 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 66 33 47 81 21 26 40 220 74 123 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Paul L. Painter of Laurinburg, N.C. It was taken in 1948 aboard the SS Walter Colton, which had just returned from a trip to the Far East. Brother Painter is second from left in the photo. He does not remember the other crew members by name, but would love to hear from them and any other seamen he may have sailed with. Now 75, Brother Painter started his career with the SIU in 1946 in the port of New Orleans. Born in North Carolina, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. During his career, Brother Painter was active in organizing drives and beefs. He retired in 1997. Those wishing to get in touch with Paul Painter may write him at P.O. Box 325, Laurinburg, NC 28353. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 2:32 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 RALPH MOORE, 57, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1968, first sailing on the Galicia Defender. Brother Moore was born in the District of Columbia and worked in the deck department. He completed bosun recertification training in 1979 at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Moore, who most recently sailed on the Sea-Land De- veloper, makes his home in Houston. ROBERT TIMS, 65, joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans after serving in the U.S. Navy. Brother Tims initially went to sea on Delta Steamship Lines’ Del Mundo. The engine department member, who upgraded his skills in 1978 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., last sailed on the Liberty Belle. Brother Tims was born in Louisiana and currently lives in Temple Terrace, Fla. INLAND CHARLES BOWLING, 65, was born in Kentucky and began his SIU career in 1988 in Piney Point, Md. Boatman Bowling is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. Boatman Bowling is a resident of Beverly Hills, Fla. HARRY TRIMBLE, 62, joined the ranks of the SIU in 1962 in Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Trimble worked in the deck department primarily on Moran Towing of Texas vessels. He was born in Port Arthur, where he continues to live. NOTICE OF 2004 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2005-2008 OFFICERS Balloting Begins SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU this month for EDDIE WILLIAMS, 62, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1977. Boatman Williams was born in Huntington, N.Y. He enhanced his skills on two occasions at the union’s affiliated school and last sailed on a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. Boatman Williams calls Green Cove Springs, Fla. home. union officers. GREAT LAKES Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2004 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2004. VOTING LOCATIONS BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 BOSTON 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 DETROIT 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 DULUTH 324 West Superior St., Duluth, MN 55802 FT. LAUDERDALE 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 See page 3 for additional voting information. LONNEE AAKEBERG, 55, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Aakeberg was born in Wisconsin and shipped in the deck department, primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing vessels. He enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training in Piney Point, Md. in 1993. The U.S. Army veteran lives in Minnesota. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. GUAM 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E, Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 JOLIET 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile, AL 36605 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 PHILADELPHIA 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 PINEY POINT Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave, Santurce, PR 00907 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 1947 To culminate more than two years of organizing and a strike to gain seamen’s demands, the Seafarers International Union finally forced the Isthmian Steamship Company to agree to sign a full contract granting each and every Union demand…. On June 12, the SIU was certified as Isthmian seamen’s collective bargaining agent after the results of a National Labor Relations Board election. The company refused to agree on Union hiring hall provisions, however, and the membership went on strike, tying up 31 Isthmian ships in ports throughout the United States. The company finally surrendered and agreed to the seamen’s demands by signing a full SIU contract. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. Last, First Age EDP Cordero, Miguel 71 April 1 Tyler, Donald 63 May 1 McField, Charles 68 Aug. 1 Miller, Frank 65 Oct. 1 Ponder, George 61 Sept. 1 Lobo, Jack 59 Oct. 1 Leite, Raymond 62 Oct. 1 Langford, Clifton 69 Oct. 1 Lugo, German 72 Sept. 1 Lake, Richard 82 Sept. 1 1976 As the year ends, the union’s deep sea contracted fleet continues to expand since the U.S. Maritime Administration has given the SIU-contracted Waterman Steamship Co. final okay to build four more LASH-container vessels under provisions of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. MARAD set the construction subsidy rate at a formal ceremony last month…. In another plus for the SIU-contracted company, the Maritime Administration awarded Waterman a 20-year operating contract for Trade Routes 12 and 22– the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf to Far East. This Month In SIU History 1965 November 2004 NORMAN GUILD JR., 50, became an SIU member in 1972 in Detroit, Mich. Brother Guild initially went to sea aboard the P. Teitjen. The deck department member upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Guild was born in Michigan. His last trip was on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother Guild resides in his native state. SIU President Paul Hall called on Congress to amend the U.S. labor laws in order to give the NLRB jurisdiction over crews of foreign-flag vessels substantially engaged in American commerce. The SIU president declared that this action would prevent disasters such as the sinking of the Yarmouth Castle, the American-owned, Panamanianflagged cruise ship which sank in the Caribbean with a loss of 89 lives, after being destroyed by fire. 1993 Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo battled nightfall and 15- to 20-foot seas to save the life of an Indonesian seaman who, like 27 others aboard an Indonesian-flagged freighter, was forced to abandon ship on November 27 off the coast of China. The Dasa Tujuh was en route from Yeew, Malaysia to Kaohsiung, China with a cargo of logs when it sank. The crew abandoned the vessel when it began to list in rough seas. In all, 18 crew members were rescued by various ships on the scene. The body of one deceased crew member also was recovered; eight others were unaccounted for. Seafarers LOG 17 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/28/2004 2:18 PM Page 18 Final Departures Deep Sea AURELIO ASUNCION Pensioner Aurellio Asuncion, 99, passed away July 10. Brother Asuncion embarked on his seafaring career in 1959 in the port of Seattle. He initially sailed aboard the Ames Victory. Brother Asuncion was a member of the steward department and was born in the Philippines. Prior to retiring in 1976, he went to sea on the Portland. Brother Asuncion made his home in Seattle. ANTHONY BECK Pensioner Anthony Beck, 95, died May 31. Brother Beck joined the SIU in 1948 in New York after serving in the U.S. Navy. Born in California, he worked in the engine department. Brother Beck first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel and last worked on the Fairland. He went on pension in 1975 and lived in Sonoma, Calif. DONALD CALDER CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT Pensioner Christopher Elliott, 75, passed away May 31. Brother Elliott commenced his career with the SIU in 1964 in New York, initially sailing on the Northern Lights. Born in England, the engine department member last worked on the San Juan. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. and began receiving his pension in 1993. THOMAS FLEMING Pensioner Thomas Fleming, 79, died June 30. Brother Fleming joined the SIU in 1974 in New York. The deck department member was born in Ireland. Brother Fleming first shipped aboard the Houston. He last sailed on the Falcon Champion. The Cape Coral, Fla. resident went on pension in 1989. IRA GRIGGERS Pensioner Ira Griggers, 76, passed away August 21. Brother Griggers joined the SIU in 1955 in New York. He was a member of the deck department. Born in Alabama, Brother Griggers went on pension in 1973. He called Uriah, Ala. home. Pensioner Donald Calder, 76, passed away June 15. Brother Calder started sailing with the SIU in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. Born in the United Kingdom, the steward department member first sailed on the Tucson Victory. Brother Calder last went to sea aboard the SS Independence and began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1993. He called North Cambridge, Mass. home. HENRI HILLION DENNIS CAPLES Pensioner Raymond Lavoine, 82, passed away May 28. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brother Lavoine began his career with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was an ISCO vessel; his last was the Montpelier Victory. Brother Lavoine worked in the deck department. Born in Massachusetts, he began collecting his retirement in 1979. Brother Lavoine resided in Baltimore. Brother Dennis Caples, 42, died June 11. He began his seafaring career in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Caples first sailed aboard the USNS Kane. The U.S. Navy veteran was born in Maryland and made his home in Guam. Brother Caples shipped in the steward department, last sailing on the Paul Buck. MACK CHAPMAN Pensioner Mack “Big Red” Chapman, 76, passed away July 13. Brother Chapman began his career with the Seafarers in 1945 in Wilmington, Calif. Born in Lancaster, Texas, he was a member of the deck department. Prior to retiring in 1989, Brother Chapman shipped on the Adonis. He called Rusk, Texas home. ALTON CLEMENT Pensioner Alton Clement, 83, died Aug. 27. Born in Louisiana, Brother Clement joined the SIU in 1941 in New Orleans. The engine department member first sailed aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Clement last worked with the Waterman shoregang. He started receiving his retire- 18 Seafarers LOG vessel. He last went to sea on the Sea-Land Endurance. Brother Mar lived in Dale City, Calif. and went on pension in 1981. ment compensation in 1983 and resided in Harvey, La. Pensioner Henri Hillion, 89, died May 31. Brother Hillion was born in France and began his seafaring career in 1944 in New York. He initially worked in the engine department aboard the Steel Admiral. Prior to retiring in 1976, Brother Hillion sailed on Sea-Land Pittsburgh. He made his home in North Carolina. RAYMOND LAVOINE NILS LINDSJO Pensioner Nils Lindsjo, 90, died June 18. Brother Lindsjo joined the SIU in 1942 in Baltimore, initially sailing aboard the Robin Kettering. A native of Sweden, he shipped in the deck department. Brother Lindsjo, who lived in Pennsylvania, last worked on the Merrimac. He started receiving his pension in 1976. JACK MAR Pensioner Jack Mar, 84, died June 19. Brother Mar joined the ranks of the Seafarers in 1951 in New Orleans. He was born in China and shipped in the steward department. Brother Mar’s initial voyage was aboard a Sprogue Steamship Co. American Samoa and worked in the steward department. Brother Timo’s last trip to sea was on the President Harding. He began receiving retirement compensation in 1994 and called San Bruno, Calif. home. worked in the engine department. His first ship was the Santa Paula; his last was the Austral Rainbow. Brother Boyd started receiving his pension in 1998. INLAND Pensioner Johnny Ellis, 80, died Sept. 6. Brother Ellis began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1943 in Savannah, Ga. He first sailed on the John B. Gordon. Born in Georgia, Brother Ellis shipped in the engine department. He most recently worked aboard the American Challenger. Brother Ellis went on pension in 1983. FREDERICK BORENTZ LUIS MARTINEZ Pensioner Luis Martinez, 89, passed away April 26. Born in Honduras, Brother Martinez embarked on his seafaring career in 1960 in New Orleans. The engine department member was a resident of Harvey, La. Brother Martinez started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1979. WILLIAM MIMS Pensioner William Mims, 80, died April 10. Brother Mims launched his seafaring career in 1951 in New Orleans. His first vessel was the Alcoa Partner. Brother Mims, who was born in Mississippi, made his home in Bagalusa, La. He went on pension in 1989. Brother Mims was a member of the deck department and last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Venture. SEISHO NAKASONE Pensioner Seisho Nakasone, 88, passed away June 5. Brother Nakasone launched his profession with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1966 in San Francisco. Born in Hawaii, the steward department member began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1979. He made his home in Honolulu. IB PEDERSEN Pensioner Ib Pedersen, 76, passed away June 18. Brother Pedersen began his career with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Houston. He worked in the engine department and began receiving his pension in 1986. Brother Pedersen was born in Denmark and made his home in Livingston, Texas. BARTOLOME REGINO Pensioner Bartolome Regino, 82, died April 2. Brother Regino joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco. He was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. Brother Regino went on pension in 1978. He called San Francisco home. GASIO TIMO Pensioner Gasio Timo, 69, passed away Sept. 11. Brother Timo embarked on his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Pensioner Frederick Borentz, 86, died May 8. Boatman Borentz became an SIU member in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in New York, he was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Boatman Borentz sailed in the deck department primarily on McAllister Towing Co. vessels. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985. Boatman Borentz resided in New York. FRANK BOROWICK Pensioner Frank Borowick, 76, passed away August 4. Born in Maryland, Boatman Borowick began his seafaring career in 1971 in Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Army. The deck department member last shipped on a vessel owned by Moran Towing of Maryland. Boatman Borowick began receiving retirement stipends in 1990. He made his home in Baltimore, Md. DENNIS DAIGLE Pensioner Dennis Daigle, 87, died August 8. Boatman Daigle started his career with the SIU in 1964 in Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the deck department, most recently as captain. Boatman Daigle began receiving his pension in 1984. He was born in Port Arthur and resided in Nederland, Texas. GEORGE MILBURN Pensioner George Milburn, 80, passed away June 9. Boatman Milburn joined the SIU in 1967 in Norfolk, Va. He shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Milburn was born in Piney Point, Md. His last trip to sea was on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Boatman Milburn went on pension in 1981 and lived in his native state. 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. JOHNNY ELLIS JOHN HARRIS Pensioner John Harris, 70, passed away May 30. Brother Harris started sailing with the NMU in 1953. Born in Wisconsin, he first sailed on the Consumers Power in the engine department. Brother Harris last went to sea aboard the Ashley Lykes. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. BENJAMIN JOHNSON Pensioner Benjamin Johnson, 68, died June 19. Born in Portsmouth, Va., Brother Johnson first sailed from the port of Wilmington, N.C. His initial voyage was on the Alaskan and his last was aboard the Tallahassee Bay. Brother Johnson began receiving his pension in 1999. HECTOR QUIROS Pensioner Hector Quiros, 86, passed away Sept. 2. Brother Quiros launched his NMU career in 1937, first sailing from the port of New York aboard the Roosevelt. The steward department member was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Quiros last went to sea on the Independence. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1964. MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Luis Bellaflores, 87, died September 20. Born in Mayaguez, P.R., Brother Bellaflores first sailed from the port of New York in 1948. He was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1986, Brother Bellaflores sailed on the American Legion. Pensioner Miguel Rodriguez, 93, died July 14. Brother Rodriguez embarked on his seafaring career in 1943 in New York. His first vessel was the Mariposa. Born in Cuba, Brother Rodriguez was a member of the steward department. Before retiring in 1967, he worked aboard the Constitution. JAMES BOYD JACK STANCIL LUIS BELLAFLORES Pensioner James Boyd, 73, passed away August 31. He joined the NMU in 1975 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Tennessee, Brother Boyd Pensioner Jack Stancil, 77, passed away August 30. Brother Stancil, who was born in North Carolina, became a mem- Continued on page 20 November 2004 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 5:08 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. ALLEGIANCE (Maritrans), Aug. 28—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary Walter R. Seals, Educational Director Charles L. Jensen, Deck Delegate Michael M. Edwards, Steward Delegate Sherman Harper. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 31 in Port Arthur, Texas. He reminded everyone to be active in this year’s elections—register to vote and then vote or request an absentee ballot. Secretary encouraged crew to support SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members thanked for teamwork during trip. Next ports: Port Arthur; Tampa and Port Canaveral, Fla. CHEMICAL PIONEER (USS Transport), Aug. 29—Chairman Kelvin S. Cherington, Secretary Grant L. Bazile, Educational Director Kevin K. Jones. Chairman spoke about safety meeting and reminded crew to wait for relief before leaving ship. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. and reported new pay scale being sent to vessel. Educational director suggested everyone check z-cards to be sure they are not about to expire. No beefs or disputed OT reported. EL MORRO (IUM), Aug. 29— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Deck Delegate Victor M. Pacheco, Engine Delegate Milton L. Israel II, Steward Delegate Christopher M. Green. Chairman announced upcoming payoff in San Juan, P.R. He asked that vessel be secured for storm. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point school and check expiration dates on shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits. Crew was reminded to support those candidates who support the maritime industry by registering and voting. EL YUNQUE (IUM), Aug. 29— Chairman Angelo S. Wilcox Sr., Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director John J. Walsh, Deck Delegate Douglas A. Hodges, Engine Delegate Jimmie R. Graydon, Steward Delegate Nelson F. Morales. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 2 in Ready to Upgrade Michael Maskalenko is a GUDE aboard the Seabulk Challenger, his first ship after graduating from the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center. In photo above, he fills out an upgrading application in anticipation of returning to the school. November 2004 Jacksonville, Fla. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and other common areas clean. Educational director urged members to take advantage of opportunities available at union’s school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made concerning seniority and medical benefits. GREEN LAKE (Central Gulf Lines), Aug. 22—Chairman Frank P. Hedge, Secretary Jaime A. Castillo. Chairman thanked crew for professionalism shown during voyage and reminded departing crew members to clean rooms before leaving ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for refrigerators for each crew member’s room, new toaster and microwave for crew mess as well as spare ice maker. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next port: Toyohashi, Japan. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Aug. 2—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Laura L. Cates, Educational Director Edmund H. Hawkins Jr., Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Charles E. Johnson, Steward Delegate Alejo A. Fabia Jr. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 4 in Tacoma, Wash. He informed crew members they would need to carry z-cards in order to enter Maersk terminals in Tacoma and Oakland, Calif. due to heightened security. Secretary stated captain will conduct sanitary inspection of cabins and boxes Sept. 1. She also informed crew that steward department would be waxing and polishing passageways and ladder wells before arriving in port and for everyone to use alternate routes until then. Educational director discussed SIU scholarship program as well as courses available at Paul Hall Center. He advised crew to check expiration dates on all documents and renew early, if necessary, and to contribute to SPAD. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Request made for new washing machine for crew laundry room and repair of water fountain in crew lounge. List of cabins without fans to be given to chief engineer. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job sougeeing and to chief cook for great meals. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. LIBERTY GRACE (Liberty Maritime), Aug. 22—Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Michael Kozak, Engine Delegate Daniel A. Beshears, Steward Delegate Carlos A. Sierra. Chairman announced payoff Aug. 27 in New Orleans. Educational director advised crew to check expiration dates on all documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on stores and relief policies. Request made to purchase new mattresses, water cooler and full-size dryer. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), Aug. 29—Chairman Gregory R. Jenkins, Secretary James Tucker, Deck Delegate Kenneth R. Lacour, Engine Delegate Chromer W. Jefferson, Steward Delegate Mariano F. Norales. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 5 in New Orleans. He asked crew to clean rooms and take out trash before leaving ship. President’s report from July Seafarers LOG read and discussed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for great meals and service this trip. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line), Aug. 22—Chairman James J. Keevan, Secretary Roberto Valentine Jr. Educational Director Trinity A. Ippolito, Deck Delegate Selina R. Sobers, Engine Delegate Rahul Bagchi, Steward Delegate Mohamed A. Ahmed. Chairman stressed importance of fireboat drills and congratulated crew for quick performance in surprise drill and working well together as a team. Beef reported by steward delegate; disputed OT noted by engine delegate. Suggestion made regarding standard agreement. Request made for larger ice machine. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Management), Aug. 30— Chairman Thomas R. Temple, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Engine Delegate William P. Stone, Steward Delegate Stephen E. Johnson. Chairman asked crew not to burn incense or candles in rooms. He also reminded them to turn cell phones off when leaving ship in Tampa, Fla. and to apply early when renewing z-cards. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to be mindful of others (who may be sleeping) when going in and out on deck. No smoking in messhall or passageways; smoking allowed only in individual rooms and crew lounge. Next ports: Corpus Christi, Texas and Tampa. PETERSBURG (IUM), Aug. 19 —Chairman Dirk W. Adams, Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, Educational Director Jeffery P. Stuart, Deck Delegate Michael R. Merrell Sr., Engine Delegate Ryan Smith. Chairman thanked deck department for job well done. Educational director talked about opportunities available at Piney Point for upgrading skills and urged crew members to take advantage of them. Treasurer stated $350 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Repair needed for dishwasher. Suggestion made to increase pension plan benefits. Next port: Guam. SEABULK TRADER (Seabulk Tankers), Aug. 26—Chairman Robert J. Coleman, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Educational Director Eron G. Hill Jr., Engine Delegate Victor M. Quioto, Steward Delegate James E. Harris. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival Aug. 28 in Lake Charles, La. and spoke about article in July Seafarers LOG pertaining to NCL America cruise ships. Secretary advised everyone to check documents for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for information on new contract. Recommendation made regarding death benefits for spouses and revamping of prescription drug program. CPL LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. (Maersk Lines), Sept. 2— Chairman Paul C. Johnson, Secretary George J. Borromeo, Educational Director Ramon L. Borrero Ramos, Deck Delegate Richard L. Hindson, Steward Delegate William H. Kane. Chairman stated there were no injures, lost time or safety issues on trip. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point school and reminded them about need to renew MMDs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new remote control in crew lounge. Next ports: Guam; Saipan. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), Sept. 5— Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Allan Lane, Engine Delegate Eric L. Campbell, Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Chairman announced Sept. 8 payoff in Oakland, Calif. Everyone should have books ready for boarding patrolman. Secretary asked crew members to clean rooms before leaving ship. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility whenever possible and make sure all documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Assistance requested for reminded relief crew to be considerate and get to ship early. Bosun read front of union book reminding crew members that they are all family at sea and it is everyone’s responsibility to look out for and help each other. He then thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary told crew about her experience renewing her z-card and all the documentation that was needed. She thanked GSU Rene Caballero and DEU Bakr Elbana for keeping house clean. She spoke about security policies in place in Cherry Point and Anacortes, Wash. Those members on watch in port were asked to turn off cell phone and alarm clock ringers. Educational Tanker Pays Off in Texas Dwight Ross, chief steward aboard the Seabulk Challenger, prepares lunch in the galley. The tanker recently paid off in Texas City, Texas, where this photo was snapped. electrician while unplugging reefer cargo boxes. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good service. Next ports: Oakland; Los Angeles; Honolulu. INTEGRITY (USSM), Sept. 5— Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker. Chairman thanked all departments for pleasant voyage and announced payoff Sept. 11 in Charleston, S.C. Secretary reported new Prescriptions Solutions benefits working well. Educational director asked crew members to notify electrician if any bulbs are out in working areas as well as other items in need of repair. Safety first! No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on whether transportation monies are included in wages (and therefore taxed). Recommendation made to increase dental, pension and health care benefits. Next ports: Charleston; Houston; Norfolk, Va. MIDNIGHT SUN (IUM), Sept. 26 —Chairman Fadel N. Saleh, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Joseph J. Egan. Chairman noted this is the time of year for heavy seas. He requested crew secure everything from cargo on deck to TV sets in rooms when “Deck Secured” is posted. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. He asked that trays, plates and glasses not be left unattended in serving line. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and encouraged crew members to read political pamphlets sent by state and local representatives to see if they have the union’s best interests in mind. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Vote of thanks also given to staff at Tacoma, Wash. hall for all their help and hard work. Next ports: Tacoma; Anchorage, Alaska. OVERSEAS NEW YORK (ATC), Sept. 12—Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Edward H. Self. Chairman director encouraged everyone to support the union and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. When weather starts to turn, shower decks will be painted. Those wishing their decks be painted should give name to chief cook, who is keeping the list. Request made for better dental coverage. “Two thumbs up” given to steward department for great food. Next ports: Cherry Point and Port Angeles, Wash. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (ATC), Sept. 16—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Robert M. Mensching, Educational Director Clyde D. Smith, Deck Delegate Doug Gattenheimeiz, Engine Delegate Orlando B. Guzman, Steward Delegate Virginia P. Panonpillo. Chairman informed members of various forms he has available (vacation, medical, grievance, etc.). He also discussed bonus vacation day and form needed for clean-room signoff. Educational director recommended crew make sure Coast Guard documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding contract, including suggestion pertaining to meal hours and break times for steward. Chairman spoke of advantages of Union Plus program. Special thanks given to Captain Dave Artz for getting De La Hoya fight on pay-per view TV. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. QUALITY (USSM), Sept. 2— Chairman Ronnie Hamilton, Secretary Edward P. Dunn, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Jose J. Calix, Engine Delegate Ronnie Hamilton, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 4 in Algeciras, Spain. Secretary thanked crew for smooth, safe trip. Educational director suggested crew members upgrade skills at Piney Point and encouraged them not to wait until last minute to renew z-cards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding possible improvements in dental and pension plans. Seafarers LOG 19 �p7,15,19,20.qxd 10/28/2004 5:14 AM Page 20 Female Mariners Are No Longer a Rarity a male-dominated industry, but when I joined the SIU I welcontinued. “When you get right comed the challenge of proving down to it, we’re all equal. We all that I could do the same jobs that do the same work and we expect men do,” she continued. the same pay.” “Although I don’t feel that there A native Alaskan, Russell should be any differences in the hails from Soldotna. She saw the jobs open and available to SIU as an avenue through which women versus men, that’s simply she could honor her mother’s the way it used to be. wishes. “My mother told me that “I’m sure that there probably if something ever happened to are some people around who still her, it would be my responsibility feel that way,” Walker continued, to take care of my two younger “but things are changing for sisters,” she shared. “I certainly women. I have seen it since I wanted to be able to honor my came in. Our numbers are mom’s wishes and thanks to the increasing and we’re branching SIU, now I can. out in all departments.” “My family members are very Walker said she chose the proud of me and all that I have maritime industry for a career accomplished,” she continued. because she was in the market for “They are encouraging me to a job that was secure as well as continue sailing and take advanchallenging. “The SIU has given tage of every opportunity the SIU me the best of both worlds,” she affords me to improve myself.” said. “That’s why I love the Houston-born Annie Walker union so much. It affords you the sees the maritime industry as opportunity to succeed and go as being easily accessible to women. far as your heart and your skills “Shipping is an industry that’s take you.” very attainable for women, and Walker’s training voyage was the SIU provides a perfect avenue aboard the Horizon Hawaii; she to achieve it,” said the engine has worked one tour aboard the department member, who became Sulphur Enterprise. “Some a Seafarer in 2003. women feel that they have to do “I understand that shipping is more than their male counterparts while at sea in order to prove themselves, but I don’t feel that’s the case,” Walker shared. “In my experience at sea, I was treated fairly by fellow crew members and they never asked more of me than they did of themselves. They were always respectful and very helpful when I needed it.” Chief Cook Kim Engine Room Seafarers Emma Porter and Strate holds a bacheAnnie Walker and Phase III Unlicensed lor’s degree in educaApprentice Paula Gomez test a part during tion. A resident of Atlanta Beach, Fla., an engine utility class. Straight learned about the opportunities available in the SIU through friends who sail. Final Departures “After talking to them, I Continued from page 18 decided that it was time for me to make a career change,” said the ber of the NMU in 1945 in Norfolk, mother of two who was a florist Va. He initially shipped on the by trade prior to joining the Bartholomew Gosnold as a member union. “I tried teaching for a of the engine department. Before while but soon discovered that it retiring in 1969, he sailed on the was not for me. I wanted a new Perryville. challenge and it turned out that the SIU was just what I had been JAMES WADDELL looking for.” Pensioner Since coming aboard in 2002, James Waddell, Straight has sailed on three ves76, died Sept. sels: USNS Sisler, USNS 7. Brother Charlton and the USNS Watkins. Waddell was She plans to return to an SIUborn in contracted military support vessel Baltimore, Md. Continued from page 7 He joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Waddell first sailed aboard the Antietam. The engine department member last worked on the Delaware Bay. Brother Waddell began collecting retirement stipends in 1988. JAMES WILLIAMS Pensioner James Williams, 85, passed away July 5. Brother Williams joined the ranks of the NMU in 1945 in the port of New York. Born in Newton, Ga., his first ship was the Henry Durant. Brother Williams last sailed aboard the Pioneer Commander. He went on pension in 1970. 20 Seafarers LOG In addition to the foregoing individuals, the folloiwng NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME Benitez, Ramon Brown, Wilson Carrigan, James Cherry, Billy Coleman, Chancy Coleman, William Colon, Angel Daglis, Steve Demery, Leroy Ebanks, Hale Ebanks, Royal Fonseca, Antonio Forbes, Thomas Furtado, Richard Gonzalez, Mario Grant, Richard AGE DOD 92 85 75 77 77 78 87 76 80 71 95 78 63 82 83 74 June 30 June 8 June 27 April 25 Aug. 22 Aug. 20 Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 8 Sept. 14 Sept. 11 Sept. 13 Sept. 10 Aug. 6 July 17 July 15 Chief Cook Kim Strate measures up the batter for her latest dessert creation. following upgrader training at Piney Point. “I don’t have any problems being in the minority on ships or working with crews that are mostly men,” Straight said. “My life’s experiences have taught me how to present myself and deal with any adverse situation should it arise. So far that has not happened, and I attribute it directly to the professionalism and tremendous training that our crews have. The people at Piney Point should be commended for the fine job they do in this area. “Being on a ship with the rest of the crew is just like being with family,” she continued. “I feel like a sister as well as a mom to a lot of the crew because many of them are so young.” On the topic of specific jobs for women versus men, Straight sees the entire issue as a matter of attitude. “I don’t see any difference between women working specific jobs and men doing them,” she said. “I have worked with crews that had women in both the engine and deck departments and they handled themselves very well. The key is flexibility—being able to relax and change with the demands of your job. “It’s all about the manner in which you present yourself,” Straight pointed out. “There definitely are some old school guys around who feel that women have their place, but that’s only their opinion. There is no middle ground here—you either learn to deal with these attitudes or allow them to get under your skin. It’s been my experience that women handle themselves very well on all of the jobs, and as long as they continue to do that, things will take care of themselves.” Green, Gordon Johnson, Lonnie Jones, George King, Willie Kitagawa, Henley Larkin, James Lindbloom, Bernard Mahoney, Robert May, Tommy Pagan, Juan Raines, Herbert Riley, James Ringley, John Sanbula, Policarpo Santana, Guadalupe Smith, James Soignier, Felix Summers, Purcell Thompson, Levin Vega, Paul Woodward, Donald 79 76 83 76 87 74 76 92 76 78 82 70 65 82 Aug. 15 July 29 Sept. 19 Aug. 11 July 22 July 18 June 16 Aug. 27 Aug. 24 May 18 Aug. 30 Sept. 17 Sept. 7 Sept. 5 76 74 80 87 80 78 76 Sept. 18 Aug. 16 Sept. 4 June 1 June 5 Aug. 16 Aug. 28 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. November 2004 �p4,5,10,12,13,17,21.qxd 10/28/2004 2:24 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. 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 Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* November 8 November 19 (*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. Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 8 December 3 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) *(must have radar unlimited) November 15 November 19 GMDSS (Simulator) November 1 November 12 in an upcoming issue Navigation Fundamentals November 29 December 10 of the Seafarers LOG. Radar November 1 November 12 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) November 29 December 10 Look for the 2005 Upgrading Course Schedule Upgrade . . . 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 Oct. 18, 2004. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation November 15 December 10 Welding November 1 November 19 . . . at the Paul Hall Center � 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 3:56 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman — Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 654 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 654 (in alphabetical order) John Barrett, Brandon Bohanon, Carinda Bohus, Kurtis Boyd, Michael Bucher, Anthony Clark, Israel Edmunds, David Eller, Matthew Faber, John Frey, Ernesto Girau, John Ivey III, Keith Jacoway, Cheryl Lynch, Sean Mitchell, Stefon Otey, William Price, Jeffrey Raum, Jervona Vorise, Ronald Williams Jr., Shawn Willis and Jamey Russell. Medical Care Provider — The three ARPA — Earning their ARPA certificates Sept. 17 are (in alphabetical order) Eric Harris, William Holloway, Randy Isenhart, Lawrence Richardson Jr., Ovidio Santos, Anthony Willis and Peter Wojcikowski. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Seafarers completing the medical care provider course Sept. 17 are (from the left) Douglas Carson, Jermaine Williams and Lawrence Soulier. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Unlicensed trainees completing this course Sept. 10 are (in no specific order) Jim Carey, Joshua Wilson, Kyle Rayborn, Michelle Garon, John Tullier, Robert Starr, Chris Dickens, John Villarta, Kyle Pillsworth, Harry Smith, Perry Martin, Mark Kane, Gregory LaRiviere, Ernie Smith, Douglas Shores, Kenneth Houseley, Lonnie Myers Jr. and Jonathan Nielsen. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is at far left. Under the instruction of Mike Smith (far left) are Seafarers who completed the radar course Sept. 18. They are (in alphabetical order) Eric Harris, William Holloway, Lawrence Richardson Jr., Raymond Ryan, Anthony Willis and Peter Wojcikowski. A second tanker assistant class graduated Sept. 10, this one under the instruction of Jim Shaffer (far right). The students are (in no specific order) Ernest Cannon, Keith Rost, Daniel Fields, Jason Brown, Sigfrid Mayer, Kenneth Casteel, Laura Edwards, David Kelch, Jovita Carino, Vasile Daogaru, Zsuzsanna Balla, Carlo Balajadia, Paula Gomez, Shantay Joquin, Jamal Ricks and Daniel Gaffney. Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes at the Paul Hall Center are (in left photo, from the left) Bryan Perley, Rick Prucha (instructor) Moises Ortiz, Peter Albano, Julie Dvoroznak, Ashley Nelson and Brian Goodman. In the photo at right are (standing, from left) Tawrence Abrams, Laurance Richardson, Rick Prucha (instructor), Paa Kwakye and (seated) Julie Dvoroznak. Seafarers LOG Radar — Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — Computer Lab Classes 22 Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending Sept. 10 are (in alphabetical order) Sam Baffoe, Darrol Bates, William Boardman, Erik Bradley, Raul Colon, Kerri Curtin, Dorian Edwards, Philip Hatcher, David Hays, Jimmy Sawhon, Lance McFarland, Anthony Mohler, Moises Ortiz, Edwin Pelingon, Donavan Peterson, James Robinson and Zerek Selby. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. 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. November 2004 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/26/2004 4:26 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — With instructor Jim Shaffer (far right) is one group of trainees and upgraders who completed this course Oct. 8. In no specific order, they are Kurtis Boyd, Gregory Baker, Carinda Bohus, Ronald Davis, Christopher Jackson, Ronald Williams Jr., Alexandr Koroteyev, Paa Kwakye, Daniel McFarland, Moises Ortiz, Steben Torres, Chad Eller, Richard Avila, Robert Oliveto Jr., Lionel Hall, Kevin Craigie, Miles Partridge, Joshua Lampke and Barney George. Tanker Familiarization Assistant Cargo (DL) — A second group completing the tanker familiarization course Oct. 8, this one under the guidance of Herb Walling (far left) are (in no specific order) Matt Faber, Nicholas Serritella, Frank Lyle, Boyd Spivey, William Holloway, Tavid Lewis, Richard Lewis, Jeffrey Raum Jr., Virgilio Hoffmann, Manolito Garcia, Dante Dizon, Edward Cherry, Jeremy Martinez, Stefon Otey, Jervona Vorise, David Quade II, Ernest Cannon, Jamey Russell, Carlos Llanos, Vincent Deguzman, Scott Paxton and James Crate. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Sept. 17: Mohamed Algalham, Darrol Bates, Patrick Fitzgerald, Sajid Foster, Ismail Hariri, Jimmy Lawhon, James Robinson, Steven Roquemore and John Alberti. Their instructor, Tom Cessna, is at far left. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given Sept. 10 to (in alphabetical order) Peter Albano, Jeffrey Hawkins, Jerrol Jones, Filiberto Moreira, Ashley Nelson, Bryan Perley and Tomas Torruellas. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — Earning their lifeboatman/water survival endorsements Sept. 24 are (in alphabetical order) Sam Baffoe, Michael Copple, Dante Dizon, Kirk Fisher, Carlos Gibbons, Rudy Harjanto, Kosar Iqbal, Steven Kuithe, Tina Lester, Omar Madrid, Donivan McCants and Willie Myrick. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far left. Fast Rescue Boat — Graduating from this course Oct. 8 are (in alphabetical order) Charlie Carlson, Robert Carrasco, William Davis Jr., Sean DeBruler, Larry Jamieson, Paul Sullivan and Leo Venegas. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far left. GMDSS — Completing their GMDSS training Oct. 8 are (in alphabetical order) Robert Boudreaux, Douglas Crawford, Ghassan Khalek, Cliff Lattish and Lawrence Richardson. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduates of the advanced fire fighting course that ended Oct. 1 are (in alphabetical order) Juan Castillo, Deronja Clark, Ronel Guerzon, Craig Hammer, Eric Harris, Stephen Johnson, Marc Marcus, Timothy Martin, Chad Stieteler, Justin Vonsprecken, Elaine Watts and Loren Wolfe. November 2004 Specially Trained OS — Proudly displaying the Alaskan flag are Alaskan fishermen who completed the STOS course Sept. 17 under the guidance of Stacey Harris (center). They are (in alphabetical order) Joseph Demmert III, Vincent Hamm, Justin Huggins, Rod McLeod, Charles Melendrez, Timothy O’Hara, Kirk Opheim, Leroy Peterson and Clark Thomas. Seafarers LOG 23 �p6,8,9,11,14,16,18 A.qxd 10/29/2004 6:39 PM Page 24 A November 2004 Volume 66, Number 11 p 1 &D S P P p a R P P S T M G L S V P 1 N P T o t N a W P W F o t P a W P N V a N P P a P 4 P T The Green Dale loads thousands of cars in Baltimore, Bayonne, Jacksonville, Houston and Charleston for ports in the Middle East and Japan. The Green Dale had a total of 28 time changes on its trip around the world, advancing the clocks one hour a night on the average of 4 times a week, and turning the clocks back twice. Also, one full day was repeated after crossing the international dateline. Bosun Fred Collins Temperatures were from 100 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. AB Thami Boulabat Chief Cook Said Abdullah At the time of payoff in Newark, N.J., the Green Dale had sailed 31,591 miles on its recent voyage and used roughly 22,580 barrels of fuel. The distance around the world at the equator is roughly 24,900 miles. AB Romeo Escalera Automobiles were off-loaded in San Juan, P.R. AB Jesse Osborne Jr. he SIU-crewed Green Dale, a Waterman Steamship Corp. car carrier, has the difficult, yet fascinating job of circling the globe every voyage in anywhere from 90 to 100 days—twice a year. With 21 officers and crew, the vessel sails through good weather and bad carrying its cargo of vehicular machines of all types, including automobiles and sometimes parts. Brandon Maeda, recertified steward aboard the Green Dale, sent in this account of the vessel’s most recent voyage as well as the accompanying photos. “We signed foreign articles on May 19 in the port of Baltimore. There we began the process of on-loading vehicles for overseas transport and continued to do so in the subsequent ports of Bayonne, N.J.; Jacksonville; Houston; and Charleston, S.C. While in Jacksonville, the U.S. Coast Guard boarded the vessel for their first-ever ‘Homeland Security Audit’ on a visiting ship in that port—and the mighty Green Dale passed with flying colors. “We then sailed the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, stopping in Port Said, Egypt to transit the Suez Canal. The captain held several safety meetings to discuss the very real threats of terrorism, hostage-taking and beheadings in that part of the world, and the ship remained on a high security alert as we transited the Red Sea and proceeded to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. “We off-loaded U.S. vehicles and military equipment in the Arabian ports of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Ad Damman and On its return home, the car carrier had Kuwait. The weather in to transit the Panama Canal. the Persian Gulf ranged from 100 degrees to 122 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade, and the locals say it can get up to 144 degrees in the summer. It was hot! “Empty now, we made sail for the Indian Ocean and Japan, but first had to contend with the Strait of Malacca. The vessel posted a ‘pirate watch’ because incidents of piracy are on the increase in this heavily trafficked area. We managed to survive the strait without incident and sailed north to Japan. We arrived in the port of Kobe and, once again, began cargo operations, this time loading Japanese vehicles for the U.S. and Mexico. “While in Kobe, a general audit of the ship was held, and the Green Dale passed the test. Not only that, but our U.S.-flagged vessel received the highest score yet posted by any car carrier in the fleet. “The subsequent, very hot-weathered Japanese ports were: Mizushima, Nakanoseki, Kawasaki and Yokohama. After loading more than 3,000 vehicles of all types and sizes, the Green Dale departed Yokohama and made sail for Paradise—the sunny islands of Hawaii and the port of Honolulu. “Hawaii was great, as always, and so was our next port of Mazatlan, Mexico. We had a full day in Balboa, Panama (on the Pacific side) and then transited the canal and headed for Puerto Rico on the Atlantic side. We spent a day off-loading vehicles in San Juan and sailed back to Jacksonville on the U.S. mainland. “The rest of the off-loading occurred in Baltimore, Davisville, R.I. and Boston, with the final payoff in Newark in midAugust.” In addition to Brother Maeda, the SIU crew members aboard the Green Dale on that voyage included Bosun Fred Collins, Mazatlan, Mexico was one Chief Cook Said Abdullah, ABs Romeo Escalera, Bill Winnett, Jesse Osborne Jr. of the final stops before returning to the U.S. and Thami Boulabat, and OMUs Aaron Anderson and Alfredo Mendoza. AB Bill Winnett OMU Alfredo Mendoza OMU Aaron Anderson � 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 November 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PHILLY FERRY CREWS STICK WITH SEAFARERS BIDCO ADDS NEW TUGBOAT NCL AMERICA PRESIDENT TOURS SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 4TH BP TANKER SIU-CONTRACTED ALASKA TANKER CO. EARNS SAFETY MILESTONE, AWARD UNION ELECTION VOTING BEGINS NOV. 1 MAERSK LINE, LIMITED REPLACES MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM SHIPS REMEMBERING MAJOR KEN CONKLIN SHORE LEAVE SPOTLIGHTED ON WORLD MARITIME DAY WOMEN’S WORK IS IN ALL THREE DEPARTMENTS ONCE A RARITY, FEMALE SEAFARERS ARE MORE COMMON SIGHT PL 480 ‘FOOD FOR PEACE’ PROGRAM CELEBRATES FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY INITIAL MOBILIZATION FOR OIF3 INCLUDES 9 SIU-CREWED SHIPS APPLY NOW FOR 2005 SCHOLARSHIP BROTHER BUTTS GIVEN BURIAL AT SEA SHIPBOARD TRAINING IS KEY COMPONENT OF UNLICENSED APPRENTICE PROGRAM CIRCLING THE GLOBE ON THE GREEN DALE 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 11/01/2004 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. 11 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d4df7637fc92a883a998e2f46a6663c7.pdf 036dc5310d30cc5ce0535b6b3c41aba8 PDF Text Text 32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:28 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 11 November 2005 s w r o G t e e l F U. S. P S M w e N r Unde Expanded Program Means More SIU Jobs, Improved American-Flag Sealift Capability Last month marked the start of the expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program—a boon to America’s national and economic wellbeing and a boost to the SIU-contracted fleet. Altogether, the union gains 13 additional vessels in the expanded program (which now totals 60 ships). Pictured here are several of those new ships, including (clockwise, from upper left) the Overseas Luxmar, the Ocean Titan and the Integrity. (Continued below) In the foreground, celebrating the expansion of the U.S.-flag fleet aboard the Integrity in Baltimore are (far left) Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; (seventh from left) Gen. John Handy, who recently retired as commander of TRANSCOM; (sixth from right) SIU President Michael Sacco, a strong proponent of the expanded MSP; (fourth from right) ARC President and Chairman Ray Ebeling; and apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. MSP coverage is included on pages 2, 3, 5, 8 and 11. Seafarers Proudly Sail in Operation Iraqi Freedom As the sealift component of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) continues, SIU members remain on the job, both on mobilized ships overseas as well as Ready Reserve Force vessels back in the United States that may be activated for additional support of U.S. troops. Several Seafarers who have made multiple voyages in OIF recently spoke about their pride in serving as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense, including some of those pictured on the Cape Washington in Baltimore (from left): QEE Eric Mentzer, GUDE Michael Alghafeili, AB Farah Mrimri, QMED George Murphy and Bosun Rick James. Pages 12-13. Union Continues Hurricane Relief Seafarers were among the first to provide relief during and after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, and there has been no letup in those efforts. Above, Seafarers, SIU officials and family members at the union’s hall in New Orleans are pictured in front of a truck carrying relief supplies donated by SIU-contracted Crowley. Page 7. �32670_P02X.qxd 10/27/2005 4:23 PM Page 2 President’s Report MSP’s Growth and Lessons For Seafarers, there’s no better sight than the American flag being raised on modern ships as they join the SIU-contracted fleet. Lately, that has been a very familiar sight—and certainly one that’s never taken for granted. In particular, with the expansion of the Maritime Security Program (MSP) from 47 to 60 ships, the union gains new jobs aboard 13 vessels. Many of those ships are pictured in this issue of the LOG, starting on the front page. This is a great moment for our union because it means new jobs, new ships and a brighter future. Michael Sacco And there’s no question that the expanded MSP also is good news for our nation as a whole. As so many of the program’s supporters have noted, the growth of the MSP fleet protects America’s national and economic security—and does so at great value. It helps expand the pool of well-trained, U.S. citizen mariners, which is a big consideration in these unstable times. In short, it’s a win-win situation. A feel-good story for our union and our industry, and a definite plus not only for America’s defense capabilities but also her economic safety. But amid the reflaggings and celebrations, let’s not overlook the important lessons we can learn from a quick review of the MSP’s history. As many Seafarers remember, the original program was enacted in 1996 as part of broader legislation known as the Maritime Security Act. That law itself took years to pass—the initial maritime revitalization program was proposed back in 1992. The updated version of the MSP, which took effect in October, also was the result of years of work by pro-U.S.-flag interests, the SIU most definitely included. Basically, the program provides partial reimbursement to certain U.S.-flag ship operators who agree to make their vessels available to the government in times of war or other emergency. (A related component of the Maritime Security Act, known as the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement or VISA, also provides access to important infrastructure.) It’s a great bargain for our country. Extremely credible, high-level studies have shown that the cost for each MSP vessel is less than one-tenth of the estimated annual operating cost of providing the same capability for our military using government-owned ships. In fact, the U.S. military itself has stated it would cost literally billions of dollars to duplicate everything they get with the MSP and VISA. So, I think it’s very safe to say that the MSP is valuable and affordable. It’s also important to note that the program has received support from the highest levels—from President Bush, who signed the expanded program into law, to top military leaders, to the Defense Department and the Transportation Department, to senators and congressmen. That support didn’t happen without a sustained effort to spread the word about the U.S. Merchant Marine and what it means to our country. And this is where political action comes into play. Without political action, our industry never would have been able to consider the MSP, let alone expand it. On that note, I thank our rank-and-file members for your consistent understanding of the importance of politics, and for your consistent support of SPAD, our union’s voluntary political action fund. Finally, the new MSP wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding shipboard work of American mariners, including, of course, SIU members. It is your dedication—your reliability and professionalism and patriotism—that helps inspire so much confidence in the program and in the U.S.-flag fleet as a whole. So, when you read about—and sail on—these new MSP ships, give yourselves a pat on the back. Perhaps most of all, the lesson of the MSP is that significant growth in the American-flag commercial fleet continues. Like anything else that’s worth achieving, it doesn’t come easy. But with the cooperation that exists today in our industry, and with the knowledge and appreciation of our leaders in the military and in government, and with the continued outstanding performance of our crews, I know that we’re headed for even greater success. Volume 67, Number 11 November 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 Task Force: Support for Cabotage Law Still Strong The Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), a broad coalition devoted to protecting laws that strengthen domestic U.S.-flag shipping, last month issued a letter offering many important points in the wake of two Jones Act waivers related to Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita. “From the outset, we would like to emphasize that the general state of the Jones Act and long-term outlook are strong,” the MCTF letter noted. “President Bush has been a strong supporter of the Jones Act since before he was elected, and he understands that the Jones Act is the foundation of our industry. The unique circumstances resulting from the unprecedented devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, followed almost immediately by Hurricane Rita, and resultant pressure on the Federal Government to respond in any manner possible, which have given rise to limited waivers of the Act, will ease over time as sufficient U.S.-flag Jones Act vessel capacity is demonstrably available and Gulf Coast refineries return to production.” On Sept. 1, in response to Hurricane Katrina, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a temporary waiver of the Jones Act for the movement of certain petroleum products. A subsequent waiver, scheduled to expire late last month, was issued following Hurricane Rita. “Because of the blanket nature of these waivers, no official government data is available as to the extent they have been used,” the letter stated. “Based on industry sources, however, it appears that 4-6 foreign vessel movements occurred under the first waiver and that three vessels moved immediately under the second from the New York area to the Gulf. No movements under the waiver have been reported since.” The task force noted that it did not oppose the initial petroleum waiver “for a variety of reasons, including the extreme human tragedy and loss of life in the Gulf region, and significant interruptions to the production and transportation of refined petroleum products…. “However, in contrast to generally supporting the President on the initial waiver, the MCTF and domestic industry have taken the public position that the second waiver was neither necessary nor justified by any demonstrated need, notwithstanding the devastating impact of Rita on American refinery capacity. In meetings with government officials, we stress that we understand what they are trying to accomplish—the seamless movement of refined product throughout the U.S.—but that we do not understand how a Jones Act waiver helps achieve that objective. We don’t understand which transportation movements are made more efficient by the waiver. We also have emphasized that there is a substantial fleet of U.S.-flag tank vessels standing by and ready to assist in the movement of refined product within the U.S. We also point out the absurdity of a situation where U.S.-flag vessels manned by American crews stand idly by while foreign vessels with foreign crews transport domestic cargoes. “Moreover, we remind them that these waivers could substantially harm the American maritime industry. This is particularly true in the Gulf region, where the maritime industry is a major employer and where there is an urgent need to get American workers back on the job.” The MCTF did credit the administration for listening and responding to the industry’s needs, which resulted in the curbing of proposed waivers that were comparatively extreme. In part, the letter concluded, “The extraordinary circumstances created by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have placed unprecedented strain on the U.S. refineries and the transportation system for refined petroleum products. They are also creating an opportunity for the industry to do what it does best —transporting U.S. goods to U.S. markets in support of our domestic economy. The ability of the industry to do so, and the MCTF’s efforts to educate policy-makers to that effect, are our best weapons to gain continued support for the Jones Act and related cabotage laws.” The SIU is one of more than 400 member organizations of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force. Runaway-Flag Cruise Line Comes Under Scrutiny Legislators from both houses of Congress—and political parties—are turning up the heat on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for its now infamous $236 million contract with Carnival Cruise Lines (CCL) to house Hurricane Katrina evacuees from New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Ranking Democratic Minority Leader Henry A. Waxman, in an Oct. 20 letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, registered his concerns on the highly contentious hurricane evacuee housing agreement. Referring to new information his office obtained from an internal financial review prepared by Carnival in January 2002, Waxman noted, “This financial data reveals that the federal government appears to be paying Carnival significantly more under the federal contract than the ships earned on their own, while Carnival’s expenses appear to be significantly less under the federal contracts than the ships normally incur. The net result is a contract that looks lucrative for Carnival but exceptionally expensive for the taxpayer.” In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, through a hastily arranged deal, millions of dollars from U.S. taxpayers will flow to CCL, a tax-exempt Israeli-founded corporation registered in Panama. The deal, reached on Sept. 2, will pay CCL some $236 million ($192 million for base costs for the ships for six months and $44 million for reimbursements that cover fuel, dock fees, and other expenses) for the use of 7,100 berths aboard three of the company’s full-service cruise ships for six months. A closer look at the numbers reveals that each berth will cost U.S. taxpayers $5,540 per month, or more than $184 per night. The cost per bed could actually be much higher because not all berths will be occupied for the entire six-month period of the contract, according to several reports. In fact, the three ships now are more than half empty as they bob in the Mississippi River and Mobile Bay. A national newspaper reported that “most evacuees rejected the offer” to stay on the Carnival ships—the Ecstasy, Sensation, and Holiday—which are reportedly being used to house city employees from New Orleans and emergency workers involved in the cleanup effort. Faced with a growing crisis as evacuees fled New Orleans and elsewhere, the deal was put together in about 36 hours, CCL and the government have said. In the wake of Katrina, sources say a government agency approached 75 different companies or brokers of ships seeking bids on ships with at least 1,000 berths to be available within 10 days. Only Carnival and a Canadian compa- ny that provided a single ship met the terms established by FEMA. To critics, the price is exorbitant. Angela Styles, a political appointee who headed the Office of Federal Procurement Policy between 2001 and 2003, questioned the government’s handling of the contract. Even under circumstances requiring great haste, she said, the government has mechanisms to obtain goods and services at a fair price. For example, she said, a contract can be concluded with the final price to be determined during subsequent negotiations. “In this case, they executed a contract without ensuring that they had a fair price,” she said. If the ships were at capacity, with 7,116 evacuees, for six months, the price per evacuee would total $1,275 a week, according to calculations by aides to Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.). A seven-day western Caribbean cruise out of Galveston can be had for $599 a person—and that would include entertainment and the cost of actually making the ship move. “When the federal government would actually save millions of dollars by forgoing the status quo and actually sending evacuees on a luxurious six-month cruise it is time to rethink how we are conducting oversight. A short-term temporary solution has turned into a long-term, grossly overpriced sweetheart deal for a cruise line,” said Coburn and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) in a joint statement which called for a chief Continued on page 6 November 2005 �32670_P3,11,21X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:53 PM Page 3 ARC Fleet Expands by 3 TRANSCOM Leader Cites Mariners’ Importance As part of the expansion of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet, the union recently welcomed three newly reflagged vessels added by SIU-contracted American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC). SIU President Michael Sacco; Gen. Norton Schwartz; Gen. John Handy; and ARC President and Chairman Raymond Ebeling were the featured speakers at a Sept. 29 naming ceremony aboard the Integrity in Baltimore, one of the company’s three new additions. The others are the Courage and the Honor. Other SIU officials and members as well as students from the union’s affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also attended the ceremony. Schwartz, the newly appointed commander of TRANSCOM, delivered the keynote address. He called the growth of the MSP “a critical expansion of our nation’s Newly Reflagged ARC Ships at a Glance Courage Built: 1991 Length: 652 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 38.13 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 29,213 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 562,123 square feet Honor Built: 1997 Length: 623 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 33 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 19,844 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 544,072 square feet Integrity Built: 1992 Length: 652 feet Beam: 105 feet Draft (design): 38 feet Speed: 18 knots Deadweight: 29,213 metric tons Below Deck Total Area: 565,223 square feet Other U.S.-Flag ARC Ships: Freedom Liberty Independence Patriot Resolve maritime capability.” He also noted that the military “relies heavily on our commercial partners and associated labor organizations…. This increase in fleet size plays a critical role in expanding our U.S. mariner base.” Additionally, he pointed out that Operation Iraqi Freedom has reinforced the fact that the “vast majority” of materiel is moved via sealift. Handy, who recently retired as head of TRANSCOM, said that the fleet’s growth is important to the nation. “Thousands of jobs for American seamen means that when we need seafarers to man our military ships, they will be there,” he told the audience of approximately 300 people. “Reflagging these ships (under the Stars and Stripes) is the right thing to do.” Ebeling described the event as “an unprecedented day in American maritime history. No one has ever brought more tonnage under the U.S. flag than we are today.” He then provided insight regarding the work involved in preserving and growing the MSP. In so doing, he called Sacco and Continued on page 11 Ocean Titan Joins SIU Fleet More SIU deep sea jobs recently appeared on the horizon when the Pacific-Gulf Marine (PGM) operated Ocean Titan began sailing under the red, white and blue. Formerly the Industrial Chief, the Ocean Titan was reflagged under the Maritime Security Program and brought under U.S. registry Sept. 21 in the port of Houston. Prevailing weather conditions during the event were far from ideal according to PGM Chief Executive Officer Todd Johnson. The reflagging took place during the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and just prior to the landfall of Hurricane Rita in Texas. Given the impact the hurricane had on both personnel and the shipyard, conditions were difficult but spirits were high, Johnson said. A heavy lift vessel, the Ocean Titan is the sister ship of the Ocean Atlas. PGM operates both vessels for Intermarine Inc. The Ocean Titan was undergoing modifications at Atlantic Marine Shipyard in Mobile, Ala., when Hurricane Katrina and subse- The Ocean Titan now flies the American flag and carries an SIU crew. quent flooding hit the Gulf Coast at the end of August. It was moved to the port of Houston to complete the reflagging process and conversion to U.S. registry. “It was a team effort and a tribute to the vessel’s officers, crew and the shore-side management team who played a significant role in the re-flag process,” said Johnson. “On behalf of the owners, we look forward to many successful years of operation under the U.S. flag.” The Ocean Titan took on cargo in Houston and put out to sea for South America Sept. 27 on its first voyage under the U.S. flag. The Ocean Titan as well as the Ocean Atlas are 8,000 dwt Century Class vessels, are 393 feet long and feature two 200-ton heavy-lift deck cranes, which can be operated in unison to lift 400 tons. In addition, both are registered in the MSP, which as of Oct. 1 was renewed for 10 years. The renewed MSP expands the fleet enrollment from 47 to 60 vessels and increases the operating assistance for each vessel gradually over 10 years from its previous level of $2.1 million per year. The MSP was authorized in the Maritime Security Act of 1996. The law provided limited direct operating assistance to U.S.-flagged vessels that have military utility and can be used by the Department of Defense in times of war or national emergency. Legislation enacted in 2003 renewed the program through September 2015. Ocean Titan Specs Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, Dec. 26, 2005 for the observance of Christmas Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2005 Year Built: 2000 Type: Heavy-lift, box-hold, multipurpose vessel Service Speed: 16.5 knots Length: 393 feet Beam: 65 feet Draft: 23.2 feet DWT: 8,000 metric tons Grain/Bale capacity: 395,000 cubic feet Clockwise from upper left, addressing the audience aboard the Integrity were SIU President Michael Sacco; Gen. Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); ARC President and Chairman Raymond Ebeling; and Gen. John Handy, recently retired commander of TRANSCOM. OSG Adds 3 Tankers Three OSG Ship Management (OSG) tankers during the last two months surrendered their Marshall Islands flags in favor of the Stars and Stripes—and SIU crews—and in the process earned the authorization to convey military cargo overseas during war and emergencies. The vessels, Overseas Maremar, Overseas Ambermar and Overseas Luxmar were reflagged to the American registry during separate ceremonies Sept. 6, Sept. 12 and Oct. 8, respectively. With the addition of these three vessels, OSG now has nine SIU-crewed ships sailing under the American flag. The ships have contracts under the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), which was OSG’s Newly Reflagged Tankers Overseas Maremar Built: 1998 Dwt: 47,225 Length: 564 feet Breadth: 105 feet Overseas Ambermar Built: 2002 Dwt: 35,970 Length: 572 feet Breadth: 89 feet Overseas Luxmar Built: 1998 Dwt: 46,162 Length: 601 feet Breadth: 105 feet recently expanded to 60 from 47 vessels. The contracts run through 2016. OSG has 10 U.S.-flag Jones Act product carriers aggregating on order at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard which are scheduled for delivery between late 2006 and early 2010. In addition, OSG has on order four 216,200-cubic meter LNG tankers (two at Hyundai Heavy Industries, Ltd. and two at Samsung Heavy Industries, Ltd.) scheduled for delivery in late 2007 and early 2008. Above: The Overseas Luxmar is one of three OSG tankers that recently hoisted the Stars and Stripes. Right: Seafarers aboard the Overseas Luxmar proudly display the United States flag as the vessel transfers to American registry. Seafarers LOG 3 �32670_P4,8,12,13,19X2.qxd 10/28/2005 7:46 PM Page 4 Construction Starts on 3 T-AKE Ship rd Construction recently started on the third ship in the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) T-AKE program at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. Members of the SIU’s Government Services Division will fill the unlicensed positions on the new ship when it is completed. During a September ceremony marking the start of manufacture for the third vessel, Jennifer Stanton, wife of U.S. Navy Captain Mike Stanton, commanding officer, Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Bath, Maine, made the first cut on the ship’s first steel plate to signify the start of construction. Captain Stanton’s San Diego detachment is responsible for overseeing construction on the T-AKE program. The U.S. Navy has awarded NASSCO contracts for eight dry cargo/ammunition ships and holds options for an additional four ships. If all the options are exercised, the 12-ship program would have a total value of $3.7 billion. The first T-AKE, named the Lewis and Clark to honor the two legendary explorers who led an expeditionary force from 1804 to 1806 to travel around the American West, was launched on May 21, 2005. The ship is in the final stages of construction alongside NASSCO’s pier, with delivery scheduled for early next year. The second T-AKE, to be named the Sacagawea in honor of the Shoshone Indian woman who acted as guide and interpreter for Lewis and Clark, is scheduled to be launched in the spring of 2006. 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. The T-AKEs will be the first modern Navy ships to combine proven international marine technologies such as an integrated electric-drive propulsion system that can achieve a speed of 20 knots, and commercial design features that will minimize their cost of operation and maintenance over their expected 40-year lives, according to the shipyard. When MSC announced the TAKE program, the agency reported, “As an auxiliary support ship, the T-AKE will directly contribute to the ability of the Navy to maintain a forward presence. The T-AKE’s primary mission will be delivering supplies to Navy ships from sources of supply like friendly ports, or from sea using specially equipped merchant ships. The T-AKE will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, limited quantities of fuel, repair parts, ship store items and The first ship in the new T-AKE program, the USNS Lewis and Clark, is pictured during launch this past May in San Diego. expendable supplies—at sea to station ships and other naval war- Vice Admiral Brewer Honored by NDTA Vice Adm. David L. Brewer, USN, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC), on Sept. 13 received the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award. As MSC commander since August 2001, Brewer has directed the ocean transport of 95 percent of all combat cargo used by U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terrorism. “Beginning with the (Seafarerscrewed) hospital ship USNS Comfort sailing to New York City to provide relief to emergency workers after Sept. 11, and continuing through Operation Iraqi Freedom, Vice Adm. Brewer directed the efforts of more than 120 ships and their crews worldwide,” said the citation. “Vice Adm. Brewer is the epitome of a Sailor’s Sailor whose leadership and professionalism have contributed immeasurably to America’s national security and humanitarian missions.” With more than 8,500 members (including the Seafarers Inter- national Union of North America), the NDTA fosters partnerships between government, military and industry to maintain a strong global transportation and distribution system. Each year, the nonprofit organization recognizes a DOD senior executive who has shown outstanding service to the nation in the field of transportation and logistics. MSC has moved 78 million square feet of U.S. military cargo in support of the global war on terrorism, much of it aboard SIUcrewed ships. That’s equal to more than 827,000 SUVs that, if lined up bumper-to-bumper, would stretch from Washington, D.C., to Las Vegas. In addition, MSC ships have delivered more than 7.7 billion gallons of fuel to U.S. forces—enough to fill up the Empire State Building nearly 28 times. MSC operates 120 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that move combat cargo for U.S. forces, replenish U.S. Navy ships at sea, chart ocean bottoms and strategically preposition equipment and supplies at sea around the world. Retired Port Agent Marinelli Dies at 82 Pasquale “Pat” Marinelli, retired SIU port agent and an active figure in many of the union’s earliest organizing drives, passed away Sept. 7 at age 82, following a heart attack. Marinelli had a well-earned reputation for being tough when the situation called for it, but he got along well with his SIU brothers and sisters, and he was committed to the union. “He was a good official, one of the old-timers,” recalled SIU President Michael Sacco. “He sailed in the deck department and he did a lot of organizing. He also helped provide stability on the West Coast for the SIU.” Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell remembered Marinelli as “goodnatured and very dedicated when it came to union matters. He carried his weight.” Retired Bosun Kenny Roberts periodically worked with Mari- 4 Seafarers LOG fare forces. In its secondary mission, the T-AKE may be required to operate in concert with a Henry J. Kaiser-class (T-AO 187) oiler as a substitute on-station ship, providing direct logistic support to ships within a single carrier strike group. “The primary goal of the TAKE program is to provide effective fleet underway replenishment capability at the lowest life cycle cost. To meet that goal, the ship is being built to commercial specifications and standards and will be certified/classed by the American Bureau of Shipping, the United States Coast Guard and other regulatory bodies. The ships will be operated by Military Sealift Command with civilian mariner crews (123 personnel) augmented by a military department (49 personnel).” nelli throughout his own 33-year career with the SIU. “He was a nice guy and always helpful to the men,” Roberts said. “Any time you asked him to have a drink or shoot the bull or whatever, he’d do it.” Marinelli served in the armed forces during part of World War II, and then joined the union in 1945 in the port of New York. He sailed as an AB and bosun until coming ashore to work for the SIU in 1956. His career with the union was anything but dull. Marinelli in the 1940s took part in the Isthmian beef and the garment strike, and later walked the picket lines in both the Greater New York Harbor beef and the Robin Line strike, among others. Marinelli served as the union’s port agent in San Juan, P.R. in 1960. At various other times, he worked as a patrolman in San Francisco; Wilmington, Retired SIU Port Agent Pat Marinelli took part in many of the union’s key organizing drives. Calif.; and Brooklyn. He retired to New York State in 1977, largely due to health issues, and most recently lived in North Babylon, N.Y. Burial took place at St. John’s Cemetery in Middle Village, N.Y. Vice Adm. David L. Brewer, left, accepts the National Defense Transportation Association’s 2005 Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award from NDTA Vice Chairman General Walter Kross. Reciprocal Seniority Takes Effect Nov. 1 During the October membership meetings, Seafarers approved a long-intended modification to the Seafarers Appeals Board shipping rules which will allow for reciprocal seniority between SIU members and mariners who were in the old National Maritime Union (NMU) when those organizations merged back in 2001. As reported at the membership meetings, the merger agreement specified that the unions’ respective seniority systems initially would remain separate. At that time, maintaining separate seniority was the most practical thing to do. “However, more than four years later, contract negotiations and other circumstances clearly dictate that the time has come for reciprocal seniority between the SIU and the old NMU,” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez noted in his monthly report. “This was always the long-range intent of both unions and it helps break down the last remaining barriers.” Effective at the start of this month (Nov. 1, 2005), the Seafarers Appeals Board will amend the shipping rules as follows: As an “A” seniority man with the SIU, a member may sail in Group 1 under an NMU contract. If a member is in Group 1 NMU, he effectively has “A” seniority in the SIU. The same would be true for people with B seniority and people in Group 2, right on down the line. Again as amplified during the membership meetings, this is partly a matter of fairness now that the unions essentially have become one organization. It’s also a matter of practicality, because as the old NMU contracts expire, they are being replaced by SIU contracts that will cover all members. That last point is essential to understanding why reciprocal seniority makes sense. The timing of this consolidation is based in part on upcoming, industrywide contract negotiations. “At that point it will simply be a case of good common sense for us to consolidate our shipping rules, using the SIU shipping rules as the model,” Tellez noted in his report. “We are one union. It’s logical for us to have one set of shipping rules.” November 2005 �32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:40 PM Page 5 ITF, Owners’ Group Reach ‘Significant’ Agreement The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the international shipowners’ Joint Negotiation Group announced favorable results following their negotiations in the International Bargaining Forum Oct. 5-6 in Tokyo. Negotiations concluded with a settlement described by both sides as a “significantly successful outcome.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, vice chair of the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section, took part in the bargaining. Building on the first ever international collective bargaining agreement for workers across the world, and now covering 55,000 seafarers on more than 3,200 ships, the new agreement includes a twostage increase, based on the IBF model ship of 23 seafarers, from $46,170 per month to $48,478 beginning at the start of 2006 and to $50,787 beginning in 2007. The updated agreement also calls for a two-stage increase on contractual death and disability compensation of five percent as of January 2006 and an additional five percent as of January 2007. Additionally, the agreement includes the provision of free shipboard e-mail access for all seafarers, where appropriately equipped. In a joint statement following the negotiations, the groups noted, “In particular, significant aspects of cooperation have been reached between the ITF and JNG on initiatives aimed at addressing the concerns on employment security held by seafarers from developed economies. An agreement has also been reached that the JNG will recommend to their shipowner principals that they should not use the services of non-union dockworkers.” The ITF commented that “the negotiations had been difficult Homeland Security Dept. Issues National Strategy For Maritime Security The U.S. Department of Homeland Security in late September released its longawaited National Strategy for Maritime Security (NSMS). A 31-page document, the strategy discusses threats to national security (such as terrorism and piracy); strategic objectives (such as prevention and recovery); and strategic actions (such as international cooperation, domain awareness, and continuity). The new approach is the end product of an effort led by the Secretaries of the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security to develop a comprehensive NSMS that would “better integrate and synchronize existing department-level strategies and ensure their effective and efficient implementation,” the agencies said when issuing the report. This project was launched in December 2004 via direction of President Bush. In addition to the new strategy, the departments developed eight supporting plans to address the specific threats and challenges of the maritime environment. The supporting plans include: The National Plan to Achieve Maritime Domain Awareness, which lays the foundation for an effective understanding of anything associated with the maritime domain that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment of the United States, and identifying threats as early A port security drill is conducted earlier this year in Anchorage, Alaska. A Coast Guard cutter sits off the vessel Nord Sea during a homeland security boarding in the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port in Mobile, Ala. in mid-September. November 2005 and touched on sensitive issues on both sides. However, there’s no doubt that the ITF and JNG relationship has reached a level of mutual respect that demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation and a positive approach. “We have consolidated the innovative negotiating process and in doing so materially advanced the protection of seafarers’ employment and improved the conditions under which they serve.” The spokesman for the shipowners commented that “the negotiations had been long and complex as both sides had made proposals that involved both cost items and policy issues. Overall the settlement would strengthen the IBF system, provide mechanisms for discussing a number of outstanding issues as well as provide a satisfactory settlement that would appeal to seafarers and shipowners alike.” and as distant from our shores as possible. A Maritime Transportation System Security Plan that responds to the president’s call for recommendations to improve the national and international regulatory framework regarding the maritime domain. A Maritime Commerce Security Plan establishing a comprehensive diagram to secure the maritime supply chain. A Maritime Infrastructure Recovery Plan recommending procedures and standards for the recovery of the maritime infrastructure following attack or similar disruption. An International Outreach and Coordination Strategy providing a framework to coordinate all maritime security initiatives undertaken with foreign governments and international organizations, and soliciting international support for enhanced maritime security. A Global Maritime Intelligence Integration Plan using existing capabilities to integrate all available intelligence regarding potential threats to U.S. interests in the maritime domain. A Maritime Operational Threat Response Plan aiming for a coordinated United States government response to threats against the nation and its interests in the maritime domain by establishing roles and responsibilities that enable the government to respond quickly and decisively. A Domestic Outreach Plan engaging non-federal input to assist with the development and implementation of maritime security policies. While the foregoing tactics address different aspects of maritime security, said DHS, they nonetheless mutually are linked and reinforce one another. Together, the NSMS and its supporting plans represent the beginning of a comprehensive national effort to promote global economic stability and protect legitimate activities, while preventing hostile or illegal acts within the maritime domain, according to the DHS. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (first row, third from right) participates in the International Bargaining Forum Oct. 5-6 in Tokyo. Negotiations resulted in a favorable agreement for both sides. Raising the Stars and Stripes! As part of the newly expanded Maritime Security Program, Seafarers recently welcomed the car carrier Alliance New York, operated by Liberty Maritime. Representing new jobs for SIU members, the vessel hoisted the Stars and Stripes on Sept. 28 in Yokohama, Japan and then sailed for ports in Korea, Puerto Rico and the Gulf Coast. The Alliance New York will offer around-theworld service. Seafarers LOG 5 �32760_P1,2,5,6,7.qxd 10/27/2005 2:47 PM Page 6 Americans Forced to Pay More As Insurance Coverage Goes Down If there is any positive news in the health insurance crisis, it is that premiums climbed only 9.2 percent this year as compared to 11.2 percent in 2004 and 13.9 percent in 2003. But that is little consolation to those workers who find that the increased cost of health insurance is still more than three times the growth in their earnings (2.7 %) and twoand-a half times the rate of inflation (3.5%)—and that nearly 47 million Americans have no insurance at all. These statistics were made available in the 2005 Annual Employer Health Benefits Survey recently released by the Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Educational Trust. The survey found that only 60 percent of companies offered coverage to their employees in 2005, down from 66 percent in 2003 and 69 percent in 2000. “It is low-wage workers who are being hurt the most by the steady drip, drip, drip of coverage draining out of the employer-based health insurance system,” said Kaiser Family Foundation President and CEO Drew E. Altman, Ph.D. In 2005, the “preferred provider organization” (PPO) plans—like that offered by the SIU—were more common than ever, with 61 percent of all employees with health coverage enrolling in a PPO (up from 55% the previous year). In a PPO, there is a network of doctors, hospitals and other health professionals who have agreed to provide care for a set price. The other popular arrangement is the “health maintenance organization” (HMO), which showed a decline in enrollment this year. Family coverage under a PPO costs an average of $11,090 of which the employer pays $8,449 and the worker pays $2,641 (just to carry the coverage). Employers predict an increase of about 10 percent next year in their health care costs. Some of these firms will likely ask their workers to pay more in premiums, raise deductibles, raise office visit copayments or raise prescription drug co-payments. Only about 1 percent of firms say they are “very likely” to drop health coverage entirely in the near future. The United Auto Workers (UAW), for example, last month said its leadership had unanimously endorsed a deal with General Motors Corp. (GM) to reduce its health care costs by cutting benefits for UAW workers and pensioners. The proposal would mean that health care would no longer be free for many of GM’s retirees and their families and that drug co-payments would be increased for active GM hourly employees. GM said that the proposed pact with the UAW would reduce its employee health-care expenses by $3 billion annually before taxes. No time frame was given as to when the agreement will be put to union members for ratification. One outcome of the rising cost of health care is that American workers are beginning to change their attitudes and actions in an effort to cope with the increased co-pays and deductibles. According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2005 Health Confidence Survey, 79 percent of those persons questioned said they are now choosing generic drugs over name brands, and 71 percent said they are taking better care of themselves. Retired Instructor Jack Parcel Dies Jack Parcel, a retired instructor at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. passed away Sept. 13. Parcel was 77. “As I recall, Jack entered the U.S. Navy in 1945 and retired some 30 years later as a master chief electrician,” said Eric Malzkuhn, a long-tenured instructor at the Paul Hall Center and one of Parcel’s closest friends. “During his distinguished naval career, he not only trained electricians, but also instructors.” Shortly after his retirement from the armed forces, he came to the Paul Hall Center. Many students, particularly electricians, benefited from his instruction. “In truth, though, his impact has been felt throughout the maritime industry,” Malzkuhn added. “He was a mentor figure to many instructors. We all owe Jack a debt of gratitude. We all mourn his passing, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” Born in Missouri, Parcel served in the U.S. Navy as an electrician and retired as a master chief petty officer. Parcel launched his career as a maritime educator in 1974 when he signed on at the Piney Point school as an engine department instructor. Electrical maintenance, crane maintenance, electro hydraulics and variable speed dc drivers were among the courses he taught over the years. An achiever as well as an educator, Parcel rarely missed out on an opportunity for advancement. He became a department head at the school in 1977 and a senior instructor in 1978. After training hundreds of merchant mariners and making a difference in the lives of countless others, Parcel called it quits in the academic arena. He retired on Jan. 1, 1991 and established his residence in Tampa, Fla. Parcel was preceded in death by his wife Margaret. He is survived by one son, James; and a daughter, Margaret Dugan. Agency Issues Revised STCW Endorsement The U.S. Coast Guard in late September began issuing a newly revised U.S. STCW Endorsement, Form CG-5611 (Rev. 0105), to qualified licensed and unlicensed merchant mariners. According to the agency, more than 59,000 U.S. merchant mariners hold a valid STCW endorsement. Mariners’ existing endorsements will be replaced at the time of their scheduled expiration or when their qualifications are upgraded. The new document contains “significant security and accountability enhancements,” according to the Coast Guard. The design is based on the U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License (Form CG-2849) and advice by senior intelligence officers at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Forensics Document Laboratory for costeffective, fraud-resistant features; and the Production and Design Team of the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). The revised U.S. STCW Endorsement “exceeds International Maritime Organization standards on anti-fraud measures and forgery prevention features for seafarers’ certificates,” the agency noted in a news release. financial officer to oversee Katrina spending. Meanwhile, congressional calls for an investigation of the contract have increased, with Republicans as well as Democrats seeking action. Three Republicans, Reps. Marilyn Musgrave (R-Colo.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), and Todd Tiahart (R-Kan.), sent a letter to House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.), calling for “an immediate investigation into all matters related to the contract.” “We have concerns about a broad range of issues,” the letter said, citing the total price tag, the economics of housing evacuees under the contract terms and the speed with which the deal was negotiated. Not only are questions being raised over the Carnival contract’s cost, but congressional investigators also are examining the company’s tax status. CCL, 6 Seafarers LOG Jack Parcel conducts a class during the 1970s at the Paul Hall Center. Parcel, who became an instructor at the SIU-affiliated school in 1974, passed away recently in Tampa, Fla. CIVMAR Notes Internet Issue Resolved FY2005 Wage Update Each year, in accordance with federal law, the union submits private sector collective bargaining information to MSC as a basis for the agency to make a determination about an adjustment of CIVMAR wages. As previously reported in the June 2005 edition of the Seafarers LOG, the SIU had been waiting to learn about the finalization of certain private sector collective bargaining agreements in order to provide MSC with relevant wages and conditions of employment. Once MSC reviews these agreements, the agency generally makes adjustments to yearly wages, in this case, FY05 wages for MSC CIVMARS. On Oct. 4, 2005, the SIU notified MSC that the union was prepared to make the required submissions. Further, in a spirit of cooperation with the agency, the SIU asked the responsible subject-matter personnel at MSC headquarters to meet with the union for an in-depth discussion of wage matters affecting MSC CIVMARS. The union believes such talks could be quite productive and beneficial for all parties, especially in light of MSC’s intention to establish the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command early this year. As of press time, the union was awaiting a response from the Command. This is a time-consuming process. The union will continue providing updates when appropriate. Recently, without appropriate notice from MSC, the union learned that CIVMARS’ access to commercial web sites was to be blocked beginning Oct. 18, 2005. The union submitted a formal information request to MSC in order to determine the reasons for this proposed change. The union objected to this policy change and questioned MSC regarding privacy issues as well as CIVMARS’ opportunity to receive private e-mail under a military address, access to banking and other financial sites, and use of other webbased services such as news and other commercial sites. As this edition of the LOG went to press, it appears that the issue tentatively was resolved in the members’ favor. The union is awaiting final confirmation from MSC. If CIVMARS experience difficulties accessing their web-based e-mail, they may contact their union representatives at (415) 8613400 on the West Coast, (718) 832-8767 or (757) 622-1892 on the East Coast. Union Files Grievance The union’s Government Services Division has filed a safety and health habitability grievance regarding MSC’s selection of a local hotel in Norfolk, Va. used for housing CIVMARS who are required to report to the CSU East Coast. After a thorough inspection by the Government Services representative, the hotel was deemed unsatisfactory for a variety of reasons including evidence of a roach problem, mold and mildew smells, uncleanliness, rooms in poor condition with broken furniture and poor maintenance. Additionally, the union discovered that this hotel is in an area of town with a high crime rate, making it unsafe for mariners. In addition to this grievance, the union is evaluating other legal options to try to correct this situation. CIVMARS who experience habitability problems should contact the union at 415-861-3400 (on the West Coast), 718-832-8767 or 757-622-1892 (East Coast), or via email at civmarsupport@seafarers.org. Additionally, a revised U.S. STCW Endorsement information sheet was designed and printed by the BEP and has been distributed domestically to Regional Line Comes Under Scrutiny For Evacuee Housing Contract Continued from page 2 Exam Centers (RECs), inspectors, unions and industry; and internationally to the IMO and foreign national maritime administrations. A copy of the Revised U.S. STCW Endorsement Information Sheet can be obtained by registering for a free subscription of the USCG Proceedings of the Marine Safety & Security Council at http://www.uscg.mil/proceedings/. It is posted on the National Maritime Center’s website, h t t p : / / w w w. u s c g . m i l / s t c w. Mariners with additional questions may contact their nearest REC or Jon Furukawa at (202) 493-1014 or jfurukawa@ballston.uscg.mil. which is headquartered in Miami but incorporated for tax purposes in Panama, paid just $3 million in income tax benefits on $1.9 billion in pretax income last year, according to company documents. “That’s not even a tip,” said Robert S. McIntyre of Citizens for Tax Justice. U.S. companies in general pay an effective income tax rate of about 25 percent, analysts say. That would have left Carnival with a $475 million tax bill. Carnival’s public records boast “that substantially all of our income in fiscal 2004, 2003 and 2002 . . . is exempt from U.S. federal income taxes,” largely because it maintains that its operations are not in the United States but on the high seas. November 2005 �32670_P1,2,5,6,7X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:41 PM Page 7 SIU Continues Hurricane Relief Efforts On several fronts, the SIU continued with its hurricane relief efforts late last month even as yet another storm—this one named Wilma—battered the southeastern United States. In late October, Seafarers were sailing aboard eight vessels— including training ships mobilized during Hurricane Katrina— helping provide aid along the Gulf Coast. Earlier in the month, the hospital ship USNS Comfort —crewed by members of the union’s Government Services Division—returned to Baltimore following a deployment to the New Orleans area. Additionally, the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund gave assistance to hundreds of members and their families (see sidebar), while the Seafarers Pension Plan and the NMU Benefit Plans, respectively, approved a supplemental payment to eligible retirees. In Beaumont, Texas, the SIUcrewed Cape Vincent and Cape Victory were dubbed “Noah’s Arks” by the Associated Press after the Ready Reserve Force ships took aboard police dogs as well as substantial numbers of emergency equipment and personnel during Hurricane Rita. They weren’t the only SIUcrewed ships to provide shelter to animals. The U.S. Military Sealift Command reported that mariners from the USNS Bellatrix helped Louisiana veterinarians save orphaned pets in New Orleans’ St. Bernard parish, an area devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The 946-foot fast sealift ship returned to Louisiana soon after Katrina to join relief efforts. Helping staff the Sirius steward department are (from left) Chief Cook Jeff Power, Chief Cook Helen Mitchell and Chief Steward Andrew Austin. In their spare time, the 27 civilian mariners (including SIU members) who crew the Bellatrix used various supplies and spare parts to build cages and shelters for more than 300 cats and dogs separated from their owners. Mariners volunteered to walk and groom the homeless pets. The ship also took on relief workers—17 U.S. Marines from the 4th Civil Affairs Group, based in Washington, D.C., two Navy doctors and 10 local veterinarians and vet assistants. When the outer bands of Hurricane Rita struck the New Orleans area Sept. 24, the Bellatrix housed five sick canines in the ship’s massive cargo hold. The homeless pets were sheltered from the wind and rain and received medical attention from vets during the storm. The ship is usually kept in reduced operating status in Violet, La. At the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala., the union offered its facility as a staging area for members of the United Food and Commercial Workers who had transported relief supplies from Philadelphia. “We appreciate the Seafarers putting us up,” stated Wendell Young, business agent for UFCW Local 1776. “Our members are grateful.” At least two SIU-contracted companies, Crowley and Express Marine, donated relief supplies Thanking Those Who Contributed As the extent of Hurricane Katrina’s damage became evident, the union quickly established the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) in order to provide financial assistance specifically to Seafarers, their families and union employees in the affected areas. This included members of the SIUaffiliated United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union. Lito Acosta Abdulgabar Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Ueli Alataua Ahmed Ali Luqman Ali Seddik Ali Wadeea Alnasafi Christopher Altieri Santiago Amaya D.C. Anderson Calvin Andrews Eugene Aruta Shwe Aung Gloria Baker Joseph Barnes Cornelio Bartolome Joseph Baselice Marlon Battad Benjamin Bess Clinton Betties Joseph Bidzilya Jordan Biscardo Robert Blair Margaret Bowen Michael Boyle Michael Brady Thomas Bray Todd Brdak Ethel Brooks Robert Brooks Davon Brown James Brown Monte Burgett James Callahan John Carr Robert Cartmel Nicholas Celona Patti Christian Peter Ciddio Alvin Clark Casey Coddington Octavian Cojocaru Ronald Cokes Dave Coleman Victor Cooper Tina Corbin Dean Corgey Vincent Coss November 2005 Terry Cowans John Cox Amancio Crespo Arthur Cross Dante Cruz Ambrose Cucinotta Joshua Davenport George Decossio Lou Delma Shawn Deloach James DeMouy William Dennis Susan Derseweh Neil Dietz Alshea Dixon Daniel Duncan Robert Duncan Wilbert Earl Darrin Eastridge Thornton Elliott Frank & Kitty Eno Jessie Espiritu O.G. Evora Rey Farinas Suree Farrell John Fay Audrey Feffer Mario Fernandez Ronald Fields Robert Firth Ronald Fluker Salman Frederick Emiliano Garcia Richard Gegenheimer Carolyn Gentile Eric Grant Godwin Gregg Herman Hall Kenneth Hamilton Thomas Hawkins Frederick Hayston David Heindel Wilmer Herrera Alexander Hill Michael Hill Teresa Hoinsky David Hollenback John Huggins Regie Ignacio The intent was for quick and virtually complete disbursement, and that goal had been achieved by late October. Hundreds of members, their families and employees have been helped in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. With the fund essentially exhausted, the union thanks those who contributed to the SDRF. The names of all who contributed follow: Frank Iverson Leportre Jasper Neil Johnson Thomas Johnson Stephen Judd Timothy Kacer David Kelch Ed Kelly Angela Kendall Georg Kenny Enrico LaMarca Michael Lau Philip Lau Charlotte Leblanc Andrew Linares Rene Lioeanjie Steven Lonas Lanette Lopez Rudy Lopez Russell Luther Kermett Mangram Kenneth Marceski Kevin Marchand Erik Marlowe Nicholas Marrone Moises Martinez Domingo Martinez Reyes John McCabe Henry McCullough Jim McGee Kenneth McLamb Ronald Mena Dennis Metz Joseph Mieluchowski George Miller Thomas Miller Valerie Miller Yaser Mohamed Kenny Moore Edd Morris Mark Morris Roger Mosley Mothana Mothana Diane Muratalla Lupe Murillo Nagi Musaid Gheorghe Mustata Paul Nathan Ryan Neathery Jonathan Nielson William Nihem Don Nolan Lorraine Nuno Abdulla Omar Tommy Orzechowski Richard Owusu Fabian Palacios Ronald Paradise Earl Parker Jeffrey Parsley Chad Partridge Miles Partridge Arthur Patterson Frank Pecquex Herb Perez Philip Pifer Bryan Powell Francis Quebedeaux Arthur Quinney Reynato Ramos Dadang Rashidi John Repose Lawrence Richard Lance Riggs Paul Riley Nick Rios Irving Rochez Juan Rochez Edward Rockinger John Ropp John Sacco Michael Sacco Tony Sacco Ali Saleh Raymond Samaria Jason Schoenstein Peter Schuetz Garland Scott Robert Selzer Randy Senatore David Sexton Michael Shay Jack Sheehan Mohamed Shibly Karen Shuford Becky Sleeper John Solano Joseph Soresi John Spadaro Samuel Spain Louella Sproul Joseph Stanton Robert Stellon Charlie Stewart Jeffry Stuart Orlando Suazo Kenneth Sullivan Steven Sun Randolph Sutton William Tanksley James Taranto Leslie Tarantola Raymond Tate Eric Taylor Kenneth Taylor Simeon Taylor Augustin Tellez Don Thornton George Tricker Robert Troy Jeff Turkus James Tyson Eddy Usmany Thomas Vain Bryan Vallecillo Patrick Vandegrift John Vierra Joe Vincenzo Annie Walker Kareem Walters Archie Ware Mohamed Wasel Antjaun Webb John Wells Mark Wertanen Christian Westbrook Chester Wheeler Jimmy White Walter White Betty Wierschem Curtis Williams Richard Wilson Robert Wisler Wilbert Wood Martin Zeidenberg Ann Marie Zwerlein Pictured aboard the Sirius are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (third from left) and Seafarers including Bosun Wayne Casey, AB Fred Shannon, OS Gary Auzston and AB Roger Phelps. The ship has provided housing and support for police and military personnel and others in the New Orleans area. and had them scheduled for delivery to the SIU hall in Harvey, La., which is near New Orleans. “Certainly the recovery will take years, but in the short run there is light at the end of the tunnel,” noted SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd. “All the employees are back at the hall, functioning like normal. The office is normal. Outside the hall, there are still plenty of reminders that it’s not normal overall. It’s not pictures on a TV screen to us.” Judd said that family members of a number of Seafarers lost their lives in the first hurricane, bringing the devastation into tragic focus. As in other national tragedies, however, the professional and humane response from SIU members has been hard to overlook. As previously reported, Seafarers in the New Orleans area were among the first to provide assistance to hurricane victims. In at least one case they provided invaluable assistance to local medical personnel, relief workers and members of the National Guard before any other help was available. Upon reporting to the Texas A&M training vessel Sirius, activated for Katrina relief, Seafarers performed at a level that caught the attention of the ship’s master. “The 41 crew members from the SIU and AMO have been outstanding,” noted Captain Sam Stephenson. “I have never sailed with such a hard-working crew that has been so mission-focused. In four days, two months of work was accomplished. “SIU crew members did whatever it took to make sure the Sirius was ready to sail on time,” he continued. “The maritime unions of the United States have pulled together for our fellow citizens in distress and it makes me proud to be part of the U.S. Merchant Marine, working with some of the finest mariners in the country thanks to the SIU.” The SIU-crewed Cape Vincent provided shelter for emergency vehicles and other equipment as well as personnel in Beaumont, Texas. Local workers rest on the Cape Victory, which offered a respite from Hurricane Rita. Seafarers LOG 7 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:41 PM Page 8 Seafarers Help Rebuild Florida Coastline L ast year—long before the nation had even heard about Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, which came ashore with a fury in cities along the U.S. Gulf Coast—Florida was hit with four hurricanes in a row: Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne. Southwest Florida’s coast, including the resort communities of Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, were decimated. And while some of the resorts were able to reopen fairly quickly, many of the buildings in those communities, as well as the shoreline, were destroyed. Kevin Marchand, an SIU patrolman in Ft. Lauderdale, recently toured the area. He noted that the SIU-crewed hopper dredge Dodge Island, operated by NATCO, is working with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to help rebuild the shoreline. NATCO, a subsidiary of Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co., is a leader in restoring eroded recreational and commercial waterfronts. The destruction wrought by the 2004 hurricanes is still visible a year later. Harborside and oceanside resorts and docks are being rebuilt, but the foul smell of dead fish from the Red Tide fills the air and is but another reminder of Mother Nature’s last visit to this once lovely and picturesque community. The shoreside resort on Captiva Island will someday be filled with tourists once again, Marchand stated, but for now, it is inhabitated by workers who live on the island to rebuild the houses, roads and bridges that have been washed away. The Dodge Island pumps sand to the beaches off Captiva Island along the southwest Florida coastline. Left: Bernard Mood, a launch boat operator, has been with NATCO for 28 years. Mike Horn is captain aboard the Dodge Island. Left: QMED Mike Brady is ready to take on stores. Sand is pumped ashore to rebuild the beach line on Captiva Island. A Coastal Research Amphibious Buggy (CRAB) is a three-wheeled vehicle built by the Wilmington District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to monitor beach nourishment projects. It’s Business as Usual For Seafarers Following Acquisition of CP Ships The bargaining agreements of five Seafarerscrewed vessels managed by Marine Transport Management, Inc. (MTM) will continue to be honored following the Oct. 1 acquisition of CP Ships by Hapag-Lloyd. The Lykes Navigator, Lykes Liberator and Lykes Discoverer, three Pacific-class vessels currently participating in the Maritime Security Program (MSP), will be renamed the CP Navigator, CP Discoverer and CP Liberator. Under the new, expanded MSP—a vital component of America’s national defense capabilities— these three vessels, along with the Americana-class Lykes Motivator (renamed the CP Motivator) will be replaced by four more modern vessels by March 31, 2008. They will be sister ships to the Pacific-class vessel, the CP Yosemite (formerly the Lykes Explorer, which was withdrawn from the U.S.-flag trade Sept. 24, 2005 and was replaced with the reflagged Yucatan and then re-named the Yosemite). These five ships will join the updated MSP fleet, which now includes 60 vessels, an increase of 13 ships compared to the MSP which expired at the end of September. President Bush authorized the expanded MSP as part of a Defense bill that he signed in late 2003. The program initially was established through the Maritime Security Act of 1996. It helps retain “a labor base of skilled American mariners who are available to crew the U.S. government-owned strategic sealift fleet, as well as the U.S. commercial fleet, both in peace and war,” according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. The acquisition of CP Ships by Hapag-Lloyd will create the world’s fifth-largest container shipping company with more than 100 routes spanning the globe. The combined assets of the new company will continue to support national defense through participation in the MSP and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). 2 Unions Join 54 Others as AFL-CIO Affiliates The AFL-CIO recently welcomed two unions into the federation. Early last month, the 60,000member United Transportation Union (whose members include railroad conductors at Amtrak) rejoined the AFL-CIO following a four-year absence. Also, in late September, the 65-member California Nurses Association (CNA) indicated that it wants to affiliate with the federation. The respective affiliations are subject to final approval from the memberships. Not including those additions, the AFL-CIO has 54 affiliate unions, including the SIU, representing a combined 9 million members. During a CNA conference in 8 Seafarers LOG Oakland, Calif., association officials and delegates noted that joining forces with the AFL-CIO would enable CNA to help champion a transformation of the nation’s health care system and provide strong allies in a common front to resist the “aggressive agenda of the corporations and the far right and their allies in Washington and Sacramento and their escalating attack on workers, low and moderate income people, and unions,” said CNA Executive Director Rose Ann DeMoro. “Now more than ever we need a cohesive, powerful labor movement.” Meanwhile, the federation on Oct. 17 announced that it had reached an “agreement in principle” over terms for local unions affiliated with the Change to Win (CTW) federation to join AFLCIO state federations and central labor councils via “Solidarity Charters” and enjoy full voting and participation rights. In a memo to AFL-CIO state and local bodies, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney outlined the terms agreed to by officials of CTW. “In view of the agreement that we believe we have in principle,” he wrote, “the AFL-CIO has agreed to extend the deadline for reaching final terms through the November elections, to November 15. In the meantime, the AFL-CIO will not object to members of CTW locals that intend to apply for Solidarity Charters running for office in the state and central bodies in question.” Crew members aboard the Dodge Island include Dragtender Darryl Nelson, AB Arnold Sypongco, Wiper Elvis Sumaria, QMED Mike Brady, AB Confesor Arzu, SA Carlos David, Chief Cook Mario Fernandez and AB Domingo Martinez. SIU-Contracted Companies Receive Safety Awards Six SIU-contracted companies were presented with safety awards by American Maritime Safety, Inc. at their 2005 annual membership meeting and award ceremony last month in New York. American Maritime Safety, Inc. is a not-for-profit trade association established in 1987 to facilitate the maritime industry’s compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and international protocols. The organization has grown from seven deep-sea operators in 1987 to more than 370 today, many of which are under SIU contracts. As of 1993, the group began giving out safety awards to member companies, mostly U.S.-flag operators, based on input and other feedback from Coast Guard captains and others with regard to safety, training and environmental issues. An advisory board of six persons evaluates the nominees and makes the final recommendations, according to Lou Meltz, president of American Maritime Safety, Inc. This year, all six awards went to SIU-contracted companies. The companies and their awards follow: Keystone Shipping Co.—The American Maritime Safety Award Liberty Maritime Corp.—Marine Environmental Preservation Award Interocean Ugland Corp.—Tank Vessel Safety Award Moran Towing and Transportation—Safe Working Practices Award Alaska Tanker Co.—Quality Ship Management Award Crowley/MTL—Safe Navigation and Operation Award November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:35 PM Page 9 ‘Union Yes’ Race Car Takes Labor’s Message On the Fast Track August was a big month for the “Union Yes” race car. After being temporarily plagued by mechanical problems early in the 2005 season, the union-sponsored race car came back with a vengeance. Both the car’s driver, Greg Hindman, and his wife, Brandi, come from families with very strong union backgrounds. Hindman is a member of UA Local 290, and the union message is something that is very important to the couple. “We are going to take it as far as we possibly can,” said his wife, who is president of B.I.O. Racing, Inc. The first stop was the 34th Annual Pepsi Nightfire Nationals in Boise, Idaho. The four-day event provided an opportunity to highlight the message of solidarity as it won the top fire full-bodied class in front of an estimated 10,000 fans. “With the somewhat resistant response we are getting from Idaho’s many non-union fans, it was important to continue to make an impression,” said Hindman. “We came into this race with goals we wanted to meet, but the outcome was so much more than we would have ever hoped for. “Not only did we get to visit with Idaho union members, we were thrilled to be approached by non-union workers who wanted to learn more about how union membership could impact their lives,” the steamfitter went on to report. The next stop for the “Union Yes” drag racer was Port Orchard, Wash., where it laid down a career best 7.04 second, 199 mph run. This pass secured the top qualifying position for the Bremerton Raceway event. The results also included a second-place finish in the Top Comp race and a third place finish in Street Outlaw. The couple took the car to several Labor Day picnics sponsored by Oregon locals, where they snapped photos of members and their families with the car. The team also plans to return to Idaho for a big race where Hindman won the Top Gun race last year—an honor held by only six drivers across the U.S. He will be returning to defend his title and use his recognition in the racing world to bring attention to the union movement. According to the race car team, they also will focus on contacting unions that are not yet involved with the “Union Yes” racing program. “We have been thrilled with the response the program has received within the labor movement,” noted Brandi Hindman. “We want all of the families of organized labor to view this as their car, giving them a voice with which to reach the 70 million fans of drag racing. We will do our best to win them over one victory at a time.” The “Union Yes” race car is sponsored by the Oregon State Building Trades Council, the Oregon AFL-CIO, AFSCME Council 75 and Painters District Council 5, as well as several Oregon and Washington locals and union vendors from across the nation. “We’re proud to be supporters of the ‘Union Yes’ car, bringing the ‘Union Yes’ message to the track and America’s workplaces,” said Tim Nesbitt, president of the Oregon AFL-CIO. With its car painted in red, white and blue, the ‘Union Yes’ team spreads the message of the labor movement on and off the track. Driver Greg Hindman qualified in the top position for the Bremerton (Wash.) Raceway event (above). Service Call on the Louis J. Hauge James Foley is the bosun aboard the CPL Louis J. Hauge Jr. These photos were taken by Port Agent Jeff Turkus when the Hauge recently stopped off in Guam. As one of the container and roll-on/rolloff ships in the Military Sealift Command fleet, the vessel carries a full range of Marine Corps cargo. It is prepositioned in Diego Garcia. ABs Russell Lofing and Ed Rockinger keep busy on deck. Former NMU Member Frede Frost Dies at 84 Former NMU member Frede Frost passed away July 1 following a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 84. A retired captain, Brother Frost hailed from Denmark. “Captain Frost left lasting impressions of seamanship, integrity, practical knowledge and common sense on all those he met and worked with throughout his distinguished career,” said Capt. Frede Frost longtime friend and fellow mariner Capt. Christopher Yearwood of Severna Park, Md. “His greatest trait was as a mentor to all those who sailed with him.” Born in 1920, Brother Frost launched his seagoing career in 1937 in his native country. Brother Frost leaves behind a long legacy of seagoing relatives back home. He followed in the footsteps of his father, worked his way all the way to the top and become a captain. Some 56 years later, in 1993, he retired as a captain while at the helm of the Aspen, a Trinidad Shipping Co.-operated tanker. Brother Frost commanded Trinidad Shipping vessels for 42 years. He was a member of a host of professional and fraternal organizations including: the Masters, Mates & Pilots; Grand Lodge #195 (Masons); the American Merchant Marine Veterans-Puget Sound Chapter; the American Legion; and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Brother Frost is survived by his wife, Toni; one step-daughter, Kelly McGinnis; two grandchildren, Robert and Rebecca; and several relatives in Denmark. November 2005 Working in the galley are ACU Roy Harris and Chief Cook Stephan Osovitz. The Hauge’s chief electrician is David Castro. Seafarers LOG 9 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez (right) poses with Lt. Col. Todd Robbins of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM). The photo was taken following a TRANSCOM executive working group meeting at SIU headquarters in early August, where the topics covered included sealift and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Page 10 At Sea And Ashore With the SIU Retiree Richard Rigney and his wife, Regina, vacation in Piney Point every year, usually around their anniversary. This year marked an extra special occasion as the happy couple celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 2 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rigney sailed for more than 30 years as a bosun and AB. He retired in 1982. Seafarers sail aboard many different types of vessels, but the SBX (pictured at left) is oneof-a-kind within the SIUcontracted fleet. The semi-submersible craft—part of a U.S. operation called groundbased midcourse defense (GMD)—recently underwent modifications in Brownsville, Texas before sailing to Alaska. It is operated by Interocean American Shipping (formerly IUM) for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Right: SIU President Michael Sacco addresses the membership (in photo above) at the September monthly meeting in San Francisco. With him on the dais are (from left) Port Agent Vincent Coss, Vice President Nicholas Marrone, Assistant Vice President Nick Celona, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Left: Three Seafarers were congratulated by SIU officials when they were presented with their ”A“ Books at the October membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. From the left are SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Gill Sickles, Zlatko Lucic, SIU President Michael Sacco and Harold Harper. Julio D. Lobo, chief cook aboard the Green Point, receives the “Award of Safety Recognition and Awareness” from Capt. John E. Belcourt during a voyage from Naha to Yokohama, Japan. Capt. Belcourt said that Lobo is “a fine shipmate and a professional seaman. While transiting suspect waters in the Red Sea, Mr. Lobo displayed both courage and foresight of ensuring that the hotel area of this good ship was well protected.” Below: Seafarers take advantage of a training course on security awareness offered at the Jacksonville hall in July. At right with Port Agent Bryan Powell (right) is Mitch Oakley, an instructor from the Paul Hall Center, who taught the course. Photo by Carole Caravaggio Staffed by SIU members in the engine and deck department, the Detroit Princess is Detroit’s newest entertainment and dining riverboat. This photo was taken in September on the Detroit River. 10 Seafarers LOG The above photo was snapped in July at the SIU hall in Jacksonville. From the left are Patrolman Joe Vincenzo, Safety Rep Tony Elliott and Port Agent Bryan Powell. November 2005 �32760_P3,11,21.qxd 10/25/2005 7:18 PM Page 11 3 Ships Added to ARC Fleet Continued from page 3 Handy two of the “fathers” of the program. Ebeling also cited support from the Defense Department for U.S.-flag shipping; the “virtually unprecedented” partnership among maritime labor and businesses working to increase the fleet; and the “team of great Americans that make ARC work,” including the SIU crew members. Sacco declared that the growth signaled good news not only for the industry, but for the entire nation, “Because what’s good for the U.S.-flag fleet is good for the United States of America.” He credited Ebeling and Handy for their respective efforts and also welcomed Schwartz, who already has voiced his strong support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. “When you put all of these pieces together, you’ve got a genuine success story,” the SIU president continued. “You’ve got an expanded MSP that is bringing new tonnage into the Americanflag fleet and new jobs to this nation. You’ve got a company that already has been very active in supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. You’ve got top military leaders who understand the importance of U.S.-flag sealift and the value of American mariners. And you’ve got a union in the SIU that is extremely proud to serve as part of this country’s fourth arm of defense.” He reminded the audience that Seafarers are “out there right now, sailing aboard military support ships in the Middle East in support of our armed forces. Our members are the best-trained seafarers in the world. They’re safe, they’re reliable, they’re courageous—and just as importantly, they love their country. That’s who mans the MSP fleet and the other American-flag ships that support our troops: SIU members —and other U.S. mariners—who are proud to deliver the goods.” Before and after the ceremony, Seafarers aboard the Integrity said the ships are welcome additions not only because they bring new jobs, but also because the vessels themselves are first rate. “It really is state-of-the-art,” said Bosun Carl Pedersen. QMED Mike McQueary said the ship has “great layout and creature comforts.” The ship normally will sail between U.S. East Coast ports and overseas locations that may include Antwerp, Bremerhaven and Southampton. The SIU had a strong presence at the ceremony, including (from left) President Michael Sacco, AB Javier Ureta, AB Scott Stanley, Bosun Carl Pedersen, VP Contracts Augie Tellez and others. QMED Mike McQueary Pictured from left to right are AB Scott Stanley, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and Bosun Carl Pedersen. A view from the Integrity’s deck Left: Helping keep the Integrity crew well-fed are (from left) Chief Steward Stephen Bird, Chief Cook James Wadsworth and SA Nagibe Alhaj. The naming ceremony for all three vessels took place aboard the Integrity Sept. 29 in Baltimore. Three newly reflagged vessels were added to the fleet of SIU-contracted ARC. They are (from left) the Courage, Honor and Integrity. November 2005 Seafarers LOG 11 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:43 PM Page 12 A Logistical Amphibious Recovery Craft (LARC) launches from the Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command sea barge heavy lift ship Cape Mohican near Indian Island, Wash. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Rainier provides fuel to the guided missile destroyer USS Pinckney off the coast of California. Mariners aboard the Seafarers-crewed USNS Rainier prepare to load ordnance underneath an MH-60S Knighthawk attached to the “Black Jacks” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two One during a vertical replenishment somewhere in the Pacific Ocean with the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. ‘READY to go again’ B QMED Bob Oppel Cape Wrath Recertified Steward McKinley Jones Cape Wrath AB Farah Mrimri Cape Washington DEU Al Barnett Cape Wrath DEU Bruce Milburn Cape Wrath 12 Seafarers LOG oth at home in the U.S. and at str locations overseas, SIU members co supporting U.S. troops in Oper Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. By late last month, Seafarers were s aboard at least a dozen vessels involved in operations in the Middle East. Other SIU me were manning U.S. Ready Reserve Force ships, keeping them prepared in case of acti for military or humanitarian missions. Seafarers’ positive and patriotic attitudes evident aboard the RRF ships Cape Wrat Cape Washington in Baltimore on an ov afternoon in mid-October. Most of the ma ships already have made multiple trips supp “We’re doing our part and ready to go a Billy Dowzicky aboard the Wrath. “Person trips, all to Kuwait. During the last deploym for 179 days, because it was two trips back“We’ve had great crews every time He added tha smooth U.S.-flag throughout OIF an that the RRF sys deploy on time or the program work Bosun Rick Ja made three trips to Rick James “I joined in 1991 a and it’s a lot differ ten to the point where we really hav younger crowd this time. I think more the importance of the U.S. Merchant M The bosuns and their fellow marine cated that there is much more to these tics. Asked for candid replies and assu if desired, the mariners in Baltimore— Bosun Billy Dowzicky Cape Wrath November 2005 �32760_P4,8,12,13,19.qxd 10/25/2005 8:43 PM Page 13 In the South China Sea, a Seahawk helicopter prepares to land on the flight deck of the Seafarers-crewed underway replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe. A diesel generator is loaded aboard the SIU-crewed LMSR USNS Red Cloud in Rota, Spain. ’ Seafarers Continue Supporting U.S. Troops in Operations Enduring Freedom & Iraqi Freedom U.S. Army High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HMMWV) are loaded onto the SIU-crewed LMSR USNS Pililaau. at strategic rs continue Operations value the chance to support our troops. “It makes you feel patriotic, big time,” declared Recertified ere sailing Steward McKinley Jones. d in sealift “Especially when [the U.S. U members Maritime Administration] gives orce (RRF) you the medal when you get McKinley Jones f activation back, to show their appreciaThe SIU-crewed RRF ships Cape Wrath (left) and Cape tion. tudes were Washington have made numerous trips in support of U.S. troops “We’ve had quite a few scary moments in port Wrath and involved in Operation Iraqi Freedom. overseas, but I’m very willing to go back.” n overcast QMED Bob Oppel noted, “You definitely feel e mariners aboard those like you’re doing something for the country, for the troops. It’s supporting OIF. a good feeling.” go again,” stated Bosun DEU Al Barnett said that interacting with the military secuersonally I’ve made four rity teams aboard SIU-crewed ships “makes you see the war ployment we were gone more personally, because you get to know them pretty well. back-to-back. We’ve gotten along with them with no problems and we’ve also time.” had great crews on all four trips I’ve made (for OIF).” Bob Oppel d that the consistently Billy Dowzicky James said he estimates that the vast majority of mariners he -flag sealift operations has sailed with during these operations “feel patriotic about it. IF and the war against terrorism help prove What we’re doing, it means something. The results (in Iraq) F system “is working. Our ships always may be more evident in 10 years than they are today, but they’re me or ahead of schedule. It’s a testament that proud they’re doing something positive.” works.” Overall, thousands of Seafarers have sailed in support of the ck James aboard the Washington, who has missions since September 11, 2001. During the all-out combat ips to the Middle East during OIF, agreed. phase of OIF, more than 5,000 American mariners sailed aboard 991 as an OS during the Persian Gulf War, hundreds of U.S.-flag ships in support of our troops. They perdifferent this time,” he noted. “We’ve gotformed what has been described by top government and miliAl Barnett y have it down pat, and it’s also a much tary leaders as the most efficient sealift operation in history. more people are realizing hant Marine.” ariners also strongly indithese voyages than logisassured of confidentiality ore—to a man—said they arnett rath The Seafarers-crewed USNS Red Cloud offloads coalition combat equipment and supplies in Souda Bay, Crete, Greece after returning from deployment in Iraq. Pictured on the deck of the Cape Washington are (from left) QEE Eric Mentzer, GUDE Michael Alghafeili, QMED George Murphy and Bosun Rick James. November 2005 Seafarers LOG 13 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Page 14 SIU Plan Offers Eight Scholarships For Members and Dependents in 2006 Don’t let the high cost of a college or W e’ve all been hearing and reading about the soaring costs of medical care. And, just like medical care, the price tag for higher education also has been increasing significantly faster than the rate of inflation or the growth in family incomes. According to The Washington Post, the average annual tuition and fees this year at a public fouryear college are around $9,000; at a private institution, that figure is around $20,000. Those figures are only going to increase. These continually upward spiralling costs are causing many to question the value of continuing education beyond high school and to wonder whether the high cost of tuition is worth the investment. But there is good news for Seafarers and their eligible dependents who want to continue their dreams of attaining a higher education without taking on any great financial burdens: the scholarship program offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. This year, the Plan is funding eight scholarships to SIU members, their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising rates for a college education. Three of the scholarships for 2006 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Getting Started Now is a great time to begin the application P process. The first step is sending away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon below and return it to the address listed on the form. Alternatively, pick up a copy of the booklet at your nearest SIU hall. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information and, if they are eligible, should start collecting some of the other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 2006 deadline. These items include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools often are quite slow in handling transcripts requests, the sooner the requests are made, the better. Another part of the application package includes letters of recommendation solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals. A photograph of the applicant as well as a certified copy of his or her birth certificate also need to be included. The selection committee looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of either their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2006 to ensure the results reach the committee in time to be evaluated. Those Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for a Seafarers scholarship and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet all the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the steadily increasing costs of a college education stop you from reaching your goals. The Seafarers Scholarship Program can make a difference. lease send me the 2006 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 14 Seafarers LOG 11/05 university degree stop you from applying to the school of your choice. Fill out the form on this page and send away for your program booklet today. 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 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. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2005 & January 2006 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15, 2005 *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 0 0 6 8 2 6 31 33 0 6 14 19 10 2 2 5 23 0 41 14 1 6 9 22 5 6 26 18 2 10 8 18 13 7 23 7 13 6 40 27 2 3 1 12 0 3 21 4 1 5 5 21 8 2 1 0 8 0 18 11 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 9 7 0 6 22 21 0 4 2 17 12 4 1 5 7 0 27 18 222 267 126 162 1 0 3 3 2 5 12 13 0 11 8 13 9 3 2 2 4 1 12 6 0 5 1 4 2 4 11 13 0 6 2 9 12 5 1 2 10 3 23 6 3 1 1 4 1 2 8 5 0 2 0 7 1 1 0 0 0 0 7 9 1 0 0 2 0 9 6 14 0 6 5 9 8 2 1 2 5 0 13 8 110 119 52 1 0 3 6 2 3 20 10 0 0 8 16 8 4 3 2 13 2 18 16 0 0 2 4 2 10 12 11 0 5 1 6 12 1 2 2 5 4 4 8 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 4 5 1 1 0 2 0 1 2 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 2 4 11 2 5 24 19 0 8 2 9 9 4 7 5 6 5 23 17 164 1 0 4 6 0 3 14 4 0 3 1 12 4 1 1 0 3 0 13 7 0 0 2 5 0 2 17 12 0 2 3 7 4 2 2 6 8 3 17 11 77 91 99 1 0 1 4 0 2 10 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 0 0 2 0 4 6 39 135 91 22 108 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 1 0 1 0 7 0 0 0 1 5 0 3 2 1 1 5 6 4 12 19 12 0 4 4 27 13 0 18 1 15 0 16 4 1 5 2 8 1 5 14 15 0 1 5 29 7 0 22 1 7 0 14 18 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 4 0 4 1 0 0 0 5 1 3 6 9 0 5 0 6 5 1 4 2 1 1 5 11 65 10 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 2 5 1 2 6 12 5 0 3 3 10 5 0 7 2 12 0 4 3 1 2 3 2 0 1 13 5 0 0 2 18 11 0 14 0 8 0 10 4 1 5 0 13 0 5 43 10 2 8 12 35 14 3 0 1 7 0 24 21 421 204 0 0 2 2 0 1 6 7 0 2 1 7 1 4 1 3 4 0 9 4 0 0 5 3 2 7 17 23 0 13 11 20 13 1 1 1 16 2 17 7 1 6 2 8 4 8 20 22 0 8 8 16 13 3 1 5 15 2 32 10 2 3 1 6 2 2 13 10 0 2 1 13 7 1 0 2 2 2 8 8 54 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 12 11 32 9 10 39 35 3 17 15 38 25 8 27 13 18 5 61 38 388 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 2 2 5 13 14 0 1 2 11 9 1 1 0 22 0 17 8 1 0 6 13 4 16 51 46 0 13 24 50 23 3 2 11 37 0 57 31 98 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 3 1 3 0 4 5 13 0 6 0 6 11 4 3 4 5 2 20 8 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 1 0 2 0 3 6 9 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 0 8 0 7 5 159 184 85 2 0 6 10 2 14 35 19 1 4 10 22 11 4 5 3 30 3 28 35 1 0 2 5 2 13 12 19 1 3 2 11 19 0 1 3 10 3 11 13 0 0 2 1 0 2 6 7 1 0 2 7 7 0 1 0 3 1 4 9 51 244 131 53 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 6 1 0 0 1 12 1 0 0 3 10 0 6 3 4 0 3 9 4 15 28 26 1 8 6 46 22 0 19 6 20 1 31 7 2 8 0 11 6 11 27 26 0 3 11 44 14 1 31 2 13 1 17 21 26 162 155 19 83 94 0 49 256 249 493 639 355 380 411 220 203 840 992 591 *“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. November 2005 Piney Point .............Monday: December 5 ................................Tuesday: January 3* ................................(*change created by New Year’s Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: December 9, January 6 Baltimore ................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Boston.....................Friday: December 9, January 6 Guam ......................Thursday: December 22, January 19 Honolulu .................Friday: December 16, January 13 Houston ..................Monday: December 12, January 9 Jacksonville ............Thursday: December 8, January 5 Joliet .......................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Mobile ....................Wednesday: December 14, January 11 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: December 13, January 10 New York................Tuesday: December 6, January 3 Norfolk ...................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: December , January 4 Port Everglades.......Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Francisco .........Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Juan..................Thursday: December 8, January 5 St. Louis..................Friday: December 16, January 13 Tacoma ...................Friday: December 23, January 20 Wilmington ...............Monday: December 19 .................................Tuesday: January 17* ............................................(*change created by Martin Luther King holiday) ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BRUCE E. BUTLER Your wife, Marvis, loves you and misses you. Please call her at home. THOMAS G. DECOTEAU Please e-mail Glynn or Earline at gsdeco67@vvm.com. They’re concerned as to how you fared the hurricanes. Change of Address The SIU hall in Guam will be moving to a new location, effective Dec. 1, 2005. Street Address Cliffline Office Center, Bldg. B, 422 Suite 101B West O’Brien Drive Hagatna, Guam 96910 Mailing Address P.O. Box 315242 Tamuning, Guam 96931 Contact Numbers Phone: (671) 477-1350 (or 1353) Fax: (671) 477-1360 Seafarers LOG 15 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:36 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 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 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 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/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 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 10 3 2 15 1 0 0 36 1 4 0 0 3 2 1 3 14 0 6 0 0 5 2 1 3 17 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 15 3 1 9 1 0 1 33 0 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 8 0 5 0 0 4 2 2 3 16 0 7 0 0 9 2 1 2 21 10 34 6 13 33 3 1 7 107 2 8 3 6 11 0 1 6 37 0 2 4 18 2 0 2 0 28 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 6 8 14 7 1 13 2 1 5 51 0 5 9 4 10 0 1 0 28 0 1 6 12 0 1 1 0 21 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 2 7 6 8 3 4 10 1 0 2 34 2 5 7 2 15 1 0 2 34 0 3 3 10 0 0 2 1 19 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 4 2 0 3 0 0 3 13 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 5 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 13 0 0 2 0 0 1 16 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 5 0 2 0 6 0 0 0 13 1 0 3 0 5 1 0 2 12 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 9 Port 3 4 1 2 5 0 0 0 15 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 2 7 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 9 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 62 32 31 64 18 30 34 192 99 68 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Gordon P. Driscoll of Warren, Ore. The snapshot on the right was taken in 1946 when Driscoll was a saloon pantryman aboard the SS Central Victory, an American-Hawaiian Steamship Co. vessel sailing from the West Coast to the East Coast. Driscoll was on a beautiful beach in Mayaguez, P.R. that was practically deserted. He is drinking milk from a coconut that one of the locals had given him. The other is a recent photo of him in his large garden with one of his prized watermelons. Driscoll, who said he’s sometimes called “the watermelon man,” grows the delicious vegetables (yes, they’re vegetables) and has won several prizes at the state fair. Brother Driscoll, now 78, sailed with the SIU in the steward department for 33 years (with a two-year stint in the Army in the middle). He retired in 1978 but keeps abreast of SIU activities by reading the Seafarers LOG . . . and he wonders what that beautiful deserted beach in Mayaguez looks like today. 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. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:37 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 EARL CHAPPEL, 63, began sailing with the SIU in 1968 in New York. Brother Chappel first worked aboard the Chatham in the engine department. His most recent trip to sea was on the Cape Orlando. Brother Chappel, who was born in Maryland, resides in Jacksonville, Fla. CECIL GUBISCH, 64, became a Seafarer in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Gubisch first sailed aboard the Charleston. Born in the Philippines, he shipped as a member of the steward department. Brother Gubisch last worked aboard the Mahimahi. He makes his home in Las Vegas. PEDRO LOPEZ, 52, joined the union in 1975 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lopez first sailed on the Yukon. The deck department member upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked on the Performance. Brother Lopez was born in New Jersey and lives in Delaware. WILBERT WILLIAMS JR., 58, started his seafaring career in 1969 in New Orleans. Brother Williams initially worked aboard Alcoa Steamship Co. vessels. The Louisiana native was a member of the steward department. Brother Williams attended the Piney Point, Md. school in 2002 to upgrade his seafaring skills. Before retiring, he shipped on the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Williams is a resident of New Orleans. INLAND ROBERT BATSON, 61, joined the SIU in 1968 in Norfolk, Va. Boatman Batson’s first voyage was aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. Born in North Carolina, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Batson upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Gatlinburg, Tenn. home. VERNON CAHOON, 62, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Cahoon, who was born in North Carolina, first worked with Southern November 2005 Carriers Corporation. His last trip to sea was with Charles H. Harper & Associates. Boatman Cahoon resides in Belhaven, N.C. JOHN PRIMEAUX SR., 68, began sailing with the union in 1986 in Houston. Boatman Primeaux hails from Louisiana. During his seafaring career, he shipped primarily aboard Higman Barge Lines vessels. Boatman Primeaux was a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Abbeville, La. VIRGIL QUILLEN, 62, began his seafaring career in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Quillen worked primarily aboard Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessels. He was born in Delaware and sailed in the deck department. Boatman Quillen attended the union’s affiliated school in 1973, 1984 and 1989. He lives in Warminster, Pa. WALTER RETTERSHOFER, 63, became an SIU member in 1960 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Rettershofer first shipped with Meyle Towing Company. The engine department member, who was born in Pennsylvania, last sailed on a Taylor Marine Towing vessel. He is a resident of Williamstown, N.J. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM ENGLISH, 65, joined the union in 1993 in Duluth, Minn. Brother English shipped on vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates, including the Kinsman Enterprise and the Kinsman Independent. He worked as a member of the engine department. Born in Canada, Brother English currently lives in Ontario. 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. HASKELL BLACK, 68, joined the NMU in 1964. The Georgia native first sailed aboard the American Producer. Brother Black worked in the steward department. His last ship was the Cape Alexander. EDWARD BROWN, 65, began his NMU career in Charleston, S.C., first sailing on the Sheldon Clark. Brother Brown was a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed aboard the Gulf Pride. EARL GRANT, 58, became an NMU member in 1969. Brother Grant, who was born in Savannah, Ga., first shipped on the Explorer. He last worked in the steward department aboard the Cape Orlando. MAGNO GUILLEN, 66, launched his seafaring career with the NMU in 1965. Brother Guillen first sailed on the Green Island. The steward department member was born in Honduras. He last worked aboard the Chilbar. SALFUS KELLY, 55, hails from Louisiana. Brother Kelly began his seafaring career in 1976, first shipping from worked on the Gulf Bear. Brother Williams’ most recent voyage was aboard the Chilbar. Port Arthur, Texas aboard the Export Brooks. A member of the steward department, Brother Kelly last worked aboard the Galveston Bay. JEROME POPE, 65, began his NMU career in 1977, initially sailing from the port of New Jersey. Brother Pope is a native of Charlotte, N.C. Prior to retiring, he shipped on the Margaret Lykes. JULIO ROLON, 62, joined the NMU in 1968 in Philadelphia. Brother Rolon first worked aboard the Gulf Oil as a member of the steward department. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner last went to sea on the Green Cove. RAYMOND SHEA, 68, began his NMU career in 1991, shipping from the port of Boston. Brother Shea’s first ship was the Green Lake; his last was the Ocean City. The engine department member was born in Boston. HENRY WILLIAMS, 55, was born in Mobile, Ala. Brother Williams first donned the NMU colors in 1972. He initially Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1952 Tanker operators contracted to the SIU have reported unanimous agreement on the general and working rules of the proposed new tanker contract, which was submitted to them last week by the operators’ committee. Talks between the union negotiating committee and the operators are now revolving around the settlement of monetary matters. The union’s negotiating committee has worked constantly toward not only improving the working and general rules, but also toward clarifying all clauses which have previously resulted in problems between crew members and department heads and delayed the smooth payoff of vessels. JOHN WILLIAMS, 69, joined the NMU in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Williams first sailed on the American Pilot. Born in Pennsylvania, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Williams’ last trip to sea was on the Endeavor. DAVID WRIGHT, 62, joined the NMU in 1966 in New York. He first sailed aboard the Export Champion. The Lynn, Mass. native last went to sea on the Energy Enterprise. Also retiring: Name Age EDP Aviles, Tomas 65 Sept. 1 Calhoun, Lloyd 78 Oct. 1 Cantalejo, Juan 65 July 1 Chartier, Alfred 57 July 1 De La Fuente, Jesus 62 Sept. 1 Erese, Benjamin 65 Oct. 1 Laureano, Rafael 62 Sept. 1 Mathews, Edgar 65 Aug. 1 booked with cargo within the next several days, making them the first American vessels to participate in the movement of grain under terms of the Soviet-American shipping agreement signed recently. The Maritime Administration has subsidy applications for grain carriage from approximately 35 American-flag vessels, among them other SIUcontracted ships. This Month In SIU History 1972 Two SIU-contracted vessels were the first to be awarded conditional subsidy contracts for participation in the carriage of grain to the Soviet Union. The Maritime Administration announced that the vessels are the tankers National Defender and Western Hunter. The actual amount of subsidy for these two ships will depend on the charter rate to be negotiated with the Soviet Union. It is expected that the two SIU tankers would be formally 1992 The SIU continued its efforts to secure enactment of legislation which would correct an administrative error and give World War II veterans’ status to merchant mariners who began sailing between August 15, 1945 and December 31, 1946. In testimony submitted to the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, the SIU called for passage of the Merchant Mariners Fairness Bill (H.R. 44). “As the bill’s name indicates, this is simply a question of fairness— fairness to Americans who risked their lives for their country during World War II,” the SIU said in its testimony. “Approximately 2,500 retired merchant mariners are being denied something which they clearly earned: veterans’ status.” Seafarers LOG 17 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22_24X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:53 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE CHUNG Pensioner George Chung, 89, passed away April 22. Brother Chung joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. He sailed primarily aboard Matson Navigation vessels, including the Maunalei and the Manukai. Brother Chung was born in Hawaii and lived in Honolulu. The steward department member retired in 1981. JOHN COOK Brother John Cook, 39, died April 4. He joined the union in 1991 in New Orleans. Brother Cook’s first ship was the Pioneer Contractor. The New Orleans native worked in the deck department, most recently sailing on the Cape Ducato. He made his home in Louisiana. MARSTON FREEMAN Brother Marston Freeman, 49, passed away April 13. Born in California, he began shipping with the SIU in 1977. Brother Freeman initially went to sea aboard the Zapata Ranger, working in the engine department. His last voyage was on the USNS Bowditch. Brother Freeman lived in Pensacola, Fla. BILLY RUSSELL Pensioner Billy Russell, 75, died March 24. Brother Russell started his seafaring career in 1951 in New York. His first ship was operated by Sprogue Steamship Company. Brother Russell was born in Tennessee and sailed in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1989, he worked on the Falcon Princess. Brother Russell called Memphis, Tenn. home. JOSEPH SANFILIPPO Pensioner Joseph Sanfilippo, 77, passed away April 4. Brother Sanfilippo embarked on his career with the SIU in 1950 in the port of Houston. The U.S. Navy veteran was a member of the deck department. Brother Sanfilippo first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Co. vessel. His last ship was the Cape Catoche. Brother Sanfilippo was born in Boston and resided in San Francisco. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1992. ROBERT SAWYER Pensioner Robert Sawyer, 69, died April 15. Brother Sawyer joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard the Suzanne, where he worked in the engine department; his last was on the Charleston. Brother Sawyer was born in Virginia. He retired in 1990 and continued to live in Virginia. RICHARD SHERMAN Pensioner Richard Sherman, 86, 18 Seafarers LOG passed away June 17. After serving in the U.S. Army & U.S. Navy, Brother Sherman began sailing with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Houston. He initially went to sea aboard the Rose Knot. Brother Sherman was born in Minnesota and worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard Westchester Marine’s Golden Endeavor. Brother Sherman started collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. He made Beaumont, Texas home. JOSE SOTO Pensioner Jose Soto, 66, died May 16. Brother Soto joined the SIU in 1969 in New York. The deck department member was born in Puerto Rico. Brother Soto’s first vessel was the Joplin Victory; his last was the Horizon Mayaguez. He retired in 2000. MICHAEL SWEENEY Brother Michael Sweeney, 59, passed away Feb. 23. He joined the union in 1994; his first vessel was the Buffalo Soldier. Brother Sweeney was born in Boston. He most recently shipped on Pacific Gulf Marine’s Resolve. Brother Sweeney was a resident of Williston, Fla. JAMES TERRELL Brother James Terrell, 83, passed away April 14. He began his seafaring career in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Terrell shipped primarily aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels. Born in New York, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Terrell called Vallejo, Calif. home. INLAND HYBERT DEES Pensioner Hybert Dees, 82, died May 29. Boatman Dees joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Boatman Dees worked for Dravo Basic Material Company while sailing with the SIU. The deck department member was born in Alabama. Boatman Dees went on pension in 1989 and lived in Atmore, Ala. JOHN LEWIS JR Pensioner John Lewis Jr., 82, passed away May 20. Boatman Lewis joined the union in 1976 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. He sailed mainly aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman Lewis, who was a member of the deck department, was born in the West Indies. He began his retirement in 2001 and made his home in Miami. WILLIAM RUDD Pensioner William Rudd, 76, died March 23. Boatman Rudd began his career with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Houston. He first worked aboard Delta Steamship Lines vessels as a member of the deck department. Boatman Rudd was born in Virginia. He concluded his career aboard the Gopher State, retiring in 1989. He was a resident of Norcross, Ga. GREAT LAKES ROBERT BILLMEN Pensioner Robert Billmen, 77, passed away March 12. Brother Billmen started shipping with the Seafarers in 1960 in Detroit, Mich. Born in Minnesota, he first sailed on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Billmen was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1990, he worked on the Richard J. Reiss. Brother Billmen made his home in Two Harbors, Minn. RICHARD McPHEE Brother Richard McPhee, 68, died Feb. 14. He joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother McPhee first sailed aboard the American Sea Ocean in the engine department. He was a native of Michigan and last shipped on the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother McPhee lived in Lapeer, Mich. CHARLES ROBERTS Pensioner Charles Roberts, 80, passed away Jan. 8. Brother Roberts embarked on his seafaring career in 1968 in Detroit, Mich. He was born in Kentucky and worked in the engine department. Brother Roberts sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Great Lakes Associates; his last ship was the Kinsman Independent. He retired in 1992 and called Lorain, Ohio home. OREN RUSS Pensioner Oren Russ, 78, died Jan. 13. Born in Louisiana, Brother Russ started sailing with the union in 1952 in Detroit, Mich. The deck department member initially shipped with Eagle Carriers Inc.; his last voyage was on the American Republic. He began receiving retirement stipends in 1992. Brother Russ resided in Bastrop, La. GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION YUL VANTERPOOL Brother Yul Vanterpool, 38, died Aug. 9. He began sailing aboard vessels operated by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) in 1988, initially working on the USNS Vanguard. Brother Vanterpool shipped in the steward department, most recently sailing on the USNS Santa Barbara. He was born in New York, and called Jacksonville, Fla. home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. SAM ABDULLAH Pensioner Sam Abdullah, 99, passed away June 22. Born in Indonesia, Brother Abdullah joined the NMU in 1944. His first ship was the Chantilly; his last was the Transgulf. Brother Abdullah retired in 1969. CHARLES BARLOW Pensioner Charles Barlow, 78, died July 1. Brother Barlow became an NMU member in 1944. His first voyage was aboard the Andrew Moore. His last trip was on the Texaco Massachusetts. Brother Barlow was born in Mississippi. He went on pension in 1968. SANTOS BENITEZ Pensioner Santos Benitez, 81, passed away May 30. Brother Benitez began shipping with the union in 1962 aboard the United States. The Puerto Rico-born mariner started receiving his retirement stipends in 1987. Brother Benitez last worked on the American Liberty. GORDON BRISTER Pensioner Gordon Brister, 78, died July 7. Brother Brister joined the NMU in 1944. His first voyage was aboard the Ponca City. Brother Brister, who was a native of Kentucky, began collecting his pension in 1967. ARTHUR CAMPBELL Pensioner Arthur Campbell, 88, passed away June 23. Brother Campbell joined the NMU in 1937 in New York. He initially sailed on the Buffalo Wallow in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1982, Brother Campbell shipped aboard the Mormacdraco. JOSEPH CLEMENTS Pensioner Joseph Clements, 78, died June 17. Brother Clements began his career with the NMU in 1943. He first shipped from the port of New Orleans aboard the Tampa. Brother Clements was a member of the steward department. He most recently sailed aboard the Louise Lykes. Brother Clements went on pension in 1987. RALEIGH DELESBORO Pensioner Raleigh Delesboro, 81, passed away July 19. Brother Delesboro started his seafaring career in 1942 sailing from Port Arthur, Texas. His first voyage was aboard the Gulfland, where he worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Delesboro was born in Louisiana. His last voyage was on the Constitution. Brother Delesboro became a pensioner in 1969. DO DENISON Pensioner Do Denison, 87, died June 29. Brother Denison was born in China and joined the NMU in 1947 Brother Denison initially shipped from the port of New York aboard the America. The steward department member last went to sea on the St. Maria. Brother Denison retired in 1970. CLIFFORD DIXON Pensioner Clifford Dixon, 75, passed away June 1. Brother Dixon began his NMU career in 1955, sailing from the port of New Orleans aboard the Cefalu. Born in Honduras, Brother Dixon most recently worked on the Ashley Lykes. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1995. ERNEST EBANKS Pensioner Ernest Ebanks, 84, died May 19. Brother Ebanks began his seafaring career in 1944, first sailing aboard the Chirripo as a member of the steward department. Brother Ebanks’ last voyage was on the Moore McTide. He started collecting his pension in 1983. JOURIOUS EVANS SR. Pensioner Jourious Evans Sr., 77, passed away May 30. Brother Evans joined the NMU in 1946 in Port Arthur, Texas. His first ship was the Jalapa; his last was the Texaco Mississippi. Brother Evans was a native of Texas and shipped in the steward department. He retired in 1989. ABDULLAH FARES Pensioner Abdullah Fares, 88, died June 2. Born in Syria, Brother Fares joined the NMU in 1948. He last worked aboard the African Mercury. Brother Fares began receiving his pension in 1979. JAMES GREEN Pensioner James Green, 77, passed away May 3. Born in Charleston, S.C., Brother Green started sailing with the NMU in 1952. His first vessel was the Pan Pennsylvania. A member of the steward department, Brother Green last shipped on the James Lykes. He went on pension in 1995. Continued on page 20 November 2005 �32670_P4,8,12,13,19X2.qxd 10/28/2005 7:48 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On 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. H. LEE WHITE (American Steamship Company), Aug. 7— Chairman William H. Mulcahy, Secretary Penny S. Polland, Educational Director Carl W. Huffman. Chairman requested information on changes to medical plan. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer discussed cost of satellite TV. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reported a spider bite incident on deck and urged everyone to be aware. Request made to have more frequent disposal of garbage. HORIZON HAWAII (Horizon Lines), Aug. 31—Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary George Vorise Jr., Educational Director Roy S. Frett Jr., Deck Delegate Macario I. Torre, Engine Delegate Eliesar Montalvo, Steward Delegate Anselmo A. Lopez. Chairman announced payoff Sept. 2 in Jacksonville, Fla. and asked crew members to have union books and dues payments ready for patrolman. He reminded ABs to check IDs of all visitors boarding ship while in port. All three departments were thanked for working well together, and secretary expressed gratitude for cooperation in helping keep ship clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade skills at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. He also advised them not to let STCW or z-cards expire and suggested renewing one year ahead of time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding death benefits for dependents and increased pension benefits. Next Port: Jacksonville. JOHN J. BOLAND (American Steamship Company), Aug. 21— Chairman Paul S. Gohs, Secretary Khaled M. Musleh, Educational Director Richard I. Frederick, Engine Delegate David E. Werda, Steward Delegate Ahmed M. Kaid. Bosun requested information on medical benefits, including coverage amounts. He stressed importance of contributing to MDL and SPAD. Educational director recommended every member upgrade at Paul Hall Center as soon as they have sufficient sea time and noted that courses available are listed in each issue of Seafarers LOG. Deck “Hi” from the Maremar Omaha Redd is the bosun on the Overseas Maremar. November 2005 delegate informed members of Weingarten Rights and advised new members to keep dues paid up to stay in good standing. Crew was asked to give bosun their shipping tickets when signing articles. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate asked crew members to help keep galley clean. Relief men requested company supply work coveralls after two years of work with company. Clarification requested on wages for DEU filling in for gateman and time allotted for meal relief for wheelsman on 4-8 watch. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), Aug. 19—Chairman Richard L. Volkart, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Donnell C. Tagart Jr., Deck Delegate Ahmed M. Baabbad, Engine Delegate Salvador A. Baclayon Jr., Steward Delegate Larry D. Pugh. Chairman reported safe trip. He asked departing Seafarers to leave rooms clean and return keys for next person. Secretary gave special thanks to Chief Electrician Tagart for installing new steam table and refrigerator in galley. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Larger refrigerator needed for crew lounge. Next ports: Oakland and and Los Angeles, Calif. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK (Waterman Steamship Corp.), Aug. 29—Chairman Angelo S. Urti Jr., Secretary Stephen W. Roth, Educational Director Bobby L. Jones, Deck Delegate Donald M. Hood, Engine Delegate Robert C. Hines, Steward Delegate Carlos A. Rosales. Chairman urged crew members to wear steel-toed shoes while working (which are reimbursable up to a certain amount) and to take care in cargo areas during loading periods. He advised mariners to secure cabin belongings for 30-day voyage to Diego Garcia. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade seafaring skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for job well done. SPC5 ERIC G. GIBSON (Osprey Ship Management), Aug. 13— Chairman Robert A. Hinkley, Secretary Karl E. Meyer, Educational Director Vincent L. Kirksey, Deck Delegate Michael C. Penkwitz, Engine Delegate Alexander Young, Steward Delegate Elizer R. Saintvil. Bosun reviewed new requirements needed to maintain health benefits, which goes in effect Jan. 1, 2006. He recommended all Seafarers maintain complete copies of discharges, dues receipts and vacation check stubs and have them on hand when visiting union hall. Chairman spoke about revived cruise ship market in Hawaii and increased job availability in maritime industry. Chairman thanked all departments for their part in keeping ship clean, with special thanks going to steward department for great barbecues and fresh sashimi. Clarification requested as to Osprey Ship Management’s participation in SMPPP. Secretary will follow up on any outstanding issues while in port in San Francisco. Educational director stressed need to upgrade at Piney Point to further career. He also talked about benefits derived from contributing to SPAD. Treasurer stated $200 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held concerning retirement benefits and seatime needed to qualify. It was reported the captain gets new movies on regular basis and has purchased satellite radios for crew lounge and mess hall. Ship will pay for subscription to premium channels to include CNN, FOX and BBC. Crew morale good considering long voyages with no shore leave available in China or Middle East. Next ports: Singapore; Hong Kong; Egypt; Oman. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (American Overseas Marine), Sept. 7—Chairman William L. Bratton, Secretary Kathleen A. Johnson, Educational Director Juanito P. Dansalan, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Couture. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point facility in order to improve job skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested pertaining to OT distribution and riding gangs. Chairman will contact headquarters for response. Next port: Guam. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 12—Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Howard H. Hendra, Deck Delegate Stanley W. Parker, Steward Delegate Chris Stearns. Chairman reported smooth sailing and announced payoff in Los Angeles, Calif. Secretary urged crew to allow plenty of time when renewing MMDs. Educational director encouraged everyone to attend Piney Point school to enhance seafaring skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made for contracts department to consider when negotiating new agreement. COMMITMENT (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 18—Chairman Allan A. Rogers, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Gerard Rogers, Steward Delegate Elsayed T. Amasha. Bosun requested written clarification pertaining to payoffs; he’ll discuss questions with patrolman in Houston. Secretary encouraged all members to check expiration dates on z-cards and other necessary documents. Educational director urged crew to speak up at safety meetings if they have concerns. Disputed OT reported in deck department; no beefs reported by other department delegates. Repair needed on main deck water fountain. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), Sept. 18— Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Erni P. Lizada. Chairman stated vessel will spend at least five days in Tacoma, Wash. for engine repairs and will bypass Oakland next voyage and proceed directly to Honolulu. While in Tacoma, an IMO audit will take place. Secretary noted captain’s sanitary inspection will take place Sept. 21. He asked members to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for replacement crew. Educational director reminded everyone to check expiration dates on all documents. Different documents expire at different times throughout the year. He posted schedule of classes offered at Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read letter from President Sacco regarding “Hurricane Relief Fund” and how to contribute. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Honolulu; Guam; Hong Kong. LIBERATOR (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 4—Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Brandon Maeda, Educational Director Michael S. Kirby, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega. Bosun reported good trip and thanked crew for hard work. Crew requested patrolman be present at Sept. 7 payoff in Newark, N.J. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Chairman posted headquarters pertaining to “Hurricane Relief Fund” was read. Steward department given vote of thanks for excellent cuisine. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 18—Chairman George J. Diefenbach, Secretary Joel A. Molinos, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth, Deck Delegate Ralph K. Kir, Engine Delegate Fadel H. Ghaleb, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman encouraged crew members to contribute to SPAD and Seafarers Relief Fund. He also Working on the SIU-Crewed Maremar The Overseas Maremar, which was recently reflagged to the U.S., participates in the Maritime Security Program. Seafarers aboard the OSG oiler include Recertified Bosun Omaha Redda, ABs Simeon Valencia, Felipe Zepeda and Romulo Gutierrez, OS Luis Ruiz and Fernando Mesa, Chief Pumpman Wayne Roberson, Oilers Russell Lino, Edward Thompson and Alex Oliva, Chief Steward Osvaldo Castagnino, Chief Cook Timothy Taylor, and SA Delfino Castro. (Note: not all are pictured.) correspondence received from headquarters in response to previous questions and suggestions. Chairman was asked to look further into specifics of health care plan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 11— Chairman Bernard J. Baker, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji, Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Secretary expressed appreciation to fellow crew members for efforts made in keeping ship clean. Chief Cook Almaklani was congratulated for good service. Educational director reminded mariners about educational opportunities available at school in Piney Point and about need to keep all documents up to date, allowing plenty of time for renewal. Treasurer stated $3,725.95 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report was read along with a letter from VP Contracts Augie Tellez. Clarification requested on pay of daymen standing watches. Suggestions made for items to be included in next contract. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Alaska Tanker), Sept. 4— Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Gloria Holmes, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Daniel P. Lovely, Engine Delegate Jason L. Flesner, Steward Delegate Albert L. Sison. Chairman encouraged Seafarers to submit contract recommendations in a timely manner, as negotiations are to begin soon. Crew was asked to help keep lounge clean and not to tamper with satellite TV controls. Bosun notified crew members as to what forms he had on hand. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from announced upcoming payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary thanked crew for keeping ship clean and separating plastics from trash. He praised Wiper Ghaleb for his quick thinking, which resulted in saving the life of fellow crew member. Educational director advised SIU brothers and sisters to keep upgrading at Paul Hall center for job security and increased knowledge. He also reminded everyone to check z-cards and other documents and renew as early as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for ways to improve health plan. Seafarers asked for regular schedules for shuttle service in European ports. New DVD and VCR player requested for crew lounge. Ship heading to South Carolina. SEABULK ARCTIC (Seabulk International), Sept. 10—Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Alan W. Bartley, Deck Delegate Modesto Y. Rabena Jr., Engine Delegate Mekgar D. Daguio, Steward Delegate Lemuel E. Robinson. Chairman announced docking in San Francisco Sept. 11. Following discharge at three docks in San Francisco, ship will proceed to Anacortes, Wash. Sept. 16. He reminded crew that raises take effect Oct. 1 as per contract. Secretary asked crew for assistance in keeping messhall, lounges and house clean. Seafarers were reminded to check expiration dates on all documents, upgrade at Piney Point and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new mattresses, ice machine, washers and dryers, repair of lounge furniture and computer access to e-mail. Next ports: San Francisco; Anacortes; Point Wells, Wash.; Barbers Point, Hawaii. Seafarers LOG 19 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:37 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.) Thanking and Serving Seafarers I am the executive director of the Tacoma Seafarers Center in Tacoma, Wash. I received a letter from a former master of the Sealand Defender expressing his and his crew’s appreciation for our services rendered to them while they were here in port. He explained that the Sealand Defender no longer would be calling upon the port of Tacoma and that the collective decision to disburse the ship’s fund to the Tacoma Seafarers Center was due in recognition of our good work and good will toward the seafarer. I must say that such letters of recognition definitely validate all of the work that our volunteers put in on behalf of mariners. Speaking for everyone at our center, I wish to express my deepest appreciation of the donation to our facility. It will help enable us to continue the work of service to the seafarer as we strive to serve them in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As you may know, we are a Christian ministry reaching out to the seafarer in a holistic way (physically, emotionally and spiritually). We are here to serve the needs of all seafarers from every nation regardless of religious affiliations. Once again, we are extremely grateful for this generous donation. H. Gene Lawrence Tacoma, Washington Time Has Come for ‘Belated Thank You’ This letter is to thank you for the information in a short article in your Seafarers LOG about WWII Merchant Marine veterans’ status and the bills S.1272 and H.R. 23 (the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2005). I was not aware how to start the process for obtaining veterans’ status. I called your office and talked to a lady there and she steered me in the right direction. In 1944 I was in the deck department and later in the engine department. My full book was given to me because I helped organize some non-union shipping companies. Walking the picket lines on the docks in the winter was not fun, but look what has happened with our efforts from back then. The SIU has grown into a fantastic union. I am happy to have had a small part in it. I hope they approve the Belated Thank You legislation being introduced in Congress. They should not be concerned about the cost because there can’t be many of us left. Thanks again and I really enjoy getting the LOG. James P. Lyons Orlando, Florida Recertified Steward’s Book Published I wanted to let you know that one of your own merchant sea- Final Departures Continued from page 18 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 Alarico, Pedro Arena, Joseph Augustsson, Anders Bilbao, Andres Boynon, Robert Braithwaite, John Brubaker, Louis Brunson, Thornton Buford, Robert Carrington, L.V. Chee, Chan Cofressi, Domingo Cooper, Spurgeon Cruz, Pedro Da Cunha, Oswaldo Della-Fazia, Francis Diaz, Rennie Dickens, Joseph Gonzalez, Julio Gray, James Gutierrez, Dios Hackett, William Hammond, William Harris, Ernest Harris, Raeford Hensley, Paul Irizarry, Jose Isreal, Hemen John, Max King, Edward 20 AGE D.O.D. 88 92 88 87 81 93 81 88 74 78 90 82 87 75 85 84 85 78 79 81 79 94 92 78 77 73 75 86 77 78 Sept. 4 Aug. 31 June 6 Aug. 14 March 3 June 13 July 29 Sept. 10 July 26 June 07 Sept. 11 Aug. 29 July 24 Sept. 4 July 18 Jan. 23 Feb. 16 Sept. 16 June 27 July 21 May 18 June 05 Aug. 28 July 19 July 3 July 29 July 17 Aug. 14 July 21 July 6 Seafarers LOG Kirk, James Koski, James Leger, Jesse Lewis, Charlie Lewis, Ernest Lopes, Joseph Low, Robert Melendez, Hector Misura, Vjekoslav Moses, Henry Mousetis, Jack Nakamoto, Richard Nerl, Harry O’Callahan, Joseph Oliveras, Ramon Otero, Adon Quinones, Jose Reed, Norman Reprogle, Vern Reynolds, William Roa, Robert Robertson, Leo Rosario, Fred Rosewell, Thomas Samet, Abbas Schultz, Charles Smith, Mose Smith, Wellford Stevens, Willie Stukes, John Tinsley, Cornelius Warren, James Washington, Edwin Wells, George Williams, James Wood, Wayne Wyatt, Daniel Yates, George Zuniga, Jose men, Recertified Steward James E. Harper, has a new book on the market. Brother Harper has been going to sea for more than 22 years with the SIU and has an impeccable record. I’m confident that the publication of this thought-provoking book will be successful for all concerned. The title is “Fools and Money Will Soon Depart.” It is a 99-page paperback in which Brother Harper offers a collection of thoughts concerning the typical individual who may be in search of an economic system taking into account Christian principles. Marrying research, advice and observation, the work revolves around the assumption that money has traditionally created various types of hardships and upheavals throughout human history. W.A. Harper Publisher/Editor Donavyn Publishing Perris, California LOG editor’s note: The book may be ordered online through amazon.com or Book Clearing House at bookch.com, (800) 4311579, orders@bookch.com. As of mid-October, the book was listed as costing $10.95. THE SLOP CHEST The Slop Chest is the exclusive store for Seafarers International Union insignia merchandise. All items available at the Slop Chest—including shirts, jackets, caps, jewelry, bags and other gear—are union made and/or made in the U.S.A. Go to www.seafarers.org and click on Slop Chest. If you have any questions, please email info@siustore.com. We'll be more than happy to help! 63 94 70 78 71 82 70 84 85 86 79 74 95 81 85 78 89 79 77 82 78 79 71 77 90 89 77 78 87 76 82 67 62 79 81 76 88 85 91 Sept. 13 May 22 Sept. 11 July 24 Aug. 31 May 31 July 23 Aug. 1 Aug. 30 July 1 Aug. 6 March 30 Sept. 10 Sept. 6 July 24 June 25 Aug. 11 Aug. 10 Aug. 28 Sept. 6 Aug. 21 July 21 May 12 Sept. 11 July 21 Aug. 11 Sept. 16 Aug. 8 Aug. 19 June 22 June 16 Aug. 28 July 24 Aug. 16 May 18 Sept. 3 Sept. 5 Sept. 20 Aug. 16 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. November 2005 �32670_P3,11,21.qxd 10/27/2005 2:27 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 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 Able Seaman November 14 December 9 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman December 5 December 16 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Safety Training November 21 November 25 December 5 December 9 November 14 November 18 Government Vessels 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. A future edition of the Seafarers LOG will contain a complete guide of all the upgrading courses available to Seafarers in the year 2006. (STOS) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning October 31, 2005. 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. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations November 21 December 16 Marine Electrical Maintenance Refresher November 28 December 9 Welding November 28 December 16 � 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, 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22_24X.qxd 10/28/2005 7:45 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 666 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 666. They are (in alphabetical order) Anthony Anderson, Brandon Blees, Chris Cain, Thomas Clements, Damon Cole, Duvon Cooper, Christina Earhart, Archie Eldridge, Dominic Gilmartin, Theodore Gonzales, Isaac Jackson, Rickey Jackson, Trevor Jaradine, Amber Jewell, Lorenzo Kenon, Richard Kight, Conan Leegard, Robert Light, Angelo Moletla, Michael Ostrom, Christopher Phillips, Sean Sammacicci, Ryan Scott, Lukas Short, James St. Amand, Tiffany Thompson and Vincent Vivie. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two tanker assistant classes, both ending July 8, included the following students (in no specific order): Saleh Mothana, Lloyd Riddick, Eric Dorsey, Dean Bettis, Chris Doucet, Mario Moralita, Edwin Rivera, Robert Hardesty, Chris Cipres, Justin Jarmolowicz, Jillian Barker, Jack Gainers, James Gano, Justin Sleator, Edwin Feliciano, Renaudo Pierce, Edwin Ruiz Jr., W. Tyson Little, Graham Jones, David Bennett, Cortney Sacks, George Berkovich, Cory Gardner, Roger Dillinger Jr., Mark Fitzgerald, Francis Gallagher Jr., Peter Meglow, Terry Lane, Nicholas Dippel, Kimberly Katua, Devin Savoir, William Simms, Jennifer Souci, Patrick Guertin, Abebe Reda and Jarret Leask. GMDSS — Finishing the 70-hour GMDSS course July 8 are (in alphabetical order) Thomas Burke, Robert Lutz Jr., Peter Madden, De Gutenberg Poitevien, Neonito Sodusta, Paul Voisin and John Zabielski. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Government Vessels — Upgradng Seafarers graduating July 8 from the government vessels course are (in no specific order) Amador Mendez, John Greubel, Jaromir Ondruch, Michael Ratigan, Latoya Nix, Raymond Lackland, Miguel Rivera, Michael Smorowski, Anthony Jacobson and John Shank. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Tankerman (PIC) Barge — With instructor Herb Walling (standing, second from left) are July 1 graduates of the tankerman (PIC) barge course. Included are (in no specific order) Jon Whittaker, Joseph Violante, David Mattson Jr., James Kruger, Michael Parks Jr., Todd McDonough, Fred Hamilton, Mark Jones, Vasilijs Semesjuks, John Cronan, Gerard Hayes, Greg Kuglis, Daniel Lewis, Patrick Morse, Edward Milstead, James Stimage and James Reece. Water Survival — The photos at left and below are of the lifeboatman/water survival course ending July 8. Included in the class, which was taught by Bernabe Pelingon, are upgrading Seafarers (in no specific order) Steven Lonas, Dale Harrison, Wilfred Colon, Joseph Huff, James Oling, Danilo Chacoso, Nigel Williams, Abraham Straughter, Oscar Palacios, Leslie Hewett Jr., Arnie Borja, Larry Morisette, Robert Lerma, Philip Forman, William Feazel, Bryan Benak, Ethan Mims, Steven Sanderson, German Oliva and Benjamin Wilson. Computer Lab Classes These upgrading students have been quite busy in the computer lab. Showing off their certificates of achievement in various computer courses are (from left) Neftali Erausquin, Barney George, Martin L. Simmons Jr. and Keith H. Rost. In the center is their instructor, Rick Prucha. 22 Seafarers LOG Vasilijs P. Semesjuks receives a certificate of achievement in computer basics from instructor Rick Prucha. November 2005 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:38 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Lifeboatman/ Water Survival NCL, July 1: Dinae Brooks, Jonah Amodt, Jamal Bomani, Myra Brown, Zenaida Martin, Angelina Gaspard, James Eaton, Charles Stewart, LaShawn Adams and Katie Campbell. Their instructor was Stan Beck (not pictured). NCL, July 1: Aristotle Savaiki, Samanthe Chinigo, George Collier, Kevin Burns, Jessica Wrubel, Theresa Carswell, Christopher Craig, Kathleen Freeman, Susan Holzem, Caitlin Merdian, John Hawk, Noel Nededoh, Laura Johnson, Chris Gray, Susan Maisenbach, Erin Swetkoff, Brook Bender, Sandra VanRyckegheon and Pamela Eaverage. Their instructors were Tony Savilla and Ben Cusic. NCL, July 15: David Jellison, John Viazcon, Ann Sammon, Renee Hill, Marc Jacobson, Tammy Thompson, Romel Medina, Sinan Wiley, Robert Zeman, Emmett Morarie, Joseph Fleming, Timothy Mains, Victoria Grant, Victor Phillips, Sarah Englehart, Lilac Alfke, Ember Brettmann, Carrie Anthony, Joshua Wilson, Miranda Van Cleave, Tim Clay, Michelle Gallo, Victor “Craig” Rodriguez, Maurica Fournier, Ahmad Saleh, Jonathan Toves, Juan Quintana, Helen Garza, Tina Vestal and Amanda Wall. Their instructors were Stan Beck, Tony Sevilla and Stacey Harris. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — NCL, July 15: Rafael Aguilar, Robert Albrecht, STCW — NCL, July 1: Ashley Kaufman, Eric Knowles, Timothy Mains, Jeremy Maldonado, Paul Mejia, Bess Milligan, Emmett Morarie, Aldo Moreno, Michael Narquini Jr., Brandon Nicholas, Marc Nicholls, Victor Phillips, Lisa Placona, Martha Potter, Juan Quintana, Diego Ramirez, Cerrisa Reese, David Richardson, Kristi Ringis, Victor “Craig” Rodriguez, Ahmad Saleh and SIU members Edwin Pelingon and Michael Ratigan. STCW — NCL, July 1: John Crampton, Deborah Duhon, George Duncan, Sarah Englehart, Terri Ewton, Maurica Fournier, Michelle Gallo, Robert Garner, Helen Garza, Jason Grant, Julie Green, Grant Gregorio, Dawn Hall, Verlinda Hendrix, Renee Hill, Amber Holcomb, Nicholas Hreha, Marc Jacobson, David Jellison, Thomas Jones Jr. and SIU member Jaromir Ondruch. (Note: not all are pictured.) Pedro Alcantara, Carrie Anthony, Robyn Bechtel, Ryan Berretta, Dale Berry, Karl Billman, Joseph Breton, Ember Brettman, Thomas Brown, Richard Buck, Michael Burgan, DeQuisha Burrell, Erin Burry, Turejai Cammon, Ana Castaneda, Liliana Catillo, Timothy Clay, Sylvianna Clyde, Craig Conway and Chad Cook. Also: SIU members Douglas Lewis, Latoya Nix and Stephen Gray. (Note: not all are pictured.) STCW — NCL, July 15: Adam Malek, Shere Marcus, Ava McNulty, Roberto Mendez, Djamila Moorehead, Elizabeth Morgan, Dennis Muhi, Kimberly Natemeier, Sommer Normandy, Mark Nosser, Daryl Peterson, Rosemary Robie, James Robinson, Algernon Russell, Irma Salazar, Jamaal Scott, Rizza Sese, LeQuan “Dante” Silas, Lula Solomon, Jason Sullivan, Jessica Torrey, Richard Ward, Gerald Washington, Sam Wilkinson, John Wilson, Enio Wissel and Traci Wright. STCW — NCL, July 1: Elizabeth Sammon, Paul Slaght II, Rubert Taylor, Tammy Thompson, Velentine Thompson, Eulogio Tolentino Jr., Augustus Torralba, Jonathan Toves, Miranda Van Cleave, Tina Vestal, Juan Viazcon, Amanda Wall, Marta Ward, Lonnie Weigel, Louis Wessel, Troy White, Sinan Wiley, Kelley Williams, Josh Wilson and Ryan Wilson. (Note: not all are pictured.) November 2005 STCW — NCL, July 15: Justin Ayer, Jeffrey Batac, Donald Bellefeuile, Samuel Berg, Deborah Clopton, Gary Costin, Rhonda Costin, Mason Cummings, Danielle Curtis, Theresa Denley, Lucia Estrada, Alejandro Flores, Daniel Garza, Anthony Grana, Phillip Guerrero, Shay Gunn, Carla Hankel, Kami Harris,Ryan Ingles, Don Jayamaha, Damon Johnson, Emily Jones, Catherine Justice, Tylor Kolter, Erin Kuba and David Langner. Seafarers LOG 23 �32670_P9,10,14_18,20,22,23.qxd 10/21/2005 4:38 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 11 November 2005 Remembering R emembering o ur veterans f rom all w ars November 1 1, 2 005 Unlicensed U nlicensed Apprentice Program Provides Thorough Training Paul Hall Center Curriculum Blends Practical, Classroom Instruction T The program’s second phase offers valuable experience aboard U.S.flag ships, as shown in these three photos. Companies participating in this segment include NCL America, Alaska Tanker Company, American Steamship, Hannah Marine, Liberty Maritime, Interocean American Shipping, Ocean Ships, Horizon Lines, Overseas Shipholding Group, Marine Transport Lines, Intrepid Marine Management, Crowley, Maritrans, and Allied Towing of Virginia. he unlicensed apprentice (UA) program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has been a staple of the Piney Point, Md. facility since it opened in 1967. By design and necessity, the program has evolved consistently in order to help the school continue fulfilling its mission of turning out the world’s best-trained mariners. Today, the apprentice program consists of multiple phases—all U.S. Coast Guard-approved—that blend practical training with classroom instruction. One of the more useful components is Phase II—a 90-day period in which students sail aboard a U.S.-flag vessel, alternately working in each of the three shipboard departments. Mariners and instructors alike have pointed to Phase II as an important reason why students who complete the entire UA program are likely to remain in the industry. According to Paul Hall Center officials, more than 75 percent of students who graduate from the program still are sailing four years later (the most recent calculation made by the school). Companies participating in Phase II include NCL America, Alaska Tanker Company, American Steamship, Hannah Marine, Liberty Maritime, Interocean American Shipping, Ocean Ships, Horizon Lines, Overseas Shipholding Group, Marine Transport Lines, Intrepid Marine Management, Crowley, Maritrans, and Allied Towing of Virginia. While the shipboard training has proven successful, Phase I, at the school itself, lays the foundation for becoming a mariner. This phase also lasts three months and includes the following training: vessel familiarization; STCW basic safety training (BST); basic fire fighting; first aid; water survival; vessel operations; and social responsibilities. During Phase III (which also takes place in Piney Point), students begin to specialize their training. Deck personnel head to courses titled (respectively) specially trained ordinary seaman and tankship familiarization/dangerous liquids, while engine department mariners enroll in the basic auxiliary plant operations class. Those who choose the steward department take four weeks of upgrader-level galley operations. Completion of Phase III is considered official graduation, but the school doesn’t abandon students after that point. What is considered Phase IV consists of an additional four months’ sea service, followed by the appropriate upgrading course (able seaman, for instance). For additional information about the program, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org, or call toll-free at 1-877-2353275. Hands-on training is featured in most Paul Hall Center courses, including the first phase of the apprentice program. The trainee program (above and below) dates back to the school’s founding in 1967 but has been modified many times in order to stay ahead of the industry’s needs. Occasionally, students break from the normal schedule and seize chances to visit landmarks (the White House, above) or participate in ceremonies (at left) like the Department of Labor’s Hall of Fame induction featuring the school’s namesake, Paul Hall. � 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 November 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES TASK FORCE: SUPPORT FOR CABOTAGE LAW STILL STRONG RUNAWAY-FLAG CRUISE LINE COMES UNDER SCRUTINY ARC FLEET EXPANDS BY 3 OCEAN TITAN JOINS SIU FLEET CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 3RD T-AKE SHIP VICE ADMIRAL BREWER HONORED BY NDTA RECIPROCAL SENIORITY TAKES EFFECT NOV. 1 RETIRED PORT AGENT MARINELLI DIES AT 62 ITF, OWNERS’ GROUP REACH ‘SIGNIFICANT’ AGREEMENT HOMELAND SECURITY DEPT. ISSUES NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR MARITIME SECURITY AMERICANS FORCED TO PAY MORE AS INSURANCE COVERAGE GOES DOWN RETIRED INSTRUCTOR JACK PARCEL DIES AGENCY ISSUES REVISED STCW ENDORSEMENT SIU CONTINUES HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS THANKING THOSE WHO CONTRIBUTED SEAFARERS HELP REBUILD FLORIDA COASTLINE IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR SEAFARERS FOLLOWING ACQUISITION OF CP SHIPS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RECEIVE SAFETY AWARDS ‘UNION YES’ RACE CAR TAKES LABOR’S MESSAGE ON THE FAST TRACK FORMER NMU MEMBER FREDE FROST DIES AT 84 3 SHIPS ADDED TO ARC FLEET READY TO GO AGAIN SEAFARERS CONTINUE SUPPORTING U.S. TROOPS IN OPERATIONS ENDURING FREEDOM AND IRAQI FREEDOM UNLICENSED APPRENTICE PROGRAM PROVIDES THOROUGH TRAINING 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 11/01/2005 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. 11 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/28de6afd5a6730aa38f957b34f100984.pdf c86621192f10a41e0a16165be50b690c PDF Text Text Volume 68, Number 11 November 2006 Lakes Fleet Adds ITB Horizon, OSG Vessel Christenings Also Signal New Shipboard Jobs New vessels and jobs are in the news for the SIU. On the Great Lakes, VanEnkevort Tug and Barge recently added an integrated tug-barge to its fleet (pictured below and at right). Horizon Lines on Oct. 11 christened the containership Horizon Hunter, and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is preparing to christen the tanker Overseas Houston in mid-November. Pictured directly below are the barge Lewis J. Kuber and its tugboat, Olive L. Moore, with SIU Mate Dominic Ciani standing port side on the tug; and (lower left) QMED/Barge Engineer Jonathon VonSprecken next to the barge’s ballast controls. The tug’s pilothouse is shown at right. Page 3. SIU Snapshots from Jacksonville In late September, 37 Seafarers (some of whom are pictured above, with SIU port officials) completed general security awareness training at the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla. The course was conducted Sept. 26 by Paul Hall Center instructor Mitch Oakley. For many more photos recently taken at the hall, see pages 12-13. OSG Acquires Maritrans Page 2 Remembering Red Campbell Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell (above) passed away Sept. 22 at age 84. Comments from those who knew and worked with Brother Campbell reflect his lifelong dedication to Seafarers. Pages 2, 6. ‘Operation Care Package’ Scholarship Info Page 4 Page 14 �President’s Report Another Angle on Runaway Flags With the large volume of recent news about North Korea, you may not have noticed a particular New York Times piece which briefly examines that nation’s involvement with so-called flag-of-convenience ships, also known as runawayflag vessels. On October 20, the Times pointed to revealing incidents from a few years ago—one in which a Tuvalu-registered ship was caught offloading 110 pounds of heroin, the other in which a Cambodianflag ship was stopped while carrying 15 Scud missiles. Michael Sacco Both ships were owned by North Korea, the newspaper reported. The article goes on to point out more potential problems with North Korea and FOCs. Among the possibilities cited by the Times: „ Smuggling out weapons or their components via land to China or Russia, eventually leading to a port for loading onto another secretly owned ship. „ Loading forbidden cargo (according to a United Nations Security Council resolution) onto a North Korean-flagged ship but then changing the vessel’s registration after it has left port—not an uncommon practice in the world of runaway-flag shipping. „ Transferring cargo from a North Korean-flagged ship to a vessel flying a different flag but also owned by North Korea, either in port or possibly at sea. For those of us in the maritime industry, those possibilities hardly qualify as revelations. Nor are we surprised at this assertion from the article: “No one outside North Korea really knows for sure how many cargo vessels the country has registered under other flags.” Both as an individual organization and as a member of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the SIU for decades has fought against the FOC scam. We’ve lobbied for strong flag-state shipping along with transparency in the registration process. We have stood up to protect the abused crews found on many runaway-flag ships. Quite honestly, the results have been mixed. The ITF’s FOC campaign has brought thousands of vessels under federation contract, which is a significant and undeniable indication of success. Those agreements help protect mariners and their families, not to mention helping ensure safer, more reliable shipboard operations. On the other hand, about 60 percent of vessels in the international trades fly runaway flags—way too high of a number. Most runaway-flag vessels have multinational crews, many of whom simply aren’t qualified for shipboard work. Many of them are unsafe to the extreme, as reflected in regular ship detention reports from the U.S. Coast Guard. A quick glance at one such report from September shows FOC ships detained at various U.S. ports for violations including fire hazards, leaks, lack of mariner documentation, and inoperable lifeboat davits. It boils down to some operators simply wanting a flag to hang from the mast so that they can sail their ships without “interference” from the proper standards of legitimate maritime nations. That way, they can cut costs by avoiding responsibilities and exploiting desperate workers who may or may not actually know what it takes to sail. We will continue the fight for as long as necessary. Meanwhile, the publicity generated by articles like the recent one in the New York Times can only help in exposing the fraud associated with runawayflag shipping. Red Campbell For many SIU officials from Red Campbell’s generation, our union was much more than just a place of employment. It was a way of life and an institution that deserved nothing less than total dedication from its representatives and from its rank-and-file members. Red passed away in September, at age 84. He served the SIU with integrity, respect and unfailing loyalty, both as a mariner and an official, including many years as a vice president. He helped set the foundation for our success—Red took part in most of the SIU’s toughest beefs, and he always, without exception, put the union first. He will be missed, and yet I can’t help smiling at the memory of someone who loved the SIU so much. Like others from the Greatest Generation, Red led by example—as a Seafarer delivering the goods at Normandy, as a port agent serving the members at the union halls, as a headquarters official leaving no stone unturned while looking for ways to make SIU contracts the best in the industry. We are fortunate to have known him and to have called him friend and brother. Volume 68, Number 11 SIU Contracts Remain in Place As OSG Acquires Maritrans Two SIU-contracted companies have jointly announced a merger agreement in which Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) will acquire Maritrans. SIU contracts remain fully in place and all SIU jobs are maintained. The announcement came in late September. “From our perspective, the merger is noteworthy but it doesn’t change our SIU agreements or our shipboard jobs,” noted SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “It should be a seamless transaction where crew members are concerned.” OSG and Maritrans described the acquisition as combining two fleets with complementary strengths in different trade routes, thereby diversifying OSG’s U.S.-flag presence “with the ability to offer expanded services to current and future customers of both companies. The addition of Maritrans’ fleet of 11 articulated tug barges (ATBs), five product carriers (two of which have been redeployed to transport grain) and three large ATBs under construction will complement OSG’s U.S.-flag fleet of seven operating vessels and 10 new build product carriers. The combination will expand OSG’s market presence in the U.S. Gulf coast, Florida and East Coast trades and add lightering operations along the U.S. East Coast. It is expected that Maritrans’ vessel construction program, which involves ATBs to be used in lightering operations, will allow OSG to use a substantial portion of its Capital Construction Fund.” “The strategic fit of Maritrans within OSG’s diversified portfolio of assets will broaden our service offerings to customers in the Jones Act market,” said Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of OSG. “Additionally, the lightering business in Delaware Bay and the addition of new customers in the complementary ATB Gulf of Mexico and Florida short-haul trade will contribute meaningfully to our contractual base of business. Most importantly, however, are Maritrans’ strong commercial reputation and its team of talented personnel which, when combined with our U.S.-flag operation, will give us the platform to support our 10 Jones Act product carrier new builds, as well as future growth opportunities in U.S. coastal trades.” Jonathan P. Whitworth, CEO of Maritrans, commented, “We are very excited about the transaction with OSG and the benefits it brings to shareholders, customers and employees…. The financial strength that OSG brings to the combination will enhance our ability to compete. We look forward to a successful integration and to becoming the newest member of the OSG family.” The transaction is valued at approximately $455 million. Gralewicz: Follow America’s Example To Restore Canadian Merchant Marine The head of the Seafarers’ International Union of Canada is leading the charge to bring his country’s flag back to the high seas. President Roman Gralewicz, who also serves as the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s Eastern Area executive board member, called upon the Canadian government to revitalize the Canadian-flag fleet—which at one time during the 20th century ranked as the fourth-largest in the world. In his column in the September issue of The Canadian Sailor, Gralewicz noted Canadian citizens trapped in Lebanon during recent fighting had to depend on vessels from other nations to bring them to safety. “Couldn’t we have done the job far better SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz and cheaper if our nation had its own national merchant marine— like most countries do? Even landlocked Switzerland has a merchant marine—26 ships that fly the Swiss flag on the country’s rivers and lakes, using the Italian seaport of Genoa as a base,” he pointed out. “Canada has no ships— because we dismantled our proud merchant marine in the early 1950s.” Gralewicz acknowledged the Canadian flag does appear on vessels in the Great Lakes trades, but that’s it. He stated the U.S. set the example that Canada needs to follow: build, crew and supply new deep-sea vessels from within Canada. “This would also have huge economic benefits for the country. Every new sailor creates at least eight related jobs. “It is time Canada reasserted her presence on the high seas for many reasons, whether it’s to fly our flag in disputed Northern waters, or supply our military, or help civilians during a climate disaster.” Congressman Green Visits Houston Hall The SIU welcomed U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas) to the October membership meeting at the Houston hall. Congressman Green (at podium) spoke to Seafarers about the Jones Act and other maritime issues and also urged everyone to vote on Election Day. U.S. Coast Guard officials also attended the meeting on Oct. 10 to review various aspects of merchant mariner document renewal, proposals pertaining to the TWIC and medical standards, and more. November 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 Pictured at left (from left) are Port Agent Robert Troy, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Congressman Green, SIU Assistant VP Jim McGee and Patrolman Mike Russo. November 2006 �SIU Lakes Fleet Adds ITB Horizon Hunter Christened; 1st Philly Tanker Due this Month New ships and new shipboard jobs are in the headlines for Seafarers. VanEnkevort Tug and Barge recently added an integrated tugbarge (ITB) to its fleet; Horizon Lines on Oct. 11 christened the Horizon Hunter, the first of five new containerships the company is adding; and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is preparing to christen the Overseas Houston in midNovember—the first of 10 new Jones Act tankers that will be operated by Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). Aker Philadelphia last month also announced that construction has started on the fourth of the double-hulled Veteran-class tankers. New Jobs on Lakes The ITB sails with a complement of 14 SIU members and consists of the tugboat Olive L. Moore and its barge Lewis J. Kuber. Both vessels have undergone complete refurbishments prior to joining the Seafarerscrewed VanEnkevort fleet. “This is an outright addition rather than replacement tonnage,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “It shows a commitment on the company’s part and reflects their confidence in SIU crews. The company also has indicated an interest in acquiring or building new vessels.” The Olive L. Moore is 125 feet long and has a beam of slightly more than 39 feet. Its gross tonnage is listed at 524. The tug features a raised wheelhouse to allow for proper vision over the barge. The self-unloader Lewis J. Kuber is 616 feet long with a beam of 70 feet. Its capacity is estimated at 22,300 dwt. Horizon Hunter The Horizon Hunter, the first of five 2,824 TEU-capacity, 23knot containerships that will enter the Horizon Lines fleet in 2007, was named Oct. 11 at a ceremony at the Hyundai Mipo shipyard in South Korea. The ship is of a proven international design and will be deployed in Horizon Lines’ weekly service linking the U.S. West Coast with Guam and Asia. “The naming of the Horizon Hunter marks another milestone in the growth of Horizon Lines and our businesses,” said Charles G. Raymond, president and CEO of the company. “These new Hunter-class ships are named to connote speed, agility, keen sense and focus—the attributes that we believe have allowed our company to excel now and in the future.” Horizon Lines announced in March an agreement to charter five new U.S.-flag, foreign-built vessels for 12-year terms from Ship Finance International Limited. The new ships each will be equipped with 568 reefer slots. The company noted that the five new ships will make the five cur- Secretary Chao: Mariners Are ‘Key Part’ of Homeland Defense U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao recently commended the U.S. Merchant Marine for its vital role in protecting America’s national and economic security. Speaking at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Foundation Dinner on Sept. 27, Secretary Chao stated, “When the history of this era is written, the U.S. Merchant Marine will be remembered as a key part of the effort to defend our homeland and liberties and spread freedom and democracy around the world.” A longtime ally of U.S. mariners, Chao kicked off her speech by recognizing SIU President Michael Sacco (who was in the audience) and congratulating both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on a successful Labor Day event in which the school hosted President Bush. “The president said he really enjoyed the experience…. I hope you can see his concerns and interest in the issues of the maritime community,” Chao stated. The secretary pointed out that most Americans aren’t fully aware of the nation’s rich maritime history, nor, perhaps, the industry’s importance. “Many good-paying jobs depend upon shipping,” she U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao noted. “Our nation’s energy, goods and food are transported economically and efficiently by ship. And there are many challenges and, yes, dangers, that face the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. But that is part of the tremendous heritage of the merchant marine…. The U.S. Merchant Marine serves our nation in war, and its role is not as greatly appreciated as it should be.” She observed that the displays at the American Merchant Marine Museum tell “the story of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s service to this nation during both war and peace. Visitors can learn that dur- Please be advised the SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10 for the observance of Veterans’ Day, and on Thursday, Nov. 23 for the observance of Thanksgiving Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2006 ing World War II, the U.S. Merchant Marine transported the troops, weapons and supplies that made victory possible. And they can discover that merchant mariners did this at great cost. The U.S. Merchant Marine suffered a higher casualty rate than any armed service but the Marines.” Chao listed specific ways in which the administration has demonstrated its support for the industry. They include backing the Jones Act; signing an extended, expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program MSP); promoting tax policies designed to help ensure fairness for American-flag ship operators involved in international shipping; and investing in better mariner training at union facilities as well as state and federal maritime academies. “This has strengthened our nation’s base of skilled merchant mariners,” she added. “This is essential as merchant mariners have supported every recent military conflict and are vital to winning the war on terrorism…. Today, more than 8,000 brave merchant mariners crew auxiliary vessels for the United States Navy to support our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. They have delivered more than 92 percent of the equipment and supplies needed by our men and women in uniform.” Looking ahead, she said, “On the horizon, we can see challenges as well as opportunities that face the maritime community. Experts anticipate that cargo and passenger traffic will double in the next two decades. So our country will continue to need a strong base of skilled merchant mariners as we head into the 21st century.” rent Jones Act-eligible vessels now sailing the trans-Pacific route available to the rest of the Horizon Lines Jones Act network. OSG Tankers The Overseas Houston is scheduled for christening Nov. 11 in Philadelphia. That vessel along with its nine sister ships each will be 600 feet long and capable of transporting 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. Each vessel will weigh 46,000 dwt. On Oct. 16, the shipyard announced it had commenced production on the fourth vessel in its 10-ship series of environmentally friendly product tankers. Steel cutting for the ship, the eighth built by the shipyard since its opening six years ago and the fourth under construction concurrently, was performed on one of the yard’s two state-of-the-art plasma cutting machines. The vessel is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2008. USNS Sumner Commended The SIU-crewed oceanographic survey ship USNS Sumner has been commended by Rear Adm. Robert Reilly, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), for the vessel’s professional response in assisting the stricken Cambodian-registered cargo ship Shun Tong, which was adrift and without power in deteriorating weather south of Korea. According to a report from the ship, AB Pete Harper and Third Mate John Dean noticed a red parachute flare off the vessel’s starboard side at about 2330 local time Sept. 21. USNS Sumner Master Fred Smallwood was notified and ordered that the ship break its survey line and proceed to investigate. An unlit contact was seen approximately eight miles away and, upon closing to hailing distance, the Sumner’s crew learned the disabled ship had lost all power and was listing approximately 15 degrees in brisk winds. Shouting questions and answers between the two ships, Sumner mariners learned that although power was out, the ship was not taking on water and there had been no injuries among the nine Chinese crew members. The Sumner, operated by Horizon Lines, notified the U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue Coordination Center in Alameda, Calif. and they, in turn, passed information on the disabled ship to the Korean Coast Guard. The Koreans dispatched a vessel to the area to assist, and the Sumner remained on station nearby throughout the remainder of the night “in case conditions on board deteriorated further and crew rescue became necessary as well as to coordinate rescue communications,” Smallwood noted. The Korean Coast Guard unit arrived at 0530 local time and the Sumner was released from onscene commander duties. In addition to Admiral Reilly’s commendation, which was directed primarily to the bridge team for its vigilance, Captain Smallwood commended the entire crew for its professional response throughout the long night. “What can I do to help?” was a question received on the bridge from virtually every member of the crew, he reported. He further noted, “The ship had been operating on one engine since speeds under 7 knots had been required, but when higher speeds, maneuvering and use of the bow thruster became necessary, engineers were notified and they quickly placed two additional engines in the propulsion loop. Watch Engineer (Second Assistant) Lawrence Woodson was assisted by QMEDS Juan Sanchez and Greg Webb.” Other Seafarers taking part in this operation included Bosun Rafael Franco, ABs Keith Williams and Anthony Lowman, OSs Ray Roldan and Dominic Gilmartin, Chief Steward Wanda Glinke, GVAs Dom Dalmacio, Frank Cacayuran and Emilio Ababa and Storekeeper Milton Haberman. The Shun Tong lists as the SIU-crewed USNS Sumner arrives to assist. Seafarers LOG 3 �From Belvoir to Balad Maersk Assists in USO Shipments Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited is assisting the United Service Organizations (USO) in delivering packages and messages to members of the U.S. armed forces in Iraq. Due to heightened security issues, individuals can no longer send letters and packages marked for delivery to “Any Service Member.” But the USO— a nonprofit organization chartered by Congress to support the members of the armed forces—operates programs and services around the globe where U.S. troops are stationed. Operation USO Care Package offers individuals, groups and businesses a way to reach troops deployed around the world, and Maersk Line has helped with the logistics of getting the goods to their destination. On its current run to the Middle East, the SIU-crewed Maersk Virginia carries a special container filled with packages and messages collected by the USO for members of the U.S. military in Iraq. The 958-foot Maersk Virginia departed Norfolk, Va. Oct. 12 for Jebel Ali, Dubai on its regular service run. Along with its usual cargo, it also contained a 24-cubic foot container of care packages from the USO—which amounts to 4,000 packages weighing 8,800 pounds—or eight individual pallets. The packages (each with a message inside) were picked up from the USO warehouse at Ft. Belvoir, Va. and loaded onto the Maersk Virginia in Norfolk. The SIU-crewed vessel is expected to arrive in Dubai Nov. 4, where the items will be unloaded and airlifted to Balad, Iraq. Unit commanders from the U.S. Army will then distribute the packages to the soldiers in the field. Knox Crew Receives Expeditionary Medals APL/Matson Navigation Company Increase Pensions for New Retirees After four months of meetings and negotiations, the SIUNA West Coast unions on Sept. 12 secured a pension increase under the provisions of the collective bargaining agreements with American President Lines and Matson Navigation Company. For those members in the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan who retired on or after July 1, 2006, the benefit will increase by $120. This Watson Is Ready for Action Seafarers continue to sail aboard U.S.-flag ships in support of operations involving American and allied military forces. They return home to shows of gratitude in ports throughout the United States. One recent event was held Sept. 20 on board the Cape Knox in New Orleans. The Department of Transportation and its Maritime Administration (MarAd) hosted a ceremony for the ship’s crew (above) and presented them with Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals and certificates. Receiving his medal and certificate (at right) is Bosun Anthony Pacely. NCL America Cruise Ships Help Boost Hawaii’s Economy The Hawaiian economy was given a boost this year, and the three SIU-crewed NCL America cruise ships—the Pride of America, Pride of Aloha and Pride of Hawaii—can claim partial credit for the 4.4 percent rise in average daily spending. According to a recent news release issued by the Hawaii Department of Business and Economic Development, visitors to Hawaii in the first seven months of 2006 increased their spending by 4.6 percent—to $7 billion—compared to the same period last year. This includes visitors who came not only for cruises but also for vacations, meetings, incentives and other business. Of the total number of visitors in July alone, 36,085 flew to the 49th state either to board one of the three SIU-crewed vessels home ported in Honolulu or arrived on foreign cruise ships to 4 Seafarers LOG visit the islands—a 58.8 percent increase from last year. When looking at the first seven months of the year, the total cruise visitor days increased by 55.4 percent, including a 42.7 percent growth in cruise visitors to 215,733. Additionally, those who came to Hawaii to enjoy six nights aboard ship remained an average will raise the monthly pension benefit from $1,091 to $1,211 for someone retiring at age 60 or older and with at least 25 years of qualified seatime. The increase also will be applicable on a pro-rata basis to members retiring on or after July 1 who have less than 25 years’ seatime, are younger than 60 years of age, or those who retire due to disability. The SIU-crewed USNS Watson, a large medium speed roll on/roll off (LMSR) ship, is operated by Maersk Line Limited for the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command. With 390,000 square feet of cargo carrying space (for transporting helicopters, tanks and other wheeled and tracked military vehicles), the 950-foot vessel currently is prepositioned off the coast of Saipan. These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by AB Jennifer Senner. of 9.7 days on the islands (necessitating hotel accommodations, food, activities, etc.) and thereby further contributing to the state’s economy. “We are very pleased with July’s extraordinary performance from the domestic market,” said State Tourism Liaison Marsha Wienert. “Norwegian Cruise Lines’ home ported [vessels] contributed to the increased visitor arrivals as cruise visitors, who arrived by air, increased 54 percent compared to last year.” OS T.J. Clements Recertified Bosun Clay Poore AB Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi (left) and AB Edwin Pelingon From the left: AB Clayton Almas, AB Jennifer Senner, OS Jahn Boman and AB Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi The SIU-crewed Pride of Hawaii, along with its sister ships, the Pride of America and Pride of Aloha, help contribute to the Hawaiian economy as increasing numbers of visitors travel to the Aloha State. November 2006 �Oberstar Honored by Lakes Group Congressman James L. Oberstar (Minn.), ranking Democratic member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and longtime supporter and advocate for the U.S. maritime industry on Sept. 29 received the “Iron Man Award’’ from the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force. The award was presented in Washington, D.C. and recognizes Oberstar’s long association with and background promoting the vitality of the iron mining, steel and Great Lakes shipping industries. “Since being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1974, Congressman James L. Oberstar has promoted and protected America’s iron mining, steel producing and Great Lakes shipping industries like none before him,” said James H.I. Weakley in a news release about the award. Weakley is president of the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force, a broad-based labor/management coalition promoting shipping on the Great Lakes and related industries. “Whenever an issue threatens these vital industries, you can be certain that Congressman Oberstar will play a leading role in reaching a positive conclusion,” Weakley said. Weakley, also president of the Lake Carriers’ Association, noted in the release it is difficult to decide which of Oberstar’s many accomplishments should be mentioned first. Among many other achievements, he credited the Minnesota congressman with persuading the Coast Guard to keep the agency’s icebreaker Mackinaw in service to aid vessels in their transport of Minnesota iron pellets until its replacement was in service earlier this year. (The Mackinaw was to be decommissioned in 1994.) Oberstar also has been the driving force behind efforts to build another Poe-sized Lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. The locks link Lake Superior to the lower four Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway. Roughly 70 percent of U.S.-flag carrying capacity on the Lakes is restricted to one lock, the Poe. Were it to fail, U.S.-flag shipping on the Lakes would be unable to meet the needs of commerce. American labor has long considered Oberstar a great ally, especially the men and women who crew the U.S.-flag Great Lakes fleet. He was among the first in the House of Representatives to sign a concurrent resolution defending the Jones Act, the law that reserves domestic waterborne commerce to vessels that are U.S.-owned, -built and -crewed, from unprecedented attacks in the mid-1990s. He also helped save jobs when he played November 2006 a key role in the reopening of an iron ore mine that now thrives as United Taconite. tion. In the next Congress, I will do everything in my power to bring our fair share of federal dredging dollars back to the Great Lakes.” The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force was founded in Toledo, Ohio, in 1992 to promote domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. It is the largest coalition to ever speak for the Great Lakes shipping community. Its goals include restoring adequate funding for dredging of Great Lakes deep-draft ports and waterways; construction of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.; preserving the domestic steelmaking infrastructure; protecting the nation’s cabotage laws; and maximizing the Lakes-overseas trade. Grievances Filed Against So-Called ‘Union Workers Credit Services’ Buyer Beware: Organization Has No Connection to AFL-CIO More than 5 million union members from across the United States have received mail solicitations from a company called Union Workers Credit Services. According to several reports, this Fort Worth, Texas-based company claims to offer a $10,000 line of credit and a credit card to customers for a fee of $37. In reality, the card being offered is not a major credit card (i.e., Visa, MasterCard, etc.) at all. Instead, it is nothing more than a company card which can only be used to purchase items in the company’s catalogue via mail order. Attorneys in the SIU’s office of general counsel recently learned that this company’s web site (www.unionworkerscreditservices.com) implies that it is associated with not only the SIU and its affiliated unions (including the United Industrial Workers Nelson Appointed to MarAd Post Julie A. Nelson was appointed to the post of deputy administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration on Oct. 6 by President George W. Bush. Nelson took over responsibilities of acting deputy maritime administrator May 1, when former deputy administrator John Jamian resigned and before the confirmation of Sean T. Connaughton as maritime administrator. She joined the agency as chief counsel in August 2005. Nelson has extensive experience in the maritime industry and admiralty law, which gives her a solid understanding of the work done within the Maritime Administration. She joins MarAd from Oceaneering International, Inc., an ocean engineering development group, where she served as general manager and maritime/contracts attorney. From August 1998 to April 2003, Nelson served as general counsel and general manager for Nauticos Corporation of Hanover, Md., Congressman James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.) “I am truly honored to receive this award,” said Congressman Oberstar during the ceremony. “I consider every day I serve in the House as a privilege that bears great responsibility. While much has been accomplished to keep Great Lakes shipping safe and efficient, we face new challenges, in particular, restoring adequate funding for dredging Great Lakes ports and waterways. It is incomprehensible to me that the ships that depart our Minnesota harbors cannot carry full loads of iron ore and low-sulfur coal because the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers does not get enough money to maintain the system. This waterway is too important a part of the national transportation infrastructure to be treated like a poor rela- Julie A. Nelson addressed those in attendance during the U.S. Maritime Administration’s 2006 Maritime Day observance in Washington, D.C. another high-technology ocean engineering firm. Among other duties, Nelson’s background also includes eight years working at the Pentagon for the Department of the Navy as an Intelligence Research Analyst and Program Manager, and eight years on active and reserve duty with the U.S. Navy. and Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union), but also a number of other international unions in the AFL-CIO. Union Workers Credit Services is not affiliated with or endorsed by the AFL-CIO or any of its affiliated unions, especially the SIU. More than a few consumers and unions have filed complaints with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the U.S. Postal Service alleging fraud on the part of Union Workers Credit Services. SIU attorneys recently filed a grievance with the Federal Trade Commission. According to a November 2005 release by the BBB in Ft. Worth, “Union Workers Credit Services first came to our attention April 28, 2005. Randy Walls, president of the company was formerly associated with Credicorp in Dallas. Credicorp has an unsatisfactory record with the Dallas BBB. The company stated they are not affiliated with a union.” Since making its initial waves on the BBB radar, 166 complaints have been processed on Union Workers Credit Services— 119 of which occurred during the past 12 months. Thirty-three of these complaints involved the company’s selling practices while 50 addressed advertising. For more information go to www.fwbbb.org and click on the local alerts and news section, or click on the company and charity reports section. Put in Union Workers Credit Services, Inc. and read the full public report. Union members who want a credit card that is endorsed by the AFL-CIO and affiliated unions including the SIU should check out the Union Plus credit card offered by Union Privilege. Union Plus is the union-supported provider of member benefits such as credit cards, loans, scholarships, legal services and a host of other products. The Union Plus credit card offers special features for union members, including the Lifeline Trust, which assists those who are facing financial hardship or a disability, and the Disaster Relief Fund, which is for those who have been affected by a natural disaster. The Union Plus credit card has no annual fees. More information about the Union Plus credit card as well as other available benefits may be gained online by visiting www.unionplus.org. Final Rules Pending For TWIC, MMC President Signs SAFE Port Act The SIU and the American maritime industry as a whole still are awaiting the Department of Homeland Security’s final rulemaking on the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and its related Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC). As reported in previous editions of the Seafarers LOG, representatives from the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. during the last several months repeatedly have met with government and industry officials to deliberate about the protection of merchant mariners’ rights as they relate to the pending TWIC and MMC. Union officials have approached the entire situation with the greatest urgency and utmost seriousness and will continue to do so. “We will immediately and thoroughly weigh all aspects on the final rulemakings when they are delivered and, as always, keep everyone advised,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Seafarers are reminded that, based on the proposed rulemakings, it is anticipated that they will have 180 days after final rules are issued to come into compliance. Meanwhile, President George W. Bush on Oct. 13 signed H.R. 4954, The Security and Accountability for Every (SAFE) Port Act of 2006, into law. The legislation heightens security at the nation’s busiest seaports by enacting a series of technological upgrades intended to make it more difficult for terrorists to smuggle in a nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. In response to the signing, Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (DHawaii), co-chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, issued the following statement: “While we should be proud of the port security sections of this law, we should not ignore the fact that this is an incomplete transportation security bill. I had hoped that today we would be celebrating the first comprehensive effort to secure our borders since the attacks of September 11, 2001. Instead, we can only hope that in the next Congress we will have the resolve to address rail and transit security before those who would do us harm take advantage of vulnerabilities in those modes of transportation.” In addition to recommending $400 million a year in federal funding for the PSG program, the SAFE Port Act of 2006: „ Changes the statute to make the grants risk-based, consistent with how the grants are currently managed; Continued on page 8 Seafarers LOG 5 �‘SIU Through and Through’ Union Bids Farewell to Retired VP Red Campbell Fellow Seafarers knew him simply as Red. Angus Campbell spent most of his life serving the union, first as a rank-and-file member during and after World War II and later as vice president of contracts. The former bosun retired in late 1991 but continued working part-time for the SIU until his health would not permit it, roughly a year ago. Brother Campbell died on Sept. 22 in Waldorf, Md., a couple weeks shy of his 85th birthday. His SIU career deserves celebration in its own right, but his passing also marks a milestone in the union’s history. Campbell is believed to have been the last surviving headquarters official who sailed in World War II. Former shipmates, fellow union officials and company representatives all described Red as trustworthy, efficient, dedicated and by-the-book. They also mentioned his unwavering love of all things Pittsburgh, and primarily his devotion to baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates—a team that’s been bad since the mid-1990s but that Red still had followed daily. If watching the Pirates arguably had become a bad habit, Red also had an outright vice that was a constant part of his persona. He chewed tobacco for most of his adult life, usually throughout the day, with little or no ill effect on his health. “Red was one of the most dedicated officials in the SIU,” said Seafarers President Michael Sacco. “This membership was his family. He was respected by not only all of maritime labor but the entire maritime industry. He’ll be sorely missed by a lot of people.” Retired Bosun Rowland “Snake” Williams sailed with Campbell on Bull Line ships during the 1950s. “You couldn’t meet From the late 1940s to late 1950s, Campbell shared his wit via an occasional column in the union newspaper known as “Red’s Beef Box.” Red Campbell presents his report at his last official union meeting, in December 1991 in Piney Point, Md. He retired that month but continued serving the union for many years afterward. a better guy,” he recalled. “He was a great person and a good friend. He always walked around with that chaw of tobacco and talked about Pittsburgh baseball…. When he went to work for the union (as an official), we got some damn good contracts signed by him.” Tony Naccarato, an official with SIU-contracted Crowley, met Campbell in the early 1970s. “The great thing about Red was that when I came on board, he treated me like I’d been around for years,” Naccarato noted. “He was one of my favorite guys, and the kind of person who called them as he saw it. Red’s only agenda was to do right for the people. I learned very quickly that if I didn’t know an answer, I’d get the answer from Red and it wasn’t strictly to benefit himself or anyone else, but the truth.” Born in Scotland, Campbell immigrated to Pittsburgh in 1926 (at age 5) and joined the SIU in 1943 in New York, after working in the steel mills. He first sailed aboard the Daniel Willard and later took part in the historic invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944 (see sidebar). He shared his sense of humor—Campbell had a penchant for one-liners—with fellow union members after World War II, when he began writing occasional articles for the Seafarers LOG. He wrote two or three stories per year, many under the title “Red’s Beef Box,” until the late 1950s. The topics were wide-ranging, but the humorous tone remained consistent. Altogether, he sailed for more than 5,000 days during his 16-plus years as a rank-and-file member, an average of 10.5 months per year at sea and a fact of which Campbell was quite proud. In this 1972 photo, Campbell (left) is pictured with fellow SIU Representative George McCartney (second from left) and two members aboard the McLean in New York. Campbell and McCartney (who died in 2004) later served the union as vice presidents. 6 Seafarers LOG He came ashore in 1960 and spent the next 20 years working as a port official, first in New York, then in San Juan, P.R. and then once again in New York. He served as vice president of the union’s collective bargaining department from 1980 through his official retirement in December 1991. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel described Campbell as “our resident historian. Young officials needing the history of a particular (contract) clause or its intent would call on Red. He would always take the time to explain it and why it was there. Red’s knowledge of the industry was a great resource to have and shortly after coming ashore, I took advantage of that and called Red on a regular basis. “He always had great stories of the old days and would remind you that being a seafarer back then was not easy,” Heindel added. “He would say, ‘The good old days weren’t so good. We’re living in the good old days!’” SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram first worked with Campbell in New York in 1981. “He was a detail person—dotted all his i’s and crossed all his t’s. He motivated me to try to be perfect when it came to union business and serving the membership,” Mangram said. “I had the utmost respect for him, and I’ll never forget him.” Mangram also noted that during the 1980s, “Red helped get us on board with military contracts when shipping was otherwise bad. He kept people working.” Capt. Robert Johnston, senior vice president of Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG), met Campbell in 1976 “when I came ashore as a port captain and we’d pay off ships. I had such respect for Red. In later years, if we couldn’t settle a beef locally, I’d tell a patrolman, let’s get Red on the phone, and whatever he says is fine with me. He was probably the fairest and most honest guy you could ever meet…. Nobody knew the contract better than Red. Not only the contract, but the history behind it. He always treated everybody fairly.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, who directly worked with Campbell as assistant vice president contracts from 1988-91, said, “Red was the ultimate technician, and you always knew where he was coming from. He didn’t play games. Red saw most things in black and white terms, and he was a true creature of his upbringing. He was a child of the Depression and sailed in World War II, and his views were formed by those experiences. I’m very fortunate to have known him and learned from him. He was one of the best.” Tellez also noted that Campbell’s no-nonsense approach included constructive feedback that he provided to other officials when warranted. “There’s not a union official who broke in while Red was still around who didn’t experience the dreaded ‘click’ phone call. ‘But, Red…. Click!’” Bob Rogers, vice president of Interocean American Shipping Corporation, first worked with Campbell in 1977 when Rogers was a personnel manager. “Red was SIU through and through,” he stated. “It’s a privilege to say I knew Red. He loved the union and knew the contract backwards and forwards, and could cite the history of the union movement like no one else. “But, if you wanted to get Red’s attention off the contract, all you had to do was ask a question about one of his other two passions—Pittsburgh baseball and gardening,” Rogers continued. “He scheduled his year around the trips he’d make to Pittsburgh to watch a few home games, and watched or listened to baseball whenever he could. His lawn and garden would rival anything any professional could ever try to do.” He concluded, “More than anything else, Red was someone you immediately liked—and trusted. The tone of my entire relationship with both Red and the SIU was set early on when I called him with a contract question. I described the situation and I can still remember Red saying, ‘No, that’s not what the contract says, and it isn’t payable.’ To Red, the contract was the contract—if it was in the contract it was payable, if it wasn’t in the contract it wasn’t paid. He never tried to change the meaning. From that moment on, back in 1977, I knew without any doubt or reservation that Red —and the SIU—could always be trusted.” SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker said, “Over the last 25 years I have had the privilege of knowing Red Campbell, first as a member, then a junior officer and eventually as one of his successors. Among the lessons I’ve learned from Red is sacrifice. Whether postponing vacations, cancelling plans or doing without, Red’s priority was this union. His example is the standard when it comes to dedication and why Red was simply the best at what he did.” Campbell’s survivors include his wife, Marie, and four daughters. In accordance with his wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea from an SIU ship. Believed to have been taken in 1950, this photo shows Campbell (standing, left) and others looking over a list of candidates for SIU offices. ‘Red’ Recalls D-Day Scene Editor’s note: This story is reprinted from the April 1994 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Brother Campbell also was a strong advocate in the long, successful fight to secure veterans’ status for World War II mariners. He joined the merchant marine in 1943 after being rejected for volunteer service in the military due to medical issues. Retired SIU Vice President Angus “Red” Campbell was one of many Seafarers who took part in the historic invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. “It was better than any John Wayne movie,” said Campbell. “I was on the Thomas Wolfe, a Liberty ship, and we left New York in April. We discharged cargo in Wales. Then we went to Scotland to take on some preparatory gear for the invasion, along with three British aircraft spotters. Eventually we loaded in Southampton, England, about a week before the invasion. Then we followed the mob.” He described the scene at Normandy as “remarkable. There were hundreds of airplanes, battleships, cruisers…. A week later, you were still getting shell fire from the 88 millimeters, from the pillboxes on the beach, which were about 12 feet thick. “There was no problem with the air, but the water was filled with acoustic mines, which are drawn by sound into the propeller. There were lots of bodies in the water: soldiers and sailors…. “We discharged cargo at the beachhead for 90 cents an hour. Seamen also were required to assist the gun crews. So, in addition to your fire and boat station, everybody on board had a gun assignment. There were 24-hour-a-day lookout assignments, including the crow’s nest.” Campbell added that there was a humorous side to the voyage. “Our engine room crew members basically all came from Georgia and Florida. The people in the deck and steward departments were from New York, so the Civil War also raged for the full 12 months of our voyage.” November 2006 �Revised Medical Guidelines Spell Out Usual Practices The U.S. Coast Guard in September issued two notices regarding merchant mariner physical examination requirements. Published in the Sept. 28 Federal Register, the announcements serve notice that the agency has drafted revised guidelines covering medical and physical exams for merchant mariner credentials. The revised guidelines are based on, respectively, requirements in the amended STCW Convention and recommendations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) that were issued in the wake of the 2003 Staten Island ferry incident in New York Harbor. The first proposal, “Medical and Physical Evaluation Guidelines for Merchant Mariner Credentials,” seeks public comment on a draft Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular on medical and physical evaluation guidelines for merchant mariner credentials. Public comments on this proposed draft may be submitted through Nov. 27. The guidelines are intended to specify what has been considered the normal practice for mariners who take physicals in order to secure or renew their z-card. The guidelines themselves generally have been used all along, without having been spelled out by a federal agency. Hence, this is not expected to be a major change in the industry. In part, the first notice—under the subhead “Why is the Coast Guard taking this action?”— reads: “The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW) requires each party to establish standards of medical fitness for seafarers. Title 46 United States Code, Subtitle II, Part E, and Title 46 Code of Federal NCL CEO Veitch Honored For American-Flag Efforts Recognizing his efforts to build a vibrant and successful U.S.-flag deep sea cruise fleet, Colin Veitch, president and CEO of NCL Corporation (NCL) was honored on Oct. 13 by the International Propeller Club of the United States as the 2006 Maritime Person of the Year at the organization’s 80th annual international convention in Norfolk, Va. The award is presented to a person who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in furthering and promoting the maritime industry. Under Veitch’s guidance, the company’s SIU-contracted NCL America brand has revitalized the U.S.-flag large cruise ship industry, operating three Americanflag passenger ships. NCL America’s operations provide substantial economic benefits to the United States, generating hundreds of millions of dollars and creating thousands of American jobs. The individuals employed by NCL America help sustain a pool of qualified mariners who can be called upon to assist the U.S. military in times of need or national emergency. In July 2004, NCL America christened Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha, the first new U.S.flag deep sea cruise ship in nearly 50 years. In June 2005, the SIUcrewed Pride of America followed and at the time became the largest U.S.-flag passenger ship ever built. NCL America again made U.S. maritime history in May 2006 by christening the SIUcrewed Pride of Hawaii, which the company describes as “the largest, most luxurious and most expensive U.S.-flagged cruise ship in history.” According to NCL, the three ships are estimated to create directly and indirectly 20,000 jobs and generate more than $800 million in economic activity in the United States. “It is a great honor to be recognized by the International Propeller Club of the United States for my work in the U.S. maritime industry,” Veitch said. “Many people have contributed November 2006 NCL President and CEO Colin Veitch to the success of NCL and NCL America, and I would like to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to everyone on the NCL team, and particularly our partners in maritime labor and in the U.S. government. Without their support, I would not be receiving this award.” “Colin had the vision for a revitalized U.S.-flag cruise industry,” said A. Frank Baptista, Sr., the Propeller Club’s international president. “He followed through to make it a reality, investing more than a $1.3 billion dollars in U.S.-flag cruise ships, offering new seagoing opportunities for American seafarers, and providing tremendous economic benefits to Hawaii and the rest of the United States.” Veitch joined NCL in 2000 and has embarked the company on a major new build campaign that has resulted in the company adding eight new ships to the NCL and NCL America brands in six years, with a ninth due for delivery in November. Veitch holds an MBA degree from the Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of London. He is based in NCL’s corporate headquarters in Miami. The International Propeller Club of the United States is a non-profit organization whose members comprise a cross-section of the maritime industry throughout the United States and in many cities in other countries. Regulations (CFR) subpart B require that mariners be physically able to perform their duties, using terms such as ‘general physical condition,’ ‘good health’ and ‘of sound health.’ Title 46 CFR parts 401 and 402 contain special requirements for registration as a Great Lakes Pilot, including the requirement to ‘pass a physical examination given by a licensed medical doctor.’ None of these references contain specific standards, with the exception of visual acuity and color vision, for determining if mariners are physically and medically qualified. “The lack of specificity in the above statutes and regulations has led to confusion and unnecessary delays in processing credential applications as well as inconsistent evaluations by medical practitioners conducting examinations of credential applicants. Moreover, it has caused confusion on the part of Coast Guard personnel charged with determining whether a credential should be issued. The proposed NVIC provides the specificity that the above statutes and regulations lack. It details the specific medical and physical conditions that are potentially disqualifying, and the data recommended for evaluation of each of these conditions. This is expected to reduce the inconsistency and subjectivity of the medical evaluation process and eliminate the guesswork that mariners may currently encounter as to what specific physical and medical information is needed to process their applications.” The second notice, “Exercise of Authority to Require Pilots to Submit Annual Physical Examinations,” announced that the agency will require pilots of certain vessels to provide a copy of Labor Vows Fight Over ‘Kentucky River’ Cases The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Oct. 3 voted to slash longtime federal labor laws protecting workers’ freedom to form unions and opened the door for employers to classify millions of workers as supervisors. Under federal labor law, supervisors are prohibited from forming unions. The NLRB ruled on three cases, collectively known as “Kentucky River,” but it was the lead case—Oakwood Healthcare Inc.—that created a new definition of supervisor. In this litigation which involved an acute care hospital in Michigan, the board ruled that permanent charge nurses are supervisors (but not nurses who sometimes rotate into the charge nurse role). The board used that case and two others—one involving a Minnesota nursing home, the other a Mississippi metals plant—to address issues raised by a 2001 Supreme Court ruling. Union officials predicted the ruling would have a chilling effect on union organizing because employees who are uncertain whether they qualify for membership would be less inclined to advocate a union. Dozens of cases involving the definition of supervisor now before the NLRB will be sent back, with employers having the option to craft arguments that will meet the new definition of supervisor and limit the number of workers who can join a union. Although the Oakwood decision covers only nurses, the expanded definition of supervisors means up to 8 million workers—including nurses, building trades workers, newspaper and television employees and others— may be barred from joining unions. The ruling sets broad definitions for determining who is a supervisor that invite employers to classify nurses and many lower-level employees with minor authority as supervisors. The board’s new definition essentially enables employers to make a supervisor out of any worker who has the authority to assign or direct another and uses independent judgment. Amazingly, the board also ruled that a worker can be classified as a supervisor if he or she spends as little as 10 percent to 15 percent of his or her time overseeing the work of others. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney called the decisions “outrageous and unjustified.” It’s the latest example of how the NLRB is prepared to use legal maneuvering to deny as many workers as possible their basic right to have a voice on the job through their union, he said. “The NLRB should protect workers’ rights, not eliminate them,” the federation president concluded. “If the administration expects us to take this quietly, they’re mistaken.” In their dissent, NLRB members Wilma Liebman and Dennis Walsh said the decision “threatens to create a new class of workers under federal labor law—workers who have neither the genuine prerogatives of management, nor the statutory rights of ordinary employees.” Liebman and Walsh wrote that most professionals and other workers could fall under the new definition of supervisor, “who by 2012 could number almost 34 million, accounting for 23.3 percent of the workforce.” They went on to say that the majority did not follow what Congress intended in applying the National Labor Relations Act: Congress cared about the precise scope of the Act’s definition of “supervisor” and so should the Board. The NLRB currently is holding up dozens of cases that address the definition of supervisor, 60 of which are union election cases. These cases have been sent back to the various regional boards. In some of these instances, workers who voted several years ago to form a union still are waiting for their ballots to be counted. The American Federation of Teachers and AFT Healthcare in a statement also said the decisions will jeopardize health care: “If nurses and other skilled workers are considered supervisors and lose union protection, they would be extremely reluctant to speak out about patient care problems out of fear of being fired or disciplined. The ramifications of this case are extremely serious; the decision could have a significant their annual physical examinations to the Coast Guard. The requirement applies to all first class pilots on vessels greater than 1,600 gross registered tons and other individuals who serve as pilots on certain types of vessels. Materials related to the foregoing matters, including copies of the Federal Register notices and procedures for submitting comments on the Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular are available on the U.S. Coast Guard’s Homeport web site: http://homeport.uscg.mil/mycg/po rtal/ep/home.do To access the information from the Homeport main page, visitors should click on “Merchant Mariner” in the left column. On the next page, click “Updates” under “Medical Evaluations” in the center column. Updates and new information will be posted to this site as they become available. A link to the Federal Register notice also is available through the SIU web site, www.seafarers.org. impact on the quality of patient care and workers’ rights.” A group of 13 religious leaders in September wrote the NLRB expressing deep concern over the impending decisions. The letter read in part: “Our religious traditions support workers’ right to organize and bargain collectively. We support proposals that expand coverage and access to collective bargaining rather than limit it. We believe that all persons are created in the image of God and as such their work unites them with others and should be endowed with dignity, equality and justice. In the workplace, collective bargaining is the most effective process for workers to express this dimension of their humanity.” Speaking at a Sept. 22 conference on the possible impact of the Kentucky River cases, Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) condemned the NLRB’s refusal to conduct oral arguments in these cases. “These decisions could very well change the basic rights of American workers,” she said. “Given the stakes, the NLRB needs to be as thorough as possible in hearing testimony. The fact that the NLRB has not held hearings shows that the board is not taking this case as seriously as it should. At the heart of the issue is the right of workers to organize, to bargain collectively and to share in decisions,” the congresswoman concluded. The Economic Policy Institute, some three months before the NLRB Kentucky River decisions, issued a report on the impact of the body’s pending rulings. According to the EPI: „ Bad rulings in these cases could strip remaining federal labor law protections of the freedom to form unions and bargain collectively from eight million private sector workers. „ Workers who are at risk of being deemed “supervisors” by the Labor Board and who could therefore lose their union rights can be found in nearly every occupation and industry. EPI finds, for example, that 843,000 registered nurses—more than one-third of all the private sector RNs in the country—may be stripped of union rights coverage. Nearly 400,000 computer systems analysts— more than one in four—could lose coverage. Seafarers LOG 7 �Pension Reform Q&A – Information about the New Law First in an occasional series. Q: What are a few basics of the new pension reform law? A: The Pension Protection Act of 2006 was signed into law in August. Like most bills, it is considered a compromise measure. It’s also considered major reform and is, to say the least, complex (the final document contains nearly 400 pages). The law’s stated intent, as its name indicates, is to initiate or strengthen rules to help ensure proper funding of various types of pension plans. Q: What are a few of the specifics? A: The new law requires companies that under-fund their pension plans to pay additional premiums (a strong incentive to reach and maintain full funding levels). It closes loopholes that allow under-funded plans to skip pension payments. It raises limits on the amount of money that employers can put into their pension plans (to allow for a financial cushion). For multiemployer defined benefit plans, it requires actuarial certification as to whether a plan is in endangered or critical status. It specifies certain language that must be included in mandatory annual funding notices like the one that was published in the September 2006 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Q: Why did the Seafarers Pension Plan notice in the September LOG include a long section on rules governing insolvent plans? Is the SPP in trouble? A: The Seafarers Pension Plan is fully funded. The Plan is not in trouble at all. The Plan is financially sound. Under the new law, the federal government dictates virtually everything about the annual funding notice, including its content, the manner in which it is distributed, deadlines for distribution—and inclusion of the rules governing insolvent plans. At a glance it may cause undue concern for Plan participants (Seafarers). The bottom line is that SPP is in excellent shape. Q: In plain English, why was this new law needed in the first place, and how will it affect the SPP? A: There are a number of troubled pension plans across the country and this is an attempt to help repair them. Another stated reason for the reform is “transparency”—participants will be entitled to a lot more information than in years past. Generally, the new law doesn’t affect multiemployer plans (such as the SPP) as much as single-employer plans, other than with disclosure requirements. Q: What are defined benefit and defined contribution plans? A: The Labor Department describes a defined benefit plan as Final Rules for TWIC, MMC Pending Continued from page 5 Eliminates DHS’s current policy of limiting eligibility by allowing all port facilities within an Area Maritime Transportation Security Plan to apply; „ Ties federal port grants to state plans, area plans and Port Wide Risk Management plans; „ Allows multi-year funding of approved projects for up to 20 percent of each year’s grants; „ Sets a deadline for implementing a new credentialing program for port workers to ensure they are not security risks and calls for pilot projects to test biometric readers at ports; „ Requires DHS to deploy nuclear and radiological detection systems at 22 of the nation’s largest seaports; „ Mandates DHS to develop a detailed incident recovery plan to get trade moving again in the event of an attack; and, „ Sets in motion cargo scanning pilot programs at overseas ports to test the practicality and effectiveness of systems designed to scan 100 percent of cargo, which was approved for funding in the just-passed DHS appropriations bill. In a related development, the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), during the days before the SAFE Port Act of 2006 became law, praised Congress for passing the measure— the first legislation of its kind to authorize an annual federal fund„ 8 Seafarers LOG ing level to help secure United States ports against terrorism. “In this important new legislation, members of several House and Senate committees took components of the GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act (S. 2459), the SAFE Port Act (H.R. 4954) and the Public Transportation Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006 (S. 2791) to develop a bill that enhances port and cargo security at home, strengthens the lone federal program that helps America’s ports harden their facilities against terrorism, and reduces the potential for terrorists or weapons to reach our shores via maritime commerce,” said Kurt Nagle, AAPA president and CEO. Nagle recognized Reps. Dan Lungren (R-Calif.) and Jane Harman (D-Calif.) for introducing and moving their version of the port security legislation through the House. He credited Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), chair, Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs and Patty Murray (D-Wash.), together with Sens. Ted Stevens (R-Ark.) and Inouye of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, as the key drivers for negotiating a similar bill in the Senate. “By passing the SAFE Port Act, we’re gratified that Congress recognizes it needs to have a greater financial partnership with U.S. ports to pay for critical seaport security measures,” said Nagle. “Yet, for this upcoming fiscal year, dramatic differences remain between the amount Congress recommended for port security and what it will actually fund.” one that “promises you a specified monthly benefit at retirement. The plan may state this promised benefit as an exact dollar amount, such as $100 per month at retirement. Or, more commonly, it may calculate a benefit through a plan formula that considers such factors as salary and service for example, 1 percent of your average salary for the last 5 years of employment for every year of service with your employer. A defined contribution plan, on the other hand, does not promise you a specific amount of benefits at retirement. In these plans, you or your employer (or both) contribute to your individual account under the plan, sometimes at a set rate, such as 5 percent of your earnings annually. These contributions generally are invested on your behalf. You will ultimately receive the balance in your account, which is based on contributions plus or minus investment gains or losses.” (An administrative charge also may affect an account balance.) Q: Generally, how has the labor movement reacted to the new law? A: Labor’s response has varied, with some unions praising the bill and others being far more cau- tious. AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Richard Trumka put it this way: “If employers continue to offer fully funded defined benefit pension plans, retirement security will indeed be strengthened. But if employers use the requirements of the act as an excuse to freeze or terminate the plans they have, the act will put our nation’s retirement security at even greater risk than it is now.” His quote points to one of the concerns about the new law—namely, that it ultimately may decrease the number of companies offering pensions to their employees. Q: Where can I get more information? A: The SPP funding notice appears on page 10 of the September LOG. For more information about the notice, you may contact Margaret R. Bowen, plan administrator, at (301) 899-0675, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. For more information about the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency, go to their web site, www.pbgc.gov, or call them at 1-800-400-7242 (TTY/TDD users may call the Federal relay service toll-free at 1-800-8778339 and ask to be connected to 1800-400-7242). For more information on various types of pension plans, visit the Department of Labor web site (www.dol.gov). Notice NMU Plans Relocating To Camp Springs Effective Jan. 1, 2007, the NMU Pension, Annuity and Vacation Plans will be moved to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. According to SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, this move is being done in an effort to provide better service to the membership. Reductions in administrative cost also should be realized as a result of the relocation. NOTICE TO SIU CIVMAR MEMBERS SAILING ABOARD ACOE, MARAD, MSC AND NOAA VESSELS September 26, 2006 As a result of a rule adopted by the U.S. Department of Labor in June 2006, all unions that represent employees who work for the federal government (which includes CIVMARS) are now required to send out a notice to their government employee/members containing certain information. As you know, your union is constantly working to protect your safety, health and employment rights and there are many benefits and advantages for all CIVMARS who join the Seafarers International Union. The summary noted below is intended to make sure that all SIU members understand the rights and privileges of union membership and the responsibilities of the union officers they elect. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights — Union members have: „ equal rights to participate in union activities „ freedom of speech and assembly „ voice in setting rates of dues, fees, and assessments „ protection of the right to sue „ safeguards against improper discipline Collective Bargaining Agreements — As an SIU member you have the right to have input into collective bargaining negotiations. Members and certain nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Constitutions, Bylaws and Reports — Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make these documents available to members and permit members to examine the records necessary to verify the financial reports for just cause. The documents are public information and copies of reports are available from OLMS and on the Internet at www.union-reports.dol.gov. Officer Elections — In accordance with the union’s constitution, union members have the right to: „ nominate candidates for office „ run for office „ cast a secret ballot „ 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 — A union may not be placed in trusteeship by a parent body except for those reasons specified in the standards of conduct regulations. Protection for Exercising CSRA Rights — A union or any of its officials may not fine, expel, or otherwise discipline a member for exercising any CSRA right. Prohibition Against Violence — No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of his or her CSRA 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. The union must provide accounting and financial controls necessary to assure fiscal integrity. Prohibition of Conflicts of Interest — A union officer or employee may not (1) have any monetary or personal interest or (2) engage in any business or financial transaction that would conflict with his or her fiduciary obligation to the union. 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 that 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 „ retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years 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 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. The union also works to make sure that CIVMARS understand their shipboard rights and responsibilities and receive fair treatment from their agency. Additional benefits for union members include life insurance coverage which may be purchased for a nominal fee and access to many other benefits through the AFL-CIO’s Union Privilege program. For more information about how the SIU can better serve you please contact: Chet Wheeler 1121 7th Street Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 cwheeler@seafarers.org Kate Hunt 635 4th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 khunt@seafarers.org Maurice Cokes 115 Third Street Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 rcokes@seafarers.org November 2006 �Aboard the Alaskan Legend, which recently docked in Long Beach, Calif., Chief Cook Johnson Ashun looks over one of the newly delivered LOGs while AB Paul Longley finishes up his lunch. S eafarers At Sea And Ashore QMED Walt “Wilden” Filleman goes about his chores on board the USNS Gordon. With election time nearing, SIU Rep Dan Duncan (left) discusses maritime issues in Johnson City, Tenn. with Harold Ford Jr., a congressman from Memphis who is running for the U.S. Senate. A new Word War II memorial was dedicated July 4, 2006 in Gloucester, Mass. Anthony Testaverde, who sailed with the SIU in the early ’80s, stands in front of the memorial, which notes that Gloucester had double the national average of men and women in the service. Vanessa Fickel, steward aboard the Capt. Steven L. Bennett, took “Best Overall Taste” honors for her entry in the “Chili Cook-off,” held Sept. 10, 2006 at the Seaman’s Center in Diego Garcia. She was crowned “Chili Queen” for her tasty recipe. Proceeds from the event were donated to support the Navy Ball Fund. Thanks to Capt. Rhett Mann for sending this photo to the LOG. Ships’ wheels were among the retirement gifts given to Tarlton (Buddy) Langele and Paul (Red) Roach from Crescent Towing of Mobile. From the left are Crescent Towing VP Arthur Kulp, Langele, SIU Port Agent Ed Kelly, Crescent Towing VP Tad Wilcutt and Roach. Some of the first Seafarers to line up at the Oakland hall to cast their ballots on the first day of voting for the purpose of amending the constitution of the SIU are (from left) OMU Cirico Geonanga, DEU Emmanuel Bayani Jr. and AB Jimmy Taranto. Handing out the ballots is Safety Director Kathy Chester. The balloting period was from Sept. 1 through Oct. 31. A delicious birthday cake helped Dispatcher Nick Rios celebrate his September birthday at the Wilmington, Calif. hall. November 2006 Seafarers LOG 9 �Floating Railroad Continues a Proud Tradition N ew York New Jersey Rail, which operates Cross Harbor Railroad in New York Harbor, is one of the most unique operations in the United States, and the SIU members who work there continue to find it an exciting way of life. A century ago, several hundred rail cars were floated across the harbor each day from the Greenville yard in Jersey City, N.J. to the Bush Terminal yard in Brooklyn, N.Y. aboard barges. Today, rail cars are making a rebirth by crossing the harbor on carfloats carrying nearly 8,000 rail cars each year and operating in much the same manner as they did in the late ’30s and ’40s. The trip across the harbor takes 45 minutes—much quicker than shipping overland, which can take up to 5 days round trip. The Seafarers International Union represents seven employees at New York New Jersey Rail: conductors, engineers, brakemen and bridgemen. Working with new management, the SIU recently was able to secure for the employees a oneyear extension to their contract, which includes a wage increase, additional vacation day, guaranteed 40-hour work week and a longevity bonus. Metropolitan New York is one of the largest consumer markets in the world, receiving goods at its ports that then need to be transported inland by way of truck. By moving much of this freight on the water, truck congestion is reduced (one rail car is the equivalent of four trucks) and so are vehicle emissions. Therefore, each round trip crossing removes 120 trucks from the local bridges, tunnels and roadways and also provides shippers— who don’t want to travel the extra 150 miles to Albany—with a shortcut across the Hudson River. Rail cars that arrive at the Greenville yard are loaded onto the operating barge—called a carfloat—which then makes the crossing to Brooklyn, where they are offloaded. The cargo moved includes a wide variety of commodities— everything from food products, building and construction materials and paper to hay, scrap and oversized machinery that is too large for road transport. The New York City Transit Authority also utilizes the train-ferry facility to get old, new and refurbished subway cars in and out of the system. New York New Jersey Rail recently made the news (The New York Times, Aug. 11, 2006) when it donated a 95-ton, 60-year-old engine locomotive to a project organized by the Department of Parks and Recreation. For the cost of the The barge carrying rail cars arrives at the Bush Terminal yard in Brooklyn. Mokihana to Be Converted From Containership to RO/RO Seafarers-contacted Matson Navigation Co. in late September signed a $17 million contact with Atlantic Marine Alabama LLC to perform work related to the conversion of the Mokihana, a containership, into a combination container and roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessel. Work is scheduled to begin in April 2007 at Atlantic Marine’s shipyard in Alabama and should be completed within two months. The conversion of the Mokihana is part of a previously announced $45 million upgrade of Matson’s service capabilities in its Hawaii service, which includes shoreside facility improvements and investments in new information technology. The modifications to the ship “will increase Matson’s RO/RO capacity in our Hawaii service by 35 percent,” said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president for ocean services. “It will help further Matson’s objective of providing our auto customers with the two features they prefer: frequency of service and RO/RO capacity. The new state-of-the-art Next April, Matson’s containership Mokihana (left) will be converted into a combination container and RO/RO vessel. 10 Seafarers LOG Working at the Bush Terminal yard in Brooklyn are, from the left, Engineer Scott Toomey, Conductor Jim Lada, Brakeman Sam Evans and Brakeman Jose Torres. Engineer Paul Pietrowski and Conductor Joe Muran (not pictured) work at the Greenville yard in Jersey City. The photos accompanying this article were taken by Union Rep Joe Baselice during a recent service visit. engine’s scrap-metal value ($30,000), the No. 25 was restored and will be the centerpiece of Manhattan’s newest public park. Old No. 25 was not the kind of locomotive that powered sleek passenger trains; rather it was a rugged switching engine run by a 660-horsepower diesel engine built by the American Locomotive Company in Schenectady, N.Y. in 1946 for the Erie Railroad. It was in use in Brooklyn from 1967 until the 1990s. A number of workers, including SIU members and volunteers, helped refurbish the old engine. One of the volunteers was Diane Mitchner, who shipped with the SIU for 10 years starting in 1979. A graduate of trainee class 278, Mitchner sailed in the deep sea division, last as a chief steward on the Sea-Land Express. While working on the arts project (painting the interior of the car), she made friends with the railroad crew at the yard. And in talking with them, the subject of the SIU came up and she was surprised to find out they were members. She told the Seafarers LOG that she hadn’t known about New York New Jersey Rail when she was a member and was tickled to find garage unit will have all of the features of a pure car carrier, including a fully enclosed garage, ventilation, lighting and various safety components to minimize damage in transit.” The Mokihana will join two other combination RO/RO containerships in the Matson fleet, the SS Lurline and SS Matsonia. “As one of the leading U.S.flag carriers, Matson is proud to further demonstrate its commitment to supporting U.S. shipyards,” said James Andrasick, Matson president and CEO. “In the past six years, Matson has awarded $584 million of work to U.S. shipyards, including over $500 million to Aker Philadelphia Shipyard for the construction of four new containerships.” Matson, a wholly owned subsidiary of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. of Honolulu, provides ocean transportation, intermodal and logistics services. Its RO/RO capabilities have been utilized by the U.S. Armed Forces for the movement of military equipment to and from Hawaii. Matson also maintains multi-year agreements with many of the major car companies to transport their vehicles to the island state. out that even though she had stopped sailing, she had somehow found her way back to her union roots. Layers of lead paint had to be stripped from the engine, and toxic fluids and batteries were removed in order to make it child-safe. The bright blue color was replaced with the black and yellow colors of the New York Central, and an “86” prefix was added to “No. 25” to recreate with historical accuracy the designation of trains in the original West Side rail yard. In mid-August, the engine was barged from Brooklyn to Jersey City, where it was loaded on another barge equipped with a crane. It later was floated across the Hudson River and lifted onto a flatbed truck, transported and then deposited in its new location on a set of historic rails from another section of the city. A plaza will be built around the engine with a children’s play area. No. 25 and the new West Side park will officially open to the public next spring where children and adults alike will be able to walk into the two-person interior. “It’s irresistible—everyone wants to play in a train,” said Tim Watkins, the project’s exhibit-design consultant. At right: Brakeman Sam Evans switches the tracks at the Brooklyn yard. Below: Conductor Jim Lada secures the barge lines to the dock. November 2006 �American Legion Backs U.S. Cabotage Laws The American Legion recently passed a resolution supporting the Jones Act in addition to other cabotage laws and also recognizing the vital role of the U.S.-flag fleet. Meeting Aug. 29-31 in Salt Lake City for the organization’s 88th national convention, the American Legion’s Convention Committee on National Security submitted the resolution (No. 102), titled “Support for the Jones Maritime Act and Related Cabotage Laws.” The resolution reads as follows: “WHEREAS, The American Legion has always stressed that maintaining a viable U.S.-Flag Merchant Marine and its supporting infrastructure is essential to the economic, national, and environmental security of this nation; and “WHEREAS, The maritime policy of the United States, as articulated in the 1936 Merchant Marine Act, states that ‘it is necessary for the national defense and development of its foreign and domestic commerce that the United States shall have a Merchant Marine’; and “WHEREAS, The American Legion is concerned about the continued decline of the U.S.Flag Merchant Marine and the shortage of trained American mariners; and “WHEREAS, At the beginning of 1998, the privately owned ocean-going U.S.-flag fleet consisted of only 259 active ships, which includes 119 ships in domestic trade and 36 other engaged exclusively in U.S. government work; thus, only 104 U.S.-Flag ships are operating in international trade in support of the nation’s economic and national security interests; and “WHEREAS, The United States is the world’s largest trading nation, but only three percent of U.S. imports and exports are carried in U.S.-flag ships which is economically unwise and mili- tarily imprudent; and “WHEREAS, The Jones Act which is critical to United States national security and to America’s economic well-being should be reaffirmed as should the continuation of the annual appropriations needed to fund the Maritime Security Act of 1996; now, therefore, be it “RESOLVED, By The American Legion in National Convention assembled in Salt Lake City, Utah, August 29, 30, 31, 2006, That The American Legion support the Jones Act and related Maritime cabotage laws critical to America’s maritime infrastructure, and therefore, to the United States national defense.” The group also passed a resolution titled “Commercial Shipbuilding for Defense,” in which it again emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-flag fleet, particularly for sealift missions. That resolution (No. 103) reads in part, “The American Legion urge(s) the President and Congress to boost naval budgets, promote commercial shipbuilding, expand the use of U.S. flagships in world commerce, and resist foreign actions that would further damage America’s defense industrial base.” President Bush addressed the convention Aug. 31. “As veterans, all of you stepped forward when America needed you most ... and we owe you more than just thanks,” he stated. On its web site, the American Legion notes that it was chartered by Congress in 1919 “as a patriotic, mutual-help, war-time veterans organization. A communityservice organization which now numbers nearly 3 million members—men and women—in nearly 15,000 American Legion Posts worldwide. These Posts are organized into 55 Departments—one each for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Mexico, and the Philippines.” USNS Mendonca Delivers in Germany The SIU-crewed USNS Mendonca offloaded more than 100 U.S. Army Stryker Brigade combat vehicles in Bremerhaven, Germany in late July. The 950-foot ship had loaded in Tacoma, Wash. and then traveled 9,500 miles in three weeks, according to the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The ship also delivered hundreds of other trucks, trailers, Humvees and containers, the agency reported. CIVMAR Briefs Latest NSPS Happenings Bode Well for Workers Homeland security workers whose job security is threatened by a proposed restructuring of work rules similar to that which would affect CIVMARS received good news in late September when the administration indicated that it would be putting its controversial National Security Personnel System (NSPS) program on hold, at least for now. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revealed that it would not appeal a U.S. Court of Appeals decision blocking implementation of the program. As the judges noted, “Not only (does the NSPS program) defy the well-understood meaning of collective bargaining, it also defies common sense… (It) does not even give the illusion of collective bargaining.” The United DOD Workers Coalition, an association of labor unions representing more than 700,000 Defense Department employees, made the following observation: “We are confident that the DOD will ultimately follow the DHS’s lead. The NSPS rulings thus far have gone the way of the DHS rulings, so DOD would be smart to end this now.” The SIU is part of the coalition and has worked to exempt CIVMARS from NSPS. Those efforts have been largely successful. CIVMARS are exempt from all but the labor relations provisions. Update on Internet Access Restriction Last month the LOG reported that MSC has notified the union and CIVMARS that access to their private email servers and some web sites will be restricted. The union has submitted proposals to MSC to decrease the impact of these restrictions and to ensure that CIVMARS will be able to access e-mail as well as conduct necessary financial and other types of transactions while they are at sea. The union will keep CIVMARS posted on the progress of these negotiations. Any problems with e-mail access should be reported to your union official or civmarsupport@seafarers.org. ‘Open Season’ Starts Nov. 13 The annual “open season” for the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program begins Nov. 13 and runs through Dec. 11, 2006. According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), there will be 284 plans from which to choose—a record high number. Additionally, there will be seven choices for new supplemental dental insurance along with three choices for additional vision insurance. More than 8 million people are enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). During the open season, anyone “http://www.opm.gov/insure/06/html/popups/eligibility.htm” may enroll, change health plans or options, cancel their FEHB enrollment, and change participation in “http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/pretaxfehb/index.htm” (waive or begin participation). Outside of open season, newly eligible employees may enroll within 60 days of becoming eligible for the program. According to news reports, the OPM has boosted the number of high-deductible insurance options for the year 2007. There will be 29 such plans compared to 27 in 2006—the enticement being lower premiums. Both for health insurance and dental and vision coverage, federal workers may pay premiums before taxes, through payroll deduction. A wealth of additional information is available on line at the OPM Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan web site, beginning at the following address: http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/index.asp. Is Your Ship Receiving the Seafarers LOG? SIU Government Services Division representatives recently have been told by members that some MSFSC vessels are not receiving the Seafarers LOG for months at a time. Please let your Government Services Division union representative know if your vessel is not receiving the LOG by emailing: civmarsupport@seafarers.org. With Seafarers in Puerto Rico Pictured aboard the Green Ridge in mid-September are (from left) Chief Cook Luis Aceridano, SA Jose Rojas, Bosun Thomas Skubinna and Steward Robert Wagner. Electrician Ray Prim drops in at the SIU hall in San Juan. Americo “Pichi” Garayua (right) receives his first pension check at the hall. Congratulating him is SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Chief Cook Angel Perez November 2006 AB Manuel C. Rodriguez (right) proudly shows his “A” seniority book to Port Agent Crespo. QMED Electrician Luis Roebuck Seafarers LOG 11 �Snapshots from the Port of Jackso Cape Domingo Seafarers and their Sealand Florida OMUs Watts and Porter attend the shipboard meeting on the Cape Domingo. The starboard name board on the Sealand Florida was refurbished during voyage 023 and is being mounted back into position over the lifeboat. AB Eddie Ebanks (far right) did the sanding, painting and varnishing to make it look like new. Helping him return the name board to its mount are (from the left) Bosun James Saunders, AB Randell Porter and AB Leroy Woods. AB James Rush st Florida’s gangway w Cape Diamond Maersk Carolina Recertified Steward Gerard Hyman and Chief Cook Isabel Sabio work aboard the Maersk Carolina. Aboard the Cape Diamond are (from the left) Bosun R. Boyd, QMED Allen Pryor, AB Leslie Bracy Jr. and W. Coleman, bosun on the Cape Domingo. At right is Chief Cook Tulio Gomez. Alliance New York Pensioner Remains Active Chief Cook Joseph Brooks gets the griddle going. Lef Bro ley wit (ce AB Alexander Nicholson picks up his first pension check in August from Jacksonville Port Agent Archie Ware. Nicholson, who is 72, continues to stay involved with his union. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2006 �onville Ships Voting in the Hall Voting for the purpose of amending the constitution of the Seafarers Internatonal Union/AGLIWD/NMU began Sept. 1. SIU members were able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Oct. 31. The photos below were taken of SIU members exercising their rights at the Jacksonville hall. Before voting, AB David Harvey (left) presents his book to Safety Director Randy Senatore. SA Dagoberto Norales (left) receives his ballot and mailing envelope from Union Rep Thornton Elliott. tands at the bottom of the Sealand when the ship was in Jacksonville. Chief Cook Theodore Quammie returns to his car after voting. Union Rep Thornton Elliott and Executive Assistant Karen Shuford help members follow the proper voting procedures. Chief Cook Robert Thomas is ready to cast his ballot. Waiting to get their ballots from Safety Director Randy Senatore (second from left) are (from left) Chief Cook Breon Lucas, Chief Cook Michael Harris and AB Ruben Brown. Safety Director Randy Senatore (right) checks the union book of AB Luis Alvarez. Steward Willie Massaline (far left) secures his ballot from Union Rep Thornton Elliott while Steward Carol Milstead (right) gets hers from Safety Director Randy Senatore. ft: Chief Cook Joseph ooks (right) poses in the galy of the Alliance New York th Steward L.P. Packnett enter) and SA German Guity. November 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �SIU Plan Offers Eight Scholarships For Members And Dependents In 2007 C ollege tuitions have gone up about 8 percent per year for the past 25 years, and there’s no escaping the fact that they are continuing to rise—and at a much faster rate than that of inflation or the growth in family income. According to recently released reports from the College Board, a non-profit association of 4,500 schools, colleges and universities, most students and their families can expect to pay, on average, from $112 to $1,190 more than last year for this year’s tuition and fees, depending on the type of college. Tuition costs, of course, are not the whole story. Including room and board, the cost of attending a private college is $29,026 per year on average, and $12,127 at four-year public universities. These high college costs could prevent a significant number of Americans from obtaining a college degree, and that is a shame—especially when, according to U.S. Census Bureau statistics, people with a college degree earn more than 62 percent more, on average, than those with only a high school diploma. Over a lifetime, the gap in earning potential between a high school diploma and a B.A. (or higher) is more than $1,000,000. But there is good news for Seafarers and their eligible dependents who want to continue their dreams of attaining a higher education without taking on any great financial burden: the scholarship program offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. This year, the Plan is again funding eight scholarships to SIU members, their spouses and dependent children to help offset the rising rates for a college education. Three of the scholarships for 2007 are reserved for SIU members. One of those is in the amount of $20,000 for study at a four-year college or university. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary community college or vocational school. The other five scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $20,000 each to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Where to Start? This is a great time to begin the application process. The first step is to send away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet. To receive a copy of this guide, fill out the coupon below and return it to the address listed on the form. Alternatively, copies of the booklet may be picked up at your nearest SIU hall. Then What? Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility information and, if they are eligible, should start collecting some of the other paperwork which must be submitted along with the full application by the April 15, 2007 deadline. What Information Do I Need? Items that will need to be included in the application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since schools often are quite slow in handling transcript requests, the sooner the requests are made, the better. Another part of the application includes letters of recommendation solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals. A photograph of the applicant as well as a certified copy of his or her birth certificate also need to be included. The selection committee, made up of a panel of professional educators, looks at the high school grades of all applicants and also checks the scores of their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) or American College Tests (ACT). Therefore, arrangements should be made to take these exams no later than February 2007 to ensure the results reach the committee in time to be evaluated. Those Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for a Seafarers scholarship and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet all the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the steadily increasing costs of a college education stop you from reaching your goals. The Seafarers Scholarship Program can make a difference! Additional Scholarship Funding Available to Union Members Fill out the form below and send away for your program booklet today! P lease send me the 2007 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number ____________________________________________ Since 1992, the Union Plus Scholarship Program—offered through the Union Plus Education Foundation—has given out more than $2 million to students of working families who want to begin or continue their secondary education. SIU members are again eligible for the 2007 awards. The students selected for university, college, trade school or technical scholarships represent a wide sampling of backgrounds, union affiliations, goals and accomplishments. Current and retired members of AFLCIO unions participating in the Union Plus program (including the SIU) are eligible, along with their spouses and dependent children. The individual must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Graduate students are not eligible. The amount of the educational stipends range from $500 to $4,000. Each is a one-time cash award sent to individual winners for undergraduate study beginning in the fall of the same year. To download a copy of the application form, go to: http://www.unionplus.org/benefits/education/scholarships/scholarship App.pdf Street Address ____________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code ______________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ________________________________________________________ This application is for: † Self † Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/06 14 Seafarers LOG November 2006 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2006 & January 2007 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 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 Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Wilmington Totals 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 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 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 1 0 7 7 1 6 42 34 0 12 12 39 17 19 5 1 4 34 21 2 3 14 20 7 8 20 21 2 12 9 16 19 16 2 18 6 34 17 2 6 3 4 3 0 14 8 0 1 5 5 10 2 1 0 1 14 5 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 10 6 0 7 39 25 0 2 11 20 8 10 2 0 3 15 20 255 250 85 179 2 0 6 3 1 8 9 16 0 11 6 15 6 6 2 3 3 1 9 10 0 1 4 3 4 3 7 24 0 7 5 10 16 9 2 1 2 1 19 7 2 0 1 3 0 2 5 4 0 0 0 5 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 9 1 0 8 3 2 9 11 20 1 6 4 14 7 8 2 3 2 1 4 3 117 1 0 3 4 3 6 25 12 0 4 2 24 8 15 3 2 1 3 11 19 125 1 0 0 3 3 5 2 5 0 6 3 9 20 4 2 4 1 0 8 2 37 0 0 0 2 0 2 4 1 0 1 1 4 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 4 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 4 5 10 9 5 17 12 3 7 3 7 15 12 3 8 4 15 7 151 2 0 0 0 1 0 3 4 0 1 2 4 6 1 0 0 0 7 2 1 3 1 7 0 1 6 10 0 2 5 15 5 10 1 0 0 12 8 34 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 109 0 1 4 5 3 1 13 9 0 0 4 3 5 4 0 1 0 2 13 8 76 1 0 0 2 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 2 4 20 146 78 24 94 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 1 3 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 0 6 9 2 4 18 17 0 4 3 34 8 12 1 17 1 0 21 11 4 1 2 15 0 6 18 10 0 2 3 17 12 13 1 26 0 2 19 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 2 4 1 3 0 0 0 0 4 1 1 0 0 5 1 5 1 5 0 3 2 2 11 3 2 1 2 2 8 2 56 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 4 3 1 6 9 6 0 2 2 11 6 9 0 13 1 0 12 7 0 0 0 7 0 2 7 2 1 1 2 3 9 6 0 22 1 1 4 2 4 0 9 17 2 11 65 57 0 20 33 84 30 32 10 1 14 71 53 5 7 14 30 10 15 48 37 1 24 19 44 27 21 4 17 16 57 32 2 8 4 10 3 0 22 13 0 5 5 14 13 7 5 0 3 20 9 88 516 435 146 0 0 2 1 1 3 5 10 0 0 6 5 2 4 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 5 6 1 13 22 32 0 9 9 28 15 14 1 4 4 3 25 25 3 1 6 10 9 5 10 42 2 11 8 18 26 11 2 2 5 2 32 12 2 0 2 4 1 4 11 6 0 1 0 9 6 4 0 0 1 2 6 15 42 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 4 2 7 26 7 0 2 0 6 7 12 1 0 1 0 7 11 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 1 2 1 3 8 0 0 1 0 5 2 4 0 0 0 0 6 4 217 217 74 2 0 7 9 3 10 32 31 0 5 11 43 11 33 5 4 1 5 30 46 1 0 1 10 2 14 11 14 0 6 5 14 19 6 1 4 4 1 18 14 0 0 0 2 1 1 7 2 2 1 3 7 2 1 0 1 1 0 3 5 37 288 145 39 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 4 3 0 1 2 7 0 10 0 0 2 0 6 1 4 1 5 14 3 7 41 38 0 8 7 68 27 25 2 17 1 0 30 16 9 3 3 17 1 13 32 23 0 3 10 36 27 19 1 6 0 1 25 16 16 170 162 20 92 70 0 39 314 245 534 623 308 402 375 132 167 1,060 1,111 504 *“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. November 2006 Piney Point ...........Monday: December 4, January 8 Algonac ................Friday: December 8, January 12 ............................... Baltimore..............Thursday: December 7, January 11 Boston ..................Friday: December 8, January 12 Guam ....................Thursday: December 21, January 25 ............................... Honolulu...............Friday: December 15, January 19 Houston ................Monday: December 11 ..............................Tuesday: January 16* ..............................(*change created by Martin Luther King Jr. holiday) ............................... Jacksonville ..........Thursday: December 7, January 11 Joliet .....................Thursday: December 14, January 18 Mobile ..................Wednesday: December 13, January 17 New Orleans.........Tuesday: December 12, January 16 New York .............Tuesday: December 5, January 9 Norfolk .................Thursday: December 7, January 11 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: December 6, January 10 Port Everglades ....Thursday: December 14, January 18 San Francisco .......Thursday: December 14, January 18 San Juan ...............Thursday: December 7, January 11 St. Louis ...............Friday: December 15, January 19 Tacoma .................Friday: December 22, January 26 Wilmington...........Monday: December 18, January 22 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JAMAAL SINKLER Please call your mother. LOOKING FOR SHIPMATES Jack Utz is looking for any of his shipmates on the SS Steel King from January-April 1948. Please contact him at (815) 883-8735 or e-mail jackutz@sbcglobal.net. Apostleship of the Sea of The United States of America The Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America is the professional association of Catholic mariners and the official Catholic organization for cruise ship priests and catholic maritime ministers. Please contact the organization if you are interested in becoming an AOSUSA member. The Apostleship of the Sea may be reached at: 1500 Jefferson Drive Port Arthur, TX 77642-0646 aosusa@sbcglobal.net Phone: (409) 985-4545 www.aos-usa.org Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 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) 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 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT 1 12 0 5 15 1 0 2 36 1 4 2 0 5 0 0 2 14 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 5 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 11 1 4 10 2 0 1 32 0 6 2 0 5 0 0 2 15 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 8 4 0 4 1 0 0 19 9 26 1 17 39 0 2 1 95 3 5 0 4 25 0 0 0 37 1 1 1 3 0 0 0 1 7 0 1 0 1 3 1 0 0 6 10 15 2 4 12 0 0 2 46 1 3 0 1 4 0 0 0 9 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 3 2 4 0 0 0 12 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 Port 2 3 2 1 4 0 0 0 12 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 4 1 3 5 0 0 5 19 2 1 1 0 5 0 0 0 9 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 2 2 2 2 0 0 5 16 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 4 8 20 0 6 22 0 0 0 56 4 2 0 2 24 0 0 1 33 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 4 Totals All Departments 67 25 9 60 21 6 29 196 79 14 PICS-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Rich Bolmarcich of Seaside Park, N.J. He is the son of the late SIU pensioner Joseph Bolmarcich (pictured in the three photos at right), who died Feb. 28, 1999 at the age of 92. His son states that his father’s career with the marine division of the New York Central Railroad Co. spanned 44 years (1927-1971). He always appreciated the many fine benefits afforded him by being an SIU member, and “loved his job as a tugboat deckhand despite working sometimes in bad weather and under difficult conditions.” Brother Bolmarcich began receiving his pension in May 1971. The top left photo was taken in 1927, the top right one in 1954. The bottom one, also taken aboard a New York Central tug, was snapped in the mid ’60s when the twin towers of the World Trade Center were under construction. 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. November 2006 �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 DAVID, 67, was born in California. Brother David joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of New York. His first ship was the La Salle on which he sailed in the engine department. Brother David’s last voyage was aboard the Long Island. He calls Chambersburg, Pa. home. RAFAEL ESQUIBEL, 65, became a Seafarer in 1974 in the port of New York. Brother Esquibel, who was born in Spain, worked primarily on A&S Transportation’s Lisa. A member of the deck department, Brother Esquibel continues to reside in Spain. MANUEL FARIA JR., 65, started shipping with the union in 1983 from the port of New York. Brother Faria first sailed on the Robert D. Conrad in the steward department. In 1996 and 2000, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Faria most recently sailed aboard the Dewayne T. Williams. He is a resident of New Bedford, Mass. AQUILINO FERNANDEZ, 66, joined the SIU ranks in 1989. Brother Fernandez was born in Honduras and shipped in the steward department. He first sailed on the Independence. Brother Fernandez most recently worked aboard the Cape Kennedy. He lives in Houston. ANGEL GARCIA, 66, joined the SIU in 1959. Brother Garcia’s first journey was aboard a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. The Puerto Rico-born mariner sailed in the engine department. Brother Garcia most recently sailed on the Horizon Discovery. He resides in San Jose, P.R. KENNETH JONES, 65, launched his seafaring career in 1990 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Jones primarily shipped in the engine department November 2006 of the Constellation. The Texasborn mariner upgraded his skills in 2000 at the Piney Point school. Brother Jones makes his home in Sarepta, La. the educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. in 2001 and 2003. Boatman Foster is a resident of Belhaven, N.C. THOMAS LABUE, 66, began sailing with the union in 1965 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Labue was born in Wisconsin and shipped as a member of the deck department. His first vessel was the Loma Victory; his most recent was the Richard G. Matthiesen. Brother Labue calls Temple City, Calif. home. JACK GONZALEZ, 62, joined the SIU in 1986. Boatman Gonzalez work primarily aboard G&H Towing vessels during. Born in Puerto Rico, he calls Robstown, Texas home. JAMES LONG, 62, is a Pennsylvania native. Brother Long joined the Seafarers in 1969, initially working aboard the Sea Ohio. The engine department member most recently sailed on the Horizon Anchorage. Brother Long resides in Wellsboro, Pa. HANSEL SMITH, 65, became an SIU member in 1989. Brother Smith’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Altair. The Tennessee-born mariner last sailed on the 1st Lt. Alex Bonneyman. He is a resident of Pascagoula, Miss. CAROL GRIDER, 62, joined the SIU in 1994. Sister Grider was a member of the steward department. She sailed primarily aboard Orgulf Transport Company vessels. Seafarer Grider resides in Galatia, Ill. KENNETH KITCHEN, 65, began sailing with the union in 1962 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Kitchen shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. His first vessel was the Topa Topa. Boatman Kitchen lives in Virginia Beach, Va. JACK KLOHN, 55, was born in New Mexico and joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of New York. Boatman Klohn first sailed in the deep sea division aboard CSX Lines’ Detroit; however, the majority of his career was spent working in the inland division. Prior to his retirement, Boatman Klohn sailed on the Padre Island. He makes his home in Hot Springs, Ariz. LUCIUS LEONARD, 62, who was born in New Orleans, became an SIU member in 1967 in that port. Boatman Leonard worked aboard Crescent Towing & Salvage Co. vessels in the deck department. He is a resident of Des Allemands, La. 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. TULIO GOMEZ, 69, joined the NMU in 1977 in the port of Boston. Brother Gomez was born in Honduras. His first ship was the Mormac Sun. Brother Gomez sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Cape Domingo. PHILLIP HINES, 55, became an NMU member in 1979 in the port of Seattle. Brother Hines is a native of California. He initially sailed on the NOAA ship Discoverer. Brother Hines’ most recent voyage was aboard the Cape Taylor. He was a member of the steward department. In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU pensioners retired on the dates indicated. NAME AGE EDP Charles Andrews 70 Sept. 1 William Buchheit 65 Oct. 1 Francisco King 68 Oct. 1 Raymond Lankford 55 Oct. 1 Thomas Stephens 66 Oct. 1 Alexandru Tolnaci 65 Sept. 1 INLAND ROBERT DOUGH, 62, embarked on his seafaring career in 1966. Boatman Dough’s first voyage was aboard a Gulf Atlantic Transport Corporation vessel; his most recent was on a vessel operated by Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Boatman Dough lives in Belhaven, N.C. ELEANOR DOWNEN, 73, joined the SIU in 1985 in the port of New Orleans. Sister Downen worked primarily aboard Delta Queen Steamship vessels during her seafaring career. The steward department member settled in her native state of Missouri. DANIEL EUBANKS, 62, was born in Mississippi. Boatman Eubanks commenced his SIU career in 1973 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department, primarily aboard Dravo Basic Materials Company vessels. Boatman Eubanks continues to make his home in Mississippi. OTTIS FOSTER, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1992. Boatman Foster shipped primarily aboard Express Marine vessels in the steward department. He took advantage of Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1942 British Prime Minister Winston Churchill offered his thanks and the thanks of the Royal Navy to the crews of two SIU-contracted ships that returned to New York after 11 months on the run to Russia. A commendation relayed by Admiral Emory S. Land, director of the War Shipping Administration, from the British Admiralty said in part, “Mr. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister, has particularly requested that he be associated with this message of congratulations…. I should like also to offer my congratulations to you and your crew for excellent work you all performed during this encounter, which is a great credit to the United States Merchant Marine.” The ships are unnamed for security reasons. 1966 SIU-contracted companies will operate 10 of the 15 C-4 type reserve fleet troopships recently allocated by the government for conversion to break bulk dry cargo and heavy lift cargo ships for charter to the Military Sea Transportation Service to serve in the Vietnam sealift. Of the SIU-contracted companies named by the government, Isthmian Lines and Waterman Steamship were allocated three ships each, Hudson Waterways received two ships, and Consolidated Mariners and Bulk Transport received one ship each…. The recently released World War IIbuilt toopships are 523-foot, 15,000-ton steamships with a rated speed of 17 knots. This Month In SIU History 1955 SIU negotiators recently won a 25 cents per man per day contribution from employers to expand health and safety benefits and raise vacation benefits. Coupled with wage increases under the contract, the vacation benefits will mean a boost in vacation pay for all Seafarers from the present $176 maximum to $244, effective November 15. The new agreement will also finance establishment of health and safety clinics in all ports so that Seafarers will be able to obtain medical care and obtain needed physical examinations. 1984 Another newly converted RO/RO ship has been added to the SIU-contracted fleet. Bringing in more jobs for the membership is the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, Jr., which is being operated by a privately owned company for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. This 755foot long vessel is part of the U.S. military’s Maritime Prepositioning Ship (MPS) program…. During her conversion at Bethlehem Steel Corporation’s Sparrows Point Yard in Maryland, the ship was lengthened by a 157foot mid-body section and was fitted with a semi-slewing stern ramp, side port doors and ramps, and three twin-tandem heavy-lift cranes. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PRESTON BLANC Pensioner Preston Blanc, 82, passed away Feb. 4. Brother Blanc joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the J.B. Water. The deck department member last worked aboard the Overseas Arctic. Brother Blanc retired in 1986 and called New Orleans home. PARTHA JERNIGAN Pensioner Partha Jernigan, 81, died April 28. Brother Jernigan became a Seafarer in 1947 in the port of New York. He was born in Florida and sailed in the engine department. Brother Jernigan settled in Pensacola, Fla. He began receiving his pension in 1989. GREGORY KELLY Pensioner Gregory Kelly, 80, passed away April 2. Brother Kelly joined the SIU in 1965. His first trip to sea was on an American Oceanic Corporation vessel; his last was aboard the Explorer. Born in Canada, Brother Kelly was a member of the deck department. The La Habra, Calif. resident went on pension in 1991. STANISLAW KOLASA Pensioner Stanislaw Kolasa, 80, died April 9. Born in Poland, Brother Kolasa started his seafaring career in 1959 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Kolasa’s initial voyage was on a Boston Towing Boat Company vessel. In 1990, the steward department member began his retirement. Brother Kolasa made his home in New York. HORACE LEDWELL Pensioner Horace Ledwell, 77, passed away May 10. Brother Ledwell was born in Johnson City, Tenn. He joined the union in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Ledwell’s first voyage was on a Colonial Steamship Company vessel as a member of the engine department. He last worked aboard the Sam Houston. Brother Ledwell resided in Bristol, Tenn. and went on pension in 1992. TRAVIS MAINERS Pensioner Travis Mainers, 84, passed away April 4. Brother Mainers embarked on his seafaring career in 1966. 18 Seafarers LOG His first ship was the Santa Emilia where he worked as a member of the steward department; his last trip to sea was on the Overseas Harriette. Brother Mainers, who was born in Tennessee, retired in 1987 and continued to live in his native state. LEONARDO MANCO Pensioner Leonardo Manco, 85, died Feb. 1. Brother Manco was born in Louisiana. He joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Manco first sailed aboard the Tuskegee. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Manco’s last voyage was on the Sam Houston. The New Orleans resident became a pensioner in 1982. ANDREW MAZUREK Pensioner Andrew Mazurek, 81, died May 9. Brother Mazurek joined the ranks of the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Steel Architect. Brother Mazurek was a Pennsylvania native. Prior to his retirement in 1987, he shipped on the St. Louis. Brother Mazurek resided in Orange, N.J. JOSEPH McCABE Pensioner Joseph McCabe, 90, passed away May 13. Brother McCabe began shipping with the Seafarers in 1956, first sailing aboard a Sheffield Tank Corporation vessel. The deck department member was a native of New York. Before his retirement in 1983, Brother McCabe worked on Pacific Gulf Marine’s Koppa. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. CRISANTO MODELLAS Pensioner Crisanto Modellas, 81, died April 22. Brother Modellas began his SIU career in 1964. He first shipped in the steward department aboard the Fanwood. Brother Modellas, who was born in the Philippines, last sailed on the Thompson Pass. He went on pension in 1994 and called Sacramento, Calif. home. DAVID ONGE Brother David Onge, 42, passed away Feb. 2. He started his seafaring career in 1990 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Onge first sailed on the Independence in the engine department. Born in Maine, he resided in Palm Beach, Fla. Brother Onge most recently worked aboard the Horizon Challenger. ROOSEVELT ROBBINS Pensioner Roosevelt Robbins, 88, died May 4. Brother Robbins joined the SIU in 1942 in the port of New Orleans. His first voyage was on the Suzanne. Brother Robbins was born in Alabama and shipped in the steward department. He last shipped on the Santa Paula. Brother Robbins started collecting his retirement pay in 1985. He lived in Philadelphia. ARTHUR RUBENSTEIN ROBERT REED SR. ERICH DECKER Brother Arthur Rubenstein, 65, passed away Feb. 13. He became a union member in 1963. Brother Rubenstein was born in New York and sailed as a member of the steward department. His first voyage was aboard the Chatham; his last was on the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Rubenstein was a resident of Randallstown, Md. Boatman Robert Reed Sr., 49, passed away Feb. 4. The German-born mariner started shipping with the SIU in 2000. Boatman Reed worked primarily aboard Allied Towing vessels. The engine department member called Virginia home. Pensioner Erich Decker, 97, died Feb. 13. Brother Decker embarked on his seafaring career in 1954 in the port of New York. He first sailed on the Santa Isabel. Brother Decker, who was born in Germany, sailed in the steward department . His last ship was the United States. Brother Decker retired in 1969. JOHN SCULLY Pensioner John Scully, 78, died June 8. Brother Scully was born in Beverly, Mass. He joined the SIU in 1945, initially shipping on the Rebel. Brother Scully worked in the deck department. The Seattle resident went on pension in 1986. FRANK SISON Pensioner Frank Sison, 66, passed away April 3. Brother Sison began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970 after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. The steward department member first shipped on a Michigan Tankers vessel; he last worked on the Major Bernard F. Fisher. The Seattle-born mariner started collecting his retirement stipends in 2005. Brother Sison made his home in King, Wash. HORACE WILLIAMS Pensioner Horace Williams, 80, died Feb. 25. Brother Williams embarked on his SIU career in 1943 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Lafayette. Brother Williams was a member of the deck department. Before his retirement in 1975, he sailed aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Williams, who was born in North Carolina, made his home in Texas. INLAND WARREN FOX SR. Pensioner Warren Fox Sr., 69, passed away Feb. 1. Boatman Fox became a Seafarer in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Maryland, he first shipped aboard an Arundel Corporation vessel in the deck department. Boatman Fox last worked aboard a vessel operated by Moran Towing of Maryland. He went on pension in 2001 and resided in his native state. GEORGE HATGIMISIOS Pensioner George Hatgimisios, 83, died May 14. Boatman Hatgimisios joined the union in 1948 in the port of Baltimore after serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Born in Connecticut, he first sailed in the steward department aboard the Nashua; his final trip to sea was aboard a McAllister Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Boatman Hatgimisios was the last surviving of four seafaring Hatgimisios brothers. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 at his home in Coconut Creek, Fla. PAUL SCHOBERT Pensioner Paul Schobert, 71, died Feb. 18. Boatman Schobert joined the ranks of the SIU in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Germany and sailed in the steward department. During his seafaring career, Boatman Schobert shipped aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing and Transportation of Wilmington. He retired in 1979 and lived in Homeland, Calif. GREAT LAKES SALEH ALI Pensioner Saleh Ali, 78, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Ali joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Detroit. His first ship was the American Seaocean; his last was the Merle McCurdy. Brother Ali, who was born in Arabia, worked in the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1982 and made his home in Yemen. GEORGE McINERNEY Brother George McInerney, 69, died Feb. 9. He joined the union in 1978 in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother McInerney originally shipped on the Steel T. Crapo in the engine department. His final trip to sea was aboard the Paul H. Townsend. Brother McInerney resided in his native state of Michigan. Editor’s note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. EUGENE BARBER Pensioner Eugene Barber, 78, passed away Jan. 30. Brother Barber joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of New York. The steward department member was born in New York City. Prior to his retirement in 1975, Brother Barber sailed aboard the Christopher Lykes. FOWLER BENNETT Pensioner Fowler Bennett, 82, died Feb. 21. Born in Honduras, Brother Bennett joined the union in 1946 in the port of New Orleans. His first vessel was the Granada; his last was the Eagle Transporter. Brother Bennett went on pension in 1969. HENRY BRADY SR. Pensioner Henry Brady Sr., 85, passed away Feb. 14. Brother Brady began sailing with the NMU in 1953 from the port of San Francisco. He was born in New Orleans and first shipped aboard the Barney Kirschbaum. In 1984, Brother Brady became a pensioner. He last sailed on the Adabelle Lykes. ALFONSO ESTRADA Pensioner Alfonso Estrada, 82, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Estrada joined the NMU in 1946 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in El Salvador and shipped in the steward department. Brother Estrada first sailed aboard the Marine Fox. His last ship was the Denison Victory. Brother Estrada started collecting his pension in 1970. WILSON GUIDRY Pensioner Wilson Guidry, 75, died Feb. 23. Brother Guidry joined the NMU in 1966 in Port Arthur, Texas. His first ship was the Mission Santa Ynez. Brother Guidry was born in Louisiana and worked in the steward department. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. HOWARD LEUNG Pensioner Howard Leung, 85, passed away March 14. Brother Leung launched his seafaring career in 1943, sailing from the port of New York. His first ship was the Helen Hunt Jackson. A member of the steward department, Brother Leung was born in China. Before retiring in 1969, he worked on board the New York. NESTER OJEDA Pensioner Nester Ojeda, 78, died Feb. 2. Brother Ojeda, who was born in Puerto Rico, joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first shipped out on the Luther Martin. Brother Ojeda went on pension in 1967. JOSEPH OLSZEWSKI Pensioner Joseph Olszewski, 88, passed away Feb. 24. Brother Olszewski started his NMU career in 1936 in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland native worked in the engine department. Brother Olszewski’s first ship was the City of Baltimore; his last was the American Courier. He became a pensioner in 1978. November 2006 �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.. ASCENSION (Sealift), Oct. 4— Chairman Gene A. Butson, Secretary William E. Knorr, Deck Delegate Alexis S. Mitsou, Engine Delegate Fabian Palacios. Chairman announced payoff Oct. 10 in Port Canaveral, Fla. after room inspections. Secretary reminded members not going ashore to get absentee ballot from headquarters to vote on constitutional amendments. He encouraged them to read the proposed changes to the constitution and make an intelligent choice when voting. Educational director advised crew to take advantage of Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. to stay current with maritime skills and improve job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding salad bar. Ship will head back to Ascension Island since South America trip has been canceled. Next port: Port Canaveral. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Co.), Sept. 24— Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Greg S. Lynch, Educational Director Sylvester C. Crawford. Bosun highlighted aspects of new contract. Secretary thanked crew for coming to mess hall and lounge in appropriate attire. Educational director urged everyone to check documents’ expiration dates and to take advantage of Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated about $9,000 in ship’s fund. Permission needed from captain before purchasing items for vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New XBox currently on board. Recommendation made to get satellite radio as well. Suggestion made that someone be assigned to check rooms of riders after they leave ship. Thanks given to steward department for great meals. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. CAPE KNOX (Keystone Shipping), Sept. 17—Chairman Anthony Pacely Jr., Secretary Florencia T. Farquhar, Educational Director Robert G. Joyce, Deck Delegate James J. Foley. Chairman read and discussed August edition of Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged all members to upgrade their skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: New Orleans. CAPE TEXAS (Crowley Liner Services), Sept. 7—Chairman Jose A. Jimenea, Secretary George Maranos, Educational Director Roger D. Phillips, Deck Delegate Horace B. Rains. Chairman discussed information received from Pension and Health & Benefits departments regarding members working aboard NMU ships. ROS crew reported some beefs regarding payment for sick days and delayed paychecks, and requested clarification on pension benefits for retirees returning to work. DILIGENCE (Maritrans), Sept. 30—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Deck Delegate Timothy K. O’Brien, Engine Delegate Patrick D. Carroll Jr., Steward Delegate William B. Young. Bosun reminded mariners to start renewal process for z-cards early. Educational director discussed importance of contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested information regarding acquisition of Maritrans by OSG. Next ports: Baton Rouge, La.; Tampa, Fla. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), Sept. 3— Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary Amanda F. Suncin, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Basil D. Stolen, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Murray. Chairman announced Sept. 5 payoff at sea. He urged crew members to attend union meetings and donate to SPAD, our voice on Capitol Hill. Secretary Swapping Provisions at Sea Crew members aboard the USNS Mary Sears help in the operation to swap provisions with the USNS Sumner while at sea. Pulling the line with the attached bundle of food are (from the left) OS Tyrell Blackburn, AB Dennis Avila, OS Darnell O’Hara and AB Mike Sherman. Chief Mate Richard Madden is in the background. November 2006 advised crew to take a look at Horizon Lines’ stock offerings. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to take advantage of educational opportunities offered at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. Treasurer asked members to inform captain of any requests for DVDs or CDs they would like purchased. No beefs; some disputed OT reported in steward department. Communications from headquarters read, discussed and posted regarding new benefit requirements and proposed constitutional amendments. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), Sept. 3— Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Jill M. Prescott, Deck Delegate David M. Smolen, Engine Delegate Rigoberto Beata. Chairman announced Sept. 5 payoff on arrival in Oakland, Calif. He advised members to keep documents current. Educational director urged crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for better paying jobs and job security. Treasurer stated $100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from headquarters read pertaining to changes in eligibility for benefits. Suggestion made for drinking fountain on main deck and for repair of bridge toilet. Steward department given vote of thanks for well prepared meals. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), Sept. 10—Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Paula S. Kaleikini, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Engine Delegate Gualberto M. Salaria, Steward Delegate Abdulla M. Baabbad. Chairman announced Sept. 16 payoff at sea before arriving in Tacoma, Wash. Patrolman to come aboard. Treasurer stated $900 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits. Clarification requested regarding proposed union dues increase. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), Sept. 17—Chairman Amante V. Gumiran, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Jan Haidir, Deck Delegate LBJ Tanoa, Engine Delegate Mohamed M. Abdulla, Steward Delegate Ruben Q. Fiel. Bosun announced Sept. 23 payoff at sea prior to arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He thanked crew members for another safe voyage; more than 530 days without a lost-time injury. Treasurer stated after purchasing barbecue supplies, $250 remains in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from headquarters read regarding changes to health insurance requirements. Vote of thanks given to AB Harold Harper for purchasing new clock as gift for crew lounge. Everyone was asked to return magazines/newspapers to lounge when finished reading them; also return DVDs to proper place. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. HOUSTON (USS Transport), Sept. 4—Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director Christopher J. Zaucha, Deck Delegate Stones Cooper, Engine Delegate Rudolph Lopez, Steward Delegate Jorge Ellis. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall and laundry room clean. He reminded departing crew members to leave clean linen for their reliefs as a courtesy. Educational director urged mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to medical and pension benefits. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. MAERSK MAINE (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 3—Chairman Brian P. Corbett, Secretary Fidelis N. Oliveira, Educational Director E. Gomez. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at the Paul Hall Center. No with patrolman about food supply. Educational director urged eveyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $515 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for better laundry detergent and improvements to raise retirement pay. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 2—Chairman William M. Richards Jr., Secretary Pedro Sellan, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Mark Carpenter, Engine Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward Delegate John A. Padilla. Chairman announced Seafarers on the Job Stopping the the middle of their duties for a quick snapshot are (from the left) Bosun Richard Dobbyn aboard the Green Point and Chief Cook Bill Columbo on the Maersk Nebraska. beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed concerns regarding pending contract. Next port: Newark, N.J. MAERSK NEBRASKA (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 29—Chairman Frederick L. Gathers, Secretary Luis A. Caballero, Engine Delegate J. Byrnes. Chairman informed seafarers that pay raise would be retroactive once all details were worked out. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to post all letters regarding contract for all to read. Crew would like ventilation aboard vessel to be checked and requested clarification on time off after a voyage. They also had questions as to whether work gear (coveralls, gloves, etc.) should be provided upon joining vessel or whether members can be reimbursed for purchasing such items. PFC JAMES ANDERSON (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 14— Chairman William N. Henderson, Secretary Stephan F. Osovitz, Deck Delegate Gerald Freeman, Engine Delegate Saleh Q. Omar, Steward Delegate Mario V. Siclot. Chairman thanked mariners for safe trip, making this 2½ years without a lost-time accident. Educational director advised crew to attend upgrading classes at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to engine department for installing new washer and to entire crew for keeping ship clean. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Marine Transport Lines), Sept. 3 —Chairman Stephen D. Petersen, Secretary James H. Narcisse Jr., Educational Director David Carter, Deck Delegate Stephen C. Bohne, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles. Secretary to talk receipt of new pay rate. Secretary reported great sailing with great buch of crew members. Educational director encouraged crew to continue upgrading skills for increased pay and job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to provide more health-conscious food on board ship. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Crew members suggested Paul Hall Day be reinstated and requested satellite hookup in every cabin as well as new chairs in crew lounge and computer returned to crew lounge. SEABROOK (Maritrans), Sept. 10—Chairman Errol M. Pinkham Jr., Secretary Anthony F. French, Educational Director James T. Cerami, Deck Delegate Adolfo Figueroa, Engine Delegate Troy L. Fleming. Secretary reported smooth sailing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to GSU for keeping mess hall so clean. Members suggested installation of refrigerators and satellite TV in all crew cabins. Clarification requested as to who buys DVDs for vessel. Steward department was thanked for excellent food and spotless galley and mess hall. USNS MARY SEARS (Horizon Lines), Sept. 10—Chairman Kelly J. Doyle, Secretary Philip F. Lau, Educational Director Christopher Eason, Engine Delegate Bernard Fanuncial, Steward Delegate James C. Dewey. Chairman discussed Horizon Lines stock purchase plan for qualified Seafarers. He noted that crew members sailing out of New Orleans have been granted a one year extension on MMDs and licenses. Educational director stated that “now is the time to upgrade at Piney Point.” Next port: Sasebo, Japan. 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 writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Jones Act Expansion Would Boost Security Reading Mike Sacco’s article, “Supporting the Jones Act” in the October 2006 Seafarers LOG brought many memories to mind which pointed not only to the notion that American shipping needs protection from foreign attacks but also that American port security needs are now at an all-time high. As I mulled Mike’s words that President Bush “pledged to continue backing the Jones Act, a law that requires cargo moving between domestic ports to be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American,” I remembered that one of the major problems that America is facing is inspection of cargo coming into America’s ports. In particular, time seems to be the prime limiting factor, which permits only five to 10 percent of the shipped cargo to be inspected. Plugging this gaping hole in American port security would only take an updating of the Jones Act to be: “A law that requires cargo moving between foreign and American ports to be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American.” This simple change of a few words would allow the time needed for inspection that would be done on American ships, which are, of course, the same as America. Jim Kincaid Plumber, SS Patriot Honor WWII Mariners By Backing H.R. 23 I am writing this letter to request active and retired merchant mariners to support House bill H.R. 23 now before Congress. Bill H.R. 23 is stalled in the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Congressman Bob Filner (DCalif.) introduced Discharge Petition 109-14 to move the bill out of committee to the House floor for a vote. We need 218 members of the House of Representatives to sign Discharge Petition 109-14 to move the bill along through the legislative process. The short title of H.R. 23 is the “Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act.” The bill provides for a monthly benefit of $1,000 to qualified merchant mariners, including those who sailed in the Army Transport Service and Naval Transport Service during the period from Dec. 7, 1941 to Dec. 31, 1946. Your readers can give us their support by writing or calling their congressional representative requesting they sign Discharge Petition 109-14 for H.R. 23. All assistance in this matter will be very much appreciated. Thank you and smooth sailing for your members. James W. Hassett President, Gene DeLong-Hudson Valley Chapter American Merchant Marine Veterans of WWII Baldwin Place, New York 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 20 Seafarers LOG 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. November 2006 �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 November through February 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 Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman November 13 December 8 January 22 February 16 January 8 January 19 Lifeboatman/Water Survival Inland Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Inland Radar (non STCW) January 8 January 12 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (5 day) January 29 February 2 Advanced Fire Fighting January 15 February 26 Basic Safety Training - AB November 6 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT November 13 November 17 Medical Care Provider January 29 February 2 Tankerman Familiarization/ November 27 December 8 (*must have basic fire fighting) Assistant Cargo (DL)* (*must have basic fire fighting) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Nov. 13. Engine Upgrading Courses 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. Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops November 13 December 8 January 29 February 23 FOWT February 26 March 23 upgrading courses available to Junior Engineer January 8 March 2 students in the year 2007. Welding January 15 February 2 A future edition of the Seafarers LOG will contain a complete guide of all the � 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 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 ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 678 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 678. They include (in alphabetical order) Steven Allen, Christopher Baum, Shaun Bryant, Toni Rose Clark, Daniel Dale, Timothy Delapp, Timothy Dougherty, Tyrone Ellis, Grant Fedukovich, Robert Ferguson, Peter Johnson, Zachary Knotts, Latisa May, Montree Nakwichet, Johnny Nealy, Ryan Otterbourg, Corey Overbeck, Tereza Papelopoulou, Jumar Rapuet, Mike Rottloff, David Torres, Jeffrey Tubbs, Jeremiah Vargas, Jermaine Williams and Marcus Williams. Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, back row) are Sept. 29 graduates of the welding course. In alphabetical order are Martin Hamilton, Joshua Kilbourn, Scott Martin, Karl Mayhew, Yamil Sanchez and Damian Spedale. Junior Engineer — Receiving certificates for completion of the junior engineer course Oct. 13 are (in alphabetical order) David Brewster, Jess Cooper, Daniel Gaffney, Peter Jensen, Charlie Johnson (accompanied by his wife), Justin Johnson, Jomar Rodriguez, Jervona Vorise and Dominic Whitty. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far left. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduates of the advanced fire fighting course that ended Sept. 29 are (in no specific order) Eugene Arcand, Nathan Rippey, Carlos Valdes, Mikhail Kozlov, Joseph Spillman, Charlene Edwards, Frank Monteiro, Ahmed Ahmed, Gheorghe Mustata, Gheorghe Davencu and Eugeniy Golubev. Specially Trained OS — Receiving their STOS certificates of completion Oct. 6 from instructor Stan Beck (standing, third from right) are (in no specific order) Jamison McIntyre, William Bolden, John Cash Jr., Robert Freeman Jr., Randall Brown, Jamar Allen, Mohamed Mazid, John Worae, Pete Johnson, Johnnie Potter, Grant Fedukovich, Ernest Frank III and Roy Carey. (Note: not all are pictured.) Celestial Navigation — Sept. 29 graduates of the celestial navigation course include Rafael Clemente, Glen McCullough and Sergey Kurchensko. Not pictured is Douglas Carson. Computer Lab Classes With instructor Rick Prucha (standing in each photo) are students who recently completed computer classes at the Paul Hall Center. Proudly showing their certificates of achievement are, from the left, Ardeccia Hill, Wilfredo Espinosa and Bryan N. Dawson. 22 Seafarers LOG November 2006 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Upgrading students who completed this course Sept. 29 are (in no specific order) Terry Santure, David Dinan, Maurice Flemings, James Oling, Leroyal Hester II, Earl Kendrick, John Maynor Sr., Timothy Huth, Michael Kanga, Lorenzo Allen, Joaquim Ganeto, Villanito Villanueva, Alfonso Marin, Jaime Colon, Omer Almaklani, Sacarias Suazo, Ernesto Lomboy, Michael Cousin, Dimarko Shoulders, Charles Horton and Jimmie Schuck. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Water Survival — Class members who completed the lifeboatman/water survival course Sept. 29 include Ashley Pearce, Raymond Harvell, Marco Figueroa, Silvana Clark, Kyle Hudson, Paul Amato, Richard Moore, John Kelly, Darrell Moore, Peter Cooke and Rudolfo Jordan. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. (Note: not all are pictured.) Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two classes of Phase III apprentices pose for a group picture after completing this course Sept. 1. They include (in no specific order) Sherwin Jones, Randall Brown, Ernest Britt, Eeric White, DeWayne Jacobs, James Wynegar III, Myckal Sands, Robert Freeman Jr, Shaun Bryant, Latisa May-Christopher, Marcus Williams, Jermaine Williams, Kyle Spruill, Sean Fletcher Kristopher Travis, Cindy Smith, Sally Santiago, Thomas Hampshire, Michael Bussiere, Michael Stilwell, John Worae, John Cash Jr., Rustin Calame, Jason Lamadieu, Jamar Allen, Mark Hoffler, Dominic Washington, Mateusz Muller, Robert MorrIson, Jeffrey Gronotte Jr. and Daniel Dale. Their instructor (not pictured) was Jim Shaffer. 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. STCW — Certified Chief Cook — Standing in front of the Romeo Lupinacci Culinary Lab are students who upgraded their culinary skills in October. From the left are Orlando Suazo, Nelson Rochez, Robinson Eromesele, Instructor/Chef John Dobson, Caezar Mercado and Miriam Chacon. NCL, Sept. 28: Joshua Dickerson, Juan Figueroa, Steven Fisher, Richard Flood, Richard Force, Cora Forrester, Robert Frazier, John Frey, Carolina Garcia, Steven Garcia, Luis Garcia Romero, Larry Goodson, Sam Gray, Betsy Grier, Jane Healey, Jason Hegard, Josh Hegard, Eric Hines, Katrina Hopper, Claudia Hunlow, Steven Hunlow, Tache Huston, megan Jarvis and Antonia Jerusalem. November 2006 Certified Chief Cook — Completing one of the certified chief cook courses in October are (from left) Sedell Mitchell, Regie Ignacio, Instructor/Chef John Dobson, Michael Henry, Carinda Bohus and Penny Pollard. STCW — NCL, Sept. 28: Travis Johnson, Shuronda Jones, Andrew Jorden, Jonathon Kefer, Johnny Konneh, George Leiesz, Maria Lubrano, Cherie Lundy, Nellie Madera, Erica Mancina, Amor Mariano Jr., Manuel Martinez, Jamarr Massey, Megan Mauricio, Tiffany McGuire, Robin Mehlbrech, Darrin Mellinger, John Mendiola, Randy Miller, Blaine Morgan III, Stevie Moss, Agnes Ogle, Paula Old, Donald Ott, Cynthia Page, Teri Park, Jonathan Pender, Edek Perea and Nicholas Perea. Seafarers LOG 23 �Remembering our veterans from all wars November 11, 2006 Safety Training Abounds at Piney Point Maersk Crews, SIU Safety Directors Complete Separate Sessions S afety training is a staple of many curriculums at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Maersk Line Safety Directors Md. The school offers dozens of Coast Guard-approved classes concentrating on shipboard safety in all three departments as well as specialized courses such as STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). Early last month, the school provided separate and unique safety seminars to crew members from SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited and to SIU safety directors from seven ports. The Maersk group completed what was described as a “safety boot camp” (though each of the mariners previously had completed other safety training) on Oct. 3 and 4, while the safety directors tackled their agenda Oct. 3-5. For the safety directors, it was their eighth annual meeting at the school. Their workload included (but was not limited to) hands-on training, reviewing key port and shipboard safety and security regulations, galley sanitation, ship inspection procedures, techniques for uncovering hidden hazards, and various ways the Paul Hall Center can help port officials better serve crew memMaersk officials, including Capt. Bob bers. Among others, they met with Paul Hall Center Vice President Powell, addressed the participants. SIU safety directors take a hands-on tour of the full mission Don Nolan, Safety Director Jim Hanson, Assistant Director of bridge simulator. Training J.C. Wiegman and Instructor Janet Hazelzet. Completing the program were: Monte Burgett (Algonac), Kathy Chester (Oakland), Frank Iverson (Honolulu), Randy Senatore (Jacksonville), Jack Sheehan (Brooklyn), Joe Vincenzo (Tacoma) and Jimmy White (Houston). Each of the safety directors indicated SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Contracts George Tricker congratthat the training will ulate Seafarers on their participation in the “safety boot camp” at Piney help them when they Point. conduct vessel Instructor Janet Hazelzet discusses The safety directors checked out all the inspections. shipboard conduct and how it may state-of-the-art equipment at the school. influence safe operations. Successfully finishing “boot camp” were some of the ABs and QMEDs who normally sail aboard Maersk vessels. They included Robert Arneel, Servando Campbell, Michelle Hopper, Andrew King, Timothy Logan, James McLeod, Cholley Moses, Michael Papaioannou, Herman Reynolds, Wilfredo Rice, Clarence Poore, Walter Loveless, Kenneth Steiner, Kimberly Strate, James Walker, Darrell Weatherspoon, Bob Powell, Ralph Garner and Curtis Williams. Among several other key topics, they studied job safety analysis, risk of electrical shock, and communications. Maersk officials David Callahan, Ed Hanley, Capt. Robert Powell and Kim Estes each met with the mariners, as did Jay Henderson, Lois Stephenson and Pat Vandergrift of the Paul Hall Center. Maersk official Kim Estes met with the Callahan reported that the feedback forms submitted mariners attending the seminar. Instructor Mike Smith (right) explains the intricacies of some of the by course participants were the most favorable he’s ever school’s training equipment. seen. Left: Pictured with Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jim Hanson (third from right) are SIU Safety Directors (from left) Frank Iverson, Jimmy White, Kathy Chester, Joe Vincenzo, Randy Senatore, Monte Burgett and Jack Sheehan. The two-day seminar took place in the school’s Maryland Room. � 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 November 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES LAKE FLEET ADDS ITB HORIZON, OSG VESSEL CHRISTENINGS ALSO SIGNAL NEW SHIPBOARD JOBS REMEMBER RED CAMPBELL SIU CONTRACTS REMAIN IN PLACE AS OSG ACQUIRES MARITRANS GRALEWICZ: FOLLOW AMERICA’S EXAMPLE TO RESTORE CANADIAN MERCHANT MARINE SIU LAKES FLEET ADDS ITB HORIZON HUNTER CHRISTENED; 1ST PHILLY TANKER DUE THIS MONTH USNS SUMNER COMMENDED SECRETARY CHAO: MARINERS ARE ‘KEY PART’ OF HOMELAND DEFENSE MAERSK ASSISTS IN USO SHIPMENTS APL/MATSON NAVIGATION COMPANY INCREASE PENSIONS FOR NEW RETIREES NCL AMERICA CRUISE SHIPS HELP BOOST HAWAII’S ECONOMY OBERSTAR HONORED BY LAKES GROUP ‘GRIEVANCES FILED AGAINST SO-CALLED ‘UNION WORKERS CREDIT SERVICES’ FINAL RULES PENDING FOR TWIC, MMC PRESIDENT SIGNS SAFE PORT ACT NELSON APPOINTED TO MARAD POST REVISED MEDICAL GUIDELINES SPELL OUT USUAL PRACTICES NCL CEO VEITCH HONORED FOR AMERICAN-FLAG EFFORTS LABOR VOWS FIGHT OVER ‘KENTUCKY RIVER’ CASES PENSION REFORM Q&A- INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW LAW FLOATING RAILROAD CONTINUES PROUD TRADITION MOKIHANA TO BE CONVERTED FROM CONTAINERSHIP TO RO/RO AMERICAN LEGION BACKS U.S. CABOTAGE LAWS SAFETY TRAINING ABOUNDS AT PINEY POINT 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 11/01/2006 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. 11 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e5740f88666809442b0eeb45d052296c.pdf 23f93d336281a8113b2f91781227e127 PDF Text Text 45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 1:13 PM Page 1 Volume 69, Number 11 November 2007 National Glory Joins SIU Fleet Seafarers recently climbed the gangway to the newly contracted National Glory, pictured in Busan, South Korea in late September. In photo above, SIU Guam Port Agent Jeff Turkus (third from left) met with crew members when the ship docked in Guam. Shown from left are Chief Cook Victor Wolf, Chief Steward John Rapoza, Turkus, STOS Mohamed Mazid, Recertified Bosun Donald Rezendes and AB Dave Seeman. Page 4. CIVMARS Sailing On USNS Safeguard Seafarers in the union’s Government Services Division gained more shipboard jobs recently as the U.S. Navy rescue and salvage vessel Safeguard (pictured at right) was decommissioned and transferred to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Page 4. Union Testifies on Manpower, Training SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (above) presented testimony Oct. 17 to the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. Chaired by Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), the Subcommittee conducted a hearing “to receive testimony on trends and innovations in mariner education and to assess how growing workforce shortages will affect the maritime industry as trade continues to increase.” Page 3. OSG Ship Order Increases to 12 Aker American Shipping ASA and SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG) recently announced that they have signed an agreement under which Aker Philadelphia Shipyard will construct two additional Veteran Class MT-46 Jones Act product tankers. Also, the keel-laying ceremony for the fifth tanker in the 12vessel series took place Oct. 8 in the yard’s building dock (left). Page 3. Paul Hall Center’s Apprentice Program Still Going Strong 10 Years after Revamp In 1997, the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education instituted a major restructuring of its program for entry-level mariners (a curriculum which, more recently, attracted the trainee at left, getting pointers from an upgrading bosun). Ten years later, the results are sterling. Page 9. NMU Pension Plan Notice TWIC News Page 3 Page 20 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:35 AM Page 2 Seafarers 401(k) Plan Announced President’s Report Educational Opportunities for Everyone My message this month is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s important to Seafarers and their dependents who definitely want to attend college or who may want to attend some day. Within the SIU, we often emphasize the educational opportunities available at our affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. as well as through the annual Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarships. Additionally, Seafarers and their dependents may have chances to take advantage of scholarships offered through Union Plus, an organization founded by the AFL-CIO. In the bigger picture, through our affiliation with the Michael Sacco AFL-CIO, the SIU also is promoting educational opportunities for working families all across the country. The federation’s executive council, on which I serve, recently adopted a resolution in which we committed that the AFL-CIO and its affiliates will lead a national effort to help ensure that all Americans have full access to a diverse range of excellent, affordable higher education opportunities. This is an important commitment partly because we recognize that higher education will be increasingly vital for workers in the 21st century economy. But it’s also important because America’s higher education system—once the best and most accessible in the world—is in danger of becoming unattainable for working families. Some feel it’s also in danger of losing its quality edge. America’s higher education system was built on an important public policy consensus. Specifically, it was built on the shared belief that investing in higher education is good for everyone. Going back as far as the years immediately following World War II and up through the 1970s, policy consensus resulted in strong state support for public institutions and an impressive array of two-year, four-year and graduate programs, as well as an extensive system of federal financial aid to equalize educational opportunity. Not coincidentally, from the mid-1960s to the mid-1990s, the share of the American work force possessing at least a bachelor’s degree doubled. The boost in education also helped to increase wages and combat unemployment. (The export of blue-collar jobs is a separate issue and a topic for another day.) Over time, though, there’s been some erosion in the public policies that supported the American higher education system, and working families’ access to college has declined as a result. As reported by the AFL-CIO, adjusted for inflation, state and local funding per student at public colleges and universities last year reached its lowest level in 25 years. Cuts in state aid have caused tuition and fees at four-year public universities to increase 52 percent over the past 10 years, while median family income increased only 3 percent. Frankly, in some ways it reminds me of the health-care crisis. In our resolution, the council noted, “The system for awarding student financial aid now is skewed against working students and provides little support for part-time students.... More students need to take out loans to attend college, and graduates now average debts of $15,000 for attending public institutions, $19,000 for private institutions and $24,000 for attending forprofit colleges.” What must not be lost in those numbers is their effect on low-income families and prospective students. Right now in the U.S., a low-achieving, high-income student is just as likely to attend college as the highest-achieving, low-income student. I understand the realities of money in society, but we’re also supposed to be an equal-opportunity society. When it comes to education, the numbers say something else. There is another component to this story. Reductions in state spending on higher education have had a big impact on the academic workplace. Less than one-third of the instructional personnel consist of full-time tenured professors. The rest work from one term or academic year to the next. At the same time, according to the AFL-CIO, graduate students and other faculty without either tenure or collective bargaining rights are staffing more and more classes. Most of them receive extremely low salaries (less than $200 a week for teaching a 15-week course) and few if any benefits. In the maritime industry, we understand the importance of keeping up with technology and learning as much as possible to help us do the best job possible. I’m also proud to remind everyone that our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. offers college credits for many courses and college degree programs. The opportunities are plentiful for anyone who wants to start or advance their career. Nationwide, we’ll be well-served by adopting similar strategies and a greater commitment to higher education. Even the most highly educated workers need to adopt new skills over their lifetimes. With that in mind, the AFL-CIO, through its state federations and central labor councils, is focused on restoring state support for higher education and curbing tuition costs. This is a legislative priority for organized labor—one that also will advocate labor-studies programs at public universities. Unions must and will lead the way in rebuilding America’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens have the chance to pursue a college degree. Meanwhile, I encourage Seafarers to check out the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship information on page 14 of this issue of the LOG. Volume 69, Number 11 November 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 A new benefit is being introduced for eligible Seafarers. As reported during the October membership meetings, a 401(k) plan will be implemented effective Jan. 1, 2008. “Seafarers has teamed up with Smith Barney and Mass Mutual to provide you with a 401(k) plan which offers world-class benefits and services,” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen said in her monthly report. “Smith Barney provides investment and financial consulting services to the 401(k) plan as well as individual family wealth management for participating Seafarers. Mass Mutual is a leading retirement services firm which specializes in the design and administration of retirement plans.” An introduction letter and “welcome kit” is scheduled to be mailed to participants in the very near future. It will include an enrollment form and a beneficiary designation form along with detailed descriptions of all investment choices and “model portfolios.” Also, Seafarers 401(k) Plan forms will be available on line at www.massmutual.com/retire, and a Smith Barney-SIU “hotline” will be available toll-free at 800421-5127. Bowen also announced that the existing Seafarers 401(k) Plan —formerly known as the NMU 401(k) Plan—will be rolled over into the new plan as of Jan. 1, 2008. ING no longer will be the investment manager/third party administrator of that plan. “This change is an improvement over the current plan offering and will provide participants with several advantages, includ- ing an enhanced selection of mutual fund investment options,” she added. “Other advantages include state-of-the-art internet and interactive telephone systems allowing unlimited access to account information and the ability to carry out investment transactions.” There are no employer contributions associated with the new Seafarers 401(k) Plan. Voluntary contributions may be made by participants via payroll deduction through their employer. Several employers already have agreed to implement this system. Additional information about the new Seafarers 401(k) Plan will be published in an upcoming issue of the Seafarers LOG and also will be posted to www.seafarers.org. Family Health Care Yearly Premiums Now Average More than $12,000 Report: Costs Have Increased 6.1 Percent This Year Premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance have increased by an average of 6.1 percent in 2007—less than the 7.7 percent increase reported last year but still higher than the increase in workers’ wages (3.7 percent) or the overall inflation rate (2.6 percent), according to the 2007 Employer Health Benefits Survey released Sept. 11 by the Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Educational Trust. Key findings from the survey were also published in the journal Health Affairs. The 6.1 percent average increase this year was the slowest rate of premium growth since 1999, when premiums rose 5.3 percent. Across the nation since 2001, premiums for family coverage have increased 78 percent, while wages have gone up 19 percent and inflation has gone up 17 percent. The average premium for family coverage in 2007 is $12,106, and workers on average now pay $3,281 out of their paychecks to cover their share of the cost of a family policy. “We’re seeing some moderation in health-cost increases, but premiums for family coverage now top $12,000 annually,” Kaiser President and CEO Drew E. Altman, Ph.D. said. “Every year health insurance becomes less affordable for families and businesses. Over the past six years, the amount families pay out of pocket for their share of premiums has increased by about $1,500.” “The number of options for low wage earners is limited, and the greatest burden of all health care costs falls to this segment of the population,” said Health Research and Educational Trust President Mary A. Pittman, Dr. P.H. “Although the economy seems to be strong, between 2005 and 2006 the total number of uninsured still rose by 5 percent, including a 9 percent increase in the number of uninsured children.” The annual Kaiser/HRET survey provides a detailed picture of how employer coverage is changing over time in terms of availability, costs and coverage for the 158 million people nationally who rely on employer-sponsored health insurance. It was conducted between January and May of 2007 and included 3,078 randomly selected, non-federal public and private firms with three or more employees (1,997 of which responded to the full survey and 1,081 of which responded to a single question about offering coverage). While premiums continue to rise faster than workers’ wages, this year’s gap of 2.4 percentage points is much smaller than the 10.9 percentage point gap recorded four years ago, when premiums rose 13.9 percent and wages grew just 3 percent. However, “despite the comparatively low rate of increase in premiums and a strong labor market, the percentage of the workforce obtaining coverage from employer-sponsored plans remained unchanged since 2006,” reports the Health Affairs article by Kaiser’s Gary Claxton and co-authors. The 60 percent of firms offering health benefits to at least some of their workers is statistically unchanged from last year’s offer rate (61 percent). The offer rate remains significantly lower than it was in 2000, when 69 percent of firms offered health benefits. Nearly all (99 percent) large businesses with at least 200 workers offer health benefits to their workers this year, but fewer than half (45 percent) of the smallest firms with three to nine workers do so. Meanwhile, in spite of the extensive attention paid to consumer-driven health plans, the survey finds that these relatively new types of arrangements have made only a small inroad into the employer market. Such plans cover about 5 percent of all covered workers, which is not statistically different from the 4 percent share recorded in 2006. Overall, an estimated 3.8 million workers are enrolled in consumer-driven plans, about equally divided between high-deductible plans that qualify for a Health Saving Account (HSA) and plans with a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA). These plans feature a high-deductible plan and a tax-preferred savings option, from which employees can pay for their out-of-pocket medical expenses. Such plans are often described as consumer-driven because people pay directly for a greater share of their health care and may have an incentive to minimize its cost. They also may offer tools to help consumers choose providers based on cost and quality. This year, 10 percent of firms offered a consumer-driven plan to their workers, which is up from (but not statistically different than) the 7 percent of firms reporting this for 2006. Firms with at least 1,000 workers are more likely to offer such plans, with nearly one in five (18 percent) offering one. Looking toward 2008, few firms that don’t already offer such plans report that they are very likely to add a HRA plan (3 percent) or a HSA-qualified plan (2 percent). Premiums for these high-deductible plans are generally lower than for other types of plans, though in addition to the premiums, employers may also contribute money to the savings accounts. The survey finds that firms on average pay a total of $7,815 toward the cost of family coverage for a HSA-qualified plan (including $714 for the account) and $10,179 toward the cost of family coverage for a high-deductible plan with a HRA (including $1,800 for the account). Compared to the $8,879 average firm contributions for other types of plans, employer contributions are lower for HSA-qualified plans and higher for plans with HRAs. Businesses made no contribution at all to the savings account for roughly half of all workers enrolled in an HSA for family coverage, leaving workers to pay the generally higher out-of-pocket costs associated with their high-deductible plan. “Consumer-driven plans have established a foothold in the employer market, but they haven’t grown as much as one might think, given all the attention that they receive,” said Kaiser Vice President Gary Claxton, co-author of the study and director of the Foundation’s marketplace research. “Despite the economic expansion that added 2 million new jobs from April 2006 to April 2007, the Continued on page 7 November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:37 AM Page 3 TWIC Enrollment Starts, But Questions Remain Beset by delays, the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program nevertheless got going last month, as Wilmington, Del. on Oct. 16 became the first port to enroll workers in the federally mandated plan. Along with the start date for enrollment in Delaware, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced the next 11 ports that will begin enrolling in November. They are (early November) Corpus Christi, Texas; (mid-month) Baton Rouge, La.; Beaumont, Texas; Honolulu; Oakland, Calif.; Tacoma, Wash.; and (late November) Chicago; Houston; Port Arthur, Texas; Providence, R.I. and Savannah, Ga. During a media conference call Oct. 15, TSA and U.S. Coast Guard officials noted that while the enrollment period for the TWIC is starting, program enforcement hasn’t begun. TWIC compliance dates will vary from port to port, the officials stated, and those dates haven’t been announced. There is a federal requirement to provide at least 90 days of advance notice before the TWIC regulations are enforced at a given port. Barring changes to the program, mariners will be required to carry a TWIC by Sept. 25, 2008 in order to have unescorted access to secure areas of vessels and maritime facilities. Eventually, they also will be required to carry a separate document known as a merchant mariner qualification credential (MMC), as the current zcard/MMD and STCW certificates are phased out. The final rulemaking on the MMC isn’t expected to be published until at least summer 2008, and initial issuance of that credential will continue over a fiveyear period. This means that until the proposed MMC regulation is final, Seafarers should continue to apply for zcards/MMDs, licenses, CORs and STCW endorsements under the current regulations in 46 CFR parts 10 and 12. Indications are that the MMC will be phased in over five years. If the MMC proposed regulation is fully implemented, mariners would be able to apply for original, renewal, duplicate and raise-in-grade MMCs entirely by mail, without having to visit a Coast Guard regional examination center. Most or all of the information currently submitted in person at one of the 17 RECs already would have been submitted at one of the 125 or so TWIC enrollment centers when an individual applied for a TWIC, removing the need (though not eliminating the option) to apply for an MMC in person. Many questions remain about the TWIC program, including details about the card readers. Those readers were one of several topics scheduled for scrutiny during a U.S. House Homeland Security Committee hearing scheduled for Oct. 31 and titled, “Homeland Security Failures: TWIC Examined.” More information about the TWIC program will be included in upcoming editions of the LOG, posted at www.seafarers.org and reported at the monthly membership meetings. Additionally, the TSA/TWIC customer service line is available at (866) 347-8942, and the TSA’s TWIC web site is located at www.tsa.gov/twic. The fee for a TWIC is $132.50 and the credential is valid for five years. Mariners with a valid z-card may pay a reduced fee of $105.25 because they have undergone a “comparable background check” as the one required for a TWIC, but it’s important to note that a new TWIC only is valid for five years from the date the background check was performed. In other words, if a mariner secured his z-card in December 2005 and then obtained a TWIC in December 2007 by paying the reduced fee, the TWIC only would be valid until December 2010. In any case, according to the TSA, payment for a TWIC must be made with credit card (Visa or MasterCard only), money order, or cashier’s check. The cost of a replacement TWIC if the original is lost, stolen or damaged is $60. Union Testifies on Manpower, Training and Trade Issues House Subcommittee Examines Maritime ‘Trends, Innovations’ SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez presented testimony Oct. 17 to the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. Chaired by Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), the Subcommittee conducted a hearing “to receive testimony on trends and innovations in mariner education and to assess how growing workforce shortages will affect the maritime industry as trade continues to increase.” In announcing the hearing, the Subcommittee indicated it specifically would “consider the possible impact of various factors on workforce shortage, including wage levels; lifestyle challenges associated with employment in the maritime industry; and training requirements imposed by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention.” In addition to the SIU’s Tellez, the other panelists testifying were Coast Guard Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead; Maritime Administrator Sean Connaughton; Michael Rodriguez, executive assistant to the president of the Masters Mates and Pilots; Carl Annessa, chief operating officer/vice president for operations of Hornbeck Offshore Services for the Offshore Marine Service Association; Cathy Hammond, CEO of Inland Marine Services for American Waterway Operators; retired Navy Adm. John Craine Jr., president of the State University of New York Maritime College; William Beacom, navigation consultant for Professional Mariner; Capt. Arthur H. Sulzer, USN (Ret), board member, Maritime Academy Charter High School; Capt. Jeff Slesinger, director of safety and training, Western Towboat Company; and Berit Ericksson, former executive director, Pacific Coast Maritime Consortium. Besides submitting written testimony, witnesses (divided into three panels) offered oral statements and answered questions from Subcommittee members. Among other points, Tellez emphasized that shipboard manpower “must be addressed in the context of national security.” He cited sealift lessons learned by our nation after the Persian Gulf War, including the need for a strong Ready Reserve Force ade- SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez testifies at the Oct. 17 hearing. U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) Please be advised the SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Monday, Nov. 12 for the observance of Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 22 for the observance of Thanksgiving Day and Tuesday, Dec. 25 for the Christmas Day holiday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. November 2007 quately crewed so the ships are properly maintained and ready to mobilize. He also noted the cooperative efforts between the SIU, its contracted operators and the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education—efforts that have strongly contributed to the nation’s manpower pool of skilled, loyal, U.S. citizen seafarers. Tellez also expressed dismay at the recent announcement by the U.S. Maritime Administration concerning a reduction in crew sizes that is expected to accompany the agency’s takeover of the fast sealift ships (an issue that was reported at all SIU membership meetings in October). Excerpts from his written statement follow. Visit the “Heard at Headquarters” section of www.seafarers.org for a link to individual statements by all panelists as well as by Rep. Cummings and Rep. James Oberstar (D-Minn.), chairman of the full committee. Continued on page 7 OSG Tanker Order Grows to 12 Aker American Shipping ASA and SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG) recently disclosed that they have signed an agreement under which Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, will construct two additional Veteran Class MT-46 Jones Act product tankers. Under terms outlined under an arrangement announced Oct. 3, the shipyard will—after manufacturing the new platforms—transfer them to another subsidiary, American Shipping Corporation (ASC). ASC then will bareboat charter the vessels to subsidiaries of OSG for initial terms of 10 years. The agreement is subject to relevant government approvals. “We are proud to be expanding our fleet from 10 to 12 tankers, and excited for the opportunity to continue exhibiting our expertise in constructing quality merchant vessels,” said Aker American Shipping President and CEO Dave Meehan. “These modern ships are vital to the U.S. Jones Act and we are eager to deliver them to an expanding market in need of quality, double-hulled vessels.” The shipyard also recently issued a progress report on the initial 10-ship program. Assembly of the series of Veteran Class tankers is continuing on schedule, according to Aker officials. In addition to the two ships previously delivered (the Overseas Houston and the Overseas Long Beach), and the two vessels under construction in the building dock, the third tanker in the series (Hull 007) is nearing completion with testing and commissioning procedures taking place in the yard’s outfitting dock. Construction of the sixth vessel is under way with ongoing steel cutting of plates which will form part of the ship’s engine room. In a related development, Aker American Shipping ASA-owned vessels have been designated as the first to serve as U.S.-flag shuttle tankers. Pursuant to the agreement announced Oct. 5, between OSG and Petrobras America, Inc. (Petrobras), two of the 12 products tankers under construction at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard will be converted for shuttle tanker service for use with The Overseas Houston is the first tanker in the series of ships being built in Philadelphia for SIUcontracted OSG. Petrobras. OSG now has time charters in place with major oil companies or refiners for 11 of the 12 tankers. “We are the first U.S. owner and builder entering the new and exciting shuttle tanker market, where growth prospects are seen as very strong,” said Meehan of the historic announcement. “This is an important strategic milestone for Aker American Shipping and is another example of how we are reinventing and reinvigorating the U.S. Jones Act market.” Elsewhere, the keel laying ceremony for the fifth tanker in series took place Oct. 8 in the yard’s building dock. The ceremony itself was particularly noteworthy, according to shipyard officials, because it marked the first time that the engine room section was the initial module to be set in the dock. This complicated section featured sweeping curves and intricate outfitting whereas previous vessels saw the less-complex cargo sections of the keel set first in the dock. As part of the ceremony, coins were placed under the keel block recreating a long-held shipbuilding tradition whereby special coins are hidden in the keel section of a ship as a permanent symbol of good fortune and safe travels. Seafarers LOG 3 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:38 AM Page 4 Seafarers Crew Up National Glory The National Glory approaches the docks in Busan, South Korea after leaving the shipyard in China. In addition to being stored on the deck of the National Glory, materiel also found its way into the holds during the vessel’s maiden voyage with a Seafarers crew. More jobs came to the forefront for union members recently when SIU-contracted Crowley Ship Management welcomed the National Glory to its fleet. Owned by National Shipping of America, the 575 TEU containership recently underwent upgrades and a refurbishment in Jiangyin, China. The vessel measures 489 feet in length and 72 feet in width and will work in the U.S. coastwise trade starting in the second quarter of 2008. Since its delivery from the shipyard, the vessel has loaded in Busan, South Korea for discharge in Guam. The ship is presently sailing between Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand and Jebel Ali, UAE. It is expected that the vessel will operate in the Arabian Gulf area for the next several months before returning to the U.S. Both Crowley Ship Management and the owner have been very pleased with the cooperation of the SIU crew which has been assigned to the vessel. Officials said they did a masterful job in getting the vessel underway and ready for trading during a very difficult shipyard period. Members of the National Glory’s SIU crew are among those posing for this photo while the vessel underwent upgrades in Jiangyin. Cargo is staged on the docks in Busan and then hoisted aboard ship. Crowley, Horizon Lines Honored for Environmental Excellence Two SIU-contracted companies, along with their top performing vessels, recently were recognized by the U.S. maritime industry for outstanding achievements in environmental excellence. Crowley Maritime Corporation and Horizon Lines Inc. during a Sept. 25 dinner at the Washington Marriott Hotel were cited for their outstanding environmental records by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA). Twenty-six vessels which are owned and operated by Jacksonville, Fla.-based Crowley subsidiaries and 13 others in the fleet of Charlotte, N.C.-headquartered Horizon were singled out for their respective accomplishments. Certificates were bestowed upon each vessel. “These awards are especially gratifying because they are all about safety,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s a tribute not only to the companies but also the individual mariners. This recognition also is a reflection of the tremendous jobs that the instructors and staff at our affiliated training school (the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md.) do in preparing students for their careers.” “Safety, which includes environmental protection, is our company’s most important core value,” said Tom Crowley Jr., chairman, president and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corp. “I am extremely proud of the men and women here at Crowley who are providing leadership in this area by not only taking responsibility for their own safety, but who are also safeguarding those around them, our customers’ cargoes and USNS Safeguard Joins SIU CIVMAR Fleet Seafarers in the union’s Government Services Division—CIVMARS—gained more shipboard jobs recently as the U.S. Navy rescue and salvage vessel Safeguard was decommissioned and transferred to the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Masters, Mates & Pilots Capt. Edward Dickerson and 26 CIVMARS on Sept. 26 boarded the vessel and assumed their new duties at the conclusion of a decommissioning ceremony which was conducted in Sasebo, Japan. More than 100 of the vessel’s active-duty Navy crew looked on as Lt. Cmdr. Doyle Hodges, Safeguard commanding officer, lowered the ship’s commissioning pennant. The vessel assumed the designator United States Naval Ship—USNS Safeguard—shortly following its decommissioning and transfer to MSC. “We’re extremely happy about the vessel being added to the MSC fleet as well as the new job opportunities which were created for Seafarers as a result of the decommissioning and transfer,” said Chet Wheeler, assistant vice president, SIU Government Services Division. “I’m hopeful that a few issues with respect to habitability can be worked out as soon as possible so that our people’s transitions into their new jobs will be as smooth as possible.” “Safeguard is a great addition to MSC’s fleet,” said Paul Devoe, assistant program manager with MSC’s Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force. “The ship will continue to provide vital support to the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet.” The Safeguard will remain in Japan and maintain the same mission and operational capabilities, MSC officials said. These missions include: salvage of stranded vessels; rescue and assistance operations; recovery of submerged objects; and manned-diving 4 Seafarers LOG The USNS Safeguard is a new addition to the SIU Government Services Division fleet. operations. The CIVMAR crew will be complemented by a four-person military detachment of Navy sailors for communications support, and up to 20 Navy divers as the mission requires. According to Navy officials, operating noncombatant ships with civilian mariners means the U.S. Navy can free uniformed sailors for critical jobs in the combatant fleet. The Safeguard is the fourth and final Navy rescue and salvage ship to be transferred to MSC and be crewed by SIU CIVMARS, joining the USNS Grapple (T-ARS 53), USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51) and USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52). MSC operates 110 noncombatant ships with civilian crews that replenish U.S. Navy ships, chart ocean bottoms, conduct undersea surveillance, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military equipment and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces. the environment.” John V. Keenan, president and CEO of Horizon Lines, echoed Crowley’s assessment noting, “Environmental responsibility is a commitment our company and ships have honored since our founding. These awards allow us to know that we are delivering on our promise to be good citizens on shore and at sea—actions that make us proud of our people and our performance.” The awards recognized companies with vessels that had achieved a record of two or more years of no recordable environmental incidents including: No reportable spills; No U.S. Coast Guard citations for violations of MARPOL; No port state citations for violations of MARPOL; and No violations of state/local pollution regulations. Vessels are eligible for awards beyond the initial two-year period. Crowley companies, including Crowley Liner Services, Crowley Petroleum Services, Marine Transport Lines and Marine Transport Management far surpassed the two-year benchmark, company officials said. The company registered a combined total of 152 years of environmental excellence among its recognized vessels which included: Crowley Liner Services— MV Cape Taylor, SS Cape Intrepid, SS Curtiss, SS Cape Island and SS Wright. Crowley Petroleum Services —ATB Coastal Reliance, ATB Ocean Reliance, ATB Sea Reliance, ATB Sound Reliance, MV Guardsman, MV Navigator, MV Sea Cloud, MV Sea Prince, MV Sioux, MV SMT Chemical Trader, SS Blue Ridge and SS Coast Ridge. Marine Transport Lines— MV Cape Decision, MV Cape Diamond, MV Cape Domingo and MV Cape Edmont. Marine Transport Management—Charleston Express, St. Louis Express, Washington Express and Yorktown Express. Horizon Lines vessels boasted a combined 94 years of environmental excellence. Those honored and their number of years with no recordable environmental incidents were: Horizon Challenger–4 years; Horizon Discovery–2 years; Horizon Enterprise–17 years; Horizon Fairbanks–7 years; Horizon Kodiak –6 years; Horizon Navigator–17 years, Horizon Pacific–7 years; Horizon Producer–4 years; Horizon Reliance–6 years; Horizon Trader–9 years; USNS Bowditch –2 years; USNS Heezen–7 years and USNS John McDonnell–6 years. U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad Allen delivered the event’s keynote address. During his remarks, he shared statistics that demonstrate how the emphasis on preserving the environment by mariners, shipping companies and government agencies has yielded positive results through the years. In addition to high-ranking officials from shipping companies, the dinner was attended by prominent figures from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Maritime Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and other government organizations. The Chamber of Shipping of America was founded in 1917. The organization represents 30 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, container ships and dry bulk vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and companies that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:40 AM Page 5 University Professor Scrutinizes Runaway-Flag Shipping National security risks resulting from the United States’ dependence on flag-of-convenience (FOC) merchant ships since the events of 9-11 continue to raise concerns in many circles. J. Peter Pham, Ph.D., director of the Nelson Institute for International and Public Affairs at Harrisonburg, Va.’s James Madison University, points out that these concerns are well-founded and further that the FOC arrangement—as well as the ships which sail the seas under its authority— pose a clear danger to America’s national security interests. Foreign-flag ships in 2002 were estimated to be transporting 98 percent of U.S. commercial imports and exports, and many of those vessels fly FOCs, also known as runaway flags. The United States also relies on U.S.owned ships registered in at least five FOC states for military supply and support in wartime under a defense doctrine known as “effective U.S. control.” Under flags of convenience, a ship owned in one country is registered at relatively modest cost in another country, usually a poor nation that depends on the registry revenues for much of its income. In exchange for ship registry, some FOC states offer secrecy that often allows hidden title to a single vessel or fleet, and they generally do not tax shipping interests. Further, FOC states commonly shield vessel owners and operators from accountability in collisions, oil spills and other incidents. FOC states either cannot or do not enforce minimal operating, environmental, safety or social standards established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) in the United Nations. Pham, in his work, “An Inconvenient Flag: Liberia’s Ship Registry in the Age of Global Terrorism,” scrutinized Liberia’s maritime force. He found that while this West African nation essentially has no Navy or Coast Guard to patrol its 579-kilometer coastline, it still has the world’s second largest merchant navy both in terms of vessels and gross tonnage. Ranking second only to Panama, Liberia’s merchant fleet is comprised of 1,687 large ships amounting to more than 96 million deadweight tons. Included in this inventory of seagoing platforms are three barge carriers, 322 bulk carriers, 83 cargo container ships, 75 liquefied gas tankers, 397 petroleum tankers, 76 refrigerated cargo ships, four roll-on/roll-off vessels, 11 specialized tankers and 35 vehicle carriers. After examining the fashion in which Liberia was able to grow its merchant registry from virtually nothing to the world’s second largest, and what he described as the extremely lax policies and procedures under which it registers vessels under its flag, Pham said that Americans need some assurances that the vessels sailing the world’s oceans are safe, highquality platforms which meet commonsense environmental safeguards, fair labor standards and basic security requirements. “We need to know who owns them, who operates them, and who crews them, especially if they approach our shores or those of our allies,” Pham said. According to the International Transport Workers’ Federation Federation Appoints Executive VP Holt Baker Succeeds Newly Retired Chavez-Thompson Arlene Holt Baker, the daughter of a domestic worker and laborer in Fort Worth, Texas, on Sept. 21 unanimously was approved to become the AFL-CIO’s new executive vice president. Holt Baker—the first African American woman to serve in one of the labor alliance’s top three offices—replaces Linda ChavezThompson, who served the labor movement for 40 years. She announced her retirement in early September. Holt Baker brings 30 years of experience as a union and grassroots organizer and political activist to the post. As a teenager, she got her first job in programs established through President Lyndon Johnson’s “War on Poverty” initiative, and began her union career with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). As an organizer, international representative and eventually AFSCME’s international union area director in California, Holt Baker helped public-sector workers form a union and win a voice at work. She also helped workers secure contracts with better wages as well as pay equity for women. Holt Baker has served on California’s Comparable Worth Task Force Committee and also has received numerous civic awards for her work as a labor and community advocate. She came to the AFL-CIO as executive assistant to former Executive Vice President Chavez-Thompson in 1995. Most recently, she led the AFL-CIO’s Gulf Coast Recovery effort. Chavez-Thompson returned home to San Antonio to be with her family shortly after announcing her retirement. She was elected to the office of executive vice November 2007 (ITF), FOC crews typically are recruited from developing and less-developed countries including the Philippines and Indonesia, and, in a more recent trend, from former Soviet-bloc states in Eastern Europe. Many have no training, and many more are known to have fraudulent mariner documents and training certificates. Labor, clergy and human rights organizations worldwide have charged that FOC crews are easily exploited and often abused, working long hours for little pay under substandard conditions. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (who also serves as first vice chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section) during testimony earlier this decade before the U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services Committee stated that FOC vessels “have been linked to the registration of hijacked ships, phantom ships, fraudulent unreported and unregulated fishing, illegal alien smuggling, and most recently, to international terrorism.” Norwegian intelligence sources in late 2001 furnished the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization with a list of 23 cargo ships linked to terrorism, or more specifically to Osama bin Laden and al-Qaeda. The ships’ names, listed owners, likely cargoes, and flag states at Attention Linda Chavez-Thompson Arlene Holt Baker president in 1995. A second-generation American who is the daughter of cotton sharecroppers, Chavez-Thompson became the first person of color to hold one of the top three elected offices at the AFL-CIO. She had previously served on the AFL-CIO Executive Council as a leader in AFSCME. Traveling and speaking to union and community groups constantly, she has been the face of America’s new union movement to millions. Chavez-Thompson during her career worked to strengthen state and local labor movements and has served as a strong voice on behalf of civil, human and women’s rights. She also has been a national leader on the issue of immigration and immigrant workers’ rights. “In everything she’s done over a lifetime of service, Linda has broken new pathways for the labor movement,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “Countless working women and men, not only in the United States but throughout the Western Hemisphere, have a better life because of all she’s contributed. She’s inspired tens of thousands of people to contribute through their own action, and wherever she’s gone, she’s earned tremendous affection.” Under the AFL-CIO constitution, Chavez-Thompson, a native of Lubbock, Texas, will become the AFL-CIO’s first executive vice president emerita. She will continue to chair the AFL-CIO Immigration Committee and serve as head of the InterAmerican Regional Organization of Workers (ORIT), the International Trade Union Confederation’s (ITUC) regional organization for the Americas. She also will serve as an advisor to state federations and labor councils. In a letter to Sweeney formally communicating her retirement, Chavez-Thompson said she wrestled with her decision. “I am blessed to have had 12 years worth of wonderful experiences, meeting thousands of union members and workers who have given me hope that our labor movement continues to be a major factor in their lives,” she wrote. “You have given me the opportunity of a lifetime, which was to go where I never dreamed I could go, and do more than I ever dreamed I could do.” the time of the House hearing remained classified. In London, however, ITF General Secretary David Cockroft declared that the possibilities were strong that the ships cited were registered under FOCs. “We warned two months ago that ships could be used to transport explosives, terrorists or worse,” Cockroft said. “I am sure that most, if not all, of these vessels will be flying flags of convenience.” Cockcroft continued, “Corruption and lack of accountability are endemic in the FOC system, which is built on two pillars: no questions asked of shipowners and no questions answered to anyone else. When a ship is registered with one of these flags, a curtain of secrecy descends—as valuable if you’re a money launderer, someone who wants to sink a ship for insurance, or work its crew half to death before abandoning them unpaid in a foreign port. As long as governments and the United Nations turn a blind eye to the way FOCs allow criminals to operate anonymously, ships will be used to transport everything from drugs and illegal immigrants to the supplies used by the al-Qaeda men who blew up the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania.” Seafarers: Seafarers LOG 5 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:September-07 10/25/2007 11:26 AM Page 6 Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly Retires The comments definitely were offered in jest, and immediately were followed by laughter and then obviously sincere words of praise. But, it’s undoubtedly a measure of the union’s affection for newly retired SIU Mobile, Ala. Port Agent Ed Kelly that the first few quotes solicited for this article brought forth descriptions from different people including “big pain in the rear,” “grouchy so-and-so,” and “grumpy old [person].” Far more revealing and heartfelt was this sentiment from SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey: “I hope we still see him around in the port of Mobile. He did a great job for us, and it was a pleasure working with him. Ed comes from a long line of charter SIU members and has a history Kelly said that working with the late SIU Assistant VP Steve Judd (left) was one highlight of his career, and asked that this particular photo—taken at the SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Md. in 2002—be published with his retirement article. with the union dating to its inception. He’s a great guy.” Kelly, 65, recently called it quits after an SIU career dating to 1981. While he indeed hails from a seafaring family, Kelly traveled an atypical route to the SIU. He had been a schoolteacher and was working as head coach of the track and cross country teams at the University of South Alabama when he decided to take advantage of an opening with the union. “At first, I thought, what the heck did I get myself into?” Kelly recalled with a chuckle. “But I’ve made friends for life in the SIU. I loved servicing, meeting the members and ‘preaching’ about the SIU. The union became my home and my family.” A native of the small town of Theodore, Ala., he worked in other halls from time to time, including facilities in Houston, New Orleans, Jacksonville and Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., but spent most of his career in Mobile. Kelly served as port agent there beginning in 1999. “One thing that struck me is that no matter what hall you went to, the members all felt the same way about the SIU, and it was very positive,” he noted. “What that meant to me was the leadership and the rank-and-file were all on the same page.” Kelly’s father, Ed Kelly Sr., joined the union right after World War II and eventually sailed as a recertified steward. Kelly also Bosun’s Work Is No High-Wire Act had five uncles who were Seafarers, including charter member Jack Kelly, who sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. The newly retired Kelly listed among his fondest memories the years he worked in Houston in the late 1990s; assisting with a postSeptember 11 donation to the International Association of Fire Fighters from the Greater Mobile Port Maritime Council, where he served as secretary-treasurer; participating in grassroots activities promoting pro-maritime legislation; and working with the late Steve Judd, SIU assistant vice president based in New Orleans, who died unexpectedly in early 2006. SIU Assistant Vice President Gulf Coast Jim McGee described Kelly as “good to work with. He would follow up and take care of business. I wish him nothing but the best in retirement.” Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kenny Moore, citing Kelly’s well-known passion for golf, said, “I’m sure he’s on a course right now. He’s a very sharp guy who never shied away from hard Recently retired Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly (left) is pictured with SIU boatmen earlier this year during contract ratification at Crescent Towing. work. He has a great sense of humor and I wish him all the luck in the world.” Kelly, reached (at home) in mid-October, said he is “happy to be retired, but I miss my peers.” At the end of a long conversation filled with laughs, he turned serious when offering this thought for experienced Seafarers: “It’s the job of older members to teach younger members about the union—to help them learn to care about it. Somebody taught you, so what’s wrong with you teaching them? That’s something that’ll keep the union strong for everyone.” Safety Team Reviews Regulations, Hones Skills SIU safety directors from 10 ports last month participated in their ninth annual meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Their agenda from Oct. 9-12 included hands-on training; examining critical regulations governing vessel and port safety; ship inspection procedures; methods for discovering hidden hazards; training and education at the center; manpower and recruiting; contracts and communications skills, and more. Pictured in the group photo (from left) are safety directors and SIU officials Jimmy White (from the SIU’s Houston hall), Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Karl Leiter (Jacksonville), Kevin Marchand (Ft. Lauderdale), President Michael Sacco, Sam Spain (Norfolk), Monte Burgett (Algonac), Ryan Palmer (Tacoma), Abdul Al Omari (Wilmington), James Brown (New Orleans), Kathy Chester (Oakland) and Frank Iverson (Honolulu). State-of-the-art simulators are important parts of many Paul Hall Center classes. Checking out the bridge and engine simulators, respectively, are Karl Leiter (left photo) and James Brown. Great Lakes Contracts Ratified For Bosun Zeki Karaahmet, pictured (literally) above, slushing the topping wires used on cargo cranes aboard the SIUcrewed Washington Express makes for an eye-catching experience, but it’s all in a day’s work. The bosun recently emailed these images taken during a voyage back in May. The vessel, operated by Marine Personnel and Provisioning, is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. The ship is 798 feet long with a beam of 105 feet, 8 inches. Built in 2002, the vessel is equipped with four cargo cranes and can sail at greater than 21 knots. 6 Seafarers LOG Several contracts recently were ratified in the union’s Great Lakes Division. Separate but very similar 12-year pacts are now in place at Upper Lakes Towing, with one agreement covering unlicensed crew members and the other covering licensed mariners. The Upper Lakes Towing contracts call for wage increases each year through March 2013 and a wage reopener for the years 2013-2019. They also boost company contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and increase company vacation benefits. At VanEnkevort Tug and Barge, a comparable 12-year contract is now in place. It, too, stipulates annual wage increases from 2007 to 2013, followed by a wage reopener for the agreement’s remaining years. Further, the new pact provides for an increase of the company contribution to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan along with increased company vacation benefits. Finally, crew members on Hanson Material Services harbor boats based in Morris, Ill. are covered by a new five-year agreement. The pact took effect March 1, 2007 and runs through February 2012. This agreement maintains current health and pension benefit levels and provides for annual wage increases. November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:41 AM Page 7 Union Testifies on the Hill Continued from page 3 Excerpts from SIU Statement I would like to thank the Committee for the opportunity to appear before you today and to express our thanks for the continued support of the Congress for the Maritime Security Program (MSP), the Jones Act and Cargo Preference that play a vital role in ensuring that the United Statesflag fleet is generally not experiencing the kind of manpower shortages at issue here today, and can continue to supply the trained manpower essential to maintaining U.S. strategic sealift capabilities. At the same time, I would be remiss in not pointing out that a recent government decision was made in order to save a relatively small amount of money by reducing crews in the vital U.S. Ready Reserve Force. This potentially sets a dangerous precedent and could create significant problems down the line by eroding the pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S.-citizen crews whom our military depend upon during times of conflict…. United States-flag vessels operating in the deep sea ocean trades are not experiencing the manpower shortages that are the subject of today’s hearing. The reasons for this include the MSP program enacted by Congress in 1996 and re-authorized in 2003; the preferences granted to United States-flag vessels for the carriage of military and commercial U.S. Government owned or impelled cargoes by Cargo Preference Laws enacted over the years; ongoing support for the Jones Act; maintenance of the RRF; and the general support of the Congress for emphasizing the use of commercial vessels for military cargoes expressed by the National Security Sealift Policy adopted by Presidential Directive in 1989. In combination, these programs and policies have enabled the United States to maintain a commercially viable and militarily useful fleet of privately owned vessels, manned by U.S. citizen crews, in active service in the international and domestic trades. In 2004, pursuant to Congressional direction in the Maritime Security Act of 2003 to study the Maritime Security and Cargo Preference programs, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) concluded that: “The cargo preference and Maritime Security Programs both provide incentives to retain privately owned U.S.-flag ships and their U.S. citizen crews for commercial and national defense purposes.” As stated by the Department of Defense in its comments on that report, “The Department of Defense supports a strong and viable United States Merchant Marine which provides DOD with needed U.S.-flag vessels and mariners during war. The Cargo Preference and Maritime Security Programs are vital to the U.S. Merchant Marine and DOD.” The direct linkage between these programs and U.S. strategic sealift capabilities is clear. Today 60 militarily useful vessels are enrolled in the Maritime Security Program, while, according to the GAO, on average almost 200 United States-flag vessels participate in the carriage of military and commercial preference cargoes. The contributions made by these vessels to defense sealift are two-fold. First, the vessels themselves are available for use by the military for defense cargoes. This is particularly true for the 60 vessels in the Maritime Security Fleet. As important, however, is the contribution made to creating and sustaining a pool of skilled and experienced seafarers that the Departments of Defense and Transportation can draw upon to provide augmentation crews for strategic sealift vessels kept in reduced operating or reserve status when not required for contingency operations. In general, to provide for crew rotations, training ashore, vacations and sick leave, for every billet on board those vessels, there are approximately 1.5 trained and experienced U.S. citizen seafarers. It is those seafarers who form a substantial part of the manpower pool that can be called upon to crew vessels being activated from those reserve or reduced operating status fleets. The importance of these ships Health Care Premiums Rise Continued from page 2 employer-based system can do no better than tread water,” said coauthor Jon Gabel, senior fellow at the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. “It makes one ask, ‘What will happen during the next economic downturn?’” Worker Contributions, Cost-Sharing Covered workers on average pay 16 percent of the overall premiums for single coverage and 28 percent for family coverage— shares that have remained relatively stable in recent years. However, workers in small firms (three to 199 workers) pay significantly more on average toward the cost of family coverage ($4,236 annually) compared to larger firms ($2,831 annually). November 2007 For single coverage, the opposite is true, with workers at small firms annually contributing less on average than workers at large firms ($561 vs. $759). Other findings include many employers indicating that they expect to make significant changes to their health plans and benefits in 2008. Overall, 21 percent of firms say they are “very likely” to raise workers’ premium contributions next year. Some firms also say they are “very likely” to increase office visit costsharing (13 percent), increase deductibles (12 percent) and increase prescription drug costsharing (11 percent). Very few firms say they are “very likely” to restrict eligibility for coverage or drop health coverage altogether. The full survey may be accessed online at http:// www.kff.org/insurance/7672/ and crews to military sealift is evidenced by their continued role in supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. To augment active privately owned, militarily useful vessels in commercial service and U.S. Government-owned active sealift forces, the United States maintains a fleet of approximately 45 sealift vessels in reserve or reduced operating status. During the period between October 2001 and February 2006, vessels activated from those reserve fleets transported 28.2 percent (U.S.flag commercial vessels carried most of the remaining 71.8 percent), or almost a third, of all military equipment and supplies delivered to U.S. forces in those contingency operations. One of the sealift lessons learned through Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-91 was that because of the age of many of these vessels, and the lack of any crew on board during reserve status, the vessels experienced a high operating failure rate during the initial surge to this earlier war. Crew shortages also became an issue because the only manpower pool that was available to man the governmentowned vessels had to come from the U.S.-flag commercial fleet. After extensive study and analysis, in the mid-1990s the Department of Defense and the U.S. Maritime Administration changed the way that the government vessels would be maintained to solve the crewing issues encountered during the first Gulf War. In short, the Maritime Administration established a Panelists from different components of the industry participated in the subcommittee hearing. Reserve Operating Status Maintenance Program that placed a cadre of U.S. crews on board groups of reserve vessels in order to maintain the ships in a higher state of readiness. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, these ships were again called upon for initial surge transport, but unlike in Operation Desert Shield, the ships performed flawlessly, and most importantly, because of the small cadre of crew already on board the ships for maintenance there was a nucleus crew ready to sail the ships. By making the change in the mid-1990s, it increased the manpower pool by a small amount, but that was sufficient to help solve the crewing issues experienced during Desert Storm. Overall, it must be emphasized that in addition to the RRF crews, without the trained and experienced mariners drawn from the manpower pool made possible by the United States-flag commercial fleet supported by the Maritime Security Program, Cargo Preference programs and the Jones Act, it would have been impossible to crew up those vessels for Operation Iraqi Freedom. This being said, I am very concerned with plans by the government, as a cost-saving device, to decrease the readiness of certain vessels and reduce or eliminate the crews originally put on board through the changes made to the RRF program after Operation Desert Storm. While we are experiencing no significant crew shortages at this time, with the downgrading of the Reserve vessels, any future use of those vessels for major sealift will clearly lead to crew shortages in both the Jones Act and international trades. The gradual reduction in entry-level shipboard positions in all three departments makes this situation even worse.... SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU VACATION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the NMU VACATION PLAN, EIN 13-6700828, Plan No. 501, for period Jan. 1, 2006 through Dec. 31, 2006. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $0 as of Dec. 31, 2006, compared to $1,077,591 as of Jan. 1, 2006. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,077,591. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $5,091,029 including employer contributions of $4,959,294 and earnings from investments of $131,735. Plan expenses were $4,895,543. These expenses included $961,890 in administrative expenses and $3,933,653 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. As of Dec. 31, 2006, the NMU Vacation Plan merged into the Seafarers Vacation Plan and transferred the remaining net assets. 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; and 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to: Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.70 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of the NMU Vacation Plan, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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. Seafarers LOG 7 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:43 AM Page 8 Aboard the SS Haverford Victory: Winter of ’45 in the North Atlantic Editor’s note: This article was written by Paul Hogan, who joined the NMU in the fall of 1945 and sailed for about three years. He then went to Penn State before getting drafted into the Korean War. The GI bill that was promised to him was never granted, so he did his duty all over again in the Army. After his military service, Hogan became a contractor, designing and building playgrounds all over the world, from Papua New Guinea in the South Pacific to Leningrad in the former Soviet Union and all points in between. He has written three books on the subject and is still active in the field of playground safety. (You can find his web site at Triax2000.com.) I t was a dark and stormy night, one of the darkest and stormiest nights I have ever experienced, even to this day, nearly 62 years later. To make matters worse, we were in the North Atlantic aboard a rocking and rolling Victory-type troop transport. Our mass-produced vessel of 8,000 tons bobbed in the North Atlantic like a cork in rapids. Aboard were 2,000 German POWs who were being transported back to Europe, not to immediate freedom as they had hoped, but to six more months of indentured service clearing land mines in France. The French attitude was, “You put them down, you pick them up.” Also with us were 35 non-commissioned Army MPs and two or three of their officers. Their job was to maintain order among the POWs and to prevent anyone from escaping. How or why anyone would want to try and escape from a troop ship in the middle of the North Atlantic in the midst of a winter storm, I couldn’t fathom. But, I’m getting ahead of myself. As an 18-year-old seaman, I had already been on a troop ship to Southampton where I had about three hours of shore leave to go to a pub for my first English beer while the ship loaded 2,000 American soldiers to bring them home. That first overseas experience had me hooked for life. The next trip was more eventful. By throwing in my union card at the hiring hall, I bid on a trip to Le Havre, France. I knew it was a troop ship but had no idea we would Paul Hogan (right), as a young assistant officer’s pantryman, shakes hands with his boss—and friend—Sandy. be taking 2,000 German POWs to France and then bringing an equal number of GIs home on the same ship. My job was the lowest ranking on the ship: assistant officer’s pantryman. Chief pantryman Sandy was black, 19 years old and, with two years before the mast, had far more experience than I. He became my good friend, regaling me with many funny stories about coping with his position aboard ship. As on every ship, and I suppose in every office in the world, there is one person whose goal in life seems to be making it difficult for someone else. Our nemesis was a young, officious army lieutenant whose name I conveniently forgot a long time ago. I’ll call him Lt. X. He was second in charge of the MP guards who maintained order among the 2,000 POWs. That was really a joke because the POWs maintained their own order. They knew that anything other than order would cause them trouble, of which they’d already had enough. The majority of the POWS had been in 8 Seafarers LOG for a UFO or for whatever was hovering the Afrika Korps. When Rommel was over us with a flashing red light. Finally defeated, the United States was stuck the searchlights focused onto the kite with several hundred thousand German that was trailing us. The OD (officer of prisoners. As it was too expensive to the deck) was not amused, but 2,000 take care of them in Africa, they were POWs, the MPs and our own crew shipped here and relocated in dozens of thought it was great sport. The next day POW camps around the country. Now we had orders: “No more kite flying.” that the war was over, it was time for I forgot to tell you about our captain, them to go home (with that slight detour the strangest one I ever served under. through the mine fields of France). He was reclusive to the extreme and But I digress—an easy thing to do spent most of the time in his cabin, when trying to recall events of 62 years rarely going to the bridge and even ago. more rarely actually taking command of Every morning, Lt. X would appear POWs make a kite to pass the time on the Haverford his ship. One of Sandy’s jobs was to in full dress uniform for his inspection take the captain his breakfast, lunch and tour of our pantry. No one ever wore full Victory. dinner where he ate alone in his cabin. dress on an old troop ship save our Even on Thanksgiving, he ate alone. nemesis. Everyone from the almostly the GIs who had to suffer under Lt. X. If Both the officers and crew of our ship were never-seen captain to the engine room medals had been given for this sort of glad he stayed in his cabin rather on the wipers wore old work clothes. They were exploit, surely Sandy would have earned bridge where he was supposed to be. I doubt clean but old. I used to clean my pants by one. most of the crew ever saw him once, even tying a rope around them and throwing them By comparison, my second trip to Le when docking. off the fantail for about 10 minutes. They Havre was mostly uneventful. We picked up One morning, Sandy came back from got a good washing, and then I’d rinse the several train-loads of German POWs in Port delivering breakfast to the captain’s cabin salt water out of them with fresh water. Elizabeth, N.J. where our ship was docked. laughing. He told me that after having set Back to Lt. X As we watched them get off the special down his tray and on the point of leaving, He had the habit of reaching up and runprison trains and march up the gangplank, I our captain shouted out, “SANDY!” “Yes ning his fingers along the shelf rims looking wondered what lay ahead on this voyage. sir,” Sandy replied. ”You didn’t say good for dirt or grease. He never found any as We had been in port just a few days morning to Bozo” (the captain’s dog). Sandy ran a clean and tight pantry. After a cleaning out the ship and reprovisioning it Replied Sandy, “Oh sir, I said good morning week of this insult, Sandy took me aside and for taking 2,000 German troops east and to him when he was out for his walk earlier whispered, “Paul, I’m going to fix it so he another 2,000 American troops west. I don’t will never come in here and bother us suppose you can imagine how much the ship this morning.” The captain seemed satisfied with that excuse and dismissed Sandy. again.” Bear in mind, our pantry was out of smelled after a thousand or so German and As with most troop ships we had a pretty his domain and was under the supervision of American soldiers had been seasick. There good PA system—certainly superior to what our own chief steward who was very happy were precious few supplies available in you find on today’s 747s. The system was with the way we did our job. Europe for the homeward trip so we had to allegedly under the management of the Sandy found a bottle of molasses and carry provisions for both ways. American MPs, but as they were too busy poured it on the shelf where it was hidden I’d spent a few evenings with Sandy (shooting craps or playing poker), the job by the lip. Lt. X soon came in on his morntouring his favorite hangouts in Harlem, was left to the Germans who were glad for ing rounds to harass us. Unfortunately, this which strengthened our friendship. He was the opportunity. As it was so near Christmas time he had on white gloves. He looked in both my boss and my friend. After all, he and everyone was feeling nostalgic, the the drawers, opened the refrigerator and, as was 19 and I was only 18. Germans kept playing Lily Marlene—perexpected, ran his hand along the shelf where I forgot to tell you that on the first trip, haps every fourth record was sung by his new white gloves picked up a half-pound some of the POWs gave classes in German Marlene Dietrich. She sang the song that of gooey molasses. He jumped back in to wile away the time. I attended almost begins with: “Underneath the Lamppost,” in astonishment, and before he could say a every one and soon learned to count and both German and English. After a few days word, Sandy said, “Oh thank you make basic talk about the weather, jobs I of this, one of the American MP sergeants Lieutenant, I wondered what happened to had, and things like that. My rudimentary burst into the room and told the German DJ that bottle. It must have tipped over on a German came in handy when I greeted the that if he played Lily Marlene one more heavy roll. Here, let me help clean you up.” new load of POWs to our humble ship. I time, he’d throw the record and the DJ overLt. X never came back to our pantry for even learned to sing two complete verses of board. the rest of my two voyages on the Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht (Silent Night, We didn’t hear Marlene for a day or so. Haverford Victory. Holy Night). Then she slowly crept back onto the list Back to my opening line. It was a dark One concert that will stay with me for as where she sang her plaintive song perhaps and stormy night. It was Thanksgiving 1945, long as I live was when the entire shipload and as pantrymen, we had the job of serving of 2,000 German POWs sang Silent Night in every 20 records. We all liked that song but not quite so much as the lonesome POWS. I up a memorable meal for both the ship’s German—and in unison—on a tossing made a few good friends among the POWs officers and our guest army officers. troopship. Though the ship was divided into and for several years corresponded with Still worked up about Lt. X, Sandy had compartments, the song was picked up from Walter Borkofski. He sent me a beautiful yet one more trick up his sleeve. About 10 one compartment of 400 or 500 soldiers to charcoal sketch of a photo I had taken of me minutes before the Thanksgiving dinner the next until the entire ship sang as one in merchant marine training school. I sent gong sounded, he went into the officer’s beautiful chorus. It’s too bad we were him food parcels, but over the decades we dining salon and unscrewed three of the four unable to record that experience. lost touch. “dogs” on a porthole. A dog is a screw type It was cold and bitter when we left Port Last year, while in Tampa, I went aboard device that secures the porthole to the ship’s Newark. Christmas was just three weeks side. The fourth and last dog was held in away. As we entered the Gulf Stream, every- the American Victory. It is now a museum and was an exact duplicate of the Haverford place by just a few threads. thing warmed up for a day, and then we hit Victory. I recalled every nook and cranny of This unsecured porthole just happened to the bitter cold and unforgiving North the Haverford Victory as I led my companbe over the lieutenant’s favorite place in the Atlantic. ion on a tour. I was amazed how I rememsalon. A few days further out, however, the They say if a Victory ship rolls 50 weather turned pleasant again and the POWs bered the use of every room and piece of degrees, it just keeps on going and you are were allowed on deck. The holds where they machinery. I visited my old pantry and the officer’s dining salon. I went forward to the dead. We were in the low forties on our rolls (and the Americans as well) slept had bunks bow where I used to stand under a combing that Thanksgiving. six tiers high, so any excuse to get outside as the ship rose and dived in the heavy seas. The music over the PA system was was welcome. I could have found my bunk room blindfoldappropriate for the season. Everyone was in One warm, sunny day, a few of the ed. I touched the bunk in which I once slept. a holiday mood as they took their places and POWs decided to make a kite. They got I was carried back to that dark and stormy I began serving them from the opening to cloth and string and sticks from I don’t night 62 years ago. the pantry. After serving everyone their dinknow where and made a traditional kite ner, a few bottles of wine appeared out of about 3 feet across. They put a long tail on it nowhere. I went back to the pantry. Sandy and flew it off the stern of the ship. All the nudged me and whispered; “Now you just POWs cheered when the kite took off and watch.” While not appearing nosy, I kept my followed us across the ocean. eye on Lt. X. The ship was going through a Before dinner call, one of the POWs had particularly rough sea with each roll steeper the bright idea of tying a red flashing light than the last. to the tail. Such lights were attached to all On one never-to-be-forgotten roll, the the life belts so that if you were floundering porthole over Lt. X burst open, pouring tons in the freezing water you could be spotted of 32-degree seawater down on his head, by a rescue craft. Never mind that you’d washing him under the table and out the freeze to death after just 15 minutes in that door into the alleyway. Officers jumped up watery grave. to resecure the porthole while Sandy and I Though the European war had been over ran in with mops and buckets and profuse for six months, the North Atlantic still had apologies to begin the clean-up task. Was it thousands of loose drifting mines. We were worth it? You bet. Later, a few of the ship’s still on combat pay, and our ship was on officers went up to Sandy and said, “Good what might be termed today as a Yellow work, Sandy. That guy needed to be flushed Alert Condition. out of the salon.” The exploit traveled About 10:00 p.m., all hell broke loose POW Walter Borkofski sent Hogan this throughout the ship, making Sandy the hero with sirens and klaxon horns blaring. sketch from the small photo (inset) he had among our crew, the Germans and especialSpotlights were turned on, searching the sky sent to the German in 1946. November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 12:26 PM Page 9 Paul Hall Center’s Milestone Year Also Includes 10 th Anniversary of Revamped Trainee Program While the 40th anniversary of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education duly was celebrated earlier this year, another milestone of sorts involving the school took place near the start of 2007. The month of March marked 10 years since the school announced a major change to its trainee program—a staple of the center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship since its founding. Specifically, in 1997 the program shifted from 12 weeks to a curriculum lasting about 2.5 times as long as the old class. A major change in scenery accompanied the expansion. Whereas the old program exclusively took place at the school in Piney Point, Md., the new one added a 90-day shipboard component in which students went to sea and rotated through each department. The redesigned program retained the initial 12-week phase in Piney Point, which includes vessel familiarization, firefighting, first aid and CPR, water survival, vessel operations and maintenance, sanitation and other topics, with emphasis on hands-on training. Finally, the updated curriculum added a third phase back at the southern Maryland campus in which students undergo department-specific training along with additional classes that help provide more options when it’s time to ship out. Like a majority of Paul Hall Center courses, the “phase III” classes include plenty of practical training. Registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, the apprentice program has graduated approximately 22,000 people. U.S.-flag vessel operators have praised the redesigned training, pointing out that the more rigorous curriculum has decreased turnover while boosting safety. Alaska Tanker Company Labor Relations Director Bill Cole sees many benefits in the current format. “This unlicensed apprentice program has been a home run for the school and the employers,” stated Cole, who also serves as a Paul Hall Center trustee. “It’s been that way because what we’ve done is create a career path, starting from an entry-level position. That system provides employers with highly trained and competent people, which has been proven time and time again. Not only are new people entering the industry through the UA program, they’re coming fully qualified with state-of-the-art training and upgraded skill sets.” The program’s changes were driven by regulations as well as by practicality. Part of the impetus came from the amended STCW convention—an international maritime treaty governing the methods used to train and certify merchant mariners. Among that pact’s myriad requirements are practical demonstrations of shipboard skills for certification. But STCW wasn’t the only factor. “The old system was one in which many people taught the newcomers on board the ship how to do a job,” noted Paul Hall Center Director of Training J.C. Wiegman. “A trainee could come to the school for a relatively short period of time and then go right to work. You had larger crews that could take people under their wing on the ships. “The updated apprentice program was a product of higher technology, smaller crews on ships and the apprentice having to come aboard the vessel fully trained and ready to go. Because of those changes, it’s probably now the best program in the country for unlicensed seamen.” A U.S. Navy veteran, Wiegman compared his own experience sailing aboard destroyers to those of merchant mariners aboard civilian-crewed ships. In both cases, technology and automation slowly drove down crew sizes. The apprentice program has tried to compensate for such changes through more thorough training, which in turn has improved retention rates in the These photos depict various components of the unlicensed apprentice program, including shipboard training. U.S.-flag fleet. In particular, students, instructors and company officials alike have pointed to “phase II” (shipboard training) as a boon. Generally, the sentiment is that when a student finishes that stage of training, he or she has a clear idea of whether or not to fully enter the industry. Seafarers-contracted companies participating in phase II include 3PSC, Alaska Tanker Company, Allied Towing, AMSEA, American Steamship, Crowley, E-Ships, Hannah Marine, Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping, Keystone, Liberty Maritime, Maersk, NCL America, Ocean Ships, Overseas Shipholding Group, Pacific Gulf Marine and Sealift, Inc. For more information about the apprentice program, visit the Paul Hall Center section of the SIU web site at www.seafarers.org or call toll-free at 1-877-235-3275. With Allied Boatmen in Virginia As reported in last month’s LOG, SIU boatmen working aboard inland vessels operated by Norfolk, Va.-based Allied Transportation Co. have approved a new three-year contract which took effect Sept. 1. Among other elements, the contract maintains Core-Plus benefits levels and calls for annual wage increases. A few of the 120 union members who sail aboard Allied’s eight vessels are pictured below. Serving on the tallying committee were (from left) 1st Mate Mike Woolard, AB/Cook Randy Perrine and Captain Neil Johnson. AB/Tankerman Wayne Henry Sea Hawk November 2007 Cargo Mate Ryan Emmons Sea Raven AB/Tankerman Andy Page Sea Raven Seafarers LOG 9 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:September-07 10/25/2007 11:38 AM Page 10 At Sea and Ashore With the SIU Working aboard the Great Land in support of U.S. troops in Kuwait are (left) QMED Saleh Shammam, performing some welding on the ramp, and (below) AB Vasilijs Semesjuks. Members of the SIU attended a rally July 31—and held Maritime Port Council of Delaware Valley signs—to show support for Teamsters Local #929 in their drive to organize Preferred Freezer in Philadelphia. Chief Storekeeper Renee Clayton and Bosun Troy “Speedy” Mack await incoming stores on the USNS Gordon in Norfolk, Va. Showing off the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG to come aboard the newly re-flagged Maersk Montana in New York is AB Rudy Syarifudin. Stu Miller (left), captain aboard the USNS Gordon, and Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny swap sea stories about their favorite port of call: Valparaíso, Chile. Four Seafarers who were sworn in as full book members during the September membership meeting in Norfolk pose with VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) and SIU Safety Director Sam Spain (third from right). The new members are (from the left) Wiper Ruden Perez, QMED Michael Evans, Chief Cook Derrick Moore and SA Teresa Williams. SA James Sears participates in helo training aboard the PFC William B. Baugh. 10 Seafarers LOG Crew members aboard the Maersk Ohio pose for a quick photo during a meal aboard the newly re-flagged vessel, which made a stop in New York in early August. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and ITF Inspector Shwe Aung are among those being sworn in as vice presidents of the Texas AFL-CIO during their Aug. 4 convention in Corpus Christi. At right is the Houston SIU delegation to the convention (from the left) Aung, Assistant VP Jim McGee, Corgey and Patrolman Michael Russo. November 2007 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:5140p0 10/25/2007 11:38 AM Page 11 NEW WIRELESS DISCOUNTS from UNION PLUS and AT&T! Savings and Solidarity Enjoy special discounts on wireless devices and save 10% on your monthly service charges through AT&T.* N ow SIU members can save 10% on any new or renewed service plan with AT&T. While you save, you’ll also be supporting the only wireless company that is “Proud to Be Union!” Choose AT&T for value and much more! •Fewest dropped calls of any wireless carrier. •Unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling to over 62 million AT&T customers. •Roll over your unused Anytime Minutes for up to 12 months on select plans. Save and support union workers. Along with saving money, you’ll also be supporting union workers and their families. AT&T respects the collective bargaining process. It is the only wireless company that is completely unionized. Some 40,000 AT&T Mobility employees are represented by the Communications Workers of America. SAVE % An ideal plan for every family! •Individual Plans Never pay domestic long distance or roaming charges! •Family Plans Share minutes between two lines for one low price. •Prepaid Plans Take advantage of local rates in a new, larger coverage area. •Data Plans Access your e-mail, corporate intranet and the internet. 3 Easy Steps will start your savings! 1. TAKE this ad to your local AT&T store. To find the location nearest you, visit att.com/find-a-store.** 2. SHOW union identification, such as your SIU Union Plus credit card, union membership book or paycheck or receipt showing union dues deduction. (Reference FAN #00113662) 3. SIGN UP for or renew a two-year service agreement. 10 *The equipment and service discounts described in this ad are NOT available with the iPhone and associated wireless service. **Union discount available ONLY at AT&T STORES, not through phone or any authorized AT&T dealer or kiosk. For more information about other benefits available to SIU members, visit www.UnionPlus.org/ATT Summer Fun Ad 05/07 SIUSIU AT&T 09/07 November 2007 Seafarers LOG 11 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:5140p0 10/25/2007 2:14 PM Page 12 In and Around the Port of Wilmington Retirement Party for John Ivankovich Lots of fellow Seafarers came out to the union hall to help give a proper send-off to John Ivankovich, who retired after more than 20 years working in the Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor as a cook utility and AB/deckhand at Crowley Marine Services. Included among those who came to wish him all the best were Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, Captains John Zarroli, Homer Roberson, Hank Scott, Bruno Kalmeta, Mike Guillot, Greg Jarvis and Neal Doucet, Utility Engineers Craig Perry, John Tipich and Arsen Perhat and Deckhands Frank Gill, Mike Privette and Mike Restivo. W Om ha While Patty Young cuts the retirement cake, other guests sit around the table reminiscing. From the left are Mates Greg Jarvis and Benny Guillot, Capt. Mike Schmidt and John Ivankovich. Mate Benny Guillot (left) and Utility Engineer John Tipich helped Ivankovich celebrate his maritime career. Wishing his friend a happy retirement is AB/Deckhand Mike Restivo. Wilmington Port Agent John Cox congratulates John Ivankovich on a well-deserved retirement. Mate Neal Doucet and Capt. Hank Scott make their way to the party in an environmentally friendly way. Enjoying the camaraderie are Utility Engineers Arsen Perhat (left) and John Tipich. Capt. Mike Schmidt was one of the well-wishers at the retirement party. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2007 W m Ze th Lo �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:5140p0 10/25/2007 12:28 PM Page 13 n, Calif. Seafarers always show up in full force at the Southern California Labor Day Parade, which was held this year on Sept. 3. ABOARD THE CAR CARRIER JEAN ANNE — on a recent visit to the 10th St. Terminal in San Diego Wilmington Patrolman/Safety Director Abdul Al Omari works on his reports at the Wilmington hall. ABOARD THE OVERSEAS HOUSTON Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (below right) meets with Recertified Bosun Lawrence H. Zepeda Sr. aboard the Overseas Houston when that vessel made a recent visit to the port of Long Beach. Repairing the crane aboard the Jean Anne is Electrician David Cutro. Bosun Dave Davenport operates the ramp controls. Electrician David Cutro GVA Mohamed Saleh and AB Julio Ortiz Maritime Administrator Sean T. Connaughton is flanked by Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (left) and SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone at a press conference at Woodside Natural Gas, Inc. of Santa Monica, Calif. Connaughton recently unveiled a tentative agreement with Woodside to register two new LNG vessels scheduled to service a proposed deepwater port 28 miles off the coast of Los Angeles. “The employment of American citizens aboard U.S.-flag LNG vessels serving the nation’s natural gas receiving facilities is in the best interests of the United States,” he said at the July 30 press conference. November 2007 AB Vince Ippolito Steward Sam Sinclair AB Billy Cooley helps load stores onto the car carrier. Seafarers LOG 13 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:43 AM Page 14 apply now for 2008 Scholarships available to SEAFARERS & their dependents DEADLINE = APRIL 15 P lease send me the 2008 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name __________________________________________________________________________ Mariner's Social Security Number __________________________________________________ Street Address __________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip Code______________________________________________________________ ( ) Telephone Number ______________________________________________________________ This application is for: Self Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/07 14 Seafarers LOG Each year the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan offers qualified Seafarers and their dependents a scholarship program to help ease the financial burden of college and vocational studies. This year, eight scholarships are being offered; three for Seafarers and five for spouses and dependents. One of the three scholarships reserved for SIU members is in the amount of $20,000 and is intended to help cover the costs of attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The other two are for $6,000 each and are intended as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. The five scholarships for spouses and dependent children of Seafarers are worth $20,000 apiece. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to send for the 2008 SIU Scholarship Program booklet (see form on this page). It contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. The program books also are available at all SIU halls. NOW is the time to start the application process. April 15 is the deadline for the 2008 Scholarship Program—and you can’t be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application form. You have nothing to lose! November 2007 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:44 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea December 2007 & January 2008 Membership Meetings SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 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 2 9 8 17 5 9 27 29 5 9 11 17 17 16 6 9 8 5 28 20 0 1 0 4 2 1 6 6 1 0 3 6 10 0 3 0 1 1 3 4 271 257 52 1 0 3 4 1 8 12 15 0 10 3 17 11 9 1 1 1 0 15 9 0 1 7 9 2 1 11 19 0 6 5 13 17 9 3 1 1 3 14 9 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 2 1 1 1 4 4 3 0 0 0 0 2 3 Totals 121 131 25 0 0 6 5 5 7 18 9 0 7 5 21 4 28 0 3 2 2 12 19 1 0 2 9 2 5 5 11 0 4 5 8 12 7 0 2 0 1 6 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 Totals Totals All Departments 0 0 6 9 0 9 25 29 0 11 7 37 5 19 5 1 5 1 16 21 206 0 4 6 8 5 3 15 15 4 8 3 14 6 6 4 13 8 2 19 10 153 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 5 1 1 1 2 6 0 1 0 1 0 1 2 26 0 0 3 5 0 6 13 11 1 6 8 14 12 12 4 1 4 2 11 11 124 0 2 4 7 2 3 11 15 1 1 4 8 10 5 0 1 2 1 14 6 97 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 1 1 2 16 1 0 3 6 2 9 12 19 0 4 2 17 6 14 2 0 0 1 12 18 128 1 1 0 2 2 4 4 9 0 3 1 6 14 3 1 0 1 0 4 3 153 87 9 59 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 2 5 2 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 3 2 6 4 3 24 17 0 4 9 28 11 10 0 10 2 0 17 13 5 2 2 7 2 11 7 11 0 1 4 13 18 7 2 26 1 3 7 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 5 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 2 3 0 12 11 0 4 3 21 8 8 0 6 1 0 9 7 19 166 140 12 564 641 226 470 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 6 6 1 13 24 4 10 74 55 1 19 28 72 22 30 3 3 11 5 68 49 4 10 8 25 7 20 50 42 10 12 21 39 21 23 9 5 15 12 50 31 2 2 0 8 4 2 6 7 1 1 3 8 8 3 7 0 0 1 7 6 91 498 414 76 0 0 1 4 0 3 3 7 0 3 2 4 4 3 0 2 1 0 8 3 2 0 3 13 2 11 24 28 1 17 4 28 10 13 0 1 3 1 29 15 2 1 7 9 2 4 17 27 1 13 6 13 20 13 4 2 2 3 23 14 0 0 0 3 2 2 4 4 1 1 1 6 11 3 0 0 1 0 5 9 48 205 183 53 0 0 1 0 0 0 7 4 0 1 1 8 1 6 1 0 2 0 4 3 2 0 5 9 4 9 32 21 0 11 9 26 12 47 1 6 5 3 29 35 1 0 3 18 1 9 9 12 1 8 9 14 15 7 0 2 1 1 13 11 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 2 0 2 0 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 3 Baltimore..............Thursday: December 6, January 10 Boston ..................Friday: December 7, January 11 Guam ....................Thursday: December 20, January 24 Honolulu...............Friday: December 14, January 18 Houston ................Monday: December 10, January 14 Jacksonville ..........Thursday: December 6, January 10 Joliet .....................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Mobile ..................Wednesday: December 12, January 16 New Orleans.........Tuesday: December 11, January 15 New York .............Tuesday: December 4, January 8 Norfolk .................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Oakland ................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: December 5, January 9 Port Everglades ....Thursday: December 13, January 17 San Juan ...............Thursday: December 6, January 10 St. Louis ...............Friday: December 14, January 18 Tacoma .................Friday: December 21, January 25 Wilmington...........Monday: December 17 ...............................Tuesday: January 22* (*change created by Martin Luther King holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 39 266 135 20 0 1 1 0 0 6 1 3 0 2 0 2 7 3 3 23 0 0 2 4 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 2 5 3 0 1 4 12 2 8 0 1 2 0 10 2 3 3 4 7 2 9 41 34 1 5 12 49 21 20 0 9 6 0 32 24 8 1 2 15 2 18 10 23 2 3 8 23 27 16 0 11 3 3 22 12 97 58 0 53 282 209 406 106 178 1,022 1,014 358 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. November 2007 Piney Point ...........Monday: December 3, January 7 Algonac ................Friday: December 7, January 11 0 0 3 7 0 4 10 10 0 5 4 13 4 10 4 0 2 0 11 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac A1chorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 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 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 3 1 14 17 3 8 37 28 0 10 7 46 15 13 4 3 4 3 30 25 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 Personals MANUEL OLVERA Wayne Korb would like to get in touch with Manuel Olvera or anyone who knows his whereabouts. The two men sailed together in 1956 aboard Waterman’s Citrus Packer. Please call Mr. Korb at (702) 386-2803. DANIEL (DANNY) BARRETT Ron Knight is trying to make contact with Danny Barrett or anyone who sailed with him. Call (301) 461-1803. EVER SAIL ON A NEW “MARINER CLASS” SHIP? I am doing background research for a possible book about the Maritime Commission-designed Mariner vessels. I’d like to hear your stories and sagas about these “new, state-of-the-art” ships of the early 1950s. My research includes just how different these ships were from the WWII era ships. The Schuyler Otis Bland was supposed to be the prototype ship of the future, but no sisters were ever built. Information on the Bland is real hard to find, so I’m looking for information about her, too, as part of my research. Then there was the Mariner C4-S-1a design, 35 ships designed and built by and for the Maritime Commission. I’d like to get your vessel’s name(s), voyage itineraries, your job(s), and how these new ships compared with the WWII C1s to C4s, Liberty ships, Victory ships, and even the Schuyler Otis Bland. Were they better or worse, how and why? What were your feelings about these ships? Got any good photos of the ships? When the ships were eventually purchased by the various steamship companies, what changes did they make to the ships in order to fit their respective needs? If you can help me out, please drop me a line. Capt. Charles Lund, MM&P (retired) 1620 N 203rd Pl. Shoreline, WA 98133-3309 Seafarers LOG 15 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:5140p0 10/25/2007 12:35 PM 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 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 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 Page 16 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU 401K PLAN SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU 401K Plan, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 002, for period Jan. 1, 2006 through Dec. 31, 2006. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This is a summary of the annual report for the NMU PENSION TRUST OF THE NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN, EIN 13-6592643, Plan No. 001, for period January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2006. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through insurance. Plan expenses were $360,067. These expenses included $360,067 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 657 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 $3,751,535 as of Dec. 31, 2006, compared to $3,432,409 as of Jan. 1, 2006. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $319,126. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $679,193 including employee contributions of $380,544 and earnings from investments of $298,649. 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; 3. assets held for investment; 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers; and 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write to, or call: Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.50 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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 (Board of Trustees of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plans, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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. Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund. Plan expenses were $29,740,152. These expenses included $3,039,566 in administrative expenses and $26,700,586 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 7,436 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 $296,628,713 as of December 31, 2006, compared to $296,871,091 as of January 1, 2006. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $242,378. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and 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 $29,497,774 including employer contributions of $563,898, realized gains of $2,486,059 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $26,023,493, and other income of $424,324. 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 the plan assets; 5. information regarding any common or collective trusts, pooled separate accounts, master trusts or 103-12 investment entities in which the plan participates; and 6. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $7.80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents 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. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees of NMU Pension and Welfare Plan, c/o Seafarers Benefit Funds, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) 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 photograph was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner John W. Curlew of Sea Level, N.C. The picture was snapped sometime during a voyage aboard the SS Choctaw (Waterman Steamship Corp.) from October 1954 to August 1955. Curlew, who was bosun at the time, is at left with two other members of the deck department, refurbishing a deck railing. Brother Curlew joined the union in 1947. He completed the bosun recertification program in 1975 and last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Patriot in 1989. Brother Curlew retired in 1990 to the high mountain desert of Nevada. In a note accompanying the photo, Curlew said that after the death of his wife of 49 years, he left Carson City (4,680 feet above sea level) and moved to Snug Harbor (at sea level). “This is a great place for aged, decrepit and wornout seamen,” he wrote. “For economic reasons, Snug Harbor has been opened up to others besides seamen, but there are enough of us here to have a good gathering after supper and see who can come up with the biggest sea story. I have been here for more than a year, and I have not made it yet!” 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. November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 10:44 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 RICHARD BUCHANAN, 65, joined the union in 1977, initially sailing aboard the Long Lines. Brother Buchanan was a member of the deck department. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Buchanan was born in Illinois. His most recent voyage was aboard the Intrepid. Brother Buchanan makes his home in Santa Cruz, Calif. SALVATORE CICIULLA, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1979, first working in the inland division aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessel. In 1995 and 2000, the deck department member attended classes at the Piney Point school. Brother Ciciulla’s most recent voyage was on the SL Pride. He was born in Italy and calls Melbourne, Fla. home. DONALD FARMER, 64, joined the SIU in 1964. Born in Georgia, he first sailed aboard the Penn Carrier. Brother Farmer enhanced his seafaring skills in 1974 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Farmer most recently worked on the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. He is a resident of Albany, Ga. DAVID GANNOUN, 65, became a Seafarer in 1973. Brother Gannoun, a native of Honduras, first sailed on the Over Anchor as a member of the steward department. He attended courses at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. on three occasions to upgrade his skills. Before retiring, he worked aboard the USNS Capella. Brother Gannoun lives in Kenner, La. MONTE GRIMES JR., 55, began his seafaring career in 1971, first sailing on a Vivian Tankers Corp. vessel. He upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center and worked in the deck department. Brother Grimes most recently shipped aboard the Lightning. He continues to reside in his native state of California. KAYED HRBY, 65, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Detroit, Mich. Brother Hrby first sailed aboard a vessel operated by November 2007 Isthmian Lines Inc. The deck department member upgraded his skills in 1978 at the Seafarersaffiliated school. Brother Hrby, who was born in Yemen, most recently sailed aboard the Overseas Juneau. He made his home in Bronx, N.Y. CHARLES LORE JR., 58, began sailing with the union in 1972. Brother Lore was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. He first sailed aboard the Summit as a member of the engine department. Brother Lore, who was born in New York, most recently worked aboard the Sam Houston. He makes his home in Buffalo, N.Y. EDWIN LUSK, 59, commenced his seafaring career in 1972. Brother Lusk’s first ship was the Jefferson Davis. He was born in Fayetteville, Tenn. and shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Lusk upgraded his skills often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Horizon Hunter. Brother Lusk calls Covington, La. home. ALI MOHSIN, 62, who was born in Arabia, began sailing with the SIU in 1968 aboard the Banner. Brother Mohsin was a member of the engine department. In 2000 and 2001, he upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Prior to retiring, Brother Mohsin worked on the Commitment. He is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. NELSON PATTERSON, 65, joined the union in 1970 in the port of Houston. Brother Patterson upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He began sailing aboard a Calmar Steamship Co. vessel, where he worked in the engine department. Brother Patterson, who was born in Texas, most recently worked aboard the Equality State. He makes his home in Livingston, Texas. EDISON RODRIGUEZ, 71, became an SIU member in 1986 in the port of New York. Brother Rodriguez’s first voyage was on the USNS Antares. He upgraded his seafar- ing skills on numerous occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Rodriguez was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He most recently sailed aboard the Green Lake. Brother Rodriguez lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. FRANCES WADSWORTH, 65, began her seafaring career in 1991 in Piney Point, Md. Sister Wadsworth’s first ship was the Louis J. Hauge; her last was the William Baugh. The steward department member was a frequent upgrader at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Sister Wadsworth resides in Wilmington, N.C. INLAND DAVID DEL BUONO, 64, joined the SIU in 1977 in Puerto Rico. Boatman Del Buono sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. Born in New York, he worked in the engine department. Boatman Del Buono attended the Piney Point school in 1981, 1994 and again in 1998 to upgrade his seafaring skills. He is a resident of Baldwin Park, Calif. MANUEL FIGUEROA, 62, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1978. During his career, he worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessels. Boatman Figueroa, who was born in Puerto Rico, sailed in the engine department. He took classes in 1984 at the Paul Hall Center to upgrade his seafaring skills. Boatman Figueroa makes his home in Catano, P.R. JAMES MUSICK, 65, began his SIU career in 1996 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Musick worked primarily aboard Crowley vessels. The New Jersey-born mariner was a member of the deck department. Boatman Musick settled in Mullica Hill, N.J. SVEN VILBORG, 57, started sailing with the SIU in 1975. Boatman Vilborg first sailed aboard a Whiteman Towing Co. vessel. He upgraded in 2003 at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Vilborg, who is a native of Sweden, most recently worked on a Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessel. He calls Bay Mintette, Ala. home. GREAT LAKES MOHAMED MOHSIN, 65, joined the union in 1969. Brother Mohsin worked primarily aboard American Steamship Co. vessels, including the American Sea Ocean and American Mariner. He was born in Arabia and shipped in the deck department. Brother Mohsin lives in Dearborn, Mich. EUGENE PIKE, 65, joined the union in 1967. Brother Pike first worked aboard Great Lakes Associates Inc. vessels as a member of the deck department. He was born in West Virginia. Brother Pike’s most recent voyage was aboard the JAW Iglehart. He resides in Bristol, Tenn. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1949 Certified by the NLRB as collective bargaining agent for nine Cities Service Oil Company tankers, the SIU immediately called upon the company to enter negotiations for a contract covering the company’s unlicensed personnel. The contract will culminate two years of effort by the SIU to obtain union wages, conditions and security for CS seamen. The company began firing crew members by the shipload at the end of each voyage, as the election drew near, but the replacements hired recognized the need for union representation and voted for the SIU. The company’s attitude was scored by the NLRB: “. . . it ill behooves the employer to file objections stemming principally from its own recalcitrance.” 1969 The steward department aboard the SIU-contracted Seatrain Ohio in November received a spontaneous citation from the ship’s officers for its “cooperative effort to please” during a recently completed voyage. “It is seldom that an entire department is as conscientious and hard-working as you men have been,” the letter states. “In the face of such obstacles as long stays in port, not once did the officers and crew lack a first-rate meal.” Praised for a “job well done” were Chief Steward Warren Messenger, Chief Cook Jose Torrefiel, 2nd Cook and Baker Richard Morgan and 3rd Cook Percy Brown as well as “the rest of the department for the courtesy extended us…. It is a pleasure to sail with men such as you, who take pride in your trade.” 1959 Rolling up a near-perfect record, the SIU Training School in New York has graduated 169 successful candidates for a lifeboat ticket out of 173 who have attended the school to date. The lifeboat trainees, after taking both classroom and boat instruction, have been whizzing through the Coast Guard examinations with ease. In addition to the 169 successful lifeboatmen, the training school has assisted 24 ordinaries who subsequently obtained their AB tickets, plus a number of wipers who have gone up to firemen. Ordinaries and wipers interested in enrolling in the school for upgrading, as well as men in any category who lack lifeboat tickets can enroll in the school by contacting the dispatch counter on the second deck in the New York hall. 1979 On Nov. 28, Seafarers crewed the El Paso LNG carrier Sonatrach in Savannah, Ga. Even though she’s the 11th LNG carrier to sail under the SIU banner, her crewing was a first for the union and for U.S. maritime. Until recently, the Sonatrach was operated by a Norwegian crew. Two other El Paso LNG vessels, the Consolidated and the Paul Kayser were also crewed by Norwegian seamen. SIU crews are scheduled to fly out to Dunkirk, France, where the ships are undergoing repairs, to fill the unlicensed jobs on those vessels early next year. By opting for a top-to-bottom crew of American seamen, El Paso has shot holes in the myth that Western European seamen are more capable than their American counterparts. This Month In SIU History Seafarers LOG 17 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 11:25 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA ALBERT BAZOR Pensioner Albert Bazor, 74, passed away March 3. Brother Bazor, who was born in Alabama, joined the SIU in 1963. He first sailed on the Santa Emilia as a member of the deck department. Brother Bazor’s most recent voyage was aboard the Chemical Trader. He retired in 1991 and lived in Tibbie, Ala. JAMES BRUCE Pensioner James Bruce, 83, passed away Feb. 19. Brother Bruce began his seafaring career in 1963, first sailing on a Destiny Carrier vessel. Brother Bruce was born in Galvez, La. and sailed as a member of the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Aurora. Brother Bruce went on pension in 1989. He called Baton Rouge, La. home. PAUL BUTTERWORTH Pensioner Paul Butterworth, 82, died Feb. 23. Brother Butterworth joined the union in 1967. The West Virginia native first shipped on a vessel operated by MooreMcCormack Lines. Brother Butterworth sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1995, he worked aboard the Ambassador. Brother Butterworth made his home in Savannah, Ga. CHARLES DAHLHAUS Pensioner Charles Dahlhaus, 69, passed away March 17. Brother Dahlhaus, who was born in New York, first sailed in 1961 on the Steel Worker. He shipped in the engine department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Dahlhaus resided in Japan. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 2004. LEONARD DAVIDSON Pensioner Leonard Davidson, 82, died March 17. Brother Davidson joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The U.S. Army veteran, who was born in Tennessee, first sailed on the Brooklyn. He settled in Slidell, La. and became a pensioner in 1974. PATRICK DEVINE Pensioner Patrick Devine, 83, passed away March 6. Brother Devine joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of New York. He briefly shipped in the inland division aboard a Blue Stack Towing Co. vessel before switching to the deep sea division. Brother 18 Seafarers LOG Devine was a native of Ireland and worked in the steward department. His most recent voyage was on the Tam Guilden. Brother Devine started receiving his retirement pay in 1983. He was a resident of New Hope, Pa. JOHN HARRIS Pensioner John Harris, 81, died March 16. Brother Harris embarked on his seafaring career in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first ship was the Massillon Victory; his last was the Liberty Sun. Brother Harris was a member of the steward department. He was born in North Carolina and made his home in Virginia Beach, Va. Brother Harris retired in 1990. THOMAS KLINE Pensioner Thomas Kline, 79, passed away Feb. 18. A native of Charleston, S.C., Brother Kline joined the SIU in 1952. His first ship was the Cantigny. Brother Kline sailed in the deck department. He last sailed on the Overseas New Orleans. Brother Kline lived in Jacksonville, Fla. He went on pension in 1990. KOON LAU Pensioner Koon Lau, 87, died March 18. Brother Lau joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. He first sailed aboard a States Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Lau, who was born in China, worked in the steward department. Before retiring in 1999, he shipped on the R.J. Pfeiffer. Brother Lau called San Francisco home. ROBERT MADDOX Pensioner Robert Maddox, 74, passed away March 29. Brother Maddox joined the SIU in 1979. He first sailed in the steward department aboard the Charleston. Brother Maddox, who was born in Knoxville, Tenn., last worked on the Overseas Boston. He settled in Graham, Wash. and began collecting his retirement stipends in 1998. GUSTAVE MALENSKY Pensioner Gustave Malensky, 78, died March 13. Brother Malensky became a Seafarer in 1956 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Steel Direct. Brother Malensky, who was born in the Bronx, N.Y., worked in the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the San Juan. Brother Malensky retired in 1991 and resided in New York. MARIO NOLASCO Pensioner Mario Nolasco, 85, passed away March 12. Born in the Philippines, Brother Nolasco joined the union in 1954. He first sailed on the Steel Artisan. A member of the engine department, Brother Nolasco last worked aboard the Santa Maria. He made his home in San Francisco and began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1980. CHAN-FAT NEU Pensioner Chan-Fat Neu, 89, died Feb. 11. Brother Neu began his seafaring career in 1956 in the port of San Francisco. The deck department member, who was born in China, first sailed aboard the Choctaw. His last ship was the Freedom. Brother Neu went on pension in 1982. He called San Francisco home. OTIS PASCHAL Pensioner Otis Paschal, 86, passed away March 11. Brother Paschal joined the ranks of the SIU in 1958. He first worked on a vessel operated by Boston Towing Boat Co. Brother Paschal was a native of Georgia and sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1986, he worked on the Express. Brother Paschal made his home in Flushing, N.Y. KENNETH ROBERTS Pensioner Kenneth Roberts, 79, died March 8. Brother Roberts joined the SIU in 1949. He first sailed aboard a Sprogue Steamship Co. vessel. Born in Michigan, Brother Roberts shipped as a member of the steward department. His most recent voyage was on the Santa Mariana. Brother Roberts settled in Redding, Calif. and retired from the union in 1982. ANTONIO SGAGLIARDICH Pensioner Antonio Sgagliardich, 85, passed away March 15. Brother Sgagliardich became a union member in 1967 in the port of New York. The engine department member’s first ship was the Gateway City. Brother Sgagliardich was born in Croatia. His last voyage was aboard the Elizabeth. Brother Sgagliardich went on pension in 1989 and lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. ROLAND ST. MARIE Pensioner Roland St. Marie, 85, died March 8. Brother St. Marie joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. His first voyage was on the John Evans where he worked in the deck department. Brother St. Marie was born in Putnam, Conn. Before retiring in 1987, he sailed aboard the Leader. Brother St. Marie continued to reside in Connecticut. LLEWLLYN TROTT Pensioner Llewellyn Trott, 68, passed away March 10. Brother Trott, who was born in Bermuda, started sailing with the SIU in 1967. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Trott first worked on the Panama. His last voyage was aboard the Oakland. Brother Trott was a resident of Jamaica, N.Y. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1997. ROBERT ZURFLUH Pensioner Robert Zurfluh, 69, died June 2. Brother Zurfluh joined the SIU in 1960, first shipping on the Mt. Whitney. He was a native of Albany, Wis. Brother Zurfluh most recently sailed in the engine department of the Horizon Reliance. He called Seattle home and went on pension in 1998. INLAND CARMINO (CARMEN) MARANO Pensioner Carmen Marano, 84, passed away March 1. Boatman Marano embarked on his SIU career in 1963. He first sailed aboard an Erie Lackawanna Railroad Co. vessel. Boatman Marano was born in Hoboken, N.J. He last worked with Penn Central Transportation. Boatman Marano became a pensioner in 1982 and made his home in Waldwick, N.J. STEWART PARKS Pensioner Stewart Parks, 71, passed away Feb. 5. Boatman Parks embarked on his seafaring career in 1981. He first worked aboard a Bulk Fleet Marine Corp. vessel. Boatman Parks was born in Virginia and worked in the steward department. He most recently sailed on an Express Marine Inc. vessel. Boatman Parks became a pensioner in 2002. He had settled in Tangier, Va. WILLIAM PETERS Pensioner William Peters, 77, died Feb. 17. Boatman Peters, who was born in Tremont, Miss., joined the union in 1969. He sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transport Co. Boatman Peters began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1978. He made his home in Missouri. GREAT LAKES MOHAMED BAAGARI Pensioner Mohamed Baagari, 75, passed away Feb. 7. Brother Baagari became a seafarer in 1963. The steward department member was born in Yemen. Brother Baagari first sailed with Great Lakes Associates. His most recent voyage was on the Steel T. Crapo. Brother Baagari retired in 1996; he continued to reside in Yemen. JULIUS RUDAI Pensioner Julius Rudai, 87, died Feb. 19. Brother Rudai began his seafaring career in 1965, initially working aboard the Reiss Brothers. A native of Pennsylvania, he shipped in the engine department. Brother Rudai’s most recent voyage was on the St. Clair. He went on pension in 1984 and was a resident of Ohio. HAROLD WALKLEY Pensioner Harold Walkley, 75, died March 2. Brother Walkley joined the union in 1956. The engine department member shipped primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Co. Brother Walkley resided in his native state of Michigan. He went on pension in 1993. 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. NAME AGE Acabeo, Rafael 96 Andujar, Felix 90 Bright, Roosevelt 84 Byrd, Colvin 77 Cobb, Rufus 82 Curley, Oswald 82 Denis, Marcial 93 Drayton, Ezekiah 81 Goebel, Henry 84 Green, Henderson, Jr. 79 Green, Melvin 81 Hernandez, Rafael 83 Ingham, Jack 76 Krider, James 73 Mead, Emerson 91 Molina, Henry 99 Mundo, Leocadio 82 Ortiz, Jaime 83 Pizarro, Antonio 83 Quinones, Angel 82 Roderick, Lester 86 Rose, Cecil 75 Taylor, Hubert 75 White, Charles 77 Wilcott, Alfred 78 Wilson, Miles 83 DOD Feb. 2 Feb. 20 Feb. 12 Feb. 21 Feb. 18 Feb. 24 Feb. 6 Feb. 18 Feb. 7 Feb. 23 Feb. 25 Feb. 28 Feb. 4 Feb. 18 Feb. 18 Feb. 15 Feb. 12 Feb. 23 Feb. 10 Feb. 18 Feb. 18 Feb. 2 Feb. 7 Feb. 1 Feb. 23 Feb. 28 November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 12:28 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. ALASKAN FRONTIER (Alaska Tanker Company), Sept. 13— Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Odilio G. Evora, Deck Delegate Ramon T. Guimba, Engine Delegate Robert G. Oliveto, Steward Delegate Justo D. Reyes. Chairman informed crew members of meeting between union and company officials being held in Piney Point, Md. at which he hoped AB work rules would be clarified. He thanked deck gang for good work and said he was looking forward to painting deck. Secretary addressed several food issues such as quality, quantity and budget. He reminded everyone that any issues related to food should be brought to steward’s attention directly. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also stressed importance of keeping all documents up to date. Treasurer stated approximately $3,000 in ship’s fund and told members to get captain’s permission before buying something for vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested clarification concerning extra day’s pay for completing tour of duty injuryfree. Recommendation made to change terminology in contract to reflect no differences in certain stain remover products. Crew suggested T-shirts and/or other products with ATC logo on them to be made available. Steward department was thanked for good chow. Smith machine is ready for use in gym, and X/M radio is coming soon. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 16—Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Rolando M. Lopez, Deck Delegate Raymond P. Vicari, Steward Delegate Saleh M. Saleh. Chairman announced Sept. 22 payoff in Long Beach, Calif. He praised galley gang for great food and reminded everyone to keep laundry room door closed so there will be quiet for those trying to sleep. He led discussion about proper handling of trash when arriving in port. Secretary thanked crew for their help in keeping food service area clean. He asked departing Seafarers to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for next person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for a microwave in the galley and comfortable chairs (e.g., recliners) for all crew members’ rooms. GREEN POINT (Central Gulf Lines), Sept. 23—Chairman Melvin R. Nichols Jr., Secretary Ramon I. Tolosa, Educational Director Gregorio M. Saguran, Deck Delegate Daniel A. Donegan. Chairman requested boarding patrolman when ship arrives in Baltimore, Md. Green Point will be in port for four days. Treasurer reported that captain handles ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions were raised pertaining to vacation pay deductions, and suggestion was made to increase vacation days and institute cost of living raises. It was reported that crew members were having problems with e-mail; captain has been letting crew use his. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla.; Baltimore, Md. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), Sept. 7—Chairman Pablo O. Borja Jr., Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director James T. McParland, Deck Delegate Julius C. Udan, Steward Delegate Regalado M. Bayan. Bosun thanked his department for hard work during voyage. He led discussion of importance of donating to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and how it benefits the membership. He asked members leaving vessel to clean rooms for replacements and check in with SIU patrolman or port agent. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point school and keep all documents current. Educational director advised Seafarers to keep dues paid up. Treasurer stated $389.52 in cook-out fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to President Michael Sacco and his staff for all the work they do for the membership. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), Sept. 16—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Michael P. Brown. Chairman announced Sept. 18 payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He urged crew members to keep dues current and support SPAD. He also thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading and training offered at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 30— Chairman Carlton P. Hall, Secretary Larry Ewing, Educational Director Philip R. Ayotte. Chairman praised crew members for smooth, safe trip and reported Oct. 2 payoff to take place in Port Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary thanked everyone for great voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to lower seatime requirements for benefit eligibility. Crew thanked steward department for very good food during voyage. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line Limited), Sept. 23—Chairman Brian P. Corbett, Secretary Fidelis N. Oliveira, Educational Director Louis A. Santiago. Chairman thanked everyone for their cooperation during the maiden voyage. He stated some bugs need to be worked out, but overall it was a nice, safe trip. Secretary Some of the crew members from the newly reflagged Maersk Montana pose for a picture when the U.S.-flag vessel was in New York last summer. Daniel G. Ramirez Jr., Steward Delegate Wilfred E. Lambey. Chairman thanked crew members for good trip and talked about importance of health benefits. This is a big topic for union members nationwide during contract negotiations. Secretary thanked mariners for helping keeping mess hall and lounge clean. He warned crew that flu season is coming and advised everyone to wash hands frequently. He also asked members to refrain from eating while standing in service line. Educational director encouraged crew to continue their Working on the Baugh LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), Sept. 30—Chairman Albert C. Williams, Secretary Nick Andrews, Deck Delegate Donald Stickens, Engine Delegate Alcido Lopes, Steward Delegate Cecilio Suarez. Chairman stressed the need to work together safely and to wear proper protective equipment. He stressed importance of maintaining accurate documentation to lessen chance of missing out on a job at the hall or aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: New Orleans. Sailing aboard a Newly Reflagged Vessel November 2007 reported food situation should improve next trip as adequate stores have been ordered. Educational director advised crew to upgrade when they can at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Concerns were raised about the laundry room and need for additional washers and dryers. Members also requested microwave in the crew mess hall as well as clarification on a number of issues. Next ports: New York; Norfolk, Va.; Charleston, S.C. AB John Roberts (left) does some painting on deck while Recertified Chief Steward takes part in helo training aboard the PFC William B. Baugh. OVERSEAS LONG BEACH (OSG Ship Management), Sept. 27 —Chairman Tony Beasley, Secretary Samuel Raine, Educational Director Anthony R. Hulsey, Deck Delegate Jefferson V. Julian, Engine Delegate Michael E. Iverson, Steward Delegate Nina McFall. Chairman stated washer and dryer are now working properly, thanks to repairs made by engine department. Educational director urged crew to check dates on all seafaring documents and renew, if necessary. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next port: Cherry Point, Wash. PUGET SOUND (OSG Ship Management), Sept. 30— Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Wiley Owens, Educational Director Benjamin E. Mathews, Engine Delegate Jimmie Thomas, Steward Delegate Christina A. Mateer. Chairman announced Oct. 2 payoff in Los Angeles. He encouraged Seafarers to help fellow crew members aboard ship and share their knowledge about the union. Educational director advised seamen to check out upgrading courses available at Piney Point school and to keep track of expiration dates on all documents. Treasurer stated $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to have chairs in rooms fixed or replaced and purchase of shower mats for everyone. Suggestion made to install refrigerators in each room, which can be paid for with money from the ship’s fund. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Marine Personnel & Provisioning Inc.) Sept. 16—Chairman Matthew T. Sagay, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director education at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Members requested union representative be present at Sept. 30 payoff in Houston, Texas to resolve OT issue. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Miami, Fla.; Houston. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships Inc.) Sept. 28—Chairman Kyle W. Bailey, Secretary Fonda T. Biamonte, Educational Director Kelley Mayo. Bosun stated everybody did great job during inspections and audits. He also informed crew members about TWIC card. Secretary asked everyone to help keep all areas clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director reminded seafarers of educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Communication pertaining to new medical benefits was read and posted. Steward department was thanked for job well done. Smoking policy was reviewed: NO smoking anywhere except designated area—and no lighters allowed. NATIONAL GLORY (Crowley Ship Management) Oct. 5— Chairman Donald Rezendes, Secretary John Rapoza, Steward Delegate Victor J. Wolfe. Chairman reported vessel was officially commissioned for U.S. trade Aug. 27. Captain to purchase television for crew lounge and reefers for crew mess. He also urged all members to read the Seafarers LOG to stay current on TWIC information. Treasurer stated $2,000 in entertainment fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in engine department. Recommendation made to receive monthly statement of earnings and to purchase numerous items for ship. Seafarers LOG 19 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 9:32 AM Page 20 Notice/Reminder Anthrax Vaccination Required for Jobs Aboard Some MSC Ships The deputy secretary of defense in October 2006 announced the resumption of the mandatory Anthrax Vaccination Immunization Program (AVIP) for designated military personnel, emergency-essential civilian personnel and contractor personnel performing essential services in certain geographic areas of the world. Two months later in December, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) received notification from the office of the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness that uniformed personnel as well as civilian and contract mariners under its command would be subject to the compulsory program. Specifically, according a Department of Defense Directive, civilian and contract mariners sailing aboard MSC ships in the Central Command area of responsibility or the Korean Peninsula for 15 or more consecutive days beginning in February and March would be required to resume anthrax immunizations, except as provided under applicable medical and administrative policies. Additionally, said MSC, “Any mariner not subject to the mandatory program who has received at least one dose of anthrax vaccine in the past will be allowed, if desired, to voluntarily complete the six-shot anthrax vaccination series and receive any boosters as required by the Food and Drug Administration-approved dosing schedule.” MSC further stated that, “Individuals will be notified by their chain of command if the shots are required. Navy medical personnel will give the vaccinations either aboard MSC ships, in MSC workplaces or at military treatment facilities.” According to DOD, anthrax is a deadly infection and the anthrax vaccine is an important force protection measure to combat it. In the fall of 2001, 22 cases of anthrax resulted from attacks with anthrax spores through the U.S. postal system. Five people died in these attacks. “The anthrax vaccine will protect our troops from another threat—a disease that will kill, caused by a bacteria—that already has been used as a weapon in America, and that terrorists openly discuss,” said Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs. Critics have charged that anthrax vaccinations can cause infertility and auto-immune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and lupus. Some service mem- bers have died after being vaccinated, but the Pentagon has said the deaths were not conclusively linked to the vaccine. The mandatory anthrax vaccination program began in 1998. Since that time, at least 1.2 million troops have been vaccinated against anthrax in six-shot regimens. Hundreds of service members had been punished or discharged for refusing them until U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan in December 2004 suspended the vaccinations after he found fault in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s process for approving the drug. In December 2005, the FDA gave final approval to the vaccine, clearing the way for the military to resume a mandatory program. Seafarers seeking more information on the inoculations should contact their port agents. Specific questions may be directed to Mr. Shelley Croyle, MSC medical administrator, at (202) 685-5706/5123. CIVMARS may call MSC’s CIVMAR support center at 1-877-562-7672. General information on the program and medical eligibility for receiving the vaccines is available on line at the following sites: www.anthrax.mil and www.vaccines.mil/anthrax. ANNUAL FUNDING NOTICE FOR NMU PENSION PLAN Introduction This notice, which federal law requires all multiemployer plans to send annually, includes important information about the funding level of the NMU Pension Plan, Plan # 001, Federal ID # 13-6592643. This notice also includes information about rules governing insolvent plans and benefit payments guaranteed by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), a federal agency. This notice is for the plan year beginning Jan. 1, 2006 and ending Dec. 31, 2006 (2006). Plan’s Funding Level The plan’s “funded current liability percentage” for the plan year was 128.2 percent. In general, the higher the percentage, the better funded the plan. The funded current liability percentage, however, is not indicative of how well a plan will be funded in the future or if it terminates. Whether this percentage will increase or decrease over time depends on a number of factors, including how the plan’s investments perform, what assumptions the plan makes about rates of return, whether employer contributions to the fund increase or decline, and whether benefit payments from the fund increase or decline. Plan’s Financial Information The market value of the plan’s assets of Jan. 1, 2006 was $282,798,636. The total amount of benefit payments for the plan year was $25,069,537. The ratio of assets to benefit payments is 11.3. This ratio suggests that the plan’s assets could provide for approximately 11 years of benefit payments in annual amounts equal to what was paid out in the plan year. However, the ratio does not take into account future changes in total benefit payments or plan assets. Rules Governing Insolvent Plans Federal law has a number of special rules that apply to financially troubled multiemployer plans. Under so-called “plan reorganization rules,” a plan with adverse financial experience may need to increase required contributions and may, under certain circumstances, reduce benefits that are not eligible for the PBGC’S guarantee (generally, benefits that have been in effect for less than 60 months). If a plan is in reorganization status, it must provide notification that the plan is in reorganization status and that, if contributions are not increased, accrued benefits under the plan may be reduced or an excise tax may be imposed (or both). The law requires the plan to furnish this notification to each contributing employer and the labor organization. Despite the special plan reorganization rules, a plan in reorganization nevertheless could become insolvent. A plan is insolvent for a plan year if its available financial resources are not sufficient to pay benefits when due for the plan year. An insolvent plan must reduce benefit payments to the highest level that can be paid from the plan’s available financial resources. If such resources are not enough to pay benefits at a level specified by law (see Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC, below), the plan must apply to the 20 Seafarers LOG PBGC for financial assistance. The PBGC, by law, will loan the plan the amount necessary to pay benefits at the guaranteed level. Reduced benefits may be restored if the plan’s financial condition improves. A plan that becomes insolvent must provide prompt notification of the insolvency to participants and beneficiaries, contributing employers, labor unions representing participants, and PBGC. In addition, participants and beneficiaries also must receive information regarding whether, and how, their benefits will be reduced or affected as a result of the insolvency, including loss of a lump sum option. This information will be provided for each year the plan is insolvent. Benefit Payments Guaranteed by the PBGC The maximum benefit that the PBGC guarantees is set by law. Only vested benefits are guaranteed. Specifically, the PBGC guarantees a monthly benefit payment equal to 100 percent of the first $11 of the plan’s monthly benefit accrual rate, plus 75 percent of the next $33 of the accrual rate, times each year of credited service. The PBGC’s maximum guarantee, therefore, is $35.75 per month times a participant’s years of credited service. Example 1: If a participant with 10 years of credited service has an accrued monthly benefit of $500, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the PBGC guarantee would be determined by dividing the monthly benefit by the participant’s years of service ($500/10), which equals $50. The guaranteed amount for $50 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $24.75 (.75 x $33), or $35.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit is $357.50 ($35.75 x 10). Example 2: If the participant in Example 1 has an accrued monthly benefit of $200, the accrual rate for purposes of determining the guarantee would be $20 (or $200/10). The guaranteed amount for a $20 monthly accrual rate is equal to the sum of $11 plus $6.75 (.75 x $9), or $17.75. Thus, the participant’s guaranteed monthly benefit would be $177.50 ($17.75 x 10). In calculating a person’s monthly payment, the PBGC will disregard any benefit increases that were made under the plan within 60 months before the earlier of the plan’s termination or insolvency. Similarly, the PBGC does not guarantee pre-retirement death benefits to a spouse or beneficiary (e.g., a qualified pre-retirement annuity) if the participant dies after the plan terminates, benefits above the normal retirement benefit, disability benefits not in pay status, or non-pension benefits, such as health insurance, life insurance, death benefits, vacation pay, or severance pay. Where to Get More Information For more information about this notice, you may write to Miriam Bove at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or call (718) 499-6600, ext. 242. For more information about the PBGC and multiemployer benefit guarantees, go to PBGC’s website, www.pbgc.gov, or call PBGC toll-free at 1-800-400-7242 (TTY/TDD users may call the Federal relay service toll free at 1-800-877-8339 and ask to be connected to 1-800-400-7272). 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. November 2007 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:42 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Safety Specialty Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through January 2008. 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 Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting January 14 January 25 Basic Safety Training/STCW November 12 November 17 November 19 November 23 December 10 December 14 Medical Care Provider January 28 February 1 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* November 26 December 7 (*must have basic fire fighting) offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994- Academic Department Courses 0010. General education and college courses are available as needed. In Deck Upgrading Courses addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered Start Date of throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocation- Course Date Completion al course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. Able Seaman January 28 February 22 Celestial Navigation November 26 December 21 Lifeboatman/Water Survival January 14 January 25 A future edition of the Seafarers LOG Steward Upgrading Courses will contain a complete guide of all the Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week begin- upgrading courses available to ning Nov. 12, 2007. students in the year 2008. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Refrigerated Containers November 26 December 21 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/07 Seafarers LOG 21 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24:5140p0 10/26/2007 1:33 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 693 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 693. They include (in alphabetical order) John Albritton III, Christopher Baum, Maurice Beasley, Bryan Brady, Kenneth Bricker Jr., Matthew Brown, Ashanti Chavers, Bryan Clark, Bobby Dickson Jr., Andrew Gerrie, Alexander Grant, Anthony Hill, Omar Izquierdo, Nicholas Jones, Christopher Landry, Eileen Mendiola, Edward Newbegin, Steven Rappolee, Terry Taylor Jr., and Andrew Thompson II. (Note: not all are pictured.) Their instructor, Ben Cusic, is at far left. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 694 — Unlicensed apprentices from class 694 who completed the water survival course are (in alphabetical order) Jeffrey Bach, Stephen Banks, Fraya Brown, Brandy Griffin, Creg Gumanas, Veronica Hernandez, Ryan Hogan, Joel Jones, Terrell McMillian, José Orengo, Jason Redmond, and Daniel Thompson. (Note: not all are pictured.) Bridge Resource Management — Junior Engineer — On Sept. 7, the following students (in no particular order) completed the junior engineer course: Grady Mason Jr., David Kelch, Jeffery Parrish, Levy Calzado, Adam Begleiter, William Wakeman, Anthony Bartley, Daniel Amesbury, Hashiem Pittman, Aaron Wood, Cliff Taylor, Keith Kowaleski, Richard Wright, Jon Stratton, Charles Johnson, Ahmed Sharif, Nabil Ahmed, Eugene Earl, John Morrison Jr., Harold Gerber, Heather Bushey, Philandar Walton and Jimmy McCall. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. (Note: not all are pictured.) MTLX boatmen graduating from this class Aug. 22 are (in no particular order) Robert Hoffman, David Lane, August Cramer, John Nelson, Robert Mills, Randall Brinza, Douglas Crawford, Bruce Comiskey, William Lenfestey, Robert Albe, Robert Roberts, Kenneth Graybill III, William Davis Jr., George Sadler and Charlie Carlson. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at far right in the back row. 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. Fast Rescue Boat — Under the instruction of Stan Beck (far right) are Crowley boatmen who completed the fast rescue boat class Aug. 24. They are (in no paricular order) Edward O’Connell, David Nimmer, Matthew Follilove, Ardale Crim and Leonard Brownless. Welding — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the welding course Aug. 24 are (in no particular order) Gene Butson, Glenn Cullifer, Warner James, Ron Embody and Lon Molnar (not pictured). Also not pictured is their instructor, Buzzy Andrews. 22 Seafarers LOG Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two classes of Phase III apprentices (and four upgrading Seafarers) graduated Aug. 31 from tankerman assistant courses. They are (in no specific order) Seafarers Ron Embody, Gene Butson, Glenn Cullifer, Warner James and apprentices Wade McClennan, Drake Corpus, Thomas Jones, Bryan Boyle, Robert Raymond, Erik Brown, Rivera Encarnacion, David Bernstein, Josean Villarrubia, Joshua Zelinsky, Tommy Rodgers, Sean Sullivan, Steven Dalton, Thaddeus Kilgore, Terry Thomas, Moriah Collier, Andrew Sitterly Jr., Thomas Tebow, Chris Sheppard, John Fraley, Joey Roberts, Juan Ortega Jr., Joshua Montgomery, Donnetta McLee, Caprice Jennings, Prymus Buckholtz, Juanito Mauricio, John McCormick, DeMond Lindsey, David Pacheco and Danielle Smith. November 2007 �45140_p6,8,10_16,22_24x1:5140p0 10/30/2007 10:45 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT — Completing the FOWT course Sept. 7 are (in alphabetical order) Steven Allen, Michael Clark, Eugene Davis Jr., Richard Frederick, Rene Gil, Benjamin Grace, Camillo Love, Latisa MayChristopher, John McKay, Christopher Olsen, Antonio Owens, Jeremy Pace, Kenneth Sumner, Lee Weygandt and Djuan Wright. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at left (with arms folded). (Note: not all are pictured.) Tankerman (PIC) Barge — Boatmen from Crowley and Allied Transportation completed this course Aug. 17. They are (in no specific order) Matthew Fullilove, Dadrian Hyman, Raymond Snow and Mark Stabler (note: not all are pictured). Posing with them are SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (far left), instructor Mitch Oakley (third from left) and Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (second from right). Advanced Fire Fighting — Upgrading Seafarers as well as Crowley and G&H boatmen completed this course Aug. 24. They are (in no specific order) Christopher Vincenzo, Ronald Poole, Ronnie Jackson, Daniel Monjarres, Joseph Walker, Lawrence Soulier, William Rose, Mark Stabler, Freddy Hamilton Jr., Christina Costanzo, George Maloney, Roy Saldana Jr., Anthony Montgomery, John Niday IV, Jason Jones, George Bennett, John Harrison and Douglas McGuire. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at far right. (Note: not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat — With Stan Beck (far right) as their instructor, the following six students (in no specific order) completed this course Aug. 31: Michael Willis, James Albert, Ato Aikins, Steven Corachan, Victor Antunez and James Larkin Jr. AB — With instructor Bernabe Pelingon (far right) are upgraders who completed the AB course Sept. 14. They are (in no specific order) Justin Beal, Philip Gallagher, Steven Szymanski, Clayton Lupton, Brandon Ballard, Gemini Tacang, Mark Randall, Malcolm Demery, Joe Nieves, Robert Vayko, James Wynegar III and Charles Herrera. STCW — NCL, Sept. 10: Alex Antao, Stanley Rodrigues, Michael Kaplan, Jose Gabasa Jr, Felix Bernardino Jr, Edwin Gonzales, Jimson Banay, Mharie Balahim, Arsenio Carreon Jr. and Diego Comesana. Safety Training at the Barbers Point Facility in Hawaii STCW — NCL, Sept. 3: Suresh Kumar Soungdararajan, Haresh Rankhambe, Sleeton Fernandes, Erepan Periera, Christian Cabrera, Rizaldy Bautista, Orlando Conde, Philip Gravoso, Arnold Bathan, Danilo Cabrera, Ronald Carlos, Marlon Casuyon, Evar Lucente, Benjamin Wong Jr, Rizaldy Espanol, Ramel Paras, Arman Santillan, Eric Sioco, Rody Nucup Hipolito and Saraya Forbes. November 2007 STCW — NCL, Sept. 3: Samuel Williams, Jonathan Cabatic, Rowen Tamayo, Moraliza Alanes, Zenaida Garcia, Felix Bartolome Jr, Jennifer Grace Cutillar, Onofre Doctolero, Noli Calzado, Toribio Domingo, Ida Bagus Made Suwastika, Ricky Valderrama, Ariel Diaz, Myles Walrick Charles, Christopher Monroy, David Santos, Noel Cesar, Braule Duhalyungsod, Melchor Cacho and Kenneth Santos. Seafarers LOG 23 �45140_p1_5,7,9,17_21,24:September-07 10/26/2007 1:14 PM Page 24 Volume 69, Number 11 November 2007 Summary Annual Reports NMU Vacation Plan — page 7 NMU 401K Plan and NMU Pension Trust of the NMU Pension and Welfare Plan — page 16 NMU Pension Plan Notice — page 20 SIU Members, U.S. Marines Train Side-by-Side Aboard USNS Wright RRF Vessel Continues Busy Stretch Supporting Troops USNS Wright recently hosted United States Marines for multi-faceted training while the vesThesel SIU-crewed was docked in Baltimore. Seafarers and Marines trained side-by-side aboard the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ship, which is operated by SIU-contracted Crowley. It wasn’t the only time recently when Seafarers and members of the armed forces worked together aboard the Wright. Earlier this year, the ship activated for an undisclosed military support mission that proved successful. More recently, a trip to the aviation logistics support vessel in late September (when the photos accompanying this story were taken) found mariners and Marines in businesslike but good spirits, addressing the tasks at hand and seamlessly interacting. The Wright has a five-day activation period. It is 602 feet long and has a beam of 90 feet, 2 inches. The vessel can travel at 19 knots. RRF ships like the Wright help protect America’s national and economic security, whether they’re fully activated or in reduced operating status. Described by the U.S. Maritime Administration as “a key element of strategic sealift,” the RRF program has served the U.S. since 1976. Currently, it consists of 47 ships. RRF vessels continue to play key roles in Operations Enduring Bosun Tom Moore (right) and Sgt. Dennis Heil Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Additionally, 10 of the ships (includ- operate crane. ing the Wright) were activated to assist in recovery and relief missions following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. AB Greg White Above and at left: Electrician Gary Torres Hooking up cargo boxes Right: PFC Sean Attridge Chief Steward Robert Brown (left) serves lunch to LCPLs Johnny Holman and Cody Price. Chief Cook John Bukowsky, LCPL Johnny Holman � 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 November 2007 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS 401(K) PLAN ANNOUNCED FAMILY HEALTH CARE YEARLY PREMIUMS NOW AVERAGE MORE THAN $12,000 TWIC ENROLLMENT STARTS, BUT QUESTIONS REMAIN UNION TESTIFIES ON MANPOWER, TRAINING AND TRADE ISSUES OSG TANKER ORDER GROWS TO 12 SEAFARERS CREW UP NATIONAL GLORY CROWLEY, HORIZON LINES HONORED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE USNS SAFEGUARD JOINS SIU CIVMAR FLEET UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR SCRUTINIZES RUNAWAY-FLAT SHIPPING FEDERATION APPOINTS EXECUTIVE VP MOBILE PORT AGENT ED KELLY RETIRES GREAT LAKES CONTRACT RATIFIED ABOARD THE SS HAVERFORD VICTORY: WINTER OF ’45 IN THE NORTH ATLANTIC PAUL HALL CENTER’S MILESTONE YEAR ALSO INCLUDED 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF REVAMPED TRAINEE PROGRAM SIU MEMBERS, U.S. MARINES TRAIN SIDE-BY-SIDE ABOARD USNS WRIGHT 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 11/01/2007 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. 11 2007 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/7ebf5ce86f3e76894953a47377d543a3.pdf 903b70cd67071ccac81facb4d3a8dfe4 PDF Text Text Volume 71, Number 11 November 2009 More New Vessels Enter Union-Contracted Fleet Tanker, Tugs Christened; ATB, T-AKE Ships to Come The steady addition of new tonnage into the SIU-crewed fleet continued with the recent launch of the double-hulled tanker Overseas Cascade (left), the christening of two new tugboats and more. Page 3 Jacksonville Move Set for November After 35 years on Liberty Street, the SIU this month is moving its Jacksonville, Fla., operations to a new location. The new union hall (left), located in the Belfort Park area of Jacksonville, is scheduled to open by mid-November. Page 2. Liberty Pride Arrives in U.S. In early October, the Seafarers-crewed Liberty Pride made its first United States port call. The car carrier, a recent addition to the SIU fleet, docked in Baltimore. Pictured aboard the vessel are (right photo, left to right) Bosun Glenn Christianson, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Recertified Steward Jim Battista and SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, and (photo at bottom, from the left) Oiler Mark Merenda and AB Ryanne Wheeler. Page 24. Hands-On Training Remains Vital Part of Paul Hall Center Courses Practical training always has been an important part of many courses available at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Small-arms training (right) and marine electrician (left) are two of the dozens of Paul Hall Center classes that include hands-on instruction. Pages 12-13. SIU Crews Up Ships for ‘Turbo Activation’ Page 4 NDTA Honors Tom Crowley Page 5 Scholarship Info Page 14 �President’s Repor t Our Winning Formula As Seafarers know quite well, the maritime industry routinely sees its share of changes. This is true not only in the deep-sea fleet but also in the inland trades and on the Great Lakes. Whether it’s new shipboard equipment or new training or credentialing requirements, new routes or unusual cargoes, our industry, like others, doesn’t remain static. Still, whatever else happens in the industry, there are some basic elements that always stay vital to our union’s strength and our future. We have to supply qualified, productive, welltrained crews, no matter where they’re sailing or on what type of ships. We must be politically active, because maritime is so heavily regulated. Whenever possible and practical, we’ve got to work as partners with other entities from throughout the industry, whether they’re our Michael Sacco contracted operators, other unions, government agencies or the military. And we’ve got to do whatever it takes to help bring new tonnage into the American-flag, SIU-contracted fleet. Without new ships and tugs, without new dredges and ATBs, our future dries up. Fortunately, and despite the recession, in recent months we’ve been able to report a steady entry of new vessels. Some are outright gains while others are replacement ships. There’s a solid variety in their work, too. For instance, this month alone, we’re providing updates on new Jones Act tankers, ATBs, z-drive tugs and military support ships. The jobs that go along with those vessels cover the deep sea, inland and Government Services Division. Nobody builds new ships or tugboats without first feeling confident about the crews they’re going to hire. The military wouldn’t do it and private companies wouldn’t do it. That’s where we come in. By providing top-notch mariners, we help ensure the U.S. Merchant Marine’s future. By always delivering the cargo, wherever and whenever needed, whether it’s military or commercial, we do our part to reinforce the historic value and reliability of U.S. crews. By supporting efforts that protect pro-maritime laws and lead to new-build programs, we boost not only our own job security but the overall economic and national security of America. Of course, new tonnage doesn’t guarantee that we still won’t face plenty of challenges moving forward, but it does help give me great optimism for the SIU’s future. I hope our rank-and-file membership feels the same way, because you are the reason we have a bright future, no matter how rough the economy has been lately. Your professionalism, your dependability – and your patriotism – are a winning formula. On that note, I say keep up the great work and keep upgrading whenever possible. One other point related to this new tonnage. Much of it is sailing or will sail in what’s known as the Jones Act trades. For those of you new to the industry or otherwise unfamiliar with this law, the Jones Act requires that vessels sailing from one U.S. port to another be crewed, built, owned and flagged American. It is an absolute staple of the American-flag fleet. Unfortunately, it’s also a law regularly attacked by foreign-flag interests who want to sink us. Sometimes they’re sneaky, sometimes they’re bold, and usually they conveniently overlook the fact that dozens of other nations have similar laws because such regulations are simply good common sense. The bottom line is that the SIU continues to do our part to help defend the Jones Act, and we remain grateful for the Obama administration’s very strong support on this crucial issue. Without support from the administration, Congress and others, I can all but guarantee that many if not most of the “more new ships” stories eventually would disappear. We’re never going to let that happen. That is something to keep in mind when you’re asked to give some time in support of a pro-maritime political candidate, or when you’re considering participation in SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund. Like it says on the old “Buy American” bumper sticker, the job you save may be your own. We must support those who back the U.S. Merchant Marine. Volume 71, Number 11 The photo directly above and the ones below the article show the new hall from different angles and some of the work being done to prepare for moving day. Jacksonville Move Remains on Schedule As planned, the union in mid-September finalized its purchase of a new hiring hall located in the Belfort Park area of Jacksonville, Fla. The SIU tentatively is scheduled to move its Jacksonville operations to 5100 Belfort Road by mid-November. “The new building already was in very good shape, but it needed a fresh coat of paint and some other touching up,” noted SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “This is a definite upgrade from the old facility.” Built in the year 2000, the new hall is spacious at 15,000 square feet. It is located in a well-developed business/industrial area and includes ample parking, with approximately 100 spaces (all paved). It sits on more than three acres of land. The union has occupied the old hall, located at 3315 Liberty Street, since 1974. That facility is roughly 13 miles from the new building. A number of Seafarers have checked out the new hall from the outside, and their reactions have been positive. For example, AB Mark Smith – an SIU member for more than 20 years – stated, “I think it looks nice. It looks like a good location and it’s a huge improvement with parking. Here (at the old hall), we sometimes have to park on dirt. With the new hall, there are restaurants nearby, a hotel right up the block. It should be convenient for a lot of the guys. Plus there are some nice windows, so it looks like you can sit in there and have some sun on you.” Once the move is completed, the new phone number for the hall will be (904) 281-2622 and the new fax number will be (904) 281-0841. November 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 November 2009 �Tanker, Tugs, ATBs Enter SIU Fleet Progress Continues in Government Services T-AKE Program U.S. Shipping’s newest ATB consists of the tug Corpus Christi (above) and the barge Petrochem Supplier (below). New tonnage continues to enter the SIU-contracted fleet, as reflected by several recent stories. At press time, Crowley Maritime Corporation was scheduled to christen an articulated tug-barge consisting of the tugboat Pride and the barge 650-7. That event was slated for Oct. 23 in New Orleans. Earlier last month, Seafarers in Galveston, Texas, welcomed two new state-of-the-art z-drive tugs: the Lexie M and the Hunter M. Those vessels are operated by Seafarers-contracted G&H Towing for owner Bay Houston Towing Co. On Sept. 27, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard launched the double-hulled tanker Overseas Cascade. That ship is the eighth in a series of 12 tankers operated by Overseas Shipholding Group. Additionally, on Oct. 12, the keel was laid for the tenth vessel in the Veteran-class series. Across the country, General Dynamics NASSCO reported continued progress in its Lewis and Clark-class series of dry cargo/ammunition ships (abbreviated as TAKE). In late September, word came from the San Diego shipyard that construction had begun on the USNS William McLean, the 12th of 14th planned T-AKE vessels. Two weeks later, the Navy announced that the 13th ship in the series would be named USNS Medgar Evers, in memory of a civil rights activist. Finally, although it happened with little fanfare, Seafarers earlier this year signed on aboard U.S. Shipping’s new ATB Corpus Christi. Following is some additional information about the aforementioned new builds: ● Crowley’s newest ATB is the 11th in a series of 17 such vessels operated by the company. The first ATB in this group was launched in 2002, while the final one is scheduled to sail in 2012. The tugboat Pride is 135 feet long. The barge 650-7 is 587 feet in length and has a cargo capacity of 185,000 barrels. Both were designed and built by Crowley’s technical services group at VT Halter. Crowley ATBs that either already are under construction or are scheduled to be built include the Achievement/650-8, Innovation/650-9, Vision/650-10, Legacy/750-1, Legend/750-2 and Liberty/750-3. The latter three ATBs will have capacity of 330,000 barrels apiece. ● The newest Bay Houston tugs were christened in a joint ceremony and signify 16 new jobs for SIU members. Each has 6,500 hp and is designed for heavy shiphandling and LNG work. The boats are named after descendents of Bay Houston Towing’s founder. ● The 46,000 dwt Overseas Cascade between launch and delivery will have shuttle tanker features installed for use in the Gulf of Mexico, according to union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Shuttle tankers carry crude oil from deepwater regions that don’t have pipelines. Jim Miller, president and CEO of the shipyard (and a See Assorted, Page 9 The Navy recently announced that a dry cargo/ammo ship will be named in memory of civil rights leader Medgar Evers (inset). The USNS Medgar Evers will be built at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego. (U.S. Navy Illustration by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jay Chu) G&H Crews Approve Three-Year Contract SIU boatmen employed by G&H Towing recently approved a new three-year contract that maintains benefits and safe working conditions and preserves the crews’ seniority system. Voting ended on Sept. 30. The new agreement, which covers an estimated 200 members in Houston and other Texas ports, took effect Oct. 1 and lasts through September 2012. Representing the union during negotiations were Assistant Vice President Jim McGee, Patrolman Mike Russo, Captains Rodney Nix, Mark McGinnis and Mike Edwards and Chief Engineer Mike Batten. Bargaining committee members agreed that the negotiations reflected economic realities caused by the recession. “These were tough negotiations,” said McGee. “Everyone knows times are tough, and it was a challenge just to maintain what we already had in place. Our committee was excellent – the members worked hard and were diligent. They participated wholeheartedly in everything we did, including making some hard decisions that had to be made.” The rank-and-file members of the committee didn’t sugarcoat their opinions of the pact, but they also offered pragmatic views. Batten said the most important part of the new contract is “we’ve got everybody working. We’re in hard times and I really feel lucky that we all have jobs.” He said the agreement is “the best we could do in these times and it’s a sign of the times. In the end, [members] realize the best thing to do is get a contract for three years. I’m very proud of the guys for approving it. Hopefully the economy will turn around pretty soon.” Like Batten, Edwards has sailed with G&H for many years. This was his first time serving on a negotiating committee, and Edwards described it as “an eye-opening experience. “All said and done, it’s not the best time to be negotiating a contract,” he continued. “We didn’t lose anything. I’d have liked to have seen us get a little more, but overall it’s not as bad as it could have been. Overall, negotiations went fairly well, considering everything we were dealing with.” The contract maintains medical coverage for G&H boatmen and their dependents at the top level, known as CorePlus. It creates a new classification for relief engineer assistant and also increases the offshore meal allowance. It preserves a seniority system that the company wanted to change. Earlier this year, Seafarers employed by G&H Towing were honored in Houston by the U.S. Coast Guard for what the agency described as “their heroic efforts during Hurricane Ike.” Additionally, representatives from the SIU, G&H Towing and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education met at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to continue developing new curriculum for boatmen and pilots. The, union, school and company are working together to help ensure that the Paul Hall Center’s simulators are as realistic as possible, in order to help increase efficiency while creating a safer environment for navigation. . November 2009 Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU Comes Through in ‘Turbo Activation’ Union Helps Crew Up 11 RRF Vessels for Readiness Exercise The dedication, knowledge and expertise of a large contingent of Seafarers as well as staff members in the union’s Manpower Office were put to the test Sept. 24 during a no-notice turbo activation of U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAad) Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels. Directed by the Department of Defense, the activation took the form of a short-interval exercise that was designed to test the readiness of selected RRF vessels to be ready-for-sea. During such operations, vessels traditionally must be activated, crewed, provisioned and stored, complete all regulatory body requirements, conduct dock and sea trials, and report ready for Phase “O” operations within a specified time. This particular drill required the crewing of 11 MarAd RRF vessels located in five ports and operated by SIU-contracted Crowley Liner Services. “Everyone involved from the union—manpower office staffers, port personnel as well as rank-and-file Seafarers—did a masterful job responding to the activation,” said SIU Director of Manpower Bart Rogers. “One again they rose to the occasion as they always do.” According to Rogers, the ports filled 176 jobs in less than 48 hours. By the close of business Sept. 25, all jobs had been filled with qualified SIU members, he said. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker also commended all Seafarers involved for the fashion in which they responded to the activation. “The response our people exhibited is another example of their overall dedication to duty, knowledge and expertise,” Tricker said. “Results such as these are accomplished only through superior work habits and a genuine commitment to excellence.” The vessels activated and their respective ports were as follows: ■ Cape Isabel – Port of Long Beach, Calif. ■ Cape Island and Cape Intrepid – Port of Tacoma, Wash. ■ Cape Douglass, Cape Domingo, Cape Diamond, Cape Ducato and Cape Decision – Port of Jacksonville, Fla. ■ Cape Gibson – Port of Oakland, Calif. Meeting with Crowley Seafarers In late September, SIU President Michael Sacco (right in both photos) and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (at podium) informally met with Seafarers from Crowley while the mariners were upgrading at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Among other topics, they discussed proposed health-care legislation, the importance of the Jones Act, the Obama administration’s solid backing of the U.S.-flag maritime industry and the ongoing need for grassroots political action by organized labor. ■ Cape Washington and Cape Wrath – Port of Baltimore. A management official from Crowley commended the SIU’s rank-and-file membership, personnel at union hiring halls and Manpower Office staff members for their collective efforts, noting: “The activation of 11 vessels is no small feat… Their patience, understanding and persistence allowed us to successfully meet all of the crewing obligations.” The RRF is a select group of vessels within MarAd’s National Defense Reserve Fleet. They are relatively modern, highly militarily useful ships, rigorously maintained to meet Coast Guard and American Bureau of Shipping standards and constitute one of the government’s largest sources of strategic sealift capability. RRF ships are berthed at sites located in James River, Va.; Beaumont, Texas; Suisun Bay, Calif.; and other locations in the United States and overseas. They are maintained in a readiness status such that they can be activated for service within anywhere from four to 20 days after the Defense Department requests them. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby Takes Wheel as New MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby on Oct. 16 became the 25th commander of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC). A change-of-command ceremony took place in Baltimore aboard the Seafarerscrewed hospital ship USNS Comfort. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown and Government Services Representative Kate Hunt represented the union at the event. Buzby, a 30-year Navy veteran, is a native of Atlantic City, N.J. He graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and was commissioned in 1979. MSC, headquartered in Washington, D.C., is the ocean transportation provider for the Department of Defense. The agency is responsible for the operation of more than 110 civilian-crewed, noncombatant ships, which support military and humanitarian missions worldwide. Many of those vessels carry SIU crews. “I am incredibly humbled and proud beyond words to be selected to lead this important command in executing the most vital mission in the global war on terrorism today: sustaining our warfighters forward,” said Buzby in his remarks to more than 400 ceremony guests. Buzby comes to MSC from U.S. Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk, Va., where he was deputy chief of staff for global force management and joint operations. Earlier in Buzby’s career, he served in a diverse array of assignments at sea and ashore. Buzby’s previous commands include the destroyer USS Carney, Destroyer Squadron 31, Surface Warfare Officers School Command, and Joint Task Force Guantanamo. As a flag officer, Buzby served on the Rear Adm. Mark H. Buzby Navy staff as deputy for surface ships, deputy for surface warfare and deputy for expeditionary warfare. Buzby holds master’s degrees from the U.S. Naval War College in Strategic Studies and International Relations and from Salve Regina University in International Relations. Buzby is also a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College. Buzby relieved Rear Adm. Robert D. Reilly Jr., who served as the commander of MSC since March 2006 and will retire after 34 years of distinguished Navy service. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Comfort hosted the change-of-command ceremony in Baltimore. (U.S. Army Photo by Spc. Landon Stephenson) 4 Seafarers LOG November 2009 �Crowley President Earns Recognition from NDTA Tom Crowley Jr., the president and Department of Defense is as diverse as CEO of Seafarers-contracted Crowley Crowley and the different services we Maritime Corporation, recently provide,” said Crowley. Speaking directly to the hundreds of received the prestigious National Transportation Award from the senior military and industry leaders in National Defense Transportation attendance, he stated, “We work hard to Association (NDTA). The presentation serve many of you. Given the state of took place in late September at the the economy, you might say we’re NDTA’s yearly logistics forum and sticking our neck out a bit; I don’t think that’s the case.” He was referring to the exposition in Nashville. fact that while N D T A many businesses Chairman Ray “I firmly believe that the continue to Ebeling presentdownsize, ed the award to way we keep America strong Crowley is C r o w l e y . is that we invest in American “expanding R i c h a r d Haynes, execu- shipyards, American jobs, and o p e r a t i o n s , anticipating ecotive director, in the American Merchant nomic recovery Military Sealift Marine.”- - - Tom Crowley Jr. in a patriotic Command way. (MSC), also “We’re investing in the American was honored as the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award flag, a proud tradition in our 117-year recipient, and Col. Joseph Torsani Jr., history,” he continued. “Over the past USA (Ret.), chairman of NDTA’s 10 years, we’ve committed over $1 bilCouncil of Regional Presidents, was lion to build tugs, barges and ATBs. All recognized with the NDTA President’s of these units are U.S.-built, U.S.flagged, U.S.-crewed and Jones Act Award. Crowley, whose father, Thomas B. qualified. I firmly believe that the way Crowley Sr., was recognized with the we keep America strong is that we same award in 1970, thanked Ebeling, invest in American shipyards, NDTA President Kenneth Wykle, the American jobs, and in the American NDTA Board and distinguished guests Merchant Marine. “This investment in new U.S.-flag for the recognition, and he said he was pleased to accept on behalf of the 4,300 petroleum tonnage is one of the reasons Crowley employees around the world why I believe we’ve been able to transwho help provide a wide variety of port and deliver hundreds of millions of Crowley services to the DOD and gov- barrels of petroleum products without a single incident since we began our ATB ernment. “Our relationship with the program in 2002,” he added. Ray Ebeling (left), chairman of the NDTA board and chairman and CEO of American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier, presents the National Transportation Award to Tom Crowley Jr., president and CEO of Crowley Maritime Corp. SIUNA-Affiliated AMO Gathers in Philly In early October, SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from left) addressed the American Maritime Officers executive board during its meeting in Philadelphia. The AMO is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America. Pictured from left to right are AMO member John Dunaway, AMO National Executive Vice President Bob Kiefer, AMO member Charlie Azar, SIU President Sacco, AMO National President Tom Bethel, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, and AMO National Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard. USCG: More Efforts Needed To Improve Mariner Access The U.S. Coast Guard recently advised its port captains that additional steps must be taken in order to boost mariners’ access to port facilities and shore leave. Read Adm. Kevin Cook, the agency’s director of prevention policy, sent a message to Coast Guard Captains of the Ports (COTPS) applauding their work but calling for expanded efforts. The guidance, issued in early October, aims to help ensure that facility security plans spell out steps for mariner port access for crew changes and shore leave. It also notes that a legal review has determined the Coast Guard is authorized to require that facilities covered by the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) “provide reasonable access to seafarers.” Cook also recently posted a separate message on the Coast Guard’s web site pointing out that the agency actively is seeking feedback from industry stakeholders concerning “access denial, exorbitant access fees, and other overly restrictive policies….” In the “alcoast” message sent to the port captains, Cook mentioned a recent study conducted by the Seamen’s Church Institute which “further highlights some of the challenges mariners are facing. That said, Coast Guard headquarters continues to move forward on several fronts in an effort to further facilitate seafarer access nationwide and move the maritime community beyond the current state.” He said that because of various requirements implemented by facility or vessel owners or operators, mariners “are prevented from leaving their ships due to financial requirements associated with authorized escorts.” Cook concluded, “As a maritime service, it is imperative that we continue to collaboratively work through the challenges of seafarer access and develop a long-term solution that meets the spirit of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) and Maritime Transportation Security Act. I appreciate everyone’s commitment to this high-priority issue and working with your key maritime stakeholders in developing the right solutions.” The complete text is available at the following link: http://www.uscg.mil/announcements/alcoast /575-09_alcoast.txt Earlier, at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention in Pittsburgh, Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen on Sept. 10 told the delegates, “I’ve made it very, very clear to my captains of the ports that we need to make sure that seafarer access is ensured. And whether that’s U.S. sailors or foreign sailors changing out crews, or whatever, the right to be able to get across the dock needs to be maintained…. We need to create a culture out there that understands the value of the workers coming to and from the ships.” CIVMARS Help Deliver Cargo for Relief Mission Two U.S. Military Sealift Command vessels in the SIU Government Services Division fleet – the dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd and the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Walter S. Diehl – delivered urgently needed supplies, equipment and fuel off the coast of Indonesia Oct. 10-14, in response to the deadly earthquakes that struck the region Sept. 30. At the request of the government of Indonesia and the U.S. Department of State, the Navy – including MSC – joined other branches of the U.S. military, international relief organizations and Indonesia’s military to deliver food, November 2009 fresh water and medical supplies to remote mountain villages. The U.S. Air Force also established a field hospital which treated more than 2,000 patients. The Byrd and Diehl teamed up with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Denver and the destroyer USS McCampbell off the coast of Western Sumatra. The Byrd sailed from Guam, arriving off Padang, Indonesia, Oct. 10. In addition to providing supplies and fuel to both the Denver and the McCampbell, two of the Byrd’s embarked helicopters made a total of 39 sorties, carrying 97 U.S., Indonesian and relief organization passengers to conduct airborne surveys of heavily damaged areas. Civil service mariners aboard the Diehl delivered the more than 18,000 pounds of foreign-assistance cargo to the Byrd on Oct. 13, via underway replenishment. The humanitarian cargo, which was loaded in Singapore Oct. 8, included water containers, surgical gloves and masks, blankets, water purification tablets, collapsible water bladders, tarps to be used for shelter, insect repellant and sunscreen. The Byrd transferred the cargo to the USS Denver, which later brought it to hard-hit areas ashore. After delivering the humanitarian cargo to the Byrd, the Diehl provided aviation and diesel fuel to the Denver and the McCampbell before departing the area later the same day, returning to its regular mission of resupplying ships in 7th Fleet. The Byrd’s helicopters flew more than 8,000 pounds of relief supplies ashore, including food, water and tarps. Like the Diehl, after completing its support to the disaster relief efforts, the Byrd returned to routine underway replenishment operations supporting U.S. 7th Fleet ships at sea. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Crews Slated for AOTOS Honors Maersk Alabama, NY Waterway Crews Among Those Recognized by USS Seafarers and officers from four SIUcrewed ships and several NY Waterway ferries, a third mate, and a pair of maritime executives will be honored Nov. 13 by the United Seamen’s Service during the 40th annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) dinner in New York. Slated to take place at the New York Sheraton Hotel and Towers, the affair will take the form of a dinner and dance celebration and will be attended by hundreds of maritime industry leaders including SIU President Michael Sacco and other union officers. The annual outing is regarded as a very prestigious maritime awards event. On tap to receive AOTOS Mariners’ Plaques will be SIU crew members who on specific dates were sailing aboard Maersk Line Limited’s Maersk Alabama; Liberty Maritime Corporation’s Liberty Sun; Military Sealift Command’s USNS Lewis and Clark; Totem Ocean Trailer Express’ MV Midnight Star; and crews from several ferries operated by SIUcontracted NY Waterway. The AOTOS Mariners’ Rosette will be bestowed upon Third Mate Victor Manoli III, who on Feb. 14 fought and extinguished an on-board fire preventing a catastrophic incident on the Sea-Land Quality in Charleston, S.C. Finally, the recipients of the 2009 USS AOTOS Award will be Donald Kurz of Keystone Shipping Co., Ron Widdows of Neptune Orient Lines and the United States Coast Guard, which will receive a special award. Mariners’ Plaque Recipients The individuals and crews to be honored with the AOTOS Mariners’ Plaque, as well as snapshots of the actions which led to their respective awards are as follows: ■ The captain and 20-member crew of the Maersk Alabama, bound for Mombasa, Kenya, while carrying food aid for several relief programs on April 8, were hijacked by four Somali pirates. The pirates gained access to the vessel by throwing grappling hooks over Crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the USNS Lewis and Clark – which itself successfully evaded an attack – earlier this year served as an afloat staging base and an at-sea holding facility for suspected pirates. Here, Bosun Kien Williams signals a helicopter to take off Feb. 6 in the Gulf of Aden while the ship supports Combined Task Force 151. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Patrick M. Johnson-Campbell) the side and firing shots while coming aboard. AB ATM Reza managed to raise the alarm before being taken at gunpoint by the pirates. This action allowed the chief engineer to transfer control of the vessel’s propulsion and steering functions to the engine room. Remaining crew members locked themselves inside the engine room, ensuring their control of the vessel at all times. Many members of the crew had received safety training and/or specific anti-piracy instruction that proved invaluable throughout this ordeal. Most of the unlicensed mariners had trained at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Putting this knowledge to use, they used both guile and brute force to overpower the pirate’s leader. The Alabama’s master, Capt. Richard Phillips, then voluntarily surrendered himself to the remaining pirates to ensure the safety of his crew. The crew later attempted to trade the captured pirate for their captain, offering them a lifeboat to leave the scene since their skiff had overturned during the boarding. Once the crew had released their captive, however, the pirates became uncooperative. They stole the lifeboat, some food, and forced Phillips aboard. The USS Bainbridge reached the Maersk Alabama the following day and under armed guard safely escorted the vessel to Mombasa. Phillips on April 10 made an unsuccessful attempt to escape from his captors. Then, on April 12, when American military authorities determined that Phillips’ life was in imminent danger, U.S. Navy Seal snipers fired simultaneously on the lifeboat, killing all three pirates aboard. The captain, who was in good health, was then rescued. The quick thinking and actions of the crew, complemented by the selflessness of Capt. Phillips and the help of the U.S. Navy, resulted in the safe return of all concerned. ■ The crew of the Liberty Sun came under pirate attack April 15 while underway from Houston and carrying food aid cargo bound for Mombasa. Just days earlier, pirates reportedly had threatened to kill the next American crew they could find. Pirates gave chase to the vessel somewhere off the coast of Somalia, firing small arms and rocket-propelled grenades. One of the ordnances found its mark and a fire broke out aboard the Sun. Unlicensed Apprentices Ken Stearns and Bill Waldmann used portable extinguishers to put out the flames. Under extreme tension and anxiety, the crew then executed their anti-piracy plan and performed evasive maneuvers. A distress call from the vessel was received by the U.S. Coast Guard, which dispatched the USS Bainbridge to the area to assist. The pirates fled before the Bainbridge arrived. The presence of the destroyer took a lot of pressure off of the Liberty Sun’s crew, allowing some degree of normalcy to return to operations. The crew and officers of the Liberty Sun are being recognized for their professionalism and poise under fire. ■ The U.S. Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Lewis and Clark on May 26 was approached by suspected pirates and took evasive action to prevent a successful attack. Two pirate skiffs pursued the The Maersk Alabama leaves Mombasa, Kenya, on April 22. At right is the German warship Reinland Platz. (AP Photo by Sayyid Azim) ship for more than an hour, closing to a distance of approximately one nautical mile. Once shipboard lookouts spotted the two suspected pirate skiffs, the USNS Lewis and Clark commenced evasive maneuvers and increased speed to elude them. The vessel’s onboard security team also used a long range acoustical device to issue verbal warnings to the approaching skiffs. The suspected pirates then fired small arms weapons from approximately two nautical miles toward the Lewis and Clark which fell well short of its stern. The Lewis and Clark continued to increase speed and the skiffs ceased their pursuit of the U.S. ship. The actions taken by the crew of the Lewis and Clark are exactly what the U.S. Navy recommends—aboard both commercial and military vessels—for preventing successful piracy attacks. The officers and crew of the USNS Lewis and Clark are being recognized for taking quick action in avoiding a dangerous situation. ■ Smoke was reported on the second deck of the MV Midnight Sun around midnight July 15 when the vessel’s smoke detection system was activated. The general alarm was sounded and all longshore employees who were working were evacuated. Chief Engineer James Mandato, Port Engineer Daryl Swiggs and Cargo Specialist Andrew Zent—all of whom were in close proximity to the location of the reported smoke—were the first responders to the scene. They fought their way through the thick smoke to discover its source, a 53-foot refrigerated trailer engulfed in flames which reached the overhead of the second deck. The trailer was stowed among other cargo trailers which contained hazardous and flammable materials. Michael Crissinger, the engineer watch officer, secured all ventilation fans, electrical breakers and power to the reefer plugs on the second deck and activated the sprinkler pump. Chief Mate Russel Horton then attempted to combat the fire with an extinguisher, but quickly realized that the fire was beyond his equipment’s capability. He therefore secured ventilation and reefer breakers, determined which sprinkler zones should be activated and proceeded to pressurize the second deck sprinkler system. Meanwhile, Mandato, Swiggs and Zent secured the fire hose from a nearby fire station and engaged the raging fire. The U.S. Coast Guard Seattle Sector was contacted and arrived on the scene to conduct an investigation and survey damage to the vessel. The inspection revealed that several cables were damaged. Repairs had to be performed on these damaged cables prior to sailing. Electrician Christopher Cunningham completed repairs to the satisfaction of the Coast Guard, enabling the vessel to sail at 7 a.m. July 16. Cunningham’s timely repairs made it possible for the vessel to meet its posted arrival time to Anchorage, Alaska with no disruption to service. The officers and crew of the MV Midnight Sun are being recognized for the acts of heroism and bravery in preventing the spread of the fire and avoiding the loss of valuable cargo to the citizens of Anchorage and possibly the total loss of a U.S.-flag cargo vessel. ■ U.S. Airways Flight 1549 on Jan. 15 made an emergency landing in the Hudson River. Fourteen NY Waterway vessels mobilized to the scene to participate in the rescue mission which would soon follow. The ferry Thomas Jefferson was the first boat on the scene following the mishap. SIU crews from the Thomas Jefferson and six other NY Waterway boats pulled 143 of the 155 people aboard the downed aircraft to safety. Experts said that because of the cold water, passengers would not have survived for long without immediate assistance. That is exactly what was provided, thanks to the Thomas Jefferson and Capt. Vincent Lombardi along with his fellow Seafarers. Lombardi battled the river’s current while giving first priority to the airplane passengers who were partially submerged. Additional ferries and rescue vessels reached the plane within 10 minutes of the Thomas Jefferson’s arrival. Emergency medical service workers, firefighters and police officers boarded NY Waterway boats immediately following the aircraft’s emergency landing. NY Waterway ferry crews are being cited for their collective prompt, efficient and composed response that resulted in the rescue of all passengers in what quickly became known as “the miracle on the Hudson.” Seafarers-crewed NY Waterway ferries quickly arrive to assist passengers and flight crew members from US Airways Flight 1549. The rescue happened on Jan. 15 in the Hudson River. (Photo by Ron Jeffers) 6 Seafarers LOG November 2009 �This is one part of a shipbreaking location off the coast of Bangladesh. Ships are beached at high tide so poorly treated workers can take them apart. An explosion and fire occurred in the hull of a tanker, killing, burning and maiming numerous workers. Barefoot workers strip pieces from a ship. Report Exposes ‘Shipbreaking’ Horrors “You’re 13? Okay, you’re old enough. Take those tanks and that torch, go down into the hold of that decommissioned tanker and start cutting metal. What’s that? You want protective gear? Forget it. Pay? We’ll pay you 22 cents an hour, seven days a week, 16 hours a day and no breaks. If that’s not good enough, there are plenty of people who have families to feed who’ll take it.” Sound like a workplace conversation before unions fought for good, safe jobs? Try a 21st century shipbreaking or ship demolition operation off the coast of Bangladesh. This a very real scenario set forth by findings by the National Labor Committee’s study titled “Where Ships and Workers Go to Die: Shipbreaking in Bangladesh.” The study shows that 30,000 impoverished workers, including many children, are being injured, maimed and killed, doing the most dangerous job in the world – for 22 to 30 cents an hour. According to the study, some of the world’s largest decommissioned tanker ships—measuring up to 1,000 feet long, 20 stories high and weighing 25 million pounds— have been run up on the beaches of Bangladesh. In July of 2009, 112 tankers were strewn over four miles of beach that could be seen from space. The report also notes the following: ■ Bangladeshi workers, some of them children just 10, 11, 12 and 13 years of age, toil 12 hours a day, seven days a week, for wages of just 22 to 32 cents an hour. ■ According to estimates by very credible local organizations, 1,000 to 2,000 workers have been killed in Bangladesh’s shipbreaking yards over the last 30 years. Currently, a worker is seriously injured every day, and a worker is killed every three to four weeks. ■ Examples of the harsh, heartless treatment endured by workers include on Sept. 5, 2009, 35-year-old Mr. Hossain was burned to death while breaking apart a South Korean tanker at the Kabir Steel Yard. Twenty-year-old Mr. Ashek remains in critical condition, while three other workers were seriously burned. Their blowtorches struck a gas tank which exploded, engulfing them in flames. ■ It is common for workers to be paralyzed or crushed to death by heavy metal plates falling from the ship. A 13year-old child, Nasiruddin Molla, was killed on July 14, 2008, when a large iron plate struck him in the head at the Sultana shipyard. Accidents and even some deaths are not reported, and there is never an investigation. ■ Each ship contains an average of 15,000 pounds of asbestos and 10 to 100 tons of lead paint. Shipbreaking workers are routinely exposed to asbestos, lead, mercury, arsenic, dioxins, solvents, toxic oil residues and carcinogenic fumes from melting metal and lead paint. Environmental damage to Bangladesh’s beaches, ocean and fishing villages has been massive. ■ Helpers, often children, who go barefoot or wear flip flops, use hammers to break apart the asbestos in the ship, which they shovel into bags to carry outside and dump in the sand. ■ Workers usually lack even the most rudimentary protective gear. Cutters, who use blowtorches to cut the giant ships to pieces, wear sunglasses rather than protective goggles, baseball caps rather than hardhats, wrap dirty bandanas around their nose and mouth as they are not provided respiratory masks and wear two sets of shirts rather than a welder’s vests, hoping the sparks will not burn through to their skin. If workers were to buy their own protective gear, it would cost them nearly a year’s wages. ■ Every labor law in Bangladesh and every one of the International Labor Organization’s internationally recognized workers rights standards are blatantly violated on a daily basis. While forced to work overtime, the shipbreaking workers receive no overtime premium. There are no weekly holidays, no paid sick days, no national holidays or vacations. Any worker asking for his proper wages is immediately fired. ■ The shipbreaking workers are very clear on two points: that they will die early and that there have been no improvements whatsoever over the last 30 years when it comes to workers’ rights laws or health and safety. Organizations such as the National Labor Committee, the International Maritime Organization and the International Metalworkers Federation have been lobbying the G-20 nations for help in supporting the workers. The report itself calls for several basic steps including the following: ■ The ILO could work in partnership with Lacking protective gear, a worker uses a cutting torch to assist in shipbreaking in Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s Ministry of Labor and with local nongovernmental human and labor rights organizations— including providing sufficient funding when necessary— to bring the Ministry of Labor up to par so that it could effectively enforce Bangladesh’s labor laws. ■ Child workers should be returned to school where they belong. ■ Workers should receive safety training and must be equipped with protective gear. ■ Establish the rule of law in Bangladesh’s shipbreaking yards. The country’s labor laws are modest and clear, including stipulations for an eight-hour day, six days a week, paid sick days, and the right to organize unions and bargain collectively. But, those rules must be enforced. ■ All toxic waste must be removed before ships are sent for scrapping. The mission of the National Labor Committee is to help defend the human rights of workers in the global economy. The NLC investigates and exposes human and labor rights abuses committed by companies producing goods in the developing world. To read the full study, go to the committee’s web site: www.nlcnet.org. Nordic Action Week Ends Following 258 inspections The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently concluded an annual Nordic week of action during which a team of inspectors visited a total of 258 ships in the 10 participating countries. Multinational teams of mariners, dockers, ITF workers and trade union volunteers pitched in to help carry out the inspections in ports across Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Russia and Sweden, checking conditions and making wage surveys. ITF Maritime Coordinator Steve Cotton noted, “With current conditions it’s never been more important to ensure that seafarers are receiving the wages they need and conditions November 2009 they deserve. Across the region, teams have been working without stopping to make sure that wherever humanly possible that’s what happens.” He continued, “What has also been particularly successful is the crosssectoral reach of this event, with seafarers meeting with dockers, with teams talking to the public and to companies, and with colleagues from different nations visiting and working together in countries right across the region.” The SIU is one of 654 unions affiliated with the ITF. Overall, the federation’s member unions represent 4.5 million transport workers in 148 countries. A member of a German inspection team takes notes during the week of action. Seafarers LOG 7 �RECOGNIZED FOR SAFETY – The Maersk Carolina recently sur- MEETING ABOARD CAR CARRIER – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (third from left) recently met with Seafarers aboard the car carrier Jean Anne when the vessel docked in San Francisco. They discussed the latest union news and industry current events. The Jean Anne sails between the West Coast and Hawaii. passed the five-year milestone for sailing without a lost-time accident, and AB Abdul Gharama (left) “has been an integral factor in achieving that mark,” according to Chief Mate Horatiu Vintila. Gharama is shown earlier this year receiving a monthly safety award (presented by Chief Mate Tim Kelly) that is part of an overall safety program conducted by the company. In an email to the Seafarers LOG, Vintila noted that Gharama “has shared his experience freely with all crew members, and has been indispensable in assisting new crew members. He never fails to correct safety concerns on the spot….” At Sea And Ashore With the SIU Computer Classes A host of Seafarers successfully completed various computer classes recently while attending upgrading courses at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Some of these students are pictured below with their instructor, Rich Prucha. Completing classes May 15 (from the left) were: Carlton McMiller, Ahmed Almlmany and Daniel Wilcox. Rich Prucha, their instructor, is second from left. CONGRATULATIONS ON RETIREMENT – Longtime Seafarer Munassar Omer (center) recently picked up his first pension check at the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif., where he was congratulated by Safety Director Kathy Chester (left) and Administrative Assistant Diana Marrone, among others. A member of the steward department, Omer joined the union in 1967. He plans to retire in Yemen. SHARING A SPECIAL MOMENT – Bosun Lech Jankowski (left) had reason to celebrate in May. That’s when his son Ian (right) graduated from the University at Albany (N.Y.). Ian majored in business and accounting. He was part of the university’s 165th graduating class. May 29 computer class graduates (from the left) included Brooke English, Bernard L. Wade II, Larbi Andaloussi, Tsawang Gyurme and Nicole Walton. At right is Prucha. Ronie Llave (left) was the lone computer class graduate on June 12. Instructor Prucha is at right. 8 SPREADING THE WORD ABOUT MARITIME – SIU BUSMAN’S HOLIDAY? – Frank Cammuso Ft. Lauderdale Safety Director Kevin Marchand in late September participated in a maritime industry career workshop sponsored by the City of Hollywood (Fla.) Marine Advisory Board. He told attendees about the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. “They had a strong turnout and a number of people expressed interest in the unlicensed apprentice program,” Marchand noted. (left) recently submitted this photo and an accompanying note about a recent overseas cruise he took with his wife, Yuki-Ko (right). Cammuso sailed with the SIU for 36 years before retiring in 2003. He said the cruise “was a fascinating voyage through the Swedish archipelago and across the Baltic Sea to Helsinki.” Seafarers LOG Three upgraders finished computer classes June 26. They were: Nabil Ahmed (second from left), Wade Jordan and Shending Hu. November 2009 �SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (standing third from right in both photos) is shown with Seafarers including the first crews of the Lexie M (photo at left) and Hunter M, respectively. Among the boatmen pictured are Master Stephen Jewell, Asst. Engineer Britt Saha, Mate Cody Libby, AB James Pratt, Master Cody Colson, Asst. Engineer George Maloney, Mate Adam Shuptar and AB Mark Girouard. (Photos by Robert Mihovil) Assorted Vessels Enter Union’s Contracted Fleet Continued from Page 3 featured speaker at the recent AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention in Pittsburgh), described the launch as “a testament to the hard work and dedication of the skilled shipbuilders here at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. With each vessel we demonstrate the continuous improvement that has made us a leading U.S. shipyard.” Two weeks later, the yard announced the keel-laying for the tenth tanker in the series. The ceremony included recognition of the red-hot local baseball team, the Philadelphia Phillies, who at that time were on the verge of advancing in the playoffs. The OSG tankers are diesel-powered and are slightly more than 600 long, with beams of approximately 105 feet. They can carry 332,000 barrels apiece and can sail at greater than 14 knots. ● The T-AKE ships are crewed in the Union workers at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard celebrate steady progress in the Veteranclass tanker program – and show their support for the local baseball team. unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Vessels in this class are 689 feet long with an overall beam of 106 feet. The ships can sail at up to 20 knots. The announcement concerning the USNS Medgar Evers was made by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus during a Jackson State University speaking engagement in Mississippi. Continuing the Lewis and Clark-class tradition of honoring legendary pioneers and explorers, the Navy’s newest underway replenishment ship recognizes civil rights activist Medgar Evers (1925-1963), who forever changed race relations in America. In a news release about the naming, the Navy’s U.S. Military Sealift Command noted, “At a time when our country was wrestling to end segregation and racial injustice, Evers led efforts to secure the right to vote for all African Americans and to integrate public facilities, schools, and restaurants. On June 12, 1963, the Mississippi native was assassinated in the driveway of his home. Evers’ death prompted President John F. Kennedy to ask the Congress for a comprehensive civil rights bill.” As a combat logistics force ship, the USNS Medgar Evers will help the Navy maintain a worldwide forward presence by delivering ammunition, food, fuel, and In San Diego, work continues on the series of T-AKE vessels. other dry cargo to U.S. and allied ships at sea. Earlier, construction started on the USNS William McLean, named in honor of the Navy physicist who conceived and developed the heat-seeking Sidewinder missile. The ship is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in the third quarter of 2011. ● The Corpus Christi is a 150-footlong tugboat. The barge Petrochem Supplier is 521 feet long and has a capacity of 156,000 barrels. More Maersk Mariners Complete Safety Conference Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited is continuing its successful series of safety leadership conferences at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Most recently, 30 SIU members employed by Maersk and a handful of the company’s shore-side workers completed a safety conference at the school Sept. 29-30. The meetings are part of a larger program aimed at maintaining and boosting workplace safety. SIU President Michael Sacco (standing in photo at left) welcomed the participants and updated them on several important current events. Scheduled attendees from the late September conference – many of whom are pictured in the group photo – included Seafarers Emie Aguinaldo, Fermin Baltazar, Shirley Bellamy, Tommy Belvin, Tom Bowman, Francisco Bravo, David Castro, Donald Christian, Michael Congress, Thomas Flanagan, Jerald Galletta, Gerald Gavin, Wayne Green, Anthony Houston, Nick Kellehan, Efran Matias, Jason Noronha, Michael Proveaux, Raynaldo Ramirez, Eduardo Ramos, John Reed, Stephen Roell, Jan Schmidt, Grant Schuman, Maris Seperis, Mike Seyler, Harold Ward, Kwamena Watson, Beverly William and Eriberto Bulalacao and, from the company, Dennis Houghton, Sara Breed, Bob Morgan, Jerry Eker, Sean Kline, Patrick Callahan and Rich Fellone. November 2009 Seafarers LOG 9 �Around the Port of Baltimore These photos were taken Oct. 9 in Baltimore, aboard the El Faro, USNS Mendonca and USNS Seay. QMED Will Scott El Faro BREC David James USNS Mendonca The Seay (right) and Mendonca are docked together in Baltimore. Electrician Trent Sterling El Faro QMED Tim Sexton El Faro AB Rob Hayes USNS Seay Pictured from left to right aboard the USNS Mendonca are AB William Howell, BREC David James, Port Agent Elizabeth Brown and AB Chris Brackbill. 10 Seafarers LOG Chief Cook Marlon Battad USNS Mendonca SREC Lauren Oram USNS Seay Chief Steward David Wakeman USNS Mendonca November 2009 �November 2009 Seafarers LOG 11 �Machinist Marine Electrician Hands-On Training A Staple in Classes Offered at Piney Point Since 1967 ractical training is one of the most important – and prevalent – aspects of many courses offered at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for P Maritime Training and Education. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school conducts more than 70 U.S. Coast Guardapproved classes, the vast majority of which involve hands-on components. The Paul Hall Center provides vocational training for entry-level students and for upgraders in all three shipboard departments (deck, engine, steward). Founded in 1967, the school also offers safety and specialty upgrading courses available to mariners regardless of their respective departments. A few examples of courses featuring hands-on training open to Seafarers in Piney Point are radar observer, specially trained ordinary seaman, marine electrician, welding, certified chief cook, advanced galley operations, water survival, fast rescue boat, small arms qualification, and basic and advanced fire fighting. The photos on these two pages show recent hands-on training at the school. Among the classes depicted are oil spill prevention and containment, HAZMAT specialist, helicopter fire fighting, and confined space safety. For additional information about the Paul Hall Center – which includes both the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School and the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship – visit www.seafarers.org/phc. The web site includes individual course descriptions, upcoming course dates, detailed information on the unlicensed apprentice program, a PDF version of the school catalog and more. Also, the annual Paul Hall Center course guide is scheduled to be published in an upcoming issue of the Seafarers LOG. Certified Ch Refrigeration HAZMAT Specialist (photo at left) and Oil Spill Prevention and Containment (above) 12 Seafarers LOG November 2009 �A class of upgraders hone their skills in helicopter firefighting d Chief Cook Simulator Training (above), Welding Class (photo at right) and Knot Tying (below) Confined Space Safety November 2009 Seafarers LOG 13 �SHBP Offers $132,000 for 2010 Scholarship Program Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance may want to consider the opportunities being offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are hoping to continue their education. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2010 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a post- secondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000 apiece. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2010 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears below and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2010. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2010. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t allow the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals—the SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has for years made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last five years alone, the SHBP has awarded $630,000 in scholarships to nine Seafarers and 25 dependents. A breakdown of these awards (by year) is as follows: ■ 2008 – Scholarships totaling $140,000 awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. ■ 2007 – $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. ■ 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son Please send me the 2010 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address .................................................................................................................................................. City, State, ZipCode ........................................................................................................................................ Telephone Number ( )........................................................................................................................... This application is for: Self Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Union Members May Apply For Union Plus Scholarshp Program The Union Plus Scholarship Program since 1992 has awarded more than $2.5 million to students of working families who want to begin or continue their post-secondary education. More than 1,700 families have benefited from this commitment to higher education. The Union Plus Scholarship Program is offered through the Union Plus Education Foundation. Students selected for university, college, trade school or technical scholarships represent a wide sampling of backgrounds, union affiliations, goals and accomplishments. Eligibility for Scholarships Because the SIU participates in Union Plus, current and retired union members, their spouses and their dependent children (including foster children, step children, and any other child for whom the individual member provides greater than 50 percent of his 14 Seafarers LOG Dependent of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. ■ 2005 –Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were 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. ■ 2004 – $106,000 was awarded to one Seafarer and five dependents. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gilson , son of James O. Gilson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys I. Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. In addition, the SHBP earlier this year awarded $132,000 in endowments under its 2009 scholarship program. Claiming these grants were: Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired Deep Sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland ABTankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. or her support) can apply for a Union Plus Scholarship. (Participating union members from the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada are eligible.) Members do not have to purchase any Union Plus program product or participate in any Union Plus programs to apply for the scholarships, and scholarship awards are not based upon participation in a Union Plus program. The individual must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Note: Graduate students are now eligible. finalists and awards. Program judges include representatives from the American Association of Community Colleges, the United Negro College Fund, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Evaluation Criteria The scholarship program is open to students attending or planning to attend a college or university, a community college, or a technical college or trade school. Applicants for scholarships are evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. Scholarship applications are judged by a committee of impartial post-secondary educators. Applications are first reviewed by a panel of independent career professionals. Semi-finalists are chosen based on a point scale, and their applications are then provided to judges for further review and selection of How to Apply For information about obtaining the Union Plus Scholarship application, visit the Union Plus web site at www.unionprivilege.org/benefits/education/scholarships/up.cfm or call 1-800-452-9425. The application deadline is Jan. 31, 2010. Selected scholarship recipients’ names will be announced May 31. Due to the high volume of applications, only winners receive notification. Scholarship Award Amounts The amount of the award ranges from $500$4,000. This is a one-time cash award sent to individual winners for study beginning in the fall of the same year. Deadline All applications must be postmarked by Jan. 31, 2010. November 2009 �HIPAA Privacy Notice The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a comprehensive federal law which established standards and requirements for the electronic transmission of medical claims and mandated the adoption of privacy rules to protect the confidentiality of personal health information. The purpose of HIPAA’s privacy rules is to safeguard “Protected Health Information” that is shared between hospitals, doctors’ offices, and health plans. The HIPAA Privacy Rules give Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan participants more control over their health information, limit the use and release of health or claim records, and establish appropriate safeguards to protect the privacy of health information. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Notice of Privacy Practices is available on the seafarers.org web site or by requesting a copy of the notice from the Plan. If you wish to request a copy of this notice, you may write to: Privacy Officer, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. December 2009 & January 2010 Membership Meetings Piney Point.........................Monday: December 7, January 4 Algonac ...............................Friday: December 11, January 8 Baltimore........................Thursday: December 10, January 7 Guam............................Thursday: December 24, January 21 Honolulu...........................Friday: December 18, January 15 Houston...........................Monday: December 14, January 11 Jacksonville....................Thursday: December 10, January 7 Joliet.............................Thursday: December 17, January 14 Mobile........................Wednesday: December 16, January 13 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: December 15, January 12 New York...........................Tuesday: December 8, January 5 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2009 - October 15, 2009 Total Registered Class A Class B Class C Philadelphia...................Wednesday: December 9, January 6 Port Everglades ............Thursday: December 17, January 14 San Juan .........................Thursday: December 10, January 7 St. Louis ............................Friday: December 18, January 15 Tacoma..............Monday: December 28*, Friday: January 22 Wilmington.......Monday: December 21, Tuesday: January 19 * Tacoma change created by Christmas Day holiday * Wilmington change created by Martin Luther King’s Birthday holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2009 Deck Department 13 10 2 0 7 5 15 7 0 3 7 1 45 10 23 15 6 4 5 3 17 3 37 10 12 11 25 4 2 8 0 1 7 4 25 16 2 5 20 14 270 134 Class C Trip Reliefs Registered On Beach Class A Class B Class C 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 3 4 0 1 2 0 2 0 2 21 0 1 4 5 0 4 15 9 0 2 3 18 4 9 1 2 3 9 0 4 93 14 0 11 20 5 15 98 63 1 31 26 82 32 57 5 1 11 66 3 56 597 11 9 6 28 3 15 79 54 4 8 15 45 42 30 12 2 17 47 8 47 482 3 1 0 10 1 0 6 9 4 1 6 19 11 6 1 3 2 8 1 5 97 Port 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 7 1 2 15 5 13 41 32 4 18 18 35 13 32 2 2 5 35 1 22 303 9 2 7 14 0 8 41 27 3 2 7 22 17 15 10 1 6 38 4 18 251 3 2 0 4 0 0 1 3 2 0 2 4 3 2 1 3 1 4 1 2 38 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 4 1 4 8 2 3 12 17 4 5 9 22 10 14 2 3 3 13 0 11 147 3 3 6 7 2 3 12 17 2 3 6 10 14 7 2 6 4 6 2 8 123 Engine Department 1 2 1 0 0 1 1 3 6 1 12 4 0 2 2 0 3 2 2 9 14 0 17 9 0 2 3 0 6 2 0 8 4 0 15 9 2 9 12 3 9 2 0 2 2 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 10 5 0 0 1 0 8 5 10 120 86 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 4 1 1 3 3 4 5 1 1 1 4 0 3 37 5 1 6 11 1 12 17 34 3 14 12 37 24 19 6 3 7 27 2 34 275 4 5 6 12 3 7 28 30 2 5 5 26 35 12 1 9 11 31 4 20 256 1 0 1 3 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 4 3 5 0 0 0 2 1 0 25 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 0 0 2 8 2 7 19 19 1 3 3 20 15 14 3 2 3 14 1 17 153 2 2 0 7 2 5 7 10 3 3 2 2 9 7 2 1 3 3 2 4 76 Steward Department 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 6 3 1 1 0 0 6 2 0 17 7 0 10 5 0 2 2 0 4 0 0 4 0 1 11 3 3 11 7 1 15 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 14 3 0 1 1 2 21 5 11 132 43 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 9 0 0 0 3 0 1 8 3 0 0 2 5 3 7 2 0 0 2 0 7 43 4 0 3 12 1 24 42 31 0 5 12 46 25 30 4 8 3 23 1 59 333 4 2 2 15 5 6 11 13 1 6 4 9 20 8 3 1 4 6 2 5 127 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 2 11 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 TOTALS ALL DEPARTMENTS: 1 0 1 0 0 4 7 2 3 2 0 11 1 3 0 1 0 2 0 0 38 17 1 3 7 3 5 29 23 5 8 4 25 7 14 0 2 1 15 0 8 177 9 0 0 7 3 1 4 7 2 3 4 6 13 5 2 13 2 3 1 2 87 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 3 5 2 1 19 1 0 0 6 42 1 0 1 0 0 1 4 2 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 2 22 1 0 1 0 0 6 13 3 1 1 1 12 1 5 0 1 2 10 0 5 63 20 5 5 12 0 11 48 37 4 13 7 57 34 28 2 7 3 26 3 29 351 12 0 1 14 3 7 11 21 2 9 9 21 24 18 2 7 1 5 1 29 197 641 627 146 79 195 1,268 1,216 330 Norfolk...........................Thursday: December 10, January 7 Oakland ........................Thursday: December 17, January 14 Total Shipped Class A Class B Entry Department 4 8 0 1 1 2 0 3 0 3 1 5 5 11 3 18 1 6 1 1 0 0 11 21 0 11 1 9 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 6 0 0 2 10 33 118 555 381 Seafarers LOG 15 �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 Editor’s note: This month’s Inquiring Seafarer question was asked in Baltimore. Question: What are your plans for the holidays? Is the rough economy affecting those plans? Joel Ramos Chief Cook I’ll be going to the Philippines soon. I’ve got to take care of something over there – family stuff. That’s it, but I’ll be there for about nine weeks. My vacation is three months; I’m doing 90 days on the ship and 90 days off. Tim Sexton QMED Take vacation, go home to the Philippines, enjoy spending the American dollar at the Philippine peso (rate). The economy isn’t affecting my plans. The dollar still has spending power in the Philippines. 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 Will Scott, QMED Work. That was the plan anyway, if it’s there. You take ’em when you can get ’em. You have to save your dollars. I predict the economy is going to get worse before it gets better. Trent Sterling, Electrician Deer hunting at home in Texas. When I get lucky enough to allow the work schedule to work out for me to be home for deer season, which has been twice in the last four years…. I’m also going to see the family during Thanksgiving. My sister is in Florida. Grant Schuman, Electrician I plan on being on a ship. I sail relief and that’s the best time to be out. The economy has nothing to do with it. 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 The photo above was sent to the LOG by Pensioner Joe Mele. It was taken by Pensioner Steve Ledermann in 1970 aboard the SS Merrimac. Operated by Ogden Marine, the vessel was on a coal run from Norfolk, Va., to Amsterdam. Pictured are Rex Rayner (left) and Brian Hubbell. According to Mele, Rayner went the hawsepipe route and sailed as a captain while Hubbell shipped as an AB. Each of the foursome (Mele, Ledermann, Rayner and Hubbell) were close friends and sailed on the vessel at the same time. Rayner and Hubbell are now deceased but Mele and Ledermann still recall with fondness some of the memorable times they all once shared while at sea. 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 November 2009 �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 WINSTON CLAYTON Brother Winston Clayton, 72, joined the union in 2000 while in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He initially sailed on the Patriot. Brother Clayton was born in Jamaica and shipped in the steward department. He frequently visited the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. Brother Clayton’s final ship was the Cape John. He resides in Coral Springs, Fla. CLIFFORD LEAHY Brother Clifford Leahy, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1965. His first voyage was aboard the Rachel. Brother Leahy, who sailed in the deck department, upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. He was last employed on the Humacao. Brother Leahy makes his home in Toms River, N.J. MICHAEL LINUS Brother Michael Linus, 65, became an SIU member in 1974 while in the port of New York. His first ship was the President Kennedy; his last the Tacoma. In 1985 and 2000, Brother Linus enhanced his seafaring abilities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The steward department member was born in Philadelphia. Brother Linus lives in Seattle. FREDRICK MAYER Brother Fredrick Mayer, 76, donned the SIU colors in 1960. He originally shipped aboard the Sampan Knot. Brother Mayer worked in the deck department. He last shipped on the China Sea. Brother Mayer is a resident of Seattle. JOHN WHITE Brother John White, 70, was born in Ashville, Ala. He began sailing with the union in 1996 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother White initially worked aboard the Maersk Colorado as a member of the engine November 2009 department. He most recently shipped on the Maersk Alabama. Brother White upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He calls Lake Helen, Fla., home. GEORGE WHITING Brother George Whiting, 65, signed on with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1973 while in the port of San Francisco. His earliest voyage was aboard the Santa Magdalena. Brother Whiting was a member of the steward department. The Illinois native’s last trip was on the Matsonia. Brother Whiting settled in Reno, Nev. RONALD WITSKA Brother Ronald Witska, 65, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. He first sailed aboard the Arizpa. Brother Witska upgraded at the unionaffiliated training center. The deck department member was born in Clarksburg, W.Va. Brother Witska’s final trip was on the Humacao. He resides in Durham, N.C. LAMAR NELMS Brother Lamar Nelms, 54, was born in Florida. He donned the SIU colors in 1977. Brother Nelms originally shipped on a Tug Management Corporation vessel. He upgraded his abilities on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Nelms’ final trip to sea was with Penn Maritime Inc. He is a resident of San Mateo, Fla. FLOYD PHILLIPS Brother Floyd Phillips, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1990. He was employed with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock for the duration of his career. Brother Phillips was born in Pennsylvania and shipped in the engine department. In 2001, he attended classes at the union-affiliated school. Brother Phillips lives in Avella, Pa. LEWELLYN STEVENS Brother Lewellyn Stevens, 70, signed on with the SIU in 1957. He initially sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship vessel. Brother Stevens worked in the deck department. His last ship was operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Stevens resides in Frisco City, Ala. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION CLAYTON BENNEKIN Brother Clayton Bennekin, 59, donned the NMU colors in 1981 while in Charleston, S.C. The engine department member was born in South Carolina. Brother Bennekin most recently shipped on the Cape Edmont. JOHN DALY Brother John Daly, 65, started sailing with the NMU in 1976 from the port of New York. He was born in Denver. Brother Daly’s first ship was the USNS Marius; his last was the Mason Lykes. JOHN LEE Brother John Lee, 60, became a Seafarer in 1979. His earliest trip was with C.G. Towing Inc. Brother Lee was born in Georgia and enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Lee makes his home in Perry, Fla. JOHN MCCORMICK Brother John McCormick, 62, started his maritime career in 1979. He first sailed aboard an Interstate Oil Transportation vessel as a member of the deck department. Brother McCormick’s last trip was with OSG Ship Management. He calls New Port Ricky, Fla., home. JOHN SWENSON Brother John Swenson, 67, signed on with the NMU in 1971 in Boston. His first voyage was on the Nobska as a member of the deck department. Brother Swenson was born in Newburgh, N.Y., and now calls Medford, Mass., home. RUDOLPH FRASER Brother Rudolph Fraser, 68, became an NMU member in 1968 while in New York. His earliest voyage was aboard the Rainbow. Brother Fraser was born in Guyana. His final trip was on the Montana. RICHARD SULLIVAN Brother Richard Sullivan, 65, joined the union in 1961 while in Boston. He was born in Chelsea, Mass. Brother Sullivan originally sailed Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1942 INLAND with Perini Corporation. The deck department member now makes his home in Saugus, Mass. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill offered his thanks and the thanks of the Royal Navy to the crews of two SIU-contracted ships that returned to New York after 11 months on the run to Russia. A commendation relayed by Adm. Emory S. Land, director of the War Shipping Administration, from the British Admiralty said in part, “Mr. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister, has particularly requested that he be associated with this message of congratulations.... I should like also to offer my congratulations to you and your crew for the excellent work you all performed during this encounter, which is a great credit to the United States Merchant Marine.” The ships are unnamed for security reasons. to assure all Seafarers the best possible food and food service aboard ship is now underway at SIU headquarters with the launching of a new refresher school for SIU chief stewards as part of the steward department recertification program. Five veteran stewards are enrolled in the first class. The program, developed over the past couple years, is the result of a recommendation by a committee of rank-and-file members of the steward department. It features both classroom and practical work to upgrade the steward and teach him the skills necessary for a chief steward’s rating. This Month In SIU History 1955 SIU negotiators recently won a 25-cents-perman-day contribution from employers to expand health and safety benefits and raise vacation payments. Coupled with wage increases under the contract, the vacation benefits will mean a boost in vacation pay for all Seafarers from the present $176 maximum to $224, effective November 15. 1962 The latest in a series of important advances 1970 President Nixon signed the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. This act, which incorporated many provision backed by the SIU, had passed both houses of Congress by substantial majorities before it was sent to President Nixon for his signature. President Nixon said the bill marked the beginning of a new era for the troubled maritime industry and opened the prospect of revitalization of the U.S.-flag maritime fleet. The bill benefits SIU men more than others by means of its provision to construct 300 new ships for the foreign trade in the next 10 years. The bulk of those 300 ships will go to SIU-contracted companies. Under the 1970 bill, all steamship companies in the foreign trade will be eligible for subsidies. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Depar tures DEEP SEA WILLIAM BYRNE Pensioner William Byrne, 81, died July 28. Brother Byrne became a Seafarer in 1968. He first sailed with Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Byrne was born in Liverpool, England. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Byrne’s last vessel was the Commitment. He went on pension in 1999 and called Navarre, Fla., home. ROBERT CALLAHAN Pensioner Robert Callahan, 80, passed away May 1. Brother Callahan joined the union in 1944 while in Savannah, Ga. He initially worked aboard an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. Brother Callahan was born in Adel, Ga., and shipped in the deck department. Before his retirement in 1992, he sailed on the LNG Virgo. Brother Callahan lived in Mobile, Ala. MACK HAMILTON Pensioner Mack Hamilton, 85, died July 12. Brother Hamilton signed on with the Marine Cooks & Stewards in 1958 while in the port of San Francisco. The Tennessee native resided in Antioch, Calif. Brother Hamilton retired in 1981. BARNEY JOHNSON Pensioner Barney Johnson, 80, passed away July 26. Brother Johnson was born in South Carolina. He started sailing with the SIU in 1967. Brother Johnson first sailed aboard the Western Comet as a member of the steward department. His final voyage was on 18 Seafarers LOG the Charles L. Brown. Brother Johnson began collecting his retirement compensation in 1995. He made his home in Leland, N.C. CHARLES JORDAN Pensioner Charles Jordan, 84, died July 25. Brother Jordan joined the Seafarers in 1944 while in the port of New York. His first trip to sea was with Waterman Steamship Corporation; his last was aboard the Performance. Brother Jordan shipped in the deck department. He resided in his native state of Georgia. Brother Jordan went on pension in 1990. MAURICE LINDEN Brother Maurice Linden, 88, passed away July 31. He first donned the SIU colors in 1979. Brother Linden’s earliest trip was on the Santa Mercedes. He was born in Port Arthur, Texas, and shipped in the steward department. Brother Linden’s final voyage was aboard the Manulani. He continued to live in Port Arthur, Texas. FELIPE REYES Pensioner Felipe Reyes, 73, died May 17. Brother Reyes began his seafaring career in 1989. He originally worked with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Reyes was born in Puerto Rico. His most recent trip to sea was on the El Yunque. Brother Reyes shipped in the steward department. He started receiving his pension in 2006 and settled in Catano, P.R. JOHNNY VICE Brother Johnny Vice, 63, passed away June 28. He became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the SIU. Brother Vice was born in South Carolina and sailed in the steward department. He most recently shipped aboard the Green Cove. Brother Vice was a resi- dent of North Charleston, S.C. INLAND RALPH RACE Pensioner Ralph Race, 64, died July 10. Brother Race, a member of the deck department, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of Philadelphia. Brother Race was last employed on the Patriot. He was born in Philadelphia but called Pompano Beach, Fla., home. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION ROBERT ALEXANDER Pensioner Robert Alexander, 85, passed away June 2. Brother Alexander was born in Alabama. He became a pensioner in 1965 and settled in Mobile, Ala. ROBERT GREEN Pensioner Robert Green, 81, died June 4. Brother Green was a Georgia native. He retired in 1984 and called Fitzgerald, Ga., home. ARTURO LOPEZ Pensioner Arturo Lopez, 81, passed away May 20. The Houston native started collecting his retirement stipends in 1966. Brother Lopez resided in Deer Park, Texas. CARROLL MCCOY Pensioner Carroll McCoy, 86, died July 13. Brother McCoy was born in Honduras. He became a pensioner in 1986 and settled in La Marque, Texas. VICENTE MIRANDA Pensioner Vicente Miranda, 94, passed away June 2. Brother Miranda was a resident of Peru. He went on pension in 1968. FRANCIS PINEAU Pensioner Francis Pineau, 81, passed away June 23. Brother Pineau was born in Quincey, Mass. He went on pension in 1993. Brother Pineau continued to live in Massachusetts. ELIAS RABINOVITZ Pensioner Elias Rabinovitz, 90, died June 14. Brother Rabinovitz was a native of New Orleans. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1973. Brother Rabinovitz was a resident of Franklinton, La. ARQUELIO SEMIDEY Pensioner Arquelio Semidey, 87, died July 11. Brother Semidey was a native of Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1970. Brother Semidey made his home in Bronx, N.Y. Shaw was born in Huntsville, Texas. He retired in 1968. Brother Shaw continued to reside in Texas. DANIEL TATHUM Pensioner Daniel Tathum, 72, passed away June 11. Brother Tathum was born in Nicaragua. He became a pensioner in 1996. Brother Tathum made his home in the Cayman Islands. CARL TIDMORE Pensioner Carl Tidmore, 77, died June 13. The Alabamaborn mariner retired in 1993. Brother Tidmore called Mobile, Ala. home. Name Brown, Juan Bryant, Robert Flynn, John Krogol, Bernard Lozada, Caesar Marshall, Anselmo Martinez, Jimmie Mathews, Milton McNair, Clarence Milton, Dave Nation, Robert Pabon, Frank Rivera, Emilio Rogers, Fredericks Sabatis, James Trotter, Rogers Age 89 81 83 87 71 95 82 86 86 80 83 91 80 88 79 76 DOD June 10 June 11 July 24 July 13 July 9 June 23 July 14 June 17 July 29 July 2 June 21 July 14 June 16 July 23 June 15 June 3 CLARENCE SHAW Pensioner Clarence Shaw, 81, passed away July 4. Brother November 2009 �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. ANTARES (Maersk Line, Limited), GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty August 19 – Chairman Michael J. Proveaux, Secretary Walter J. Matt, Educational Director Ralph B. Garner. Chairman reported smooth voyage. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. It was reported that there were problems cashing checks at some banks; crew would like the problem to be addressed. No disputed OT reported. Request was made to lower retirement age. Cable Ship), August 28 – Chairman Joseph J. Olsen, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Engine Department Gary M. Bartlett, Steward Department Mario A. Firme Jr. Chairman reported that survey was completed and went well; ship is now headed to Los Angeles. Mariners were asked to take care of the new TV in the crew lounge as if it were their own. Secretary reminded members about various issues pertaining to document renewal. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of the Piney Point school to enhance their skills. He reiterated the need to keep documents current. Treasurer reported $4,000 in crew fund. Recommendation was made to use some of the money to upgrade DVD players in crew and officer lounge with a conversion kit compatible with the new TV. Another suggestion was to get new fishing gear and tackle for ship. Chief Steward Fujwara is to look into cost and present it to captain. It was noted that movie locker would be open daily from 1630-1700. Next port: Los Angeles. Maritime), August 30 – Chairman Reginald A. Watkins, Secretary Louins Johnson, Educational Director Charles Snead, Deck Delegate Joseph S. Merriweather, Steward Delegate Julio Guity. Bosun reported ship running well and expressed his satisfaction with the work performed by crew. He announced payoff on Sept. 6 in Galveston, Texas, and thanked steward department for great food and menus. Secretary asked mariners getting off to leave cabins clean and supplied with fresh linen. He thanked crew for helping keep pantry and messhall clean. Educational director encouraged all mariners to enhance their seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center and discussed the need for members to keep documents current. He thanked Recertified Steward Louins Johnson for a great salad bar and menus. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Information regarding pre-employment physical required by Liberty Maritime was requested. It was reported that a new washer and dryer are needed and are on order. New antenna is also needed due to very little reception while in port. Next port: Galveston, Texas. BURNS HARBOR (American Steamship Company), August 17 – Chairman Philip T. Parisi, Secretary Michael L. Ingram, Engine Delegate Michael R. Lau. Chairman stated that ship will go to the shipyard for five to seven days in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. Members were reminded to go to SIU hall to register for jobs within 72 hours. Secretary asked crew to assist in keeping house clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to reduce sea time requirements to qualify for benefits. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), August 16 – Chairman Richard L. Volkart, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director Salvador A. Baclayon Jr. Chairman thanked crew for a job well done and read communications from union headquarters. He reminded crew to have hazmat credentials up-to-date; test is available on board vessel. Secretary informed crew that reefers in rooms are not to be used for perishable items and asked that they leave linen for their reliefs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made regarding vacation benefits. It was reported that digital converter was needed for TV in crew lounge and that food budget does not reflect reality. Steward department was thanked for excellent BBQ’s and going that extra mile. Next ports: Los Angeles and Oakland, Calif. HORIZON TIGER (Horizon Lines), August 2 – Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, Secretary Eugene W. Von Flowtow, Educational Director Ronald H. Westerfield. Bosun announced payoff Aug. 8 upon arrival in Los Angeles. He advised crew members to memorize their TWIC card information. Educational director talked about the importance of keeping seafaring documents up-to-date. Treasurer stated $590 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers requested a new ice machine and would like fans to be installed in rooms. Recommendations were made pertaining to dental benefits. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for doing a good job. Next ports: Los Angeles and Wilmington, Calif. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), August 13 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Ian M. Ferguson, Steward Delegate Natividad A. Zapata. Chairman reported a smooth, safe voyage. He announced payoff on September 21 in Newark, N.J. Secretary thanked crew for help keeping vessel clean. Educational director encouraged members to check out what the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., has to offer. Treasurer reported $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made pertaining to pension and vacation benefits. Tanker’s Maiden Voyage Recertified Steward Joseph Emidy submitted these photos of Seafarers aboard the Overseas Nikiski, one of the new tankers built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. The pictures were taken during the vessel’s maiden voyage; the OSG-operated ship was christened in June. “There is a real spirit of brotherhood aboard this vessel and it would be nice to acknowledge the hard work and spirit in getting the vessel shipshape and operating in a timely and efficient matter,” Emidy noted. Among those pictured are OMU Sean Sammacicci, SA Justo Flores, OMU Kemo Torres, AB Will Coronacion, OS Steve Blair, OS Dan Thompson, Pumpman Ben Mathews, AB Chris Green and Emidy. One photo was taken after a union meeting and the other during a birthday celebration for Flores. Pelican State Docks in Florida Crowley’s double-hulled tanker Pelican State recently docked in Jacksonville, Fla., and was set to resume sailing on Oct. 13. Pictured (photo above, from left to right) aboard the vessel (which was constructed at General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego) are Oiler Henry Crespo, Steward/Baker Justo Lacayo, ACU Hussain Quraish, Recertified Bosun Ray Tate and QEP Oscar Garcia. November 2009 Seafarers LOG 19 �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. Thanks Again Remembering John P. Yegge The volunteer group from the Seafarers International Union recently completed painting our home in Tacoma, Wash., and we wish to thank both them and your organization for the help. It is deeply appreciated by us as well as our neighbors. The Seafarers members gave generously of their personal free time to complete the project (part of a larger, annual effort called Paint Tacoma Beautiful) and deserve a “well done” in the effort. The finished product is excellent. We would like to thank them each individually, beginning with Dr. Debra Hammond, who originally interviewed us, and also Joe Vincenzo, Ryan Palmer, Quinton Palmer, Kris Hopkins, Karen Hopkins, Kevin Hopkins, Kylie Hopkins, Brenda Flesner, Joie Flesner, Chris Mercado, Dan Coffey, Cheryl Gutkowski, David Goodpastor, Lance Zollner, Ben Born, Michael Meany, Lovie Perez, Ray Nowak, Chris Tizon, Mikel Tittsworth, Samed Kassem, Glenn Quittorio, Cory Gardner, Allan Makiling, Hernando Basilan, Pete Hokenson, Paul Sharo, Rupert Henry, Lamberto Palamos, Cesar Runatay, Orlando Makiling, Jose Santos, Melgar Daguio, Joe Hilario, Manuel Basas, Emily Soriano and Efran Bacomo. I have yet to meet a finer group of generous people. It gives us a sense of pride to live in a city that has programs like this one to help us senior citizens. Tacoma has been my home since 1940 and we raised our family of seven children here over our 57 years of marriage, so it means something special to us. Thank you all very much and keep up the good work! My name is Jeff Yegge (AMO/SIU Book #136-Y). It comes with great sadness, yet celebration, as I wish to inform our union members and seafaring family that my only brother and our deep sea shipmate over the last 20 years has made his final departure. Brother John P. Yegge was a proud member of the American Maritime Officers and the Seafarers International Union who loved his job and the professionalism we stand for. John passed away at his Fort Lauderdale, Fla., home on June 15, 2009, just months after receiving his unlimited master’s license. We joined our first ship together, the passenger liner S.S. Independence, back in 1989, signing on as SIU crew utility. John always did his job in a professional manner and never complained. He had a natural way of making his shipmates smile, take pride, and have fun even when the billet was swabbing toilets or crawling through the bilges. John enthusiastically pursued the opportunities available through the SIU and AMO as a U.S. Merchant Mariner and eventually fell in love and married his wife and shipmate Sherrie after meeting aboard the AMO/SIU-contracted M/V TSgt. John A. Chapman. John was very proud to have worked his way up the hawsepipe, filling many billets in all departments to earn his unlimited deep sea master’s license. I know he would have fulfilled that billet with the same professionalism, pride, and integrity as he had throughout his 20 years of seafaring. He will be greatly missed. I pray his Aloha lives on in those who knew him and I would like to share a personal experience I had following my brother’s departure: Al and Cecile Reeves Tacoma, Washington “Midnight Watch” Written to family while underway aboard the SS Great Land on 18 June 2009 In memory of Captain John Paul Yegge, 8/8/1966-6/15/2009 Top o’ the morning. I know these last few days have been emotional and difficult to fathom and this feels like the longest voyage home in memory. I wanted to share an uplifting abstract from my midnight watch. My ship crossed the International Dateline at 46* 50’ North Latitude early this morning – 0200 hours local time. Having logged and plotted the ship’s position and crossing the “Domain of the Golden Dragon,” I stepped back out onto the starboard bridge wing to honor the traditional meridian passage. Through the years and many hours “on the wing,” I feel blessed to have experienced the countless natural wonders of the wind, sky, and sea. It has been an embedded spiritual belief of mine and fellow seafarers that the mighty albatross represents our shipmates who have made their final departure on their humanly voyage. With a 16-knot following wind and sea in the brisk North Pacific, it was relatively calm on the wing. My gaze from the distant horizon was captured by the passing flight of a solo albatross gliding effortlessly past my height of eye (95 feet above the waterline). It wasn’t as though this mighty seafaring albatross, which spends most of its life at sea, landed on my shoulder and spoke to me but for whatever reason, the presence and 510 minute encounter that I tearfully enjoyed watching with graceful acrobatics from stem to stern gave me an incredible sense of freedom and peace within my heart that I truly have never experienced before. Be it irony or sheer coincidence, at that moment ... I knew Johnny was with me and letting me know he was okay (and apparently taking well to flight). Be it known that before this encounter concluded (for now), he was joined by a second albatross which seemed to guide him southeasterly onto the next waypoint.... Johnny always had a loving passion for flight as well as the sea and it’s my guess that this voyage has only just begun. Fair winds & Following seas, brother. With an abundance of Love & Aloha Jeff Yegge P.S. I am very proud to attach this last known photo of John aboard his ship M/V TSgt. John A. Chapman after receiving his master’s license in March 2009, humorously self-titled “Redneck Cap’n”. It was a proud achievement which began 20 years ago swabbing toilets aboard the passenger liner SS Independence. John P. Yegge 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. November 2009 �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. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion ARPA November 16 November 20 Government Vessels November 16 November 20 Engine Upgrading Courses Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations November 9 December 4 Marine Refrigeration Technician November 9 December 18 Welding November 30 December 18 Safety Specialty Courses Advanced Firefighting November 30 December 11 Basic Firefighting/STCW November 9 November 13 Medical Care Provider December 14 December 18 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 Nov. 2. 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 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ 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, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, 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. 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. 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: ________________________ Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? No SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ 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 ________________________________________________ November 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. 11/09 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class – Twelve individuals completed their training in this 60-hour course July 10. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ronald Coley, Gerald Foster II, Daniel Harris, Laura Hollar, Brandon Hutchinson, Curtis Lee II, Mark Mosley, Keith Reeder, Bryan Smith, Richard Vega, Nabil Ahmed and Wade Jordan. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed this 30-hour course Sept. 25: Daniel Avery, Robert Borchester, Hubert Dennis, Thomas Quinlan, Paublito Ramos-Oritz, Michael Warner, Daniel Watts and Igor Yakunkov. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is seventh from left. FOWT – Eight upgraders on Sept. 11 completed their training in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Babbitt, Daniel Balch, Prentice Conley, Hubert Dennis, Steve Shaffer, Danielle Smith, Charles Wagner and Rickey Yancey. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at right. Machinist – Three upgraders on Oct. 2 finished their training requirements in this 102-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nat Lamb, Montree Nakwichet and Roman Zarkiewicz. Steve Harver, their instructor, is at right. Crowley Various Classes (Crowley Maritime) – The following individuals from SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime (above, in no particular order) on July 17 completed various courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland: Brad Burkart, Mark Tilly, Robert Albe, Chris Valley, Domenic Bailey, Forrest Furguson, Jeremiah Dougherty, Shelby Rankin, Gus Cramer, Randy Brinza, Robert Bouton, Jeremy Abel, Vance Sanderson, Ed Sanderson, Frank Campos, Jacek Sawicki, Cory Walls, Rick Cristofano, Paul McCool, Robert Bergmann, William Dunney, Dennis Keys, Mark Gaskill, Bobby Scheider, Greg Jaegie, Ardale Crim, Bill Foley, Freddy Hamilton, Willie Allen and Jeff Hardy. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG November 2009 �Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization (DL) – Eighteen upgraders completed this 63-hour Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 11: Martin Baker, Brandon Braam, Victor Chevalier, Heather Hammons, Jarred Moylan, Tieria Noble, William Pakkala, Teresa Peterson, Jason Redmond, Joshua Sanders, Junior Tanaka and Nelson Velez. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at right. course Oct. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Edgardo Barrios, Frank Battaglia, Kenneth Benton, Apolinario Calacal, James Cedeno, Wilshire Cortez, John Daunoras, Richard Gonzales, Green Hoskins, William Kane, Yuriy Khitrenko, Ralph Kirby, Glenn Lopez, John Mbelwa, Jeremy Scheil, Mykola Smironov, Elpidio Toyco, David Tyrkley and Jesse Turner. Jim Shaffer, their instructor, is at right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) HAZWOPER & Oil Spill (Penn Maritime) – The following individuals (above, in no HAZWOPER & Oil Spill (Penn Maritime) - Twelve individuals on Sept. 16 com- particular order) completed training in this 24-hour course Sept. 30: Mark Cates, James Fekany, Michael Freeman, Percy Guidry III, Erik Haik, Wayne Johnson, John Lee, Tor Moson, Paul Riggs, William Smith, Adam Sparr, Stephen Stockwell, Eric Turoff and Nelson Velez. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) pleted this 24-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Justo Arzu, Dennis Blackman, Fred Forsythe, Gregory Gallagher, Oscar Garcia, Paul Hackney, Ronnie Jarvis, David Mattson, Justin Nichols, Thomas Pelfrey, David Tausig and Michael Woodman. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at right. Tank PIC Barge DL – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) on Sept. 21 graduated from this course: Rigoberto Boggeano, Angel Carillo, Oleg Derun, Neftali Erausquin, Romero Escalera, Jose Ford Jr., Ernest Frank, Darnell Goggins, Michael Joel, Eric Kjellberg, Douglas Maravelias, Candido Molina, Charles Mull Jr., Antonio Owens, DeAnthony Owens, Jason Powell, James Tyson, Nelson Velez, Delsrael Williams, Richard Wilson and Joe Zavala. Their instructor Mitch Oakley, is ninth from right in striped shirt. STCW/BST (Hawaii) – Fifteen individuals on Aug. 15 completed this course at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Center. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Richard Hoppe, Devon Banks, Melissa Farrell, Anthony Vitale, Danielle Frey, Courtney Hall, Frank Biscuso Jr., Russell Barker, Anne Crowley, Joel Smart, Dontez Archibald, Joshua Lopez, Sean Sprague, Roy Woods III and Phillip Abel. STCW/BST (Hawaii) – The above individuals (pictured in no particular order) on Aug. 22 graduated from this course at the Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Center: Victor DeSegonzac, Nicholas Brown, David Wickham, Julie Chiappa, Rheanne Grogg, Edriner Strother, Angelo Malayo, Ali Fakhreddine, Ferdinand Cruz, Kenneth Smith, Sheila Brock, James Cobbin, Luis Zertuche Medrano, Megan Keiser, Alberto Gonzalez Alvarez, and Yinairy Perdomo. November 2009 STCW/BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on Sept. 19 graduated from this course at the Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii: Ronald Tilfas, Michael O’Brien, Charles Hundley, Ionanna Sifakis, Kevin Gross, Jordan Scalise, Martha Duputel, Jesse Wright, Timothy Corrigan and Joseph Kingston. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 71, Number 11 November 2009 SHBP, Union Plus Scholarship Info. - Page 14 Liberty Pride Makes First U.S. Port Call The Liberty Pride, one of the newest additions to the Seafarers-contracted fleet, made its first stop at a U.S. port when the car carrier docked in Baltimore on Oct. 5. Although the ship only stayed there for a few hours before heading south, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown met with the SIU crew aboard the vessel. Additionally, unlicensed apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education travelled from the Piney Point, Md., campus and toured the new ship. Operated by Liberty Maritime Corporation, the Liberty Pride was launched in May. The company took delivery of the vessel Aug. 31. The following Seafarers were aboard the Liberty Pride when the ship was in Baltimore, following its maiden voyage under the Stars and Stripes: Recertified Bosun Glenn Christianson, ABs Benjamin Wright, Dexter Ferrer, Editho Barraca, John Gray and Ryanne Wheeler, Oilers Clay McIver, Denise Mendoza and Mark Merenda, Recertified Steward Jim Battista, Chief Cook Cheryl Lynch and GSU Domingo Barroga Jr. The Liberty Pride has 12 cargo decks and can carry more than 6,300 small cars at once. The Liberty Pride is powered by these massive engines. GSU Domingo Barroga Jr. UAs Julian Davila, Mauriceio Oubre Chief Cook Cheryl Lynch Unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center tour the new ship in Baltimore. State-of-the-art lifeboats (photo at upper left) and a well-equipped bridge (above) are just a few of the Liberty Pride’s impressive features. Seafarers, apprentices, officials and others gather on the stern ramp. UA Bosun Kenneth Stearns � 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 November 2009 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES JACKSONVILLE MOVE REMAINS ON SCHEDULE TANKER, TUGS, ATBS ENTER SIU FLEET PROGRESS CONTINUES IN GOVRNMENT SERVICES T-AKE PROGRAM G&H CREWS APPROVE THREE-YEAR CONTACT SIU COMES THROUGH IN ‘TURBO ACTIVATION UNION HELPS CREW UP 11 RRF VESSELS FOR READINES EXERCISE REAR ADMIN, MARK BUZBY TAKES WEEL AS NEW MCS COMMANDER CROWLEY PRESIDENT EARNS RECOGNITION FROM NDTA USCG: MORE EFFORTS NEEDED TO IMPROVE MARINER ACCESS CIVMARS HELP DELIVER CARGO FOR RELIEF MISSION SIU CREWS SLATED FOR AOTOS HONORS MAERSK ALABAMA, NY WATERWAY CREWS AMONG THOSE RECOGNIZED BY USS REPORT EXPOSES ‘SHIPBREAKING’ HORRORS NORDIC ACTION WEEK ENDS FOLLOWING 258 INSPECTIONS AT SEA AND ASHORE WITH THE SIU ASSORTED VESSELS ENTER UNIONS CONTRACTED FLEET LIBERTY PRIDE MAKES FIRST U.S. PORT CALL 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 11/01/2009 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. 11 2009 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f8b4158219850fe5d6ca386435f5e1e5.pdf 132262a0e4b1e6572b10a11096e9c1e0 PDF Text Text 61805_LogX 10/29/2010 12:51 PM Page 1 Volume 72, Number 11 November 2010 Piracy Petition Tops 1 Million Signatures As part of World Maritime Day observances on Sept. 23, nearly 1 million signatures on an anti-piracy petition were presented to the International Maritime Organization office in London. The signatures were collected through an online petition designed to call more attention to piracy and spur additional actions to eliminate it. The campaign drew worldwide support, including backing from the vessel pictured at right. Within a few days of the IMO ceremony, additional signatures were gathered, pushing the total to more than one million. Page 4. ‘One Nation’ Rally Stresses Job Growth, Education, Solidarity SIU members and apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center participated in a massive rally Oct. 2 in Washington, D.C. Titled “One Nation Working Together,” the event attracted an estimated 175,000 people from across the country to the nation’s capital. Speakers included AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka. Pictured at the rally in photo below are (from left) Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentices David Kabasinskas and Andrew Blake and AB George Mazzola. Pages 12-13. SS Poet Crew Memorialized On the 30th anniversary of the disappearance of the SIU-crewed SS Poet, the union hosted a memorial event at the hall in Mobile, Ala. More than 80 people, including dozens of the Poet crew’s families, attended the gathering, some of whom are pictured at right. The other photo shows a new plaque constructed in honor of the 34 mariners who were lost when the Poet disappeared somewhere in the Atlantic on Oct. 24, 1980. Page 2. Civil Service Mariners News Pages 5, 6, 7 Scholarship Info Page 11 Book Chronicles SIU History Page 20 �61805_LogX 10/29/2010 1:05 PM Page 2 President’s Report Latest Attacks Almost Laughable There’s nothing funny about attacks on the U.S. Merchant Marine, but I almost had to laugh at a few letters and editorial comments that were published in various newspapers, from the Dakotas to the Carolinas, during the heartwarming rescue of the Chilean miners. In particular, and in what I can only describe as a stretch of epic proportions, certain writers tried to say that the rescue reflects poorly on the Obama administration because it didn’t immediately waive the Jones Act after the Deepwater Horizon explosion and spill. Don’t worry, I had to think about it for a second, too. Basically, the critics tried to push the idea that America’s assistance in rescuing the miners demonstrated the importance of using foreign aid. You know – just like the United States did during Michael Sacco the Deepwater Horizon situation, despite neverending false claims. The main point here is that if there ever were any doubt about whether we’re up against coordinated opposition, the most recent letters and comments erased it, no matter how feeble their attempts. We’ve covered this subject at length during the last few months, but the attention is warranted. The Jones Act is crucial not only for the U.S. Merchant Marine but also for our national and economic security. This vital maritime law supports 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars annually into our economy. Those are the facts, and I’m sure that’s why the Jones Act has been strongly supported by every Congress and presidential administration since it was enacted back in 1920 – and why the U.S. has had some type of cabotage law since our nation’s founding. After Election Day This edition of the LOG went to press right before Election Day. Regardless of how the voting went on November 2 – and as longtime Seafarers already know – we will hit the ground running when it comes to promoting our union and our industry to new officeholders not only in Washington but throughout the country. That goes for Republicans, Democrats, Independents and anyone else who may influence how we make a living. Because our industry is so heavily regulated, it is a routine-butcritical part of the job for us to constantly educate elected representatives and their staffs about the U.S. Merchant Marine. On that note, I again want to thank our rank-and-file membership for your reliability and professionalism when you go to sea. You are what we promote when we tell people why America must maintain a viable merchant marine. You are the best-trained mariners in the world, and you go out there and get the job done, wherever and whenever needed. You also “turn to” for the volunteer grassroots activities that are so important both for our individual union and for the American labor movement as a whole. I am proud to represent you. I don’t do this very often but I also want to brag just a little about your union officials. They are a very hard-working group and they are constantly out there, working on your behalf. You have reason to be proud of them, and I know they share my pride in you. One thing none of us can afford to do is take for granted the gains we’ve made. Times are tough but we have full employment. People try to take it away from us, like the foreign interests trying to undercut the Jones Act, but we’re going to continue working our tails off to make sure they never succeed. That’s something you can count on as we head toward the holidays and the next Congress. Volume 72, Number 11 SS Poet Mariners Memorialized On 3Oth Anniversary of Tragedy Mobile Union Hall Hosts Event for Family, Friends of Vessel’s Crew On the 30th anniversary of the mysterious disappearance of the SIU-crewed SS Poet, the union hosted a memorial gathering at the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala. More than 80 people attended the ceremony, which took place Oct. 24. Dozens of family members and friends of the Poet’s crew attended, as did a number of active and retired SIU members. During the event, which lasted two hours, a memorial plaque was unveiled. It lists the names of the 34 mariners from the Poet, all of whom perished on Oct. 24, 1980. Donated by the SIU and the Greater Mobile Port Maritime Council of the Maritime Trades Department, the plaque also contains a quote from Shakespeare – “So Are They All, All Honorable Men” – that became somewhat of a slogan during a recent grassroots effort to memorialize the crew. It will be displayed at the union hall in Mobile. Identical copies of the plaque will be posted at the SIU halls in Philadelphia and New Orleans, respectively. Most of the Poet’s last crew hailed from either the Gulf Coast region or the Philadelphia area. SIU Mobile Port Agent Jimmy White served as master of ceremonies for last month’s gathering. He said family members of all five Alabama-area Seafarers from the Poet were on hand “and they seemed very pleased about the recognition for the crew. Even though this was a memorial, the mood was uplifting. I met with each of the families and they were happy with the event.” In his prepared remarks, White noted, “For the SIU, the sinking of the Poet was a tragedy that hit home. Most of the people aboard that ship were members of our union – 24, to be exact, including five from Alabama and several others from the Gulf Coast region. And of course, the heartbreak was every bit as great for the 10 officers who were lost in the sinking. “It is my sincere hope that the passage of time has brought some peace to the families, if not necessarily full closure,” he continued. “The mystery of the Poet endures to this day, which makes the sinking all the more unfathomable. But there is no mystery about the honorable profession chosen by the men who sailed aboard the SS Poet. They were part of the United States Merchant Marine, also known as America’s fourth arm of defense. They were part of an industry that is critical to America’s national and economic security. And they were working hard to earn a good living for themselves and their families.” White concluded, “The crew members of the SS Poet were part of the backbone of America. In researching their stories for this event, I find that they were blue-collar, no-nonsense individuals who could be counted on at all times.” The 522-foot Poet disappeared in the Atlantic Ocean. Not a trace of the 11,241-ton ship ever was found. The 36-year-old bulk carrier, operated by Hawaiian Eugenia Corp., departed Philadelphia bound for Port Said, Egypt, with a cargo of corn. Six hours later, one of the deck officers called his wife through the marine operator. That was the last time the ship was heard from. According to reports from that era, the ship was due to pass Gibraltar on Nov. 4 and was scheduled to arrive in Port Said Nov. 9. It missed its 48-hour check-in on Oct. 26 but was not reported missing by the company until Nov. 3. After the company did finally report the Poet missing, the Coast Guard delayed another five days before beginning their investigation, which included an exhaustive air search from high altitude for the missing ship over a 100,000 squaremile area ranging from the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf to 1,000 miles out to sea. The agency then searched the same area from a much lower altitude. Another Coast Guard plane out of the Azores tracked the scheduled course of the Poet all the way to Gibraltar. On Nov. 17, the Coast Guard “regretfully” ended the futile search. Please check the next issue of the LOG for photos from the Mobile event SIU Officials Address AMO In photo at right, American Maritime Officers (AMO) National President Tom Bethel (right) greets SIU President Michael Sacco, who attended and addressed a meeting of the AMO National Executive Board Oct. 20 in Washington, D.C. The AMO is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Sec.Treasurer David Heindel also spoke to the AMO board. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are Tellez, AMO National Executive Vice President Bob Kiefer, AMO member Dan Robichaux, AMO National Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard, AMO member Christian Spain, Sacco, AMO member Robert Lansden, Bethel, AMO National Vice President at Large Michael Murphy, Heindel, AMO member Robert Haller and AMO National Executive Board Member Charles Murdock. November 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, 5201Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Photographer, Mike Hickey; 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 November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:03 PM Page 3 Coast Guard Bill Includes Many Labor-Backed Provisions The U.S. Coast Authorization Act of 2010, signed by President Obama Oct. 15, includes a number of components strongly supported by maritime labor. Among the legislation’s provisions most relevant to Seafarers are sections aimed at facilitating shore leave for mariners; improving the processing systems for TWIC cards and merchant mariner credentials; and establishing a medical advisory committee which includes not only health-care professionals but also merchant mariners. Maritime labor also backed other sections of the 128page bill, including one that will protect mariners from civil liability when they have defended themselves and their ships against acts of piracy. According to the agency, other sections of the law improve maritime safety and bolster port security, in addition to “assisting the ongoing replacement of the service’s aging fleet.” The bill reportedly includes more than $10 billion for the Coast Guard for Fiscal Year 2011. President Obama said the legislation “strengthens the Coast Guard as a military service and branch of the armed forces in the Department of Homeland Security by providing organizational flexibility for the Coast Guard and allowing for improvements to its military housing. Additionally, the act materially enhances the marine safe- ty and maritime security missions of the Coast Guard….” Section 811 of the law says that port security plans “shall provide a system for seamen assigned to a vessel at that facility, pilots, and representatives of seamen’s welfare and labor organizations to board and depart the vessel through the facility in a timely manner at no cost to the individual.” Another part of the act (Section 210) amends Chapter 71 of title 46, United States Code, by establishing a Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Committee. The law states that the group, generally tasked with easing and improving a merchant mariner medical review process many describe as onerous, “shall consist of 14 members, none of whom is a Federal employee, and shall include ten who are health-care professionals with particular expertise, knowledge, or experience regarding the medical examinations of merchant mariners or occupational medicine; and four who are professional mariners with knowledge and experience in mariner occupational requirements.” Still other sections address mariner credentialing. The bill includes language allowing for extensions of existing merchant mariner credentials and Transportation Worker Identification Credentials if there’s a backlog in the Coast Guard’s processing of applications for renewals. It also aims to speed up such processing. Additionally, the measure stipulates that “an owner, operator, time charterer, master, mariner, or individual who uses force or authorizes the use of force to defend a vessel of the United States against an act of piracy shall not be liable for monetary damages for any injury or death caused by such force to any person engaging in an act of piracy if such force was in accordance with standard rules for the use of force in self-defense of vessels prescribed by the Secretary…. To carry out the purpose of this section, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall work through the International Maritime Organization to establish agreements to promote coordinated action among flag- and port-states to deter, protect against, and rapidly respond to piracy against the vessels of, and in the waters under the jurisdiction of, those nations, and to ensure limitations on liability similar to those established [elsewhere in the bill]…. Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in consultation with representatives of industry and labor, shall develop standard rules for the use of force for self-defense of vessels of the United States.” SHBP Distributes Forms For Dependent Coverage As this edition of the LOG went to press, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) mailed a letter to its participants explaining the steps for enrolling dependent children (up to age 26) in the Plan. That communication included a related, one-page form to be completed by the Plan participant for each child between the ages of 19 and 26. The letter and form also are available at www.seafarers.org, in the Member Benefits and Resources section. (To access the links, scroll down to “Communications from the SHBP” on the left side of the web page.) According to the letter from SHBP Administrator Maggie Bowen, effective Jan. 1, 2011, the Plan will offer dependent health coverage to children up to age 26, provided the child is not offered health coverage through his or her employer. There is no cost to enroll. “This new benefit is one of the changes the Plan will be implementing to comply with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act,” Bowen wrote. “We will provide details in the near future about other changes that will take effect next year as a result of this law.” The letter goes on to explain that if an SHBP Participant has a child currently younger than 26 “who lost coverage or who will lose coverage prior to Jan. 1, 2011 because he or she reached age 19 and/or the child was not a full-time student; or a child who was never eligible for coverage, that child may now be eligible to enroll in the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. If you will be eligible for benefits in 2011, you may request enrollment for any such children by filling out the enclosed Enrollment Form and Affidavit for Dependent Child. Please note, you must certify whether your child has access to other coverage through his or her employment, regardless of whether your child has actually elected to receive that coverage. The form must also be notarized.” To ensure coverage by Jan. 1, the completed form or forms must be returned no later than Dec. 31 to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, Attn: MAP Department, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. As noted in the letter, coverage for all eligible children who enroll by Dec. 31 will start Jan. 1. Those enrolling after Jan. 1 will be covered on the first day of the ensuing month that follows the month in which the enrollment form is received. For example, if a completed form is received by the SHBP in mid-February, coverage for that individual would begin March 1. Questions may be directed to the claims office at (800) 252-4674. Frequently Asked Questions About New Health Care Coverage for Children Provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Q: If my child is married, but is still under age 26, is he or she still eligible to enroll in the Plan? A: Yes, your married child is eligible to enroll in the Plan, as long as he or she is not offered health coverage through an employer. Q: My child just lost coverage in October, because he turned 19. How can he receive coverage for the rest of this year? A: The new coverage for children from 19 through 25 does not go into effect until next year (2011). Your child may elect to receive COBRA coverage for the remainder of this year. Q: Can my child enroll in the Plan even if he or she does not live with me? A: Yes. Your child does not have to live with you to be eligible for coverage. If you would like the child to receive the Plan ID card as well as Plan correspondence at the child’s current address, please list that address on the enrollment form in the “Dependent Information” section. November 2010 Q: Do I have to prove that I support my child in order to enroll him in the Plan? A: No, there is no requirement that you provide financial support to your child. Q: My child just turned 26. Can I enroll him until he turns 27? A: No, the new coverage is only available for children who are under 26. Q: If my child who is under 26 has children of her own, can I enroll those children (my grandchildren) in the Plan? A: No, coverage is not available for grandchildren. Q: If I do not meet the Plan’s eligibility requirements, can I still enroll my child? No, you must be eligible for benefits to enroll your child in the Plan. Q: Does the enrollment form have to be notarized? A: Yes, the enrollment form must be notarized, or the Plan will return it to you, and it may delay your child’s enrollment. Among the Seafarers demonstrating on behalf of shipyard workers are (from left) AB Justin White, DEU Stephon Hall, AB Austin Howard, OS Edgar Reed, OS Luis Nunez, Safety Director James Brown and AB Eugene Tuggle. Seafarers Show Support For Shipyard Workers Layoffs Begin at Avondale Despite Navy Announcement SIU members showed their support for fellow union members by participating in a “Save Our Shipyards” rally outside the Avondale facility in New Orleans. The demonstration took place Sept. 24; it featured remarks by AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker. On the heels of an announcement by the U.S. Navy that it would accelerate construction of double-hulled oil tankers to 2014 and save thousands of jobs at the Avondale shipyard, rally participants celebrated this victory and reaffirmed the need for a long-term solution. Avondale was slated to close in 2013 after winding down construction on the last ship orders. The labor federation estimates that more than 5,000 workers would be directly affected by the shipyard closing, not to mention the hugely detrimental effect on U.S. national security. “The shipyard industry is a vital lifeline to the Gulf Coast region,” Holt Baker stated. “This region has been pummeled by disaster after disaster, and the working community in Louisiana cannot afford the massive economic crisis that would result if this shipyard closes.” Unfortunately, despite the Navy’s announcement and although Avondale will remain open at least in the short run, yard owner Northrop Grumman in early October handed out layoff notices to at least 200 Avondale workers and indicated more would follow. Maritime labor continues to work for a solution that keeps the yard open, with full employment. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said, “Northrop Grumman is apparently determined to take advantage of tax loopholes that make it more profitable to destroy these jobs than to keep work in the community. If they want out of shipbuilding they should sell Avondale to another company that will operate it and keep those 5,000 workers working. “The 12 million members of the AFLCIO will continue standing with the Avondale workers as we fight to create good jobs in the Gulf Coast and nationwide. We are meeting with prospective buyers and government officials to find a solution.” He added, “This struggle is about Avondale – but it’s also about who we are as a nation. Northrop Grumman’s policy of profits over people is the latest example of how corporations have run roughshod over our jobs and our communities.” Seafarers LOG 3 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:03 PM Page 4 Piracy Petition’s Final Tally Tops 1 Million World Maritime Day Events Spotlight Importance of Seafarers Demonstrating worldwide support for actions to immediately curtail and eventually eliminate piracy, maritime industry stakeholders on Sept. 23 – World Maritime Day – delivered nearly one million signatures to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) office in London. The signatures were gathered through an online anti-piracy petition (which the SIU helped develop) designed to attract attention and spur action protecting mariners. Launched in the spring with a publicly stated goal of securing at least 500,000 signatures, the petition topped 930,000 names by Sept. 23. In the ensuing days, that figure increased and surpassed the one-million mark as more individuals joined the cause. Numerous other World Maritime Day events took place around the globe. Among them was a Navy League luncheon hosted at the SIU hall in Oakland, Calif. Nevertheless, the headline-grabber was the petition handover. IMO SecretaryGeneral Efthimios Mitropoulus ceremonially accepted boxes of signatures from International Transport Workers’ Federation General Secretary David Cockroft; National Union of Seafarers of India General Secretary Abdulgani Serang; International Shipping Federation President Spyros M. Polemis; representatives from the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO); the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (Intercargo); the International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (INTERTANKO); the International Ship Managers’ Association (InterManager); the International Parcel Tankers Association (IPTA); the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS); and mariners whose vessels were attacked by pirates. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, stated, “An unprecedented coalition from all segments of the maritime industry around the globe made this campaign possible. We said all along that we don’t expect pirates to be afraid of a petition, but that wasn’t our intent. We are calling attention to an incredibly serious problem, and we’re demanding action on the part of governments around the world.” He added, “It was heartening to see such a powerful response. I extend my most sincere thanks to everyone who signed and otherwise supported the petition.” Mitropoulus said, “The weight of the almost one million signatures on this petition is both moving and awe-inspiring. We can see from these boxes – which, I understand, represent a fraction of the signatures received online – just how many people have taken the time to sign this petition. I personally hope that the strength of feeling expressed by people from across the shipping community – and the wider world – will help to sensitize both governments and the wider public to the harm being caused by modern-day piracy, as well as exert pressure on those who need to act.” He continued, “For IMO, piracy is an issue of grave concern and we share the deep anxiety of seafarers, industry and the broader community with regard to this modern day scourge. I know I can speak for all 169 IMO member states and three associate members, not to mention the many, many organizations like the ITF and the main shipping organizations that contribute to our work, in stating that it is our strong collective wish to see it permanently eradicated. “IMO, in cooperation with governments, with our sister organizations in the SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (right) joins honoree Adrienne Yee (second from right), development coordinator for the Seamen’s Church Institute-Bay Area, Navy League Pacific Merchant Marine Council President Phelps Hobart (left) and Senior VP Sam Sause at a World Maritime Day luncheon hosted at the union’s hall in Oakland, Calif. Piracy Facts and Figures Piracy and crime at sea have been problems throughout history. But, in recent years, there has been a dramatic upsurge in the threat to shipping and crews, particularly with attacks originating from the lawless coastal regions of Somalia. The year 2008 saw an increase in attacks on shipping in the Gulf of Aden from pirates operating out of certain coastal regions of Somalia. In that year, 111 ships were attacked. By 2009, the number of ships attacked had increased to 4 Seafarers LOG IMO Secretary-General Efthimios Mitropoulos (foreground) receives boxes of anti-piracy petition signatures during a World Maritime Day event in London. Representatives of some of the supporting organizations also are pictured. United Nations system, and with the shipping industry as a whole, has devoted much energy to addressing the problem at all levels, engaging as many stakeholders as possible…. Nevertheless, much remains to be done if the ultimate goal of consigning piracy to the realms of history is to be achieved.” Mitropoulus announced that next year’s World Maritime Day theme will be “Piracy: orchestrating the response.” He said, “We have identified a number of objectives that IMO and the international maritime community could pursue in promoting the theme – objectives which are reflected in the demands of this petition. The first is to increase pressure at the political level to secure the immediate release of all hostages being held by pirates – seafarers, in the main. “The main other objectives are improving guidance to the industry and promoting full compliance by ships with all recommended preventive, evasive and defensive measures; promoting greater levels of support from navies; promoting anti-piracy coordination and cooperation between and among states, regions and organizations; building capacity in affected states to deter, interdict and bring to justice those who commit acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships; and, equally importantly, providing care for those attacked or hijacked by pirates and for their families.” A joint statement by the organizations represented at the petition presentation read in part, “Piracy is endangering the lives of thousands of seafarers a day, endangering the wellbeing of their families, and endangering world trade…. With political will the problem of piracy can be tackled, and the problems of Somalia lessened. Without it they will continue, and worsen, and more lives will be ruined and lost, more ships attacked, more food aid diverted…. Each of those signatures, collected in 185 countries, from the maritime world and beyond, is a vote for a realistic, 217, with 47 vessels and 867 crew taken hostage. Several SIU-crewed vessels were among those attacked, including the Maersk Alabama and the Liberty Sun. As of late September 2010 there were 354 people being held hostage. Their nationalities are Indian, Sri Lankan, Greek, Pakistani, Filipino, Sudanese, Ghanaian, Bangladeshi, Ukrainian, Yemeni, Burmese, Turkish, Vietnamese, Kenyan, Indonesian, Chinese, Korean and British. Sixteen vessels were also being held for ransom. An estimated 20,000 to 25,000 vessels pass through coordinated response to piracy; for more resources, for more naval action, for proper prosecutions of the guilty and support for the innocent – both on board ships and on land in Somalia.” Meanwhile, dozens of Seafarers and others attended the luncheon in Oakland, which took place Sept. 20. The Navy League’s Pacific Merchant Marine Council presented a plaque to Adrienne Yee, Bay Area development coordinator for the Seamen’s Church Institute. Additionally, Council President Phelps Hobart spoke in strong support of American mariners. Mariners display their feelings via a shipboard banner calling for an end to piracy. the affected area each year. That equals more than 400 vessels and 6,000 seafarers at risk every week. In 2007, a piracy attack was reported approximately every 31 hours. There were 15 piracy-related deaths in 2006, 11 in 2008 and nine in 2009. In 2008 the amount paid to pirates in ransoms was estimated at $150 million. There are an estimated 600 to 1,000 pirates operating out of Somali waters. Source: Federation International Transport Workers’ November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:03 PM Page 5 Hospital Ship Returns To United States After Humanitarian Mission More than 60 CIVMARS and nearly 300 U.S. Navy medical personnel aboard the Seafarers-crewed hospital ship USNS Mercy returned to San Diego Sept. 21 after steaming more than 24,000 miles to Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and TimorLeste as the lead vessel for Pacific Partnership 2010, a five-month humanitarian and civic assistance mission that resulted in medical treatment for more than 100,000 people. The 894-foot Mercy is one of two Seafarers-crewed U.S. Navy Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ships. Since the vessel was too large for pier-side visits during Pacific Partnership, civilian mariners, including members of the SIU Government Services Division, operated small boats to transport patients between ship and shore. According MSC, doctors and nurses from the ship’s Navy-led medical treatment facility worked with medical professionals from numerous governmental agencies, non-govern- mental organizations and the host nations to provide medical care, including immunizations, general and specialty surgeries, dental care and vision services. As part of the medical outreach effort, which took place both ashore and aboard the ship, the Mercy’s team treated 103,242 people, distributed more than 58,000 pairs of eyeglasses and sunglasses, and provided dental care for more than 12,000 patients. In addition, the Mercy personnel conducted more than 24,000 hours of information exchanges in the four countries visited on topics including first aid, nursing, cardiology, orthopedics, nutrition, disaster response, water and food safety and public health promotion. The team also participated in 62 community service projects ashore, the majority at schools and orphanages. Pacific Partnership 2010 officially ended in mid-September. See pages 6-7 for more SIU CIVMAR NEWS. Grassroots Action in Washington State On Oct. 16, Seafarers met with U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) (second from right) at the congressman’s Everett, Wash., campaign office. A strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Larsen represents Washington’s 2nd Congressional District. Pictured from left to right are AB Dominic Brunamonti, Recertified Steward Duane Bergeson, Rep. Larsen and SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. The port agent noted, “We joined the congressman and his staff for an afternoon of ‘doorbelling’ for himself and Senator Patty Murray, both of whom are up for reelection in the mid-term. Other SIU members who joined us this day include FOWT Paula Gomez, SREC Scott Opsahl and QMED Anthony Kimbrell. Together, SIU members alone knocked on more than 250 doors, urging voters to get out and vote for Larsen and Murray, both of whom fight for working families.” IBF Adopts Anti-Piracy Guidance The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy returns to San Diego after a nearly fivemonth deployment supporting Pacific Partnership 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chad A. Bascom) The International Bargaining Forum (IBF) reported two key developments following meetings Oct. 6-7 in New York City. The IBF is the medium that brings together the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and participating maritime employers that make up an organization known as the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG). Following the October meetings, the IBF announced that a set of anti-piracy recommendations was agreed upon as guidance to all IBF ship operators. Additionally, all existing IBF agreements have been extended through March 2011. In a statement issued by the ITF, the antipiracy guidelines were described as helpful to mariners, shipowners and managers. “These, in particular, included recommendations for the protection and welfare of crew members who may become captives and also that of their families until, and if necessary, after their release,” the federation pointed out. The JNG was established in 2003. It includes ship owners and managers from around the world. IBF negotiations are conducted every two years for what is known as a framework agreement. Once that element is in place, ITFaffiliated unions begin local negotiations with companies in their countries. These local negotiations result in national and sometimes company-level IBF contracts. Seafarers Successfully Wrap Up Safety Session In late September, Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) resumed its valuable series of safety leadership meetings at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Twenty-six SIU members employed by MLL and 10 of the company’s shore-side workers completed a safety conference at the Piney Point, Md., school Sept. 2829. As previously reported, the meetings are part of a program designed to sustain and boost workplace safety. Among those pictured in the group photo are SIU members Bernard Baker, Alcy Beckford, Conrad Burke, James Cameron, Cleofe Castro, Herman Castro, Edley Foster, Richard Gathers, Jonathan Gibson, Rafael Gonzalez, John Grosskurth, Robert Hall, Michael Hames, Michele Hopper, Lech Jankowski, Glenn Johnson, Anthony Maben, David Merida, Thomas Morgan, Angel Perez, Fortunato Ranario, Paul Riley, Angela Robertson, Mohamed Soliman, Thomas Swayne and Albert Williams. November 2010 Seafarers LOG 5 �61805_LogX2 10/29/2010 6:35 PM Page 6 CIVMAR NEWS SIU, MSFSC Reach Agreement On New S&Q Policy for CIVMARS Pending Disciplinary Procedures At the request of the SIU Government Services Division, Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler met with Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) representatives to negotiate a comprehensive policy regarding subsistence and quarters (S&Q) eligibility for CIVMARS facing disciplinary action. The union requested the negotiations to achieve the equal treatment of East and West coast CIVMARS who are pending discipline. For decades, only West Coast CIVMARS were eligible for S&Q while pending disciplinary action. The eligibility difference between East and West coast CIVMARS arose prior to the merger of the SIU and NMU (which took place in June 2001). The negotiations were conducted in Suffolk, Va. The discussions were combined with the negotiations for Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 750, Military Sealift Command’s Discipline Instruction (see separate article below). The parties used interest-based bargaining (IBB) negotiations, similar to the process being used in the CMPI 610 negotiations. IBB is a collaborative negotiating method of identifying interests and seeking solutions which address those interests. The week-long negotiations, while lengthy and heated at times, were very productive. Issues that have remained unresolved for years are now addressed in this comprehensive agreement. The new policy, equalizing S&Q pay for CIVMARS pending discipline allows almost all unlicensed CIVMARS awaiting disciplinary action to report to the customer service unit or CSU (the “pool”) if they choose, or take leave. If the CIVMAR does report to the CSU, he or she is eligible to receive S&Q from the time he or she reports until the date of the oral or written reply. S&Q eligibility will end on the day following the oral or written reply, whichever occurs last. However, in such cases, S&Q shall not extend beyond 21 days after the receipt of the notice of proposed disciplinary action. Extensions may be granted by the MSFSC on a case-by-case basis for good cause and will not be arbitrarily denied. If a CIVMAR chooses not to reply to the charge, eligibility for S&Q ends one day following the conclusion of the reply period. The MSFSC will issue a decision on the charge within 20 days. If the decision is not issued during that period, CIVMAR eligibility for S&Q will resume until a decision is issued. This significantly helps CIVMARS because the time they will wait for a decision on the disciplinary action may be substantially reduced. Another positive change involves CIVMAR assignments. Prior to receiving a decision regarding the notice of disciplinary action, CIVMARS may elect to remain in a duty status. At the discretion of the MSFSC, CIVMARS awaiting a decision may be considered for shipboard assignment, training, available for medical examinations, or other duty status-related assignments or tasks. These negotiations also involved licensed CIVMARS represented by the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots and Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association Government Fleet Representative Randi Ciszewski, who has invoked arbitration over the issue of S&Q eligibility for licensed CIVMARS. To achieve an equitable outcome, representatives from the three maritime unions conferred about the policy objectives during the negotiations. The MM&P and MEBA had not concluded their negotiations as this edition of the LOG went to press. The MOU however contains language which requires that should the S&Q policy for licensed CIVMARS be altered to provide S&Q from the beginning of the disciplinary period through the final decision, unlicensed CIVMARS will be afforded the same benefit. The following categories of CIVMARS will not be eligible for S&Q while they are pending disciplinary action: A. CIVMARS who report for duty who are not assignable and are not ready, willing and able to work in accordance with the Notice to CIVMARS regarding S&Q Allowance of 22 April 2009; B. CIVMARS in a trial period, temporary or intermittent appointment status; C. CIVMARS who maintain a resi- Pictured from left to right are (standing) FMCS Mediator Karen Kline, SIU Associate Counsel Jonathan Madden, MSC Purser Susan Myron, SIU Counsel Deborah Kleinberg, MSFSC Director of Labor and Employee Relations DFWP Benefits and Services Division Kathleen Giacolone, MSC Labor Relations Specialist Andrew Lefebvre, MSFSC Counsel Alana Mayer, (seated) SIU Asst. VP Chet Wheeler, MSFSC Branch Head/Labor and Employee Relations Constance Halleen and MSFSC Labor and Employee Relations Specialist Patricia MacDonald. dence within the local commuting area of the CSU. Leading the Seafarers negotiating team was Assistant Vice President Wheeler. He was assisted by Counsel Deborah Kleinberg and Associate Counsel Jonathan Madden. Leading the MSFSC negotiating team was Kathleen Giacolone, Director of Labor and Employee Relations DFWP Benefits and Services Division. Also serving on the MSFSC team were Constance Halleen, Branch Head, Labor and Employee Relations; Patricia MacDonald, Labor and Employee Relations Specialist; Purser Susan Myron and MSFSC Counsel Alana Mayer. Andrew Lefebvre represented MSC Headquarters. Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Mediator Karen Kline facilitated the IBB negotiations for both CMPI 750 and S&Q entitlement. This new policy will go into effect on Jan. 30, 2011. The parties agreed to meet six months after implementation to review the new policy and identify any issues or problems which may have resulted from the implementation. The MOU is now posted on the SIU web site and will be posted at the CSU. CIVMARS can also receive a copy by sending a request to their Government Services Division representative. CIVMARS who are facing disciplinary charges are strongly encouraged to seek assistance from their SIU Government Services Division representative. SIU, MSFSC Complete Negotiations on CMPI 750 Editor’s note: This article is an update for unlicensed CIVMARS regarding Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 750, the guidance that covers disciplinary procedures. In August 2009, the SIU and the Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) were engaged in negotiations concerning disciplinary actions under CMPI 750. The parties were unable to reach an agreement and the MSFSC implemented a new version of CMPI 750 prior to the completion of negotiations. The union then filed an unfair labor practice with the Federal Labor Relations Authority. In the spirit of partnership, both parties agreed to resume negotiations for CMPI 750. The union withdrew its unfair labor practice charge and the MSFSC agreed to return to negotiate CMPI 750. These negotiations were recently conducted in Suffolk, Va. During the same week, the MSC and the SIU also negotiated a new MOU covering subsistence and quarters pay for CIVMARS pending discipline (see article at top of this page). Discipline is an extremely important matter for all CIVMARS. The current Instruction notes that: 1) discipline is used to correct problems in employee conduct/behavior and performance; 2) discipline should not be punitive in nature, but should serve as a deterrent. CIVMARS should take disciplinary procedures very seriously, as this action may impact their career with MSC 6 Seafarers LOG or any other federal agency, should they seek employment with another federal entity. The CMPI 750 MOU clarifies and supplements various sections in the current CMPI 750. Some of the sections clarified include: ■ Section 3-1b. – Letters of caution are not counted as a prior offense, but can be used to determine an appropriate penalty if subsequent offenses occur. ■ Section 3-8a. – When rendering a decision, the timeframe of any prior discipline will be considered. Generally where there is no specific reckoning period for an offense, a five-year timeframe will be used to evaluate relevance. ■ Section 3-8f. – CIVMARS experiencing behavior or performance problems that the he or she may attribute to a disability may be entitled to certain protections by seeking guidance from MSC’s Equal Employment Opportunity Office or the Civilian Employee Assistance Program (CEAP). ■ Reckoning periods – The reckoning periods agreed to by the parties are as follows: Oral Admonishment, up to 1 year; Letters of Reprimand, up to 2 years; Conditional Suspension, up to 3 years; Loggings, up to 3 years; All other actions, no reckoning period. Another product of the negotiations is the definitions section of CMPI 750 which can be found in the body of the MOU. These definitions were drafted to more closely reflect current practices within the MSC. These definitions can be used to educate CIVMARS about the types of things for which CIVMARS may be disciplined, disciplinary procedures, grievances and ways to seek accommodations, if necessary and available. Leading the SIU negotiating team was Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler, assisted by Counsel Deborah Kleinberg and Associate Counsel Jonathan Madden. The MSFSC negotiating team was led by Kathleen Giacalone. She was assisted by Constance Halleen, Patricia MacDonald, Purser Susan Myron and Counsel Alana Mayer. Andrew Lefebvre represented MSC Headquarters. Assisting the parties was Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Mediator Karen Kline. The signed MOU completed a very productive week of face-to-face negotiations between the parties using interest-based bargaining negotiations. The CMPI 750 MOU will go a long way to providing clarity and consistency for both CIVMARS and the MSC. The CMPI 750 MOU will supplement the provisions found in the current CMPI 750. CMPI 750 can be reviewed aboard all MSC vessels and also is available at the customer service units (CSUs). The 2010 MOU will be widely distributed to the vessels and the CSUs. The MOU will also be available on the SIU web site. CIVMARS who may be subject to disciplinary actions are strongly encouraged to seek assistance from their SIU Government Services Division representatives. November 2010 �61805_LogX2 10/29/2010 6:38 PM Page 7 CIVMAR NEWS Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction 610 Negotiations Update Editor’s note: The following article is an update for Military Sealift Command (MSC) CIVMARS on the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 negotiations. CMPI 610 covers the Hours of Work and Premium Pay work rules applicable to all CIVMARS. Union, MSC and Military Sealift Fleet Support Command (MSFSC) negotiators continue to meet. Negotiators have been working on the General Provision sections at each meeting. The negotiations began in January 2010 and the parties have met for six sessions. The parties usually meet the first week of the month. SIU, MSC and MSFSC negotiators are assisted at each negotiation session by a mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. Also in attendance are licensed and unlicensed SMEs (Subject Matter Experts). Unlicensed SMEs attending negotiations have included Bosun Byron Costa, AB Marque Anthony and Bosun Robert Torres. Torres has sailed with MSC for 32 years. He has sailed on various vessels in the PAC fleet. Torres participated in the October 2010 negotiation session and will attend the November 2010 negotiations at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. Asked about his impression of the negotiation process, Torres noted that he found the experience to be very enlightening. Torres said he was “very pleased to be part of the SIU team,” and until he attended negotiations, he was “unaware of how hard the SIU officials fought to protect the employment rights and compensation interests of all unlicensed CIVMARS.” Torres believes that interest-based bargaining negotiations “take a long time but are worth the effort.” SIU Government Services Division Assistant Vice President Chet Wheeler described Torres’ contributions to the negotiations as extremely valuable. He noted that Bosun Torres’ significant seagoing experience with MSC helped the negotiators understand current shipboard practices and the SIU and unlicensed CIVMAR unit greatly benefited from his participation. Serving on the union’s negotiating team are Wheeler, Government Services Representative Kate Hunt, Union Counsel Deborah Kleinberg and Union Associate Counsel Jonathan Madden. Serving on the MSC negotiating team in October 2010 were Renee Desrosiers, MSC lead negotiator, CMPI 610 at MSC headquarters; Andrew Lefebvre, labor relations specialist at MSC headquarters; David Townsend, MSC associate counsel; and Patricia MacDonald from MSFSC’s Labor and Employee Relations Department. In addition to Torres, SMEs assisting the negotiators in October were MSC Purser Susan Myron, Chief Engineer Jaime Shine, Captain Randall Rockwood and Captain Robert Seabrook. In November 2010, negotiators are scheduled to discuss the work rules pertaining to moving all types of cargo, stores, mail, trash, ammunition and explosives. In early 2011 as the parties begin to tackle the separate departmental work rules, unlicensed CIVMARS from the deck, engine and supply departments will be attending the negotiations to assist the parties. Negotiators continue to use the interest-based bargaining negotiation process. This process allows the parties flexibility and transparency in their discussions. The LOG will publish another article in the near future about how the interestbased bargaining process works, and the advantages to the CIVMAR bargaining unit. The union has received inquiries as to why the negotiations are taking so many months to complete. The CMPI 610 negotiations are time-consuming for a variety of reasons. First, negotiators are trying to revise an Instruction of approximately 100 pages that has not been completely renegotiated since the early 1980s. Second, negotiators and SMEs are taking all the time necessary to ensure that the information concerning current shipboard practices is as clear and comprehensive as possible. (See “Note to CIVARS” at the end of this article). If the negotiators need more information prior to re-writing a work rule, information requests are generated and the response is reviewed by all parties. Third, each work rule is thoroughly reviewed by all negotiators and SMEs. Re-writing and editing work is not concluded until the wording is as clear as possible and all persons understand the intent of the language and reach a consensus on the new wording. With approximately 15 people participating in these discussions each month, this is a difficult and time-consuming process. MSC, MSFSC and SIU CMPI 610 negotiators continue to keep a key goal in mind: that the new Instruction will be as clearly written as possible and, as a result, will be applied consistently on all vessels throughout the fleet. In addition to clarity and consistency in the revised CMPI 610, the union’s primary objective is to ensure that as work rules are revised, CIVMARS’ overtime and penalty wages are protected to the greatest extent possible. A future LOG article will describe the safeguards built into the negotiation ground rules which protect CIVMARS from a significant reduction in overtime, premium time or penalty pay. The ground rules also ensure that the costs of any revised rules remain closely aligned with MSC’s 2009 overtime budget of $250 million. Note to CIVMARS: A survey has been developed and will be distributed by the SIU/MSC CMPI 610 bargaining committee. The purpose of the survey is to allow negotiators to receive information directly from unlicensed CIVMARS as to how ammunition and explosives are loaded and transferred by the unlicensed crew aboard MSC vessels. Your input is valuable. Please complete the survey carefully and return it as soon as possible. This information will be considered during the current CMPI 610 negotiations and during the post-implementation period when MSC and the SIU evaluate the impact of the new work rules. The survey will be distributed at the customer service units (CSUs), will be sent to MSC vessels via e-mail and will be available on the web for those CIVMARS with access to the internet. OPM Announces Dates For Health Benefits ‘Open Season’ The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently announced that this year’s “open season” for health benefits, dental and vision insurance, and flexible spending accounts will run from Nov. 8 through Dec. 13, 2010. Open season is an opportunity for CIVMARS and other federal workers (as well as retirees) to select their respective insurance coverage for the following calendar year. It’s also the time when employees who are not enrolled, but are eligible to participate, may elect coverage. According to the OPM, no action is required of individuals who want to continue their current enrollment (unless their plan is dropping out of the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, abbreviated as FEHB). The agency further reported that as of January 2011, it is expected that more than 200 health plan options will be available through the FEHB Program. Detailed information about open season is available online at: http://www.opm.gov/insure/health/ All SIU CIVMARS are urged to be aware of plan benefits and check carefully to make sure their health plan meets their needs and those of their families. Meanwhile, the OPM indicated that it expects the enrollee share of premiums for next year’s FEHB Program to increase by an average of 7.2 percent. According to the agency, individual FEHB enrollees pay an average of 30 percent of the total cost of the plan’s premium. Additionally, under the stipulations of the Affordable Care Act, preventive care and screenings will be available with no out-of-pocket costs and enrollees may add their children younger than age 26 to their family health plan. OPM Director John Berry stated, “The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program has important features, including a wide choice of health plans and competitive benefit packages as well as no pre-existing condition limitations or waiting periods. Now, for 2011, we have eliminated enrollee cost sharing for preventive care services, added incentives for tobacco cessation, and, in accordance with the Affordable Care Act, added coverage for dependents up to age 26. Even with these new benefits, premiums will rise less this year than they did last year.” Union-Crewed USS Mount Whitney Ends 5-Month Deployment A Lithuanian military helicopter lands aboard the SIU-crewed USS Mount Whitney Sept. 17 during a multi-national exercise in the Baltic Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sylvia Nealy) November 2010 The Seafarers-crewed USS Mount Whitney, which carries a hybrid crew of civilian mariners and U.S. Navy Sailors, returned to its home port of Gaeta, Italy, in early October, following a five-month deployment. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the ship – crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division – operated in the Mediterranean, Norwegian, and Baltic Seas, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Mount Whitney “participated and played vital roles in multinational exercises including: Baltic Operations (BALTOPS), Jackal Stone 2010 and the annual France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States (FRUKUS) exercise,” the agency reported. The ship’s operations officer said the multinational exercises, among other benefits, “laid the foundation for future operations between the United States and the participating partner countries.” MSC described BALTOPS as a yearly exercise aimed at “improving interoperability among 12 regional allies.” FRUKUS is an annual naval exercise with similar goals, while Jackal Stone “is a 10-day special operations exercise featuring participation from seven nations (Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Ukraine and the U.S.) and is designed to promote cooperation and interoperability between the participating forces.” Plenty of VIPs boarded the ship at various times during the deployment, MSC reported. The vessel hosted “more than 120 high-level government distinguished visitors” attending receptions in conjunction with the exercises. For instance, Lithuania President Dalia Grybauskaite and U.S. Ambassador to Lithuania Anne E. Derse visited the ship on Sept. 21. “It truly was an honor and a privilege to host [Grybauskaite] aboard Mount Whitney,” said Capt. Jeffrey Ruth, the vessel’s commanding officer. “She not only showed a genuine interest in the ship and its mission, but was especially interested in meeting the crew and talking about what they do on a daily basis.” At other times, CIVMARS and Sailors from the Mount Whitney went ashore to volunteer for community service projects. A number of crew members “also participated in friendly sports competitions with sailors from foreign navies,” according to MSC. Ruth added, “Despite the uniqueness of the hybrid crewing model, this ship makes it work well, and I am impressed daily with the professionalism from both halves of this group.” Seafarers LOG 7 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:03 PM Page 8 AFL-CIO PRESIDENT ADDRESSES CONVENTION – AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka (center) gave a rousing speech at the Alaska AFL-CIO convention in early September. He is pictured at the gathering with SIU Anchorage Port Agent Tracey Mayhew and MM&P VP Michael Murray. CONGRATS TO CHIEF COOK – SIU officials congratulate Chief Cook Rafael Chow (front, second from right) on his receipt of an A-seniority book. The presentation to the eightyear Seafarer took place during the October membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left to right are SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, President Michael Sacco, Chow, VP Contracts George Tricker and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. Around the Ports With the SIU KODIAK SEAFARERS ASHORE IN KODIAK – Recertified Steward Brian Burchette emailed the photos above and below of AB Jon Washburn and a surprise visitor while Seafarers from the Horizon Kodiak were ashore fishing in Kodiak, Alaska. The Kodiak bear “decided the same fishing hole was also a good idea,” Burchette wrote. Recertified Bosun Garry Walker added, “When bidding for a fishing hole, a Kodiak bear always carries the top registration card!” AT THE HALL IN PUERTO RICO – In photo at left above, members in the San Juan, P.R., area are assisting a local church’s effort to collect clothing and toys for shipment to Haiti by December 2010. Among those pitching in are (from left) AB Erick Toledo (kneeling), QMED Beato Diaz, Secretary Maria Crespo and AB Kemer Rojas. In the other photo, Port Agent Amancio Crespo (center) is pictured with AB Norman Rodriguez (left) and AB Joseph Dupre. BACKING CONGRESSMAN MEEK – On Sept. 25, U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek (D-Fla.) stopped by the SIU hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., where he was greeted by 50 Seafarers supporting his campaign for a seat in the U.S. Senate. Rep. Meek (pictured in the photo at right, standing in the center, wearing white shirt and SIU cap) pledged his ongoing support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws – all staples of the modern U.S. Merchant Marine. From there, Meek, escorted by Port Agent Kris Hopkins and Safety Director Kevin Marchand, boarded the SIU-crewed Overseas New York in Port Everglades. LOADING STORES IN HOUSTON – B-BOOK PRESENTED IN OAKLAND – Patrolman Nick Marrone II (right) presents a B-seniority book to SA Abdul Munasar at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. The presentation took place in August. 8 Seafarers LOG Seafarers aboard the Charleston Express take a quick break from loading stores while the vessel is docked in Houston. Pictured from left to right aboard the Marine Personnel and Provisioning ship are Bosun George Price, Recertified Steward Ron Tarantino, AB Nick Keklikos, Safety Director Brian Kinard and STOS David McRoy November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:03 PM Page 9 Navy’s MSC Reconfigures Tanker Fleet Agency Adds First of 2 New Vessels, Retires Two The fleet of tankers operated by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command is being reconfigured to meet fuel requirements in support of U.S. forces worldwide, the agency reported last month. This seagoing force of government-owned and U.S.-flagged chartered ships has acquired a new chartered vessel – the SIU-crewed MT Empire State – as two government-owned, Seafarers-crewed ships complete their service to the command. The newly built Empire State, operated by Crowley for American Petroleum Tankers LLC, in early October came under charter to MSC for up to five years. It will operate worldwide carrying refined petroleum products for the U.S. Department of Defense, primarily between commercial refineries and DOD storage and distribution facilities. Built at union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego, the double-hulled Empire State is 600 feet long and has a cargo-carrying capacity of approximately 331,000 barrels. The ship’s construction was completed in July 2010, at which time the Empire State went to work for MSC under a short-term charter. A second Seafarers-contracted State-class tanker (the Evergreen State) is currently under construction at NASSCO and is expected to come under charter to MSC in early 2011. Two of MSC’s four government-owned tankers transferred out of service Oct. 1. The SIU-crewed USNS Paul Buck and USNS Samuel L. Cobb began their service to MSC in the mid-1980s, along with three other new-construction T-5 tankers that came under long-term charter to the command in 1985 and 1986. In 2003, MSC purchased four of those ships: Buck, Cobb, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella and USNS Richard G. Matthiesen. Since then, The SIU-crewed tanker Empire State conducts sea trials off the coast of San Diego in June 2010. The ship came under charter to MSC in early October. (General Dynamics NASSCO photo by Ken Wright) according to the agency, “These ships have served as the core of MSC’s tanker fleet along with an MSC-chartered shallow-draft tanker.” “Our T-5 tankers have served us well for the past 25 years, and as they approach the end of their service lives, the State-class ships will allow us to continue to fulfill our requirements to transport fuel for the Defense Logistics Agency - Energy,” said John Joerger, MSC’s tanker project officer. (DLA Energy procures and manages fuel for all of DOD.) Upon deactivation from MSC service, the Cobb and Buck transferred to the U.S. Maritime Administration’s National Defense Reserve Fleet, which comprises about 30 dry cargo ships and tankers kept in reserve for possible activation and use in support of national defense and national emergencies. The Gianella transferred to MSC’s Maritime Prepositioning Force in 2009 and the Matthiesen will remain in service to MSC until early 2011, when the ship will join Cobb and Buck in the NDRF, according to MSC. In fiscal year 2010, MSC vessels – many of them crewed by SIU members – carried 1.5 billion gallons of petroleum products worldwide in support of DOD operations ranging from delivering fuel to combat forces operating in Iraq to replenishing McMurdo Station, Antarctica, and Thule Air Force Base in Pituffik, Greenland. Seafarer Rickey Yancey sailed aboard the Cobb during its final voyage. “The Cobb has sailed all over the planet – to the Arctic, the Antarctic, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and points in between,” he wrote in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. “During the Gulf war, the Cobb was there. The Cobb has protected its crew over the years and its crews have taken care of it…. Now, after 25 years of service to this country, it’s time for the Cobb to rest.” On behalf of the entire crew, Yancey concluded, “From all of us and the many other crew members over the years, we salute you, USNS Samuel L. Cobb, for a job well done, and thank you to (vessel operator) Ocean Shipholdings Inc. for your many years of support for the Cobb.” Capt. William G. McCullough, serving as ship’s master during the Cobb’s last voyage, wrote, “I think we’ve had a Among the last Seafarers to sail aboard the USNS Paul Buck were those pictured here: Recertified Bosun Phil Corl, AB Diana Gonzalez, AB Abraham Medina, Chief Pumpman Craig Croft, QMED Endang Abidin, QMED Jonathan Miller, great trip. We’ve covered a lot of miles, hit a lot of familGUDE Aristotle Bone, GUDE Andrew Beach, Chief Cook Jessie Jones, SA Tonu Wallace, SA Charlotte Chastain and iar places and, thankfully, we are all here to tell the tales. “Every trip brings its own challenges and experiences,” UA William Ruiz. Also pictured (far left) is SIU Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins. he continued. “Something we haven’t seen before; something we will tell stories about, to those who were not with us. We tell these stories because they are ours. No one can alter the fact that we were there. That is our life at sea, going there. Our friends have stories of their own, so, once in a while, we are tempted to ‘enlarge’ ours a bit, but, we know in our hearts that every one of them is true.” In a recent joint submission from the Paul Buck, also operated by Ocean Shipholdings, crew members pointed out that the ship “has never had an environmental incident during her 25 years of service. That’s 9,125 days without a spill, and also (most recently) more than 1,600 consecutive days without an injury on board the vessel. The vessel also made the longest north-to-south cargo lift in history: Deep Freeze 1985, from Nikiski, Alaska, to Sailing aboard the Cobb during its final voyage were (standing, from left) 1st AE Luong Trinh, Pumpman Randy Sutton, AB Demond Lindsey, McMurdo Station, Antarctica. That’s CE Todd Jacobsen, 3M Troy Baker, GSU Javier Wurttele, AB Bruce Raquet, AB Anibal Vega, CM Rob Grove, 3M Greg Martineau, UA Major 8,800 miles one way.” According to the crew’s records, Brooks, 2nd AE Kelly Davis, QMED James Donohue, DEU Rickey Yancey, Chief Cook Leonida Peligrino, QMED Damien Bautista, 2M Mohammad Hossain, Chief Steward Cesar Dela Cruz, Capt. William McCullough, (kneeling, from left) Deck Cadet James Dailey, DEU Ramon the ship made more than 520 voyages. Sanchez, GSU Hospicio Lupisan, Bosun Aristeo Padua, AB Marcos Rivera-Baez and AB Fred Martinez. November 2010 Seafarers LOG 9 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 10 4:03 PM Page 10 Seafarers LOG November 2010 �61805_LogX 10/29/2010 12:52 PM Page 11 Scholarships Available to Seafarers, Dependents Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Offers $132,000 for 2011 Program The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education, and the 2011 school year will be no different. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2011 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, collegelevel course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a post-secondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000 apiece. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2011 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears below and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a scholarship package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship program booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are qualified to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2011. Items that must be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, so requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2011. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t allow the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has for years made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last seven years alone (including this year), the SHBP has awarded $908,000 in scholarships to 12 Seafarers and 38 dependents. As reported in previous editions of the Seafarers LOG, the scholarship winners (by year) were as follows: 2010 - Meeting May 7 in Charleston, S.C., members of the SHBP Scholarship Committee awarded $146,000 in scholar- Please send me the 2011 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name ........................................................................................................................................ Street Address .......................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code ................................................................................................................ Telephone Number ( This application is for: ).................................................................................................... Self Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Union Plus Offers Scholarships to Union Members, Dependents The Union Plus Scholarship program helps union members and their families defray the cost of higher education by providing one-time awards ranging from $500 to $4,000 to qualified applicants. Sponsored by the Union Plus Education Foundation, the scholarships are open to all current and retired SIU members, their spouses and their dependent children (including foster children, step children, and any other child for whom the individual member provides greater than 50 percent of his or her support). Union members from Puerto Rico, Canada, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands who are U.S. citizens are eligible. Members do not have to purchase any Union Plus-sponsored prod- November 2010 Dependent ships to one active Seafarer and seven dependents. Recipients were Recertified Bosun Lon Oliver; Robert Firme, son of Steward Roberto Firme; Alisha Woods, daughter of AB Wilbert Wood; Margot O’Meara, daughter of retired Inland Master James O’Meara; Eizie Giray, daughter of Bosun Rufino Giray; Jacob Miller, son of Chief Engineer Marlin Miller; Sime Masnov, son of Chief Engineer Marijan Masnov; and Molly Johnson, daughter of late Bosun Michael Johnson. 2009 - $132,000 in funding was awarded two active Seafarers and six dependents. Claiming these awards were Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired deep sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland AB-Tankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. 2008 - Scholarships totaling $140,000 were awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. 2007 - $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain uct or participate in any Union Plus program to apply for the scholarships. The scholarship program is open to students attending or planning to attend a college or university, a community college, or a technical college or trade school. Applicants for scholarships are evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. Scholarship applications are judged by a committee of impartial post-secondary educators including repre- James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. 2005 – Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were 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. 2004 – $106,000 was awarded to one Seafarer and five dependents. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gilson , son of James O. Gilson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys I. Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. sentatives from the American Association of Community Colleges, the United Negro College Fund, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Applications are first reviewed by a panel of independent career professionals. Semi-finalists are chosen based on a point scale, and their applications are then provided to judges for further review and selection of finalists and awards. To apply for the Union Plus Scholarship Program, interested individuals should go online to www.unionplus.org/college-education-financing/union-plus-scholarship . The deadline for filing applications is Jan. 31, 2011. Since 1992, the Union Plus Scholarship Program has awarded more than $3 million to students of working families who want to begin or continue their postsecondary education. SIU members and dependents of Seafarers have won Union Plus scholarships in recent years. Seafarers LOG 11 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:04 PM Page 12 One Nation D.C. Rally Emphas S Photos by Bill Burke/Page One, except those depicting Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentices Thousands of Americans from all walks of life—union members included—gathered at the Lincoln Memorial Oct. 2 to participate in the One Nation Working Together rally. Clockwise starting from above, the crowd packed the area near the reflecting pool along the Lincoln Memorial as the main event began. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka addressed the crowd as did AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler. Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentices Steven Welcome (left) and Warren Gorman provide transportation to noted musician, singer, actor, and social activist Harry Belafonte as union members and their allies formed a 175,000 -strong crowd at the Lincoln Memorial. As evidenced by their signs, One Nation participants united around common goals including good jobs and quality education. One Nation Coordinator Emily Petty briefs the contingent of Paul Hall Center Unlicensed Apprentices on their post locations and various duties prior to the start of the rally. 12 Seafarers LOG eafarers on Oct. 2 were among the ranks of an estim people from across America who joined to raise thei education and economic justice during the One Natio Together rally and march at the Lincoln Memorial in Washin Organized by more than 300 groups, the march had an im sponsors including the AFL-CIO, NAACP, Sierra Club and th Council of La Raza. All organizers and sponsors shared a common commitmen America back to work and pulling America back together. Th attended by people from all backgrounds, faiths, heritage, ide Included were labor leaders, human and civil rights leaders, e and peace activists, faith leaders, celebrities and sports figure the thousands in attendance constituted a living example of w seen throughout the crowd said: “We March for Hope, Not H In addition to SIU Assistant Vice President Ambrose Cuci Trades Department Executive Director Dan Duncan and Pine Agent Pat Vandegrift, the SIU was represented by Recertified Marcus and AB George Mazzola as well as unlicensed appr union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and E Piney Point, Md. Among other duties, the apprentices (whose ed at the end of this story) served as marshals during the even “America is here today. America is One Nation and we sig nation,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said during his crowd that spread from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to II Memorial. Behind the voices of fear and hatred that have risen to dom national conversation, Trumka said, are the forces of “greed, powers that put us in the economic mess we’re in today. And of work to do to repair the damage that greed did to our coun “Sisters and bothers we come together today because Ame Good jobs, jobs that support families—all families. Jobs that people paths of opportunity, not obstacles. Jobs that allow pe with dignity,” the federation president said. Jobs also were on the minds of hundreds of unemployed w mustered at a pre-rally gathering in an RFK Stadium parking gathering, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler stated th some had said about the event, the One Nation march was no demonstration or political rally. “I have to speak the truth here,” she said. “What we’ve be recently on Capitol Hill has been partisan—partisanship at its One party—the minority—has formed a solid bloc to fight an attempt by President Obama and the Democratic leadership t stop outsourcing…to help unemployed workers like you…an back on track,” Shuler said. NAACP President and CEO Ben Jealous spoke proudly of represented by those who attended the march. Jealous noted t who turned out put aside any differences and pulled together “This promises to be the most diverse march in Washingto Jealous. “We have environmentalist and mine workers. We ha faith groups. We have black people, brown people; Jewish, C Muslims; white people, Asian people and Native Americans a together towards this goal of increase in investment, creating ing sure that every child goes to a great school.” In addition to Trumka, Shuler and Jealous, other featured the march included National Urban League President Marc M Al Sharpton, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Service Employees Inte November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:04 PM Page 13 ion Working Together mphasizes Job Creation, Solidarity e ranks of an estimated 175,000 joined to raise their voices for jobs, uring the One Nation Working emorial in Washington, D.C. e march had an impressive array of Sierra Club and the National mmon commitment: putting a back together. The event was faiths, heritage, identities and hues. vil rights leaders, environmental s and sports figures. As a group, iving example of what one sign h for Hope, Not Hate!” ent Ambrose Cucinotta, Maritime n Duncan and Piney Point Port nted by Recertified Bosun Dan as unlicensed apprentices from the ime Training and Education in apprentices (whose names are listhals during the event. Nation and we signify that ka said during his address to the ncoln Memorial to the World War President Mary Kay Henry and MSNBC personality Ed Schultz. Paul Hall Center apprentices who participated included Khoury Bethea, Jeremy Boyd, Bobbie Gibbs, Phillip Gifford, Brandon Grace, Deborah Hutchins, Orakwue Ikegwu, Anthony Lowe, Justin MacHuga, David Simon, Emanuel Spain, Zachary Thibeault, Marilou Toledo, Mark Williams, Justin Biggerstaff, Santiago Aguilera and Cliff Alexis. Also taking part in the rally were apprentices Michael Ashak, Frances Bautista, Andrew Blake, Adam Churchill, Reno Duque, Warren Gorman, Lloyd Harness, Evan Jones, David Kabasinskas, Michael Paiko, Gerald Scott, Patrick Slade, Zaza Tchitanava, Jason Wagner, Steven Welcome, Antonio Anderson, Khadim Robinson, Ramon Martinez, Joseph Koncul and Telesia Selby. at have risen to dominate our e forces of “greed, the moneyed we’re in today. And we’ve got a lot eed did to our country. oday because America needs jobs. families. Jobs that give our young Jobs that allow people to retire . s of unemployed workers who K Stadium parking lot. During that iz Shuler stated that despite what tion march was not a partisan d. “What we’ve been seeing —partisanship at its very worst. olid bloc to fight and stop every ocratic leadership to create jobs…to rkers like you…and to get America s spoke proudly of the differences ch. Jealous noted that everyone nd pulled together in solidarity. march in Washington ever,” said ine workers. We have conservative people; Jewish, Christians and Native Americans all working vestment, creating jobs and makhool.” us, other featured speakers during e President Marc Morial, the Rev. ce Employees International Union November 2010 Seafarers LOG 13 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:04 PM Page 14 The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager in World War II Editor’s note: This is the third installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II. Parts of the story also have been published in editions of the American Merchant Marine Veterans North Atlantic Chapter Newsletter. Woods, 83, sailed in the engine and steward departments. The first part of his story ran in the September LOG. That segment described Woods’ time as a seaman recruit in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y., at age 16, as well as his first voyage, aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The second installment, published in the October LOG, covered parts of a trip aboard the tanker S/S Brandy Station, and that’s where this month’s story resumes. Correction: Contrary to the introduction which was published as the kickoff to Brother Woods’ story, he never served in the Coast Guard. A fter a few weeks at sea, boredom would set in and anything out of the ordinary would attract the immediate attention of the crew: a whale sighting, a group of porpoises, a large piece of driftwood. A ship in the distance would be spotted by the deck watch and the general quarters alarm would be sounded and we would be called to battle stations until the ship passed from view. This was also true with unidentified aircraft. However, when an airplane was sighted and an alarm was sounded the craft would usually be out of sight by the time we got to our stations. At sea, in addition to the personnel on the bridge, there were at least four U.S. Navy lookouts on duty at all times. Many times, especially in the Western Pacific, the lookouts would be ordered to stand a fourhour on and a four-hour off watch instead of the usual four on and eight off. There would be but little sleep for anyone under these conditions, as we knew we were in dangerous waters. In a convoy and with low visibility, each ship towed a fog buoy about 600 feet astern. This was a very simple device consisting of two pieces of wood bolted together in the shape of a cross. About a two-inch hole was drilled down the center, from which a length of pipe extended. On the underside, a small piece of sheet metal was attached to form a scoop. As this was towed through the water, it ejected a plume of water that was clearly visible and a guide for the ship astern. A lookout was stationed on the bow and it was his job to keep that buoy in sight. If the lookout saw his ship was lagging behind, or getting too close, he would call the bridge on the telephone. However, there was one minor drawback to the fog buoy: It looked very similar to a periscope cutting through the water. There were tales of fog buoys being blown out of the water by their own ships. If a lookout thought he saw any object out of the ordinary – a periscope, a plane, another ship or boat – he would immediately notify the bridge, who would sound general quarters and all hands would run to battle stations, or their assigned posts. After an extended wait, and if nothing unusual was again observed, the Navy officer would keep extra men on lookout for the duration of the watch, and the merchant seamen would return to their duties. I don’t recall anyone ever being annoyed about the need to answer an alarm. All of us believed the old adage, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” When crossing the Atlantic, my ship would be one of many in an escorted convoy. In the Pacific, however, we usually sailed alone and rarely were escorted. At various times, we zigzagged; this usually occurred following an alarm and a call to general quarters or Battle Stations. Zigzagging also took place when sailing between islands, such as the Admiralty Islands, the Caroline Islands and off the coast of New Guinea. Sometimes, we would be a part of a small convoy under the protection of an U.S. destroyer and then I knew that we were in a danger zone. For an unexplained reason, one night, the chief mate came to our mess hall and said that he wanted everybody to wear their life jackets. “Take them to bed with you, sleep with them and keep them on until further notice.” He did not have to tell us twice. We knew we must be in a serious situation because no crew member could ever remember hearing such an order before. I believe we were en route to Ulithi in the Caroline Islands and had been called to general quarters a number of times that day. Trying to sleep with a bulky life jacket wrapped around your upper body is not comfortable but I, like my shipmates, made the best of it, 14 Seafarers LOG Woods is shown wearing what he describes as “a nonofficial World War II U.S. Maritime Service outfit for nonofficers. In foreign countries, it was suggested that for safety’s sake a seaman wear a uniform.” knowing that if we did get blown into the water we would have a better chance of survival if we could stay afloat while waiting rescue. From the very first day that we entered the Pacific Ocean, following our transit through the Panama Canal, most of the crew found it necessary to sleep on the boat deck due to the excessive heat below deck. Our assigned fo’c’sles (sleeping quarters) were one deck below the main deck and next to the top of the boiler room. There were no portholes at this level, no fans, no ventilation and, of course, no air conditioning. The heat in this area was unbearable. In addition, most of our crossings of the Pacific were made on or close to the equator. The officers’ quarters, however, were on the main deck and had portholes, as did all areas at or above that level. Of course, all portholes had to be closed at night, no matter where their location, in order to maintain a complete blackout. When entering or exiting from an open deck at night, I had to pass through a dark curtained area, pulling the curtain open and closed to ensure that no light could be seen outside. If any member of the outside crew saw a light shining at night from anywhere, it was immediately reported and someone would be reprimanded. With the captain’s permission and with the help of the deck crew, we built what we called coffins. We took wooden folding cots, mounted four 2-by-2 posts about three feet high at each corner of the cot and spread a layer of heavy canvas over the frame, and allowed for an opening flap on one side. We then coated the canvas with a double coat of heavy dark deck paint for waterproofing. The framed cot would then be securely fastened to a railing or an upright stationary support. The Pacific Ocean was known to toss up an unexpected high wave every now and then and we wanted to be firmly anchored down. The captain had ordered the chief steward to purchase mattresses for the cots before we left Panama. Once inside my little coffin, the cot became my place of refuge – an area I did not have to share with anyone else, my own private world. I kept a change of clothes, magazines, books and cigarettes at the foot of the cot and used my sheets, blankets and pillows from my fo’c’sle. I slept on my cot for the entire year while in the Pacific except when in certain ports or during heavy weather. When in Panama, I would stay at the YMCA where for twenty cents a night, I had a clean bed and a hot shower. Garbage could only be disposed of – that is, thrown overboard – at certain times. Never during daylight hours and, of course, never in a port, or when part of a convoy without the commodore’s permission. (When in a convoy, one ship’s captain would be appointed commodore. In cooperation with the naval escorts, he would be in complete charge of the convoy and would control the positioning of the ships with what we called a magic box (radar) that allowed authorized personnel to see in the dark. His ship and the U.S. naval escorts were the only ships so equipped.) I recall cans of it sitting on the stern rotting and stinking for a number of days and, if near land, hundreds of noisy seagulls attacking it. It was known that garbage left a floating trail for submarines to follow. In ports, the local authorities would have small barges come along side and relieve us of our waste. My first port of call in the far Pacific was on December 22, 1944 at Lae, New Guinea. It had taken us a full month to cross the ocean. In contrast, my last crossing of the Pacific in 1997 was aboard a United Airlines plane and it took only 17 hours from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand. Someone aboard ship remembered that Lae was Amelia Earhart’s last refueling stop before flying off on her way to Howland Island in July 1937. She and her navigator and the plane were never seen or heard from again. I recalled that when they were searching for her I was in grade school and the nuns in my Catholic school had the students say prayers for Earhart’s safe recovery. For the short time I was in Lae, I just had to go ashore to look around, wanting to be a part of history, as I recalled the search for Amelia seven years earlier. While ashore, I met a couple of American soldiers and mentioned Amelia’s name. They didn’t seem to recognize it. From Lae, we sailed north to Finchhaven, New Guinea, and following a stop of only a few hours, we continued on to Hollandia. The next day, Christmas Eve, we went farther north to a fresh water depot named Tamara Bay. It was a hot, muggy day and the seawater looked so clear and cool we asked permission to go for swim. The answer was an emphatic “no” as word had been received that a few days before a sailor had lost his leg to a barracuda. It was Christmas Eve and our 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 ten cents a can. Unfortunately, and I guess it was to be expected, some of the crew got drunk and were not up to performing their duties. It was the last time that our benevolent captain involved himself in beer sales. Thereafter, the remaining beer was handled by the Navy petty officers, who sold the beer for ten cents a can with a limit of two cans per man daily. Christmas morning, a group of us were allowed to go ashore provided we stayed with two of the Navy Gunners who were armed. One sailor had a rifle and the other a sidearm. It was known that there were Japanese soldiers living in the nearby jungle. A group of native kids came out of the jungle completely naked and singing in broken English. At first, I thought they were pigmies until someone explained that their extended stomachs and small size were due to malnutrition. As we walked farther into the jungle, we met adult natives who were dressed in loin cloths. It was obvious that they had spent some time with American or Australian soldiers as they knew a few words of English and asked for cigarettes and candy. I would have liked to have taken pictures of the encounter for posterity but it was not to be; no cameras were allowed board ship in wartime. Vinnie and I broke a large branch off a tree that we thought best resembled a northern pine, carried it back to the ship and positioned it in the corner of the mess hall. It was Christmas Day, but it didn’t feel like the winter holiday I was use to. We were less than three degrees south of the equator. It was hot and humid. It was my first Christmas away from home and the only time I was ever homesick, as I reminisced about the bygone Christmases with my family in New York City. Christmas at home meant my mom and dad, my brothers and sisters, my aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends sharing a huge Christmas dinner and exchanging a few presents: new socks and underwear for sure and maybe a bowl of fresh fruit and a tray of homemade cookies on the table. I learned what nostalgia meant that long-ago Christmas Day in a faraway place. November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:28 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea MarAd Posts Piracy Warning The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) in early October posted a piracy warning intended for ship operators. The agency indicated that it anticipates an “increase in piracy attacks in the Gulf of Aden region from October through early December due to the end of monsoon season. More favorable weather conditions allow for small boat activity in the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Indian Ocean and waters off the Horn of Africa region. Recent attacks have occurred off the Kenyan and Tanzanian coasts, the Southern Red Sea, Seychelles, and Maldives.” Maritime Administrator David Matsuda stated, “The change in season means every precaution must be taken in order to defend against pirate attacks. Our agency remains committed to helping U.S. crew members be vigilant and well-prepared for pirate attacks.” The advisory indicated that MarAd is responding to the issue of piracy by “working with federal agency partners to reduce the vulnerability of U.S. ships and crews by issuing advisories directly to U.S. ship operators based on latest intelligence; working with industry to improve implementation of best practices to deter piracy; distributing industry produced anti-piracy training videos for crews; and conducting voluntary security vulnerability assessments with Naval Criminal Investigative Service on U.S. ships” MarAd is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The agency’s self-described mission is to “promote the development and maintenance of an adequate, well-balanced, United States Merchant Marine, sufficient to carry the nation’s domestic waterborne commerce and a substantial portion of its waterborne foreign commerce, and capable of service as a naval and military auxiliary in time of war or national emergency.” December 2010 & January 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point.................................Monday: December 6, January 3 Algonac ......................................Friday: December 10, January 7 Baltimore..................................Thursday: December 9, January 6 Guam....................................Thursday: December 23, January 20 Honolulu ..................................Friday: December 17, January 14 Houston...................................Monday: December 13, January 10 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: December 9, January 6 Joliet.....................................Thursday: December 16, January 13 Mobile...............................Wednesday: December 15, January 12 New Orleans................................Tuesday: December 14, January 11 New York...................................Tuesday: December 7, January 4 Norfolk.................................... Thursday: December 9, January 6 Oakland ................................Thursday: December 16, January 13 Philadelphia...........................Wednesday: December 8, January 5 Port Everglades ....................Thursday: December 16, January 13 San Juan...................................Thursday: December 9, January 6 St. Louis ...................................Friday: December 17, January 14 Tacoma.....................................Friday: December 24, January 21 Wilmington...............Monday: December 20, *Tuesday January 18 * Wilmington change created by Martin Luther King Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention: Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You. Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) November 2010 September 16, 2010 - October 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 10 0 5 10 3 14 46 31 6 9 17 38 13 26 8 1 4 47 1 29 318 10 1 10 11 3 5 27 25 4 6 7 21 14 12 6 9 5 22 2 15 215 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 4 7 2 3 12 12 0 12 5 11 13 7 1 0 2 13 0 13 118 4 1 5 2 1 5 7 17 4 3 4 13 24 5 4 1 3 13 2 11 129 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 3 0 5 12 0 10 16 10 2 4 4 21 13 16 2 2 3 16 1 19 159 1 1 2 6 2 4 6 5 3 3 3 8 9 1 2 1 0 5 2 5 69 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 3 4 3 0 0 1 7 1 2 0 0 2 6 0 4 34 13 3 2 7 0 5 26 18 1 7 5 24 14 13 1 4 2 12 3 17 177 GRAND TOTAL: 629 590 2 1 2 1 0 1 3 1 2 1 2 3 5 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 30 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Deck Department 14 11 0 1 5 7 12 6 2 3 6 5 46 10 19 18 2 2 5 4 9 5 35 11 14 8 26 7 6 3 2 9 2 2 29 14 1 1 16 12 251 139 Engine Department 0 3 7 0 1 1 0 1 8 1 10 1 0 1 0 0 5 7 0 18 4 0 13 7 0 1 2 0 3 2 0 3 2 3 8 6 3 7 9 1 6 9 0 1 6 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 5 6 0 0 1 4 9 8 12 95 89 Steward Department 1 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 12 5 0 0 0 0 9 2 0 16 2 0 18 5 2 2 2 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 10 3 1 9 8 0 16 1 1 2 1 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 12 4 0 0 0 0 17 2 7 135 39 Entry Department 8 1 8 2 0 0 3 0 3 9 0 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 4 3 5 6 3 13 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 3 11 4 11 14 1 8 3 2 16 2 0 0 18 0 4 1 1 1 5 4 8 0 0 1 7 0 7 99 21 94 148 502 361 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 4 2 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 2 0 1 8 0 3 10 13 1 2 3 10 2 9 0 0 1 7 0 4 76 15 1 10 15 7 16 88 56 5 17 17 76 27 45 10 0 11 70 3 56 545 15 5 15 25 7 17 48 43 4 9 11 39 41 19 9 5 19 36 4 39 410 1 1 2 3 0 1 6 2 1 1 3 10 9 2 0 0 1 0 1 4 48 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 2 0 3 6 6 0 1 1 6 2 8 0 1 1 4 0 1 42 1 0 9 15 4 15 23 38 2 15 11 21 18 16 4 1 6 25 2 19 245 4 1 7 12 4 10 15 35 4 6 5 20 40 10 4 3 11 25 5 33 254 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 4 2 0 0 0 1 1 6 22 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 5 0 0 0 4 0 3 7 6 2 1 1 5 3 5 1 0 0 6 0 9 53 3 0 10 13 2 14 36 23 1 8 9 40 16 26 4 2 3 31 2 61 304 1 1 3 10 4 4 12 11 1 4 3 14 14 4 1 1 3 7 3 9 110 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 11 7 0 1 2 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 2 9 4 1 22 0 1 0 1 54 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 3 16 2 0 0 0 1 7 6 6 0 1 1 16 1 3 0 0 1 10 0 8 63 14 5 2 14 0 9 38 36 1 9 5 55 32 21 1 0 3 17 3 38 303 10 2 3 23 0 3 6 11 2 3 7 16 29 11 2 2 1 7 0 22 160 76 187 1,157 1,077 Seafarers LOG 241 15 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 6:20 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 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 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by SIU members in Piney Point, Md. The three officers all sail with Crowley. Inquiring Seafarer What was your first vessel and what do you remember most about it? Bruce Walsh Captain A Sealand containership. We went to Haiti, and the thing that impressed me the most at the time was that there was a policeman on every corner with a machine gun. And I thought, man, I’m lucky I was born in America. That was in 1978. We were only there for a short period of time, but I spent an evening ashore. James Robinson Second Mate Penn Maritime’s Eliza/Atlantic. It was its maiden voyage (1995). We went from Louisiana up to New York. I remember it was really cold. We went to Bucksport, Maine, and saw ice floating down the river. I came out of Piney Point and this was the first real cold weather that I’d been in. They had to teach me how to make snowballs – I’m from Texas. 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 Pic-From-The-Past Bill Harvell Chief Mate My first ship was a construction ship, putting in fleetmooring buoys in Diego Garcia in 1979 as an OS, for all the ships they’ve got prepositioned there now. I remember that it was hot as hell, the bosun was a lunatic, and Diego Garcia was like Devil’s Island except it was run by the Brits. I’ve sailed on many a ship since. program. You passed your lifeboat test and they put you on a ship. And Dubai – you can’t beat Dubai, then or now. Bryant Hunter Oiler My first ship was the Alliance New York, a car carrier sailing from Charleston, South Carolina. Had [stops] in Kuwait, Pakistan, Spain and Iraq to help the military out. This was June of 2009, just last year. We had a pretty good crew. I also remember we had a good captain and we used to enjoy ourselves – we had cookouts every weekend. Working in the engine department, I got a lot of help to get me where I am now. I’m in the process of getting my QMED and I may try to get back on that ship when there’s a chance. Therman Ames QMED My first ship was the USNS Gordon. I had just come out of the trainee program, Class 553, in 1996. I got my shellback – it was my first time going across (the equator). We went to Jebel Ali, went to Dubai. It was my first time really seeing how an engine works. Back then, we were under the old trainee 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 this photo from October 1964, members of the SIU delegation join in welcoming vice presidential candidate Hubert H. Humphrey at the Jersey City Armory. The rally, which drew 23,000 people, was backed by the Hudson County, New Jersey, Committee on Political Education (COPE), in which the SIU played an active role. In the election that followed, the ticket of Lyndon Johnson and Humphrey defeated Barry Goldwater and William E. Miller. 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 November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:05 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. most recently shipped on the Horizon Falcon. He was born in the Philippines but now calls Des Moines, Wash., home. DEEP SEA CHRISTOPHER BRADY Brother Christopher Brady, 65, became an SIU member in 1969 while in the port of Philadelphia. His first ship was a Seatrain Lines vessel; his last, the Prestige New York. Brother Brady upgraded in 1969 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Brady lives in Ireland. FRANKLIN CRIM Brother Franklin Crim, 64, began sailing with the union in 1978 while in San Francisco. His first voyage was aboard a States Steamship Company vessel. Brother Crim was born in California. The steward department member last worked on the Horizon Reliance. Brother Crim continues to reside in his native state. STEPHEN HARRINGTON Brother Stephen Harrington, 58, joined the union in 1972. He initially sailed on the Western Hunter. Brother Harrington, who shipped in the engine department, frequently attended classes at the Piney Point school. His final ship was the Eugene A Obregon. Brother Harrington resides in Beverly, Mass. MIGUEL NIN-MORALES Brother Miguel Nin-Morales, 71, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1999 while in Puerto Rico. His first voyage was aboard the Little Hales. Brother NinMorales enhanced his skills in 2002 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The Puerto Rico native last sailed on the GFC Florida. Brother Nin-Morales, who sailed in the engine department, is a resident of Miami. EDGARDO OMBAC Brother Edgardo Ombac, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1989. He originally worked aboard the Independence. Brother Ombac was a member of the steward department. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. Brother Ombac November 2010 MARK PATTERSON Brother Mark Patterson, 65, signed on with the union in 1969. His initial voyage was aboard the Raymond Reiss. Brother Patterson’s last trip to sea was on the Portland. He sailed in the deck department and makes his home in Juneau, Alaska. JIMMY SABGA Brother Jimmy Sabga, 67, was born in Trinidad. He joined the SIU ranks in 1973 while in the port of New York. Brother Sabga’s first trip was aboard the Hydro Atlantic. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Sabga’s final ship was the Maersk Alabama. He resides in Aurora, Canada. DESMOND SEALY Brother Desmond Sealy, 71, began sailing with the SIU in 2003. He shipped on the Cape Victory for the duration of his career. Brother Sealy, a member of the engine department, was born in Barbados but calls Baytown, Texas, home. INLAND ERNIE HUDGINS Brother Ernie Hudgins, 63, became a union member in 1967. He was first employed on a Southern Carriers Corporation vessel. Brother Hudgins often enhanced his skills at the Piney Point school. He was born in Norfolk, Va. Prior to his retirement, Brother Hudgins sailed with Allied Towing. He now lives in Port Haywood, Va. BARRY LINCOURT Brother Barry Lincourt, 66, started his career with the SIU in 1992 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He originally sailed in the deep sea division aboard the Producer. Brother Lincourt worked in the deck department. His most recent trip was with Crowley Towing of Wilmington. Brother Lincourt settled in Yuma, Ariz. JAMES QUILLEN Brother James Quillen, 62, joined the union in 1966. He initially shipped with P.F. Martin Company. Brother Quillen upgraded in 1974 and 1989 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed on a Moran Towing of Philadelphia vessel. Brother Quillen is a resident of Jenkintown, Pa. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION GEORGE LINDSEY Brother George Lindsey, 65, signed on with the NMU in 1994. He was born in Louisiana and sailed in the deck depart- ment. Brother Lindsey’s final ship was the Ocean City. He makes his home in New Orleans. YEHYA MOHAMED Brother Yehya Mohamed, 66, joined the NMU ranks in 1967. The deck department member was born in Yemen. Brother Mohamed last shipped aboard the Yukon. He resides in Bridgeview, Ill. ARTHUR SPOHN Brother Arthur Spohn, 65, became an NMU member in 1988 in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Greenwich. Conn. In 2001, Brother Spohn attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently shipped on the Green Wave. Brother Spohn calls Seattle home. LEON VARNADO Brother Leon Varnado, 55, started his NMU career in 1977. The New Orleans native sailed in the deck department. Brother Varnado’s final trip to sea was aboard the USNS Lcpl. Roy M. Wheat. He continues to live in Louisiana. ISAIAH WILLIAMS Brother Isaiah Williams, 56, donned the NMU colors in 1981. He was last employed on the Cornucopia. Brother Williams makes his home in Phoenix. This Month In SIU History Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1948 NEW YORK, Nov. 19 – The Waterman Steamship Corporation will operate a limited passenger service between New York, Florida, and Gulf ports, with the SS Iberville scheduled to begin the new service tomorrow. The new service will be the first of its kind since the start of World War II, and will be handled by the Pan Atlantic Steamship Corporation, a Waterman subsidiary. Four modified C-2 type freighters, each having cabin accommodations for 12 passengers, and capable of 16.5 knots, will be placed on the run. Service will be on a weekly basis. Ports of call scheduled thus far are Miami, Tampa, Mobile, New Orleans and Panama City. Sailings will also be scheduled from Philadelphia and Baltimore. 1958 MIAMI – The SIU hit operators of the runaway cruise ship Yarmouth with unfair labor practice charges on behalf of 136 West Indian crew members last week. Charges filed at the Tampa regional office of the National Labor Relations Board on November 10 declared the men were fired for union activity and demanded reinstatement plus back wages for all time lost. The vessel has been idle since the end of September. The company discharged the crew and laid up the Yarmouth in a Jacksonville shipyard in the face of the men’s enthusiastic support of the SIU and their demands for union recognition, wages and conditions. Board agents are now investigating the SIU complaint. 1968 WASHINGTON – Nearly six out of every 10 candidates endorsed by the AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education for the 91st Congress were victorious, an analysis of the new Congress disclosed. Of the 353 candidates endorsed by COPE for the House and Senate, 201, or 57 percent, won their contests. In the 1966 congressional elections only 53 percent of COPE-endorsed candidates won at the polls. Including candidates for the governorships running with COPE endorsement, the winning percentage came to 56, a bit higher than the 55 percent victories scored in the comparable 1960 election. 1978 Under pressure from the SIU, the Military Sealift Command has dropped its use of foreignflag vessels in a domestic trade and awarded new contracts to American operators. The MSC accepted bids last month for three U.S.-flag vessels, including two SIU-contracted tugs, to haul cargo from Port Canaveral, Fla., to ports on the U.S. Air Force Eastern Test Range in the Caribbean. Seafarers LOG 17 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:28 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA HOWARD BICKFORD Pensioner Howard Bickford, 79, passed away May 5. Brother Bickford began shipping with the Seafarers in 1952 from the port of New York. He was born in Massachusetts and sailed in the steward department. Brother Bickford’s earliest trip to sea was aboard the Yarmouth. He last worked on the Falcon Leader. Brother Bickford started collecting his retirement pay in 1985 and made his home in Los Angeles. ANGELES DEHEZA Pensioner Angeles Deheza, 90, died July 5. Brother Deheza joined the SIU in 1945 while in the port of New York. He was born in the Philippines. Brother Deheza originally shipped aboard the Benjamin Sillman. The steward department member most recently sailed on the Innovator. Brother Deheza went on pension in 1982. He was a resident of Reno, Nev. STEVE GIANOUTSOS Pensioner Steve Gianoutsos, 81, passed away May 3. Brother Gianoutsos started sailing with the union in 1959 while in New York. His first ship was the Penn Mariner; his last was the USNS Chauvenet. Brother Gianoutsos worked in the engine department. He retired in 1993 and lived in Greece. JAMES GROSS Pensioner James Gross, 85, died May 28. Brother Gross was born in North Carolina. He signed on with the SIU in 1956 while in the port of New York. Brother Gross’ first voyage was aboard an Ore Navigation Corporation vessel. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Gross’ final trip was on the Cove Liberty. He became a pensioner in 1990 and resided in Baltimore. GEORGE PRASINOS Pensioner George Prasinos, 86, passed away May 27. Brother Prasinos joined the SIU ranks in 1968. He initially sailed aboard the Western Comet. Brother Prasinos, 18 Seafarers LOG who sailed in the deck department, was born in Greece. Prior to his retirement in 1989, he shipped on the Pioneer. Brother Prasinos continued to call Greece home. WILHELM RETTENBACHER Pensioner Wilhelm Rettenbacher, 86, died May 25. Brother Rettenbacher became a Seafarer in 1965. His earliest trip was aboard the Steel Admiral. Brother Rettenbacher was a native of Austria. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Rettenbacher’s last ship was the Del Oro. He went on pension in 1997 and settled in Kirkland, Wash. RICHARD SESSIONS Pensioner Richard Sessions, 89, passed away July 6. Brother Sessions first donned the SIU colors in 1951 in the port of New York. He originally sailed in the steward department of the Steel Navigator. Brother Sessions’ final trip to sea was on the OMI Wabash. He began receiving his pension in 1982 and made his home in Pasadena, Texas. ROLFE WELCH Pensioner Rolfe Welch, 80, died May 23. Brother Welch was born in Rome. He started sailing with the union in 1990. Brother Welch’s first ship was the Cape Mohican; his last was the Overseas Vivan. The enginedepartment member retired in 2000. Brother Welch was a resident of Lindale, Ga. ELTON WILDE Pensioner Elton Wilde, 73, passed away June 1. Brother Wilde joined the Seafarers in 1958. He primarily sailed with Waterman Steamship Corporation on vessels including the Hastings and the Sam Houston. Brother Wilde, who sailed in all three departments, was born in Pennsylvania. He became a pen- sioner in 1994 and settled in Picayune, Miss. INLAND CLYDE ALBAUGH Pensioner Clyde Albaugh, 76, died May 9. Brother Albaugh signed on with the SIU in 1963 while in the port of Philadelphia. He was initially employed with Moran Towing of Pennsylvania. Brother Albaugh’s final trip was aboard a Taylor Marine Towing Corporation vessel. He went on pension in 1999 and called Wenonah, N.J., home. THOMAS ASTON Pensioner Thomas Aston, 72 passed away May 23. Brother Aston joined the union in 1962 while in the port of Mobile, Ala. His earliest trip was on the Dravo Gulf. Brother Aston started collecting his retirement pay in 1999. He lived in Bourg, La. CHARLES OSKI Pensioner Charles Oski, 85, died May 19. Brother Oski became an SIU member in 1972. He originally shipped aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. Before his retirement in 1988, Brother Oski sailed with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He resided in Abington, Pa. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JAMES ANDERSON Pensioner James Anderson, 71, passed away July 11. Brother Anderson was born in Olympia, Wash. He retired in 1999 and continued to reside in his native state. SALEH ELIZZANI Pensioner Saleh Elizzani, 82, died July 24. Brother Elizzani, a native of Yemen, became a pensioner in 1987. He called Sana’a, Yemen, home. CHARLIE GREGORY Pensioner Charlie Gregory, 86, passed away June 29. Brother Gregory was born in Roe, Ark. He went on pension in 1986. Brother Gregory settled in Jacksonville, Ark. NATHANIEL JOHNSON Pensioner Nathaniel Johnson, 81, died June 2. The Texas-born mariner became a pensioner in 1996. Brother Johnson was a resident of Oakland, Calif. JAMES McMAHON Pensioner James McMahon, 84, passed away June 26. Brother McMahon was a native of Sommerville, Ala. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993. Brother McMahon lived in Texas City, Texas. ANDRES PADILLA Pensioner Andres Padilla, 74, died June 22. Brother Padilla was born in Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1991 and continued to call Puerto Rico home. respective careers while at at sea. Name Age Bao, Tse 92 Benson, William 75 Boyson, Charles 90 Cason, Clarence 84 Charles, Rexford 90 Cruz, Antonio 76 Edwards, William 71 Eiles, Edward 86 Guillen, Bolivar 86 Gutierrez, Isaias 77 Hirst, Richard 67 Lee, Maxey 44 Marcano, Pedro 84 Martinez, Aldolpho 94 Mazyck, Edward 75 Moreland, James 81 Mulero, Rafael 90 Naugle, David 81 Perry, Mack 87 Riley, Fred 80 Rivas, Jose 75 Robins, William 84 Rohena, Segundo 87 Rose, Raymond 85 Sanders, Robert 84 Santos, Americo 92 Schultz, Kenneth 28 Silva, Enrique 66 Steele, Thomas 85 Suan, Steven 89 Travaglini, Henry 96 Velazquez, Francisco 87 Velazquez, Soilo 72 Vinolo, Juan 82 White, Vernon 67 Young, Herman 71 DOD July 15 July 1 July 15 July 13 June 17 June 9 June 14 July 24 July 12 June 8 July 24 July 23 June 8 July 31 June 12 July 14 July 19 Jan. 1 July 1 July 4 July 5 July 3 June 11 June 20 June 13 July 23 May 16 July 30 June 9 June 1 June 29 June 5 July 20 July 16 July 22 July 13 WILLIAM SCHEIBNER Pensioner William Scheibner, 93, passed away July 12. Brother Scheibner was a native of California. He retired in 1970. Brother Scheibner made his home in San Francisco. MELVIN SEARS Pensioner Melvin Sears, 77, died July 26. Brother Sears was born in Belle Glade, Fla. He became a pensioner in 2000. Brother Sears settled in Alma, Ga. LEON THOMAS Pensioner Leon Thomas, 84, passed away June 2. Brother Thomas was a New Orleans native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1989. Brother Thomas lived in Louisiana. JAMES WEBB Pensioner James Webb, 84, died June 1. Brother Webb, a native of Carey, Texas, went on pension in 1966. He called Montgomery, Texas, home. HUEY WILLIAMS Pensioner Huey Williams, 75, passed away June 11. Brother Williams was born in New Orleans. He began receiving his pension in 1990. Brother Williams lived in Iredell, Texas. Editor’s note: The following NMU brothers also have passed away. The LOG Staff regrets that sufficient information was not available to develop individual biographical backgrounds on them and their Marge DiPreta Sam Spalding Jr. School Mourns 2 The union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education are mourning the deaths of two highly regarded, longtime school employees. Marge DiPreta, retired registrar/academic coordinator, and Sam Spalding Jr., director of maintenance, both passed away in September, after battling illnesses. DiPreta was 65; Spalding was 56. DiPreta served as academic coordinator and registrar from 1982 until 2009. Spalding worked at the school for 35 years, the last 11 as maintenance director. More complete remembrances will be published in the next issue of the LOG and in the fourth-quarter edition of The United Worker, the newsletter of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:05 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE NORFOLK (Maersk Line, Limited), August 15 – Chairman John W. Grosskurth, Secretary Luis A. Caballero, Educational Director Edley M. Foster, Deck Delegate John Forester, Engine Delegate George Pobee. Chairman announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla., on Aug. 28. He acknowledged the steward department for great meals and BBQ. Secretary thanked crew members for their help keeping house clean. He reminded them to leave fresh linen for reliefs. Special thanks were given to apprentices for their hard work in the galley. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new fan in crew stateroom. COAST RANGE (Crowley), August 31 – Chairman Gregory R. Jenkins, Secretary Danny A. Brown, Educational Director Larry F. Phillips, Deck Delegate Tibby Clotter, Engine Delegate Rudolph Miller, Steward Delegate Bernard Butts. Bosun stated payoff to take place Aug. 31 in Port Everglades, Fla. Secretary encouraged Seafarers to support SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to reduce seatime requirements to qualify for retirement benefits. Six lounge chairs were requested for rooms. It was reported that the balance in the safety fund was $6,500. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a job well done. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. (Horizon Lines), August 29 – HORIZON CHALLENGER Chairman Erigardo Guity, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Terry T. Smith, Deck Delegate Alvin Jackson, Engine Delegate Anthony Thomas, Steward Delegate Robert Arana. Chairman discussed STCW requirements and stressed the importance of having proper shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported satellite T.V. would be paid from ship’s fund. Recommendation was made to increase pension amount. Crew expressed gratitude to the steward department for great food and clean ship. Next ports: Houston and San Juan. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 8 – Chairman Terry D. Cowans, Secretary Louins Johnson, Educational Director Kenyatta McNeil, Deck Delegate Wayne Watts, Engine Delegate Floyd Patterson. Bosun thanked crew members for a safe, smooth voyage. Secretary reminded mariners departing vessel to clean rooms and supply fresh linen for arriving crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were advised to read President’s report from Seafarers LOG. Motion was made to increase medical and retirement benefits. Requests were made for a front-loading washing machine, new DVDs, refrigerators for crew rooms and a treadmill. Next port: Portland, Ore. 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. BBC Houston Heads South In mid-October, one of the union’s newly contracted vessels – the BBC Houston – sailed from its namesake port to Mexico, where it was scheduled to load cargo bound for Philadelphia. As reported in the October LOG, the heavy-lift vessel recently reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. SIUcontracted AMSEA is providing the shipboard manpower for the BBC Houston, which was built in 2005. These photos show the vessel in Houston, before its first voyage under the American flag. SIU members are pictured along with some of the Russian mariners who signed off the ship in midSeptember. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG Ship Management), August 22 – Chairman Winston D. Thompson, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Edward H. Self. Chairman expressed his gratitude to crew for working safely and getting the job done. He went over company polices and the importance of following them. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the MV Resolve Transports Special Cargo union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to increase dental benefits. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., and Savannah, Ga. (Maersk Line, Limited), Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Charles A. Brooks, Educational Director Robert L. Stafford, Deck Delegate Boyce Wilson, Engine Delegate Filberto Moreira, Steward Delegate Larry Griffin. Chairman announced payoff on Sept. 23 in Charleston, S.C. Crew members were asked to leave rooms clean for reliefs and to take trash to the garbage room. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Piney Point school and make sure BST (Basic Safety Training) is up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like clarification pertaining to compensation of travel expens- ALLIANCE BEAUMONT The SIU-crewed ARC-Crowley Resolve in September ferried home some very special military super cargo—four members of the Texas Army National Guard, 72nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (36th Infantry Division) who returned to the United States following military deployment. Pictured above (from left to right) aboard the Resolve during their homecoming voyage are Sgt. 1st Class Charles “Coach” Marvets, Staff Sergeants Donnie Bosley and Mitchell Garcia, and Sgt. Patrick Kuhlmeier. The soldiers in 2009 and 2010 were deployed overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom. This photo was taken and sent to the Seafarers LOG by OS N.Carol Holly, a 2010 graduate of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The Resolve is Holly’s first vessel. November 2010 es. Need was expressed for new washer and dryer in crew laundry room. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Beaumont, Texas, Jacksonville, Fla., and Baltimore. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), September 16 – Chairman Anton T. Sulic, Secretary Adele E. Williams, Educational Director Anthony J. Kimbrell, Engine Delegate James Spranza, Steward Delegate Eddie L. Siplin Jr. Chairman reminded crew to update their BST and make sure all documents are up-to-date. Seafarers were advised to bring any issues to their delegate or department heads. Secretary urged members leaving ship to clean rooms and supply fresh linen for the next crew. Educational director encouraged members to enhance their skills at the Paul Hall Center, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. Treasurer reported $178 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for wireless internet and new mattresses. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a great BBQ. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif., and Hawaii. (Crowley), September 12 – Chairman Samuel M. Uyatede, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educational Director Daniel G. Ramirez Jr., Engine Delegate Terence Bennett, Steward Delegate Elena Lee. Bosun urged members to make sure all documents are current. Secretary reminded members to have training record book signed off when training is done aboard ship. Educational director advised mariners to check the Seafarers LOG for upcoming classes available at the Piney Point school. They were also urged to read their contract and attend union meetings. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like satellite TV installed. Suggestion was made to increase medical and dental benefits for members and dependents. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Miami and Houston. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS Seafarers LOG 19 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 5:46 PM Page 20 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. 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 safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right 20 Seafarers LOG 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.) The Perfect Stocking Stuffer: ‘America’s Seafarers’ As reported in recent issues of the LOG, a new book covering the history of the Seafarers International Union is available online and at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The 271-page hardcover book is titled “America’s Seafarers.” It may be ordered through the slop chest at www.seafarers.org or by going directly to www.siustore.com. Copies also are being sold at the Paul Hall Center’s Sea Chest store. The book sells for $14.99. Individuals who want to purchase a copy of the book but who do not have internet access may call (703) 788-2528. Additional information about “America’s Seafarers” is available on the SIU web site. An introductory article about the book was published in the September edition of the Seafarers LOG. 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. This photo from the book shows workers at the New York Stock Exchange in 1948, near what was then the SIU’s headquarters building, striking for decent wages and benefits. White-capped Seafarers support the picket line. November 2010 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:05 PM 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 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. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses ARPA November 8 November 12 Radar Recertification (1 day) November 15 November 15 ECDIS December 13 December 17 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Container Maintenance November 15 December 10 Government Vessels (1 week) November 29 December 3 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations Machinist November 8 December 3 November 29 Welding December 17 November 29 December 17 Safety Upgrading Courses BST/Basic Firefighting November 15 Medical Care Provider November 19 November 1 November 5 Steward Department 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 Nov. 1. Unlicensed Apprentice Program – Phase 1 Vessel Familiarization November 15 December 13 Galley Sanitation November 26 December 24 November 1 November 29 November 12 December 10 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_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ November 2010 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Water Survival November 15 December 13 November 26 December 24 Galley Sanitation December 27 Basic Firefighting January 7 November 1 November 29 December 27 Galley Familiarization Social Responsibilities Vessel Ops and Maintenance November 12 December 10 January 7 November 15 December 13 November 26 December 24 November 1 November 29 December 27 November 12 December 10 January 7 November 15 December 13 November 26 December 24 Unlicensed Apprentice Program – Phase 3 Government Vessels November 15 November 19 Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops November 8 December 3 STOS November 22 December 3 Students who have registered for classes at the SIUaffiliated 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. 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. 11/10 Seafarers LOG 21 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 5:46 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes STOS – Seven upgraders finished their requirements for graduation from this course Sept. 3. Earning certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jaroslav Dvorak, Phillip Forman, Matthew Martel, Anthony Newbill, Robert Parker, Robert Rothwell and Stephen Warren II. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Cook – The two individuals pictured above recently completed training in this 12-week course. Earning their certificates were Brian Corp (left) and Eileen Mendiola. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 734 – Eleven unlicensed apprentices on June 23 completed their traiing in this 60-hour course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Brown, Mike Ferti, Joseph Griggs, Abobakr Hasan, David Marquez, Carey Morris, Ryan Papa, Dhahabi Quraish, Karen Smith, Evgeny Umanskiy and DeMiltion Wheat. Ben Cusic, their instructor, is at the far left. Able Seaman –Thirteen mariners on Sept. 10 completed this course. Graduating and receiving certificates for the upgrade of their skills (above, in alphabetical order) were: Timothy Dewine, Kelvin Fussell, Joseph Gibbens, Chad Gregory, Johnny Hunter, Kevin Jenkins, Russell Macomber, Raymond Martin Jr., Luis Ramos-Rosa, Corey Shanley, Boyd Spivey, Marcus Toby and Adrian Wilson. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 10: Andy Beach, Samuel Blancard, Matthew Bryant, Rolando Bundang, John Eastman, William Fountain, Bryant Hunter, Stephen Jenkins, Kevin Kelly, Michael Knight, Forrest Melvin, Matthew Mike, Antonio Perez, Guiomar Rancel, Kevin Reyes-Velez, Gary Richards, Omar Rodgers, Elijah Stewart-Eastman and Joseph Thurman. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 24. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Shirley Bellamy, Leopold Calderon, Romeo Farrer, Nilo Gler, Stacy Murphy, Joseph Pittman, Anthony Rutland and Frank Wynn. Stan Beck, their instructor, is in the rear, third from right. Radar – The individuals pictured at left on Sept. 24 completed this course. Those graduating (in alphabetical order) were: Marie Acosta, Scottie Duncan, David Eller, Oleg Pankraton and Jeremy Scheil. GMDSS – Five individuals completed their training in this 70-hour course Sept. 17. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Eid Jebokil, Marc Fitton, Kenny Gaston, Steven Parrish and Mykola Smirnov. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG 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. November 2010 �61805_LogX 10/29/2010 1:21 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization DL (Phase III) – Two classes of Phase III apprentices along with two upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 3. Completeing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ibrahim Abubaker, Brandon Albro, Rafael Alvarez-Chacon, Joshua Bickel, Jason Billingsley, Russell Bravo, Lawrence Brooks, Charles Burnham, John Cacella, Kevin Cunningham, Diogenes Derecho, Dhindo Faulve, Ray Fugit, Kaamil Gray, William Harrison, Brandon Hubble, Shannon Iaea, Elliott Kolner, Ryan Landers, Andre MacCray, Ann Mensch, Kassim Mohamed, Tevrin Narcisse, Derek Nix, Jarrod Nix, Kerian Reyes-Velez, Osamah Saleh, Buck Sampson, Luis Santiago, Mark Santoli, Kevin Stewart, Samuel Thomas, Ricardo Vazquez Jr., Sajid Foster and Wallace William. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – Eighteen Seafarers on Sept. 24 completed this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Ahmed, Mohamed Alsinai, Kent Arnold, Andrzej Bronkowski, Fraya Brown, Woodrow Coleman, Patrick Conlon, Daniel Dean, Kon Duczyminski, Wilbur Ensminger, Peter Fulcher, Particia Geras, Eufemiano Gomes, DeCarlo Harris, Mohamed Kassem, Gerald Kelly, Floyd Larson and Joseph Loyal. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST –Nineteen upgraders completed this course Sept. 24. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sultan Harris, John McCabe, Nina McFall, Gamal Meawad, Adams Mohamed, Robert Mosley, Darryl Nelson, Earl Olson, Robert Pacheco, John Penrose, Carlos Perez, Reye Ramos, Mark Scardino, Harold Sebring, Prentiss Smith, Francisco Valle, Liberato Viray, Knolly Whitshire and Patrick Vandergrift. Mike Roberts, the class instructor, is second from the right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – Twenty-four Seafarers completed their training in this course Aug. 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Franklin Akins, Leonilo Arano, Stephen Banks, William Bragg, Mary Brayman, Timothy Burke, Gary Cardillo, Marvyn Chester, Chad Chivrell, Wendy Fearing, Clarence Fortt, Ameon Fuller, John Glenn, Stephen Hansford, Catherine Hays, Gregory Johnson, Christopher Kirchhofer, Wilfred Luckie, Ronald Lukacs, Michael Mazyck, Kevin Monterio, Jan Morawski, James Morgan and Darlene Weymouth. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is standing at the far right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) -The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on Sept. 11 finished this course at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Theo Wischusen, Taylor Campbell, Jeffrey Pettit, John Humphreys, Christian Nielsen, Miguel Torre Rodriquez, Jose Dador Jr., Samuel Pedreso, Jarrel Sawyers, Darcel Mason, Nathan Capriglione, Adrienne Barnett, Jill Carlson, Brooke Holmes-Roberts, Norton Fernandes and Nevio Fernandes. BST – The following Seafarers on Aug. 20 completed this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Rafael Clemente, Leesther Collins, George Murphy Jr. Natalie Nunes, Luisa Oben, Edward O’Connor, Michael Phillips, Timothy Pillsworth, Felix Quevedo, Francisco Ramilo, Roger Reinke, Steve Rollins, Ismael Roman, Travis Rose, Richard Sandiford, Ceasar Smith Jr., Doyle Stanley, Anton Sulic, Kissinfor Taylor, Matthew Thompson, William Wallace, Thomas Weber, Chris Wilson and Guy Wilson. Class instructor Bernabe Pelingon is standing at the far right in the back row. November 2010 BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on Sept. 18 completeded this course in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Anecita Eastman, Brynn Titone, James Walsh, Sayeed Borghei-Razavi, Jacob Bean, Donald Deardorff, Wilson Dorceus, Helene Garrovillo, Andi Muarzin, Manjinder Singh, Sebestian Fernandes, Leon Everett, Carlos Garcia, Jose Gutierrez, Shawn Moore, Nathan Dole, Kurt Baysinger and Emely Liu. Seafarers LOG 23 �61805_Log 10/27/2010 4:06 PM Page 24 Volume 72, Number 11 November 2010 SHBP Scholarship Information Page 11 Joseph Sam Francis Brown Frank Strong (left), David Castro Scenes from The ‘V’ Shop These photos of upgraders doing hands-on training in the vocational shop recently were taken at the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Robert Ott Bryant Hunter Butch Lumansoc Joseph Lafayette � 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 November 2010 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PRIVACY PETITION TOPS 1 MILLION SIGNATURES ‘ONE NATION’ RALLY STRESSES JOB GROWTH, EDUCATION, SOLIDARITY SS POET CREW MEMORIALIZED SS POET MARINERS MEMORIALIZED ON 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TRAGEDY COAST GUARD BILL INCLUDES MANY LABOR- BACKED PROVISIONS SHBP DISTRIBUTES FORMS FOR DEPENDENT COVERAGE SEAFARERS SHOW SUPPORT FOR SHIPYARD WORKERS PIRACY PETITION’S FINAL TALLY TOPS 1 MILLION WORLD MARITIME DAY EVENTS SPOTLIGHT IMPORTANCE OF SEAFARERS PIRACY FACTS AND FIGURES HOSPITAL SHIP RETURNS TO UNITED STATES AFTER HUMANITARIAN MISSION IBF ADOPTS ANTI-PIRACY GUIDANCE SIU, MSFSC REACH AGREEMENT ON NEW S&Q POLICY FOR CIVMARS PENDING DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES SIU, MSFSC COMPLETE NEGOTIATIONS ON CMPI 750 CIVILIAN MARINE PERSONNEL INSTRUCTION 610 NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE OPM ANNOUNCES DATES FOR HEALTH BENEFITS ‘OPEN SEASON’ UNION-CREWED USS MOUNT WHITNEY ENDS 5-MONTH DEPLOYMENT NAVY’S MSC RECONFIGURES TANKER FLEET ONE NATION WORKING TOGETHER DC RALLY EMPHASIZES JOB CREATION, SOLIDARITY THE ED WOODS STORY- A TEENAGER IN WORLD WAR II MARAD POSTS PIRACY WARNING 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 11/01/2010 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. 11 2010 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1abac63bdf3c1ca160a908bca20cd793.pdf 830c68ec2c7c242752db36857ac47de2 PDF Text Text Volume 73, Number 11 November 2011 SIU Welcomes New Tonnage USNS S William Willi McLean M L Delivered D li d to to MSC; MSC Maerskk Adds Tanker, 2 Heavy-Liftt Ships New and replacement tonnage is being added to the SIU-crewed fleet following three recent developments. Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) in late September christened the ice-strengthened tanker Maersk Peary (directly below) during a ceremony in Norfolk, Va. Earlier, the company announced a joint venture with Rickmers-Linie (America) to flag in two heavy-lift ships under the Stars and Stripes, including the Maersk Texas (second photo below). Also, the U.S. Military Sealift Command has accepted delivery of its newest T-AKE ship, the USNS William McLean (right), pictured during sea trials in San Diego. Another T-AKE is scheduled for christening this month. In the remaining photos on this page, SIU President Michael Sacco (at podium) addresses the audience after the Maersk Peary ceremony while MLL President and CEO John Reinhart (left) and Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim look on, and SIU crew members (bottom of page) are pictured in front of the tanker. Page 3. Piracy News Pages 4, 6 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 1 Scholarship Info Page 8 ITF Women’s Leadership Conference Pages 12-13 10/26/2011 12:15:57 PM �President’s Report Maritime: Part of the Solution Since the economic downturn that began four years ago, millions of Americans have lost their jobs, their savings and – in too many cases – their homes. Officially, the national unemployment rate still tops nine percent, but even that grim statistic doesn’t tell the whole story. When factoring in those individuals who are working at jobs not in line with their educational and skill levels, plus those who’ve given up trying to find a job, the percentage shoots up to around 16 percent. Unemployment and under-employment is, I believe, a big factor in the “Occupy Wall Street” demonstration and related ones that are happening across the country. Yes, those rallies are about many issues, but what most of the participants really want and need are jobs. The message hasn’t always been singular or clear, but one point the protesters have made is that our system is badly out of whack – the top one percent is pocketing massive profits and dominating our politics while too many others struggle to make ends meet. As we’ve said in the Michael Sacco labor movement time and time again, it’s time to level the playing field. It’s also time to recognize that the American maritime industry can and must be part of the solution when it comes to putting people back to work. I applaud the efforts being made by President Obama to create jobs for Americans. At the same time, I would urge the administration and Congress to realize that maritime should be a major part of any infrastructure investment. The U.S.-flag maritime industry is a key segment of the U.S. economy. In his speeches across the country, President Obama has drawn attention to several important projects. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka noted that when he said, “We can no longer delay putting Americans back to work and rebuilding our nation’s schools, roads, bridges, transit, ports, rail, communications and energy systems.” I agree, and further add that not only can the maritime industry, as a vital part of America’s infrastructure, put people to work, it can do so right way. Look no further than the long-talked-about marine highway program as an example. The waterway system already is in place to move cargo from one domestic port to another to ease congestion on highways and the rails. We have well-trained, safety-conscious American citizen crews available to move the goods. But what we need are the ships. We have shipyards closing because of a lack of work, yet our domestic fleet needs modernization if it is to compete with the expected expansion in world trade within the next decade. Additionally, we have ports that have not been dredged in years along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts, as well as the Great Lakes. How will America continue to be a major player in international trade if ships cannot enter our harbors? And how will American-made goods get to the ports or imports reach American consumers if we don’t have our highway and rail systems upgraded to meet the needs? America’s maritime unions have well-trained, experienced members ready to do what is needed. We have joint union-management educational facilities that can prepare the current and next generation of mariners for what is to come. We simply need America to refocus its attention to getting our people back to work – and to include the maritime industry in those plans. Of course, as Americans return to the workforce, the budget deficit will shrink. By having people back on the job, they will stimulate the economy, thus more retail jobs will be created. They will resume paying local, state and federal taxes, which will provide needed dollars to repair and replace infrastructure. The SIU stands ready to help as Americans are re-employed, rebuild and recover. Happy Holidays As we head toward the winter holidays, I extend my best wishes to all Seafarers, retirees and their families, as well as to our armed forces all across the globe. Whether you spend the holidays at home, at sea or on deployment, here’s to enjoyable, safe, healthy times. Volume 73, Number 11 November 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; Photographers, Mike Hickey and Harry Gieske; 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. 2 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 2 Magee family members in attendance at the dedication included (from left) Bob’s father, Robert P. Magee Sr., wife Marie Magee, daughter Katie Magee Houston, siblings Diane Davidson and Kathy Mitchell, grandson Aedan Houston, son-in-law Joel Houston and brother Kevin Magee. TOTE Names Tacoma-Based Terminal In Memory of Late Leader Bob Magee Highly regarded maritime and Pierce County, Wash., community leader Robert P. “Bob” Magee, who passed away in 2009, was honored Sept. 21 with the naming of Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc.’s Tacoma terminal in his memory. SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo represented the union at the dedication. Overall, approximately 150 people attended the ceremony, including industry and community leaders, extended family members, TOTE customers and employees. Many attendees described Magee as visionary. Following Magee’s passing after a courageous, three-year battle with cancer, TOTE employees rallied around the idea of honoring his memory with a tribute. TOTE President John Parrott stated, “The terminal was perfect because Bob loved Tacoma. He came out of the vessel department and spent so much of his time at our terminal. Even as the CEO of American Shipping Group, TOTE’s parent company, you could always find Bob back down at the terminal on a random afternoon or the morning after a ship sailed.” Phil Morrell, TOTE’s vice president of marine and terminal operations, remembered Magee’s frequent visits to the terminal and how he always stopped to visit with staff members. “When he was at the terminal, he was just Bob,” Morrell said. “He would play a hand of cribbage and was the target of the same razzing if he played a bad hand in the game. No matter the title behind his name, he was always relaxed and at home. The Robert P. Magee Terminal name is proudly displayed on signs at each gated entrance to the terminal, as well as in front of the administration building at 500 Alexander Avenue in Tacoma. Bob Magee began working for TOTE (an SIUcontracted company) in 1986 as vice president of marine operations. He later became president and CEO of TOTE, later chairman of Sea Star Line and then chairman CEO of American Shipping Group. He received numerous awards for maritime and community leadership which now reside in a custom-built display cabinet in the lobby of the administration building. Union Weighs in on STCW Amendments The SIU in late September formally submitted comments to the Department of Transportation concerning proposals for implementing the latest round of amendments to the STCW convention. Specifically, both the union and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education responded to a government supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) titled USCG-200417914, Implementation of the Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW), and Changes to Domestic Endorsements. Responding on behalf of the union and school, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez first stated that the industry should be given more than 60 days to constructively examine and further comment upon the SNPRM. (The original deadline for comments was Sept. 30.) “Given the expanse of the document and the subjects covered, we request that the comment period be extended a minimum of 45-60 days to allow sufficient time for stakeholders to comment and provide meaningful recommendations to the supplemental proposal,” he wrote. “In addition, with regard to the provision for new towing endorsements included in the supplemental notice, we recommend that this provision be transferred to the new Subchapter M proposed rulemaking dealing with the inspection of towing vessels. In our view, the creation of the new towing endorsements is unrelated to the STCW, raises serious safety concerns, and should not be fast-tracked as part of a final rule to implement the STCW amendments.” He went on to offer feedback on a number of aspects of the proposed rulemaking, including issues pertaining to application procedures, medical certification, training and certification requirements and more. Excerpts from the jointly submitted comments follow. ■ Medical Certification: There are a number of questions which surfaced while reading the supplemental notice with regard to medical certificate documentation and recordkeeping. Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) are valid for five years, yet the medical certificates for STCW endorsements are to be updated every two years with a threemonth grace period while the mariner is sailing internationally. We request clarification and response to the following questions: (1) will the mariner be required to renew his or her STCW endorsements with the Coast Guard every two years when the medical certificate is renewed? (2) will there be an expiration date within the MMC under the international pages for their physical every two years? (3) who will track this information if it is not indicated in the MMC? (4) how will the requirement be enforced? and, (5) will the National Maritime Center (NMC) be able to handle the additional work load associated with a two-year physical as required by the STCW? With regard to the last question, we believe that the NMC will, in fact, become overburdened by the new requirement, leading to mariners facing lengthy delays that could affect the validity of their credentials and their continued ability to earn a livelihood. ■ Course Approval: We are stymied over the changes in the course approval process. Foremost, the supplemental proposal does away with the IMO model course format. One of the instructor qualifications is a course in teaching technologies. For the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, the training facility affiliated with the SIU and its members, this is a Train the Trainer course which follows IMO Model 6.09 guidance. When a prospective instructor takes this course, he is given copies of IMO models to study, discuss, and ultimately imitate when preparing his [teaching] assignments. All of the school’s 63 Coast Guard approved courses are written in this format. A change in the format will require all 63 courses to be reformatted and all instructors to be retrained in the new organization and language. Additionally, the school’s Continued on Page 9 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:58:53 PM �The newly reflagged tanker will sail to Antarctica and Greenland. Mary Reinhart, the vessel’s godmother, prepares to break a bottle of champagne against the hull. Maersk Adds Tanker, 2 Heavy-Lift Ships SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL), in conjunction with RickmersLinie (America) this month is scheduled to launch two heavy-lift ships that have reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. MLL also on Sept. 30 formally christened the ice-strengthened tanker Maersk Peary during a ceremony in Norfolk, Va. SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker at a Peary post-christening event that also spotlighted Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim. He commended MLL President and CEO John Reinhart as well as the company as a whole for their commitment to the U.S. Merchant Marine. “Maersk deserves a ton of credit for creating jobs during these rough economic times,” the SIU president stated. “What could be more important at a time like this?” He added that the Peary is “a great resource in the commercial sector for our partners from the Department of Defense,” and pointed out that although the times and shipboard technologies constantly change, one thing that remains the same is America’s need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. “Without us, I wouldn’t even want to imagine who we could really count on to deliver the vital supplies to our armed forces,” Sacco stated. “Without us, it would only be a matter of time before the United States became an economic hostage of other countries whose ships call on our ports…. Thanks to partners like John Reinhart and Maersk, we have a structure that works to the benefit of our entire nation.” The Peary embarked on its maiden voyage under the U.S. flag Oct. 1, and is expected to arrive at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, in January 2012 and then at Thule Air Force Base, Greenland, next summer. For the ceremony, the freshly painted, 591-foot ship sat pier-side in downtown Norfolk and was adorned with red, white and blue bunting as distinguished guests, customers, partners, and colleagues welcomed the vessel into MLL’s U.S.-flag fleet. The ship is named after the late Rear Adm. Robert E. Peary, famous for his excursions to the North Pole. It will travel annually to Thule Air Force Base and McMurdo Station delivering fuel to support military operations and research at the top and bottom of the globe. In July, MLL won a long-term time charter from the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command to support these missions. “The name-giving is a great opportunity to honor our customers and partners; reflect on our company’s commitment to the U.S.-flag maritime industry; and celebrate the strengthening of these partnerships,” said Reinhart at the ceremony. “We are fortunate that many of our esteemed guests, colleagues, and Admiral Peary’s descendants have joined us to celebrate our new tanker.” Mrs. Mary Reinhart, the vessel’s godmother and wife of John Reinhart, blessed General Dynamics Delivers USNS William McLean To Military Sealift Command The U.S. Navy’s newest resupply ship, the SIUcrewed USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) has been delivered by California-based and union-contracted General Dynamics NASSCO. A 689-foot long platform, the McLean was accepted Sept. 28 by the Military Sealift Command during a ceremony at the NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego. She is named in honor of William Burdette McLean, who developed the heat-seeking sidewinder air-to-air missile while serving as a physicist for the Navy. “MSC plays such an important role in the support of the Navy, and the T-AKEs are the future of that role,” said Capt. Robert Baus, the McLean’s civil service mas- November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 3 the ship and broke a bottle of champagne against the vessel’s hull in the time-honored fashion to bring good fortune to the ship and crew. Secretary of Transportation for the Commonwealth of Virginia Sean Connaughton recognized the symbolic importance of the ship’s name. “Vessel name-givings are about a name that the ship carries from port to port worldwide,” said Connaughton. “Maersk is one of the greatest names in the maritime industry. Peary symbolizes the courage of the explorer.” Kevin M. Tokarski, associate administrator for national security at the U.S. Maritime Administration, spoke at the ceremony about the vital role that companies like Maersk Line, Limited have in maintaining our national security. Meanwhile, roughly a week before the event in Norfolk, the heavy-lift reflaggings were announced. MLL and Rickmers-Linie (America), Inc. said they will provide “breakbulk and project cargo shipping” using two newly built, multi-purpose ships to be operated under the U.S. flag. The 19,000 deadweight ton vessels, named Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas, have a maximum lift of 480 metric tons apiece and are twice the size of U.S.-flag multipurpose vessels currently in operation, according to the companies. The service will operate as Maersk-Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier, Maersk-Rickmers for short. “The introduction of these vessels further signals Maersk Line, Limited’s longterm commitment to the U.S. flag,” added Reinhart. “The partnership with Rickmers forms a strong team that will deliver outstanding service to shippers worldwide.” Pictured from left to right during the ceremony are Capt. Mike Hatton, Maersk Peary Godmother Mary Reinhart and MLL President and CEO John Reinhart. In photo at left, guests celebrate the christening in Norfolk, Va. ter. “It’s very exciting to be a part of this process. I have an outstanding crew, and we are all looking forward to getting underway for a mission.” When fully manned, the McLean will have a crew of 124 civil service mariners—including unlicensed crew members from the SIU’s Government Services Division—and 11 Navy sailors. The ship will begin conducting Combat Logistics Force (CLF) missions in the summer of 2012 following a series of sea trials. “As the 12th ship of its class, William McLean is delivering on cost and ahead of schedule,” said Frank McCarthey, the Auxiliary Ships, Small Boats and Craft program manager for the Navy’s Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. “This ship will provide invaluable service to the fleet for years to come.” The vessel is the twelfth of 14 new dry cargo/ammunition ships of the T-AKE Class scheduled for delivery to the Navy by the end of 2012. NASSCO began constructing the USNS William McLean in September 2009. The first ship of the class, USNS Lewis and Clark, joined MSC’s fleet in 2006. During the five years since then and including the McLean, 11 NASSCO-built T-AKE Class dry cargo/ ammunition ships have joined the Navy’s fleet and currently are operating as part of the command’s CLF, delivering vital fuel, equipment and supplies to Navy warships at sea. Included are the: USNS Sacagawea, USNS Alan Shepard, USNS Richard Byrd, USNS Robert Peary, USNS Amelia Earhart, USNS Carl Brashear, USNS Wally Schirra, USNS Matthew Perry, USNS Washington Chambers, and USNS Charles Drew. The two remaining vessels in the class, the USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13) and USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) are under construction at NASSCO. The Medgar Evars is slated for christening Nov. 12. When all 14 of the dry cargo/ammunition ships are delivered, according to the Navy, 11 are expected to serve in the CLF and the remaining three will be attached to maritime prepositioning squadrons, which strategically place combat cargo at sea for rapid delivery to warfighters ashore. Seafarers LOG 3 10/24/2011 12:58:55 PM �SIU Website’s Member Portal Features New Additions Two features recently were added to the members-only section of the SIU website: one that allows individual Seafarers to view their dues payment history, and another that links to medical claims information for mariners and their dependents. Within the member portal (which may be accessed via the home page at www.seafarers.org or directly at https://members. seafarers.org/), the Dues tab is self-explanatory and straightforward. It contains payment history including copies of receipts as well as reflecting any outstanding dues. It also includes records of contributions to the Maritime Defense League (MDL) and the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD). Also within the portal, there’s a new Claims History link under the Medical tab. Clicking on the Claims History link will allow members and authorized dependents to view individual claims, dollar amounts paid, and much more. “There’s a wealth of information available through the new Claims History link,” stated SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “For example, members and their authorized dependents can check as to whether a deductible was applied, they can see explanations of benefits, and they can search a list of providers. They can also request a replacement or extra ID card, and they can access various medical forms that also are available on the regular SIU website.” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Conference Tackles Piracy On World Maritime Day “Piracy is a crime. It isn’t terrorism.” With those words, Robert Gauvin, executive director of piracy policy for the U.S. Coast Guard, provided the context for the Western Gulf IMO World Maritime Day observance in Port Arthur, Texas, on Sept. 29. Gauvin was one of nine speakers at the all-day event that dealt with the problems of piracy. The conference took place in the Port Arthur International Seafarer Center and was sponsored in part by the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. During his address, Gauvin pointed out that no one has found a direct link between the attacks by pirates off the coast of Somalia and international terrorism. He added that the U.S. government has implemented a working group consisting of representatives from the Departments of State, Justice, Defense, Transportation and Homeland Security that reports directly to the White House on measures to counter piracy. “We are very different from any flag in the world. We mandate self-defense of our vessels. We have a responsibility,” he stated with regard to America’s efforts to protect its citizen mariners. Protection from piracy was a constant subject for most of the speakers. Owen Doherty, the director for the U.S. Maritime Administration’s office of security, said his agency has teams available to assess possible piracy risks aboard U.S.-flag vessels. He noted the tactics used by pirates change, so mariners have to be prepared for what may happen. Owen Doherty Maritime Administration Director for Office of Security 4 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 4 Bowen said the Claims History area “basically is designed as a one-stop shopping section for all types of claims: prescription, dental, vision and regular medical.” (At press time, prescription data still was being incorporated into the site.) In addition to the personalized and Seafarers-specific content, the new area includes My Health Center and My Wellness tabs which in turn offer a bevy of interactive tools, articles and links aimed at promoting good health. For instance, visitors may utilize the My Wellness section to design a customized health program for (among other options) weight management, smoking cessation, nutrition, and more. The My Health Center section includes links to hospital ratings and a video library, plus many other resources. Users may customize content and how it’s displayed by accessing the Dashboard Settings under the My Toolbox tab. As previously reported, the union launched an upgraded, expanded version of its website in June. This is the third version of www.seafarers.org, and it’s the first one to feature a members-only section. Questions about the member portal should be directed to the SIU’s membership assistance program at 1-800-252-4674 or via email at map@seafarers.org. Questions and comments about the rest of the site may be submitted via email at webmaster@seafarers.org. Progress Continues on Piney Point Waterfront The waterfront restoration project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to go well, according to school Vice President Don Nolan. Plans for the Piney Point, Md., facility include a new pier and seawall, a waterfront park, separate davits for fast rescue boat training and lifeboat training, and more. These photos were taken from mid-September to early October. The development is expected to be finished in 2012. Robert Gauvin U.S. Coast Guard Exec. Director of Piracy Policy Doherty emphasized that communication between the industry and naval assets is very important. Emphasizing their concern for mariners, several speakers expressed dismay about the way pirates are treated while seafarers at times seemingly are considered incidental when attacks occur. Joseph Cox stated ships and cargo generally are insured, but “mariners may or may not be insured.” The president of the Chamber of Shipping of America then said governments “cannot abrogate their responsibilities for the peaceful use of the high seas.” He equated the capture of pirates to a popular hobby: fishing. “It’s a catch-andrelease program,” he said, because there is no set policy for what to do when pirates are seized. “It’s an eighteenth century problem and we are approaching it with twenty first century sensitivity,” Cox remarked. Following up on that point was Capt. George Quick, vice president of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P). “We think about the human rights of the pirates, but not the human rights of the mariners,” Quick pointed out. “Our priorities are backwards.” He told the gathering that 95 percent of the pirates who are captured end up being released and attack again. Quick strongly asserted that commercial vessels should carry armed guards Continued on Page 6 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:58:58 PM �New York/New Jersey MTD Port Maritime Council Spotlights Maritime’s Future While Saluting Its Past With an eye toward the past, the three honorees at the 50th anniversary dinner for the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and vicinity called for a strong U.S.-flag maritime industry to help push the country out of the current rough economic times. MTD President Michael Sacco, who also serves as president of the SIU, received the Paul Hall Award of Merit, named in memory of the late MTD and SIU president. U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) was recognized as the port council’s Government Man of the Year. Retired MTD Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex was honored with the Joseph Sacco Lifetime Achievement Memorial Man of the Year Award. More than 500 people attended the Oct. 15 dinner in New York City. Sacco stated how proud he was to receive the award that is named for the man who brought him ashore to work for the SIU. “I’ll always be grateful for the chance Paul gave to me,” Sacco told the audience. “Never in my wildest dreams did I expect at that age that I’d be president of the SIU and the MTD, and now I’m receiving an award named after the man who gave me my start.” The MTD president then went from looking at where he came from to where he sees the industry heading. “We must carry the banner to educate and remind everyone from the president to the general public about the need for a strong maritime industry,” he stated. “We have to deliver the message that the United States needs American mariners and American ships to deliver vital supplies to our troops, grain to nations that are in trouble, and relief supplies like we did after the earthquake in Haiti.” Sacco also addressed the current state of affairs by saying, “And we must help everyone realize that those people demonstrating down on Wall Street don’t want attention – they want JOBS! We, as a nation, need to wake up and realize we have the ability to employ them.” Introducing Sacco at the dinner were SIU Executive Vice President (and MTD Board Member) Augie Tellez and Capt. Bob Johnston, senior vice president for OSG. Tellez praised Sacco’s leadership of the U.S.-flag maritime industry and the Seafarers. He also said he “could not have had a better teacher than Mike.” Speaking on behalf of the industry, Johnston stated when Sacco gives you his word, it’s solid. Congressman Rangel thanked the port council for recognizing his years of work to support the maritime industry. “Creating jobs and supporting our maritime workers is so important, now more than ever. As we continue to look for ways to reduce unemployment, the maritime industry will play a major role in rebuilding our infrastructure and can put people to work right away,” he observed. Rangel added he appreciated the way the maritime industry has stood by him, just as he has always fought for its interests. The New York representative noted he was being called back to Washington by President Obama to attend the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. He Maritime Industry Urges Support For Cargo Preference SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and other maritime labor and company officials on Oct. 3 attended an open forum on an important program that greatly affects Seafarers and the industry at large. The multi-component program known as cargo preference stipulates that a certain percentage of U.S.-made or U.S.-funded items must be shipped on American vessels with American crews. The meeting was organized by the Maritime Administration (MarAd), whose stated goal was to open up the issue to public discussion. Tellez and other speakers pointed out that cargo preference law enforcement is becoming increasingly more important to the maritime industry. With overseas conflicts starting to wind down, non-military cargo is going to become a more vital source of income for shipping companies and subsequently for merchant mariners. “We in the maritime industry understand the critical need for our cargo preference laws, particularly those that affect food aid, our loan guarantee programs and other nondefense cargoes,” said Tellez. “As Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom wind down after almost a decade, our industry needs to find cargo wherever it can, and we recognize we cannot continue to rely on the Pentagon for everything. Non-defense cargo is more important now than it has ever been.” Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (MTD) Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan was also on hand at the meeting expressing the department’s support for cargo preference laws. “The MTD firmly believes that the nation’s series of cargo preference laws is a bedrock of the U.S.-flag maritime industry,” said Duncan. “These laws have played a vital role in ensuring that America has a strong domestic shipbuilding base and merchant marine. Cargo preference laws help create good-paying jobs for American workers, provide tax revenues at the local, state, and federal levels, and make sure America’s merchant marine is ready and available when needed for strategic sealift and other defense November 2011 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 5 Standing left to right are MTD/SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (who also serves as president of the New York/New Jersey Port Maritime Council). used that announcement to reflect on how hectic life can be and to thank the spouses of those who work for unions. Those spouses understand the long hours spent away from family working not only on behalf of rankand-file members but all working families, he pointed out. Port Council President Joseph Soresi, who also serves as vice president of the SIU’s Atlantic Coast region, saluted the congressman as a longtime champion of the U.S.-flag interests.” The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) and the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots (MM&P) also jointly voiced their support for cargo preference laws and talked about the impact that they have on their respective memberships. “There should be no question that, in order to grow and maintain the U.S. Merchant Marine, U.S.-flagged vessels should be used to the greatest extent possible when shipping government-impelled cargoes,” said William Doyle of MEBA. “Rigorous enforcement and oversight of cargo preference laws enables MarAd to fulfill its mission. Without oversight and enforcement from MarAd, the presence of the U.S.-flag fleet in the foreign trades would cease to exist, leaving a glaring hole in our national defense capabilities SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and negatively impacting our economy.” Other speakers pointed out the economic importance the laws have on private shipowners and the costs that are deferred from the government because of them. Cargo preference laws, according to several presenters, provide an economically efficient was to bolster private industry and support jobs. “Virtually every privately owned U.S.-flag vessel engaged in the foreign trade depends to some degree on cargo preference to remain economically viable,” said Bill Kenwell of Maersk Line, Limited on behalf of USA Maritime, an industry group consisting of shipowners, operators, and Merchant Marine and all working families. Soresi presented the award to Rangel. Courtney Pecquex stood in for her father, who was unable to attend the dinner. She read the remarks Frank had planned to offer. In his introduction of Pecquex, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel noted Frank’s nearly 45 years of service to the MTD and SIU. Heindel said Pecquex’s “efforts behind the scenes have helped the lives of countless working families.” labor groups. “Indeed, absent cargo preference, it is no exaggeration at all to say that the U.S.-flag fleet in foreign commerce would disappear and the U.S. government would have to duplicate that sealift capability at enormous expense with government-owned vessels.” In spite of these facts, however, many in the room were disappointed with MarAd’s efforts to enforce cargo preference laws. Even with revisions made by Congress that would bolster the programs, the agency’s efforts are still seen as lacking. “If I had to sum up our feelings about MarAd’s performance when it comes to cargo preference matters in one word, that word would be frustration,” said Tellez, pointing to long vacancies in important MarAd positions and the lack of implementation of a three-year-old revision that punishes entities that don’t adhere to cargo preference rules. Richard Berkowitz of the Transportation Institute, another maritime industry group composed of multiple sectors, agreed. “Judging from the lengthy time it has taken to fill key management positions at MarAd related to cargo preference administration, it is difficult to believe that the administration’s role to ‘promote … the viability of the U.S. Merchant Marine’ is being taken with the earnestness and purpose needed to direct the government-impelled cargo so key to sustaining U.S. vessels in international trade lanes,” said Berkowitz. Liberty Maritime Corporation CEO Philip Shapiro sent a letter to MarAd to throw his company’s support behind USA Maritime’s statements but added that the agency could be doing more in regards to cargo preference. “Liberty Maritime would only like to add that it is imperative that the U.S. Maritime Administration place a high priority on cargo preference implementation and enforcement,” said Shapiro. “Congress has charged MarAd with ensuring that cargo preference achieves its objectives of supporting a strong and vibrant U.S.-flag Merchant Marine.” In spite of some complaints, the SIU and others at the meeting reinforced their eagerness to work with the administration. “The cargo preference laws work when they are properly enforced,” said Tellez. “They work when the resources needed to ensure that they’re being enforced are there. I am confident that MarAd can resolve these issues swiftly and I look forward to working with the agency in the future as we all strive to promot and protect our merchant marine.” Seafarers LOG 5 10/26/2011 12:15:58 PM �New Initiative Aims to Help Victims of Piracy A major program has been announced that aims to help mariners and their families around the world who have been victims of abuse at the hands of pirates. The initiative, dubbed the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program (MPHRP), is being supported by a wide variety of maritime industry groups including shipowners, operators, labor organizations and others. The SIU is backing the measure through the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). On Sept. 29, the organizations launching the MPHRP called a press conference to announce the formation of the program and to draw attention to the increasing human cost of piracy. Pirates have been abusing, torturing and threatening captured mariners at an alarming rate, the organizations pointed out. Pirates also sometimes keep crews captive for months at a time, with limited communication to their families and the outside world in general. This places a great emotional and financial burden on the families, who are often wracked with anxiety and fear about the wellbeing of their loved ones, the ITF and others reported. The formal announcement of the MPHRP, distributed by the ITF, said that due in part to potentially large ransoms, hijacking ships and taking crews hostage has turned into a low-risk, high-gain enterprise. Due to the large amounts of money involved, according to the MPHRP, competition has increased among pirates themselves and the stakes have been raised significantly to convince parties to pay the ransoms. This has led to an increase in the violence and barbarity by the pirates during the last few years. The program is quick to point out that many positive steps have been taken to confront piracy on the seas, but much more is needed to ensure the safety of seafarers travelling dangerous waters. “Despite numerous diplomatic, military and other initiatives by many governments and governmental agencies, particularly in the Indian Ocean, and the protective measures and other actions adopted by shipowners, ship managers and their representatives, ships are still regularly attacked and seafarers put at risk as they go about their legitimate business in international waters,” said MPHRP Chairman Dr. Peter Swift. “While acknowledging the actions of governments, the United Nations (UN) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the shipping industry has recognized that more needs to be done to support seafarers and their families.” The program is devoted to helping captured seafarers and their families in a variety of ways. With the help of a taskforce composed of experts from around the world, thorough investigations and interviews with victims, and an emphasis on anti-piracy training, the MHRHP hopes to become a major force for advocating on behalf of the often forgotten human cost of piracy. “Seafarers naturally play a pivotal role in any piracy incident and the appropriate preparations are integral to their wellbeing, as well as ultimately also to that of their families, and to the overall outcome of the incident,” said Swift. “Similarly, there is a need to ensure that the appropriate support is available to them and their families during and post any incident.” With that sentiment in mind, the program has begun developing a new system whose aim is to assist mariners who sail in potentially dangerous waters. These include a “good practice” guide for use by shipping companies, employers, and others who hire mariners that will provide the companies with strategies to help crews and their families through the crisis in three stages: before the workers head out to sea, during their capture, and after their release. The program also is calling for ready access to medical care (both mental and physical) upon a mariner’s release and will establish a 24-hour hotline for seafarers in crisis all around the world. “In our fact-finding interviews it be- Dr. Marion Gibson, a consultant to the initiative, says mariners are resilient but also are deserving of help. Dr. Peter Swift is heading up the new program. came evident that humanitarian support was needed before, during and after such incidents,” said Dr. Marion Gibson, a consultant to the program. “We recognize that seafarers and their families are a resilient group of people. We feel that training and information sharing pre-deployment could help to prepare for such incidents if they do occur. During an attack, pre-training in how to handle the psychological reactions which may be experienced in conditions of captivity could minimize some of the negative feelings for those involved. If companies and seafarers can give the families knowledge that a plan exists to support them ‘in the unlikely situation of a piracy attack’ this can help alleviate immediate fears of being ‘forgotten’ in the process.” The MPHRP is already making plans to expand upon its efforts and do more to help the victims of piracy. “The …program is not only a program which reacts to an incident, but it aims to prevent some of the negative results of such attacks through a health promotion approach involving pre-training and informed preparation prior to any attack happening,” said Gibson. “We will also conduct research into all the aspects of our work which will allow us to adapt the program as it develops and inform those who will be involved in the future.” The launch took place in London and was attended by members of the maritime community including Rear Admiral Hank Ort of NATO; Bishop Joseph Kalathiparambil, secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People; Cyrus Mody, International Maritime Bureau; Capt. Andy Winbow, assistant secretary-general of the IMO; Andrew Higgs, IUMI; Len Holder, Videotel; Janet Strode, IPTA; Suresh Idnani, IMHA; Jon Whitlow, ITF; Andy Buxton, ISAN; Tom Holmer, ITF Seafarers Trust; Rodger MacDonald, IFS; Pauline Marchand, IGP&I; Maarten Versluis, NATO; Stein Hagalid, NATO; Kostiantyn Billiar, Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the IMO; Angus Miller, FCO; Kuba Szymanski, InterManager; Cherian Oommen, SIGTTO; Suresh Idnani, IMHA; Hennie La Grange, ICMA; Martin Foley, ICMA/AoS; Rodger MacDonald, IFS; Lynda Brockbank, Hostage UK; Ake Selander, OUIS, and others. World Maritime Day Event in Port Arthur, Texas Highlights Problems of Piracy on the High Seas Continued from Page 4 or military personnel. “Seafarers should not be armed,” he stated. He also voiced concern that best practices call for a citadel or secure room where crew may escape from pirates boarding a vessel. Such a location is good if rescue is imminent, he noted, but what happens to the mariners if they are huddled in such a small space for several days? Another speaker, Capt. Derek McCann, said situations like the one mentioned by Quick can lead to anxiety and depression. These problems grow if the crew is captured and held for months at a time because they do not get resupplied with food and/or fuel, added the honorary chair of the Nautical Institute – Gulf Branch. McCann reiterated that the pirates’ actions are a criminal activity against the world. Father Sinclair Oubre, host for the event, showed video of crew members discussing their captivity with pirates holding Pictured from left to right are event host Fr. Sinclair Oubre, SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee and Port Agent Mike Russo. 6 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 6 rifles in the background. Oubre, who is president of the Apostleship of the Sea, USA and a member of the SIU, said people should “remember the mariners and their families. This is not just about the ship and cargo.” Offering insight into the fight against piracy was Stan Ayscue, whose company provides trained armed guards to merchant ships. He called on shipowners to study world affairs to see when and where protection is needed. He said mariners should be concerned when in areas that have seen piracy because it helps them focus and stay alert. Capt. Kudleep Singh of Gallagher Marine Systems equated a pirate attack as being “as frightening as a shark coming to you.” He stated mariners must drill and constantly be prepared because “if there are ships, there will be pirates.” Finally, Texas historian Larry Looney placed some perspective on Port Arthur hosting a conference on piracy. The privateer Jean Lafitte was known to have used ports in what is now southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana as safe harbors following the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. In Their Own Words Editor’s note: The following is testimony from various victims of piracy including family members and mariners themselves. The quotes were released along with the recent announcement of the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program. An Italian wife talks about what is happening to her family I haven’t heard from my husband now for seven months. The last time we spoke he told me about the diminution of food and water availability and depletion of fuel for air conditioners. Death threats to the hostages have increased. I have lost all faith in the institutions and the government officers. There are no longer any contacts between pirates and the Foreign Ministry. This makes me very much concerned and even agitated. What is life without any news? My great concern is that last time we spoke my husband told me about the threats of decapitation. An Indian third engineer recalls his experience We were hijacked for about six months. The pirate group (at times) was cooperative but sometimes they used to torture us. The engine room was unmanned and the crew cooperated to manage machineries. The pirates had once opened fire in air to scare the engine staff as they needed the air conditioning plant to get operational. They want the job to be carried out in a minute’s time which was not possible. Some crew were even tied up for few minutes as a way of showering their anger on innocent seafarers. A Ukrainian mariner tells of the pirates’ regime and punishments The pirates had a very strict chain of command and were well-organized. They had a strict system of punishments and penalties. They put a kind of a price list with punishments on the walls. The cheapest penalty started from U.S. $5,000. Once I saw two of the pirates fight with each other and one of their officers shot one dead and then tied up the other in a very uncomfortable position. Then he left the tied guy on the open deck for a few hours, next to killed one. An Indian father shares his story When we heard the news of our son’s vessel being hijacked, we were totally broken up and did not know whom to approach. The company initially was very optimistic of bringing back our son from the hands of pirates. It took eight long months for them to negotiate with those monsters. We ran from pillar to post, all related government agencies and unions were contacted and appealed to help us. But nothing worked out. It all ended when the company agreed to pay a huge ransom amount to the pirates. November 2011 10/26/2011 12:16:01 PM �General Fraser Takes Helm at TRANSCOM The United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) has a new commander. He is Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser III, former commander, Air Combat Command, with headquarters at Langley Air Force Base, Va., and Air Component Commander for U.S. Joint Forces Command. Fraser assumed his new duties during change of command ceremonies presided by Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta Oct. 14 at Headquarters, TRANSCOM, Scott AFB, Ill. He replaced Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, a staunch ally of the U.S. Merchant Marine, who had been at the TRANSCOM helm since September 2008. McNabb is slated to retire effective Nov. 30 following an Air Force career which has spanned some 37 years. Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was the first to speak during the ceremony and lauded the efforts of U.S. Transportation Command. “I can’t imagine what we did to integrate our transportation activities before there was a TRANSCOM,” said Dempsey. “I want to congratulate those former commanders … and thank the young men and women who have served and are serving in TRANSCOM, because we couldn’t be the armed forces we are without you. “The foundation of our profession is trust,” added Dempsey. “What you do for our armed forces enables that trust to occur.… We are the only military in the world that if we call for something … if we need something on the battlefield, we’re going to get it. And nine times out of 10, it will get there because of TRANSCOM.” In assuming his new command, General Fraser said, “TRANSCOM has earned a tremendous reputation of getting the job done, and I expect nothing short of your continued excellence.… I count myself among the very fortunate to serve with you. “These are challenging times, but this is also an amazing time to be a part of TRANSCOM because with challenges comes opportunity,” he continued, “and every individual in this command … has the opportunity to make a real difference. It’s not the planes, it’s not the trains, the ships or the trucks that make things happen … it is the people.” Fraser entered the Air Force in 1974 as a distinguished graduate of the Texas A&M University ROTC program. His operational assignments include duty as a T-37, B-52, B-1, and B-2 instructor pilot and evaluator. Fraser has commanded an operations group and two bomb wings. His staff duties include tours on the Air Staff, Joint Staff, and Joint Strategic Target Planning Staff at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. The general has also served as chief of the Nuclear Requirements Cell at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, chief of staff for U.S. Strategic Command, Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the 34th Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. Fraser has extensive wartime, contingency and humanitarian relief operational experience. During Operation Enduring Freedom he led an intelligence fusion organization that provided direct support to the warfighter. Panetta took the podium and acknowl- Gen. William M. Fraser III Gen. Duncan McNabb edged TRANSCOM’s accomplishments under Gen. McNabb’s command. “We take time today to honor the quiet service and immense contribution of all of the men and women of this command.... USTRANSCOM directs a truly extraordinary and unceasing effort to sustain our operations around the globe. [It’s] a logistics enterprise that I believe is unmatched in scale and unequal in effectiveness,” Panetta said. “Together with your components, you are the backbone of our military, the support structure upon which everything else hinges. Under General McNabb, this command has faced one of the most demanding periods in history,” Panetta added, “and it has excelled.” McNabb thanked those who served under his command. “You are indeed the lifeline of the force … sustaining our warfighters with the care and zeal only you can provide.” McNabb said. “We’ve rewritten strategic transportation history.” TRANSCOM, one of nine combatant commands, provides air, land and sea transportation, terminal management and aerial refueling to support the global deployment, employment, sustainment and redeployment of U.S. forces. Its components include the Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command and Air Force’s Air Mobility Command, Navy’s Military Sealift Command in Washington, D.C., and the Joint Enabling Capabilities Command, Norfolk, Va. Congressmen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Safeguard Jobs in U.S. Maritime Industry Working to create and preserve American jobs, Congressmen Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.) and Jeff Landry (R-La.) on Oct. 14 introduced the American Mariners Job Protection Act (H.R. 3202), a bill with bipartisan support that will increase government transparency surrounding the issuance of waivers allowing non-Jones Act-qualified vessels to carry cargo between U.S. ports. Under current law, when the head of the agency responsible for the administration of the Jones Act believes it necessary to waive the Act’s requirements in the interest of national defense, the agency must request the Maritime Administration to assess whether Jones Act-qualified vessels are available to carry the cargo under consideration. The American Mariners Job Protection Act would require the Maritime Administration to include in such assessments information on the actions that could be taken to enable Jones Act-qualified vessels to carry the cargo for which the Jones Act waiver is sought. The Maritime Administration would also be required to publish its determinations on its website. Further, the American Mariners Job Protection Act would require notification to be provided to Congress when a waiver is requested or issued. “Our first priority in this Congress is to create and preserve jobs for Americans,” said Cummings. “This Act will increase transparency to strengthen adherence to the Jones Act and ensure we make full use of American maritime capabilities. I want to make certain that every Jones Act-qualified ship that can carry cargo is full and that every American mariner who is ready to earn a good day’s wage for a good day’s work is able to do so. This bill will do that. I thank Congressman Landry and other members on both sides of the aisle for working with me, and I hope this common-sense solution will be quickly considered and enacted.” Landry, whose district has the most domestic maritime industry jobs in the nation and transports much of the nation’s energy-based resources, is hopeful the bipartisan support of the legislation will mean prompt passage and put Americans back to work. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 7 “American mariners are the most qualified and safest workers in the world; we must ensure that they are being fully utilized,” he said. “I know the American Mariners Job Protection Act will give Americans much-desired government transparency and ensure that the American mariner is always the first option. I thank Congressman Cummings for his leadership on this issue and look forward to working with him in getting this bill passed.” Cummings and Landry introduced the American Mariners Job Protection Act following the issuance of Jones Act waivers to allow foreign vessels and foreign workers to transport petroleum products recently released from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Even though the legislation was just introduced, it already has strong support, including from the SIU. “The Seafarers International Union strongly supports all Congressional efforts to increase transparency, particularly when it comes to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. We are pleased to support the bipartisan legislation introduced today by Congressmen Cummings and Landry and hope that Congress acts promptly to resolve this issue,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. The American Waterways Operators (AWO) – the national trade association for the tugboat, towboat and barge industry – praised the initiative. AWO President & CEO Thomas Allegretti said, “The 46 waivers to the Jones Act granted this summer – more than any in the history of our nation – shows us that this legislation is necessary to tighten up the national security requirements for waivers and to improve transparency in the waiver process. The industry, and the men and women who depend on it for their jobs, salute Congressmen Cummings and Landry for their leadership on this critical issue.” The other original co-sponsors of H.R. 3202 include Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.), Rep. Candice Miller (R-Mich.), Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Rep. Corrine Brown (DFla.), Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.), and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash). Maritime Briefs Crowley Recognized for Safety Crowley Maritime, an SIU-contracted company, was honored by the San Pedro, Calif., Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 4 for its environmental efforts. The company recently repowered the main engines and generators of its harbor tugs, the SIUcrewed Admiral, Leader, Scout, and Master to improve their emissions and energy efficiency. These improvements were made ahead of schedule. The advances resulted in major decreases in emissions from the boats, helping the environment both at sea and ashore. Historic Cargo Delivered The SIU-crewed Alliance Beaumont delivered an historically significant piece of cargo last August. The vessel delivered the last M1A1 Abrams tank for use by the Iraqi military to the port of Umm Qasr, Iraq. The Iraqi government ordered 140 American-made Abrams tanks in order to help modernize their military and increase their security. The delivery made by the Alliance Beaumont marked the completion of the sale. The vessel is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Federation Stands Up for Jobs In response to austerity measures brought on by the Greek financial crisis, mariners in that country have organized a variety of measures that will attempt to fight back against government attacks on seafarers’ pensions, job security, and pay. The Pan-Hellenic Seamen’s Federation, which is associated with the SIU through the International Transport Workers’ Federation, organized two-day strikes that were set to start in midOctober. In addition to standing up for rank-and-file jobs, the union is also demanding that national shipowners reenter collective bargaining agreements. AMMV Chapter Meets in Ft. Lauderdale The Gulfstream Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans conducts its monthly meeting on the third Saturday of each month, excluding July and August. The meetings take place at the SIU hall at 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. at 1 p.m. The meetings are open to the Naval Armed Guard as well as all merchant mariners. New members are always welcome. For more information, call 954-720-1613. Seafarers LOG 7 10/24/2011 12:59:03 PM �SHBP Announces 2012 Scholarship Program 15 Seafarers, 45 Dependents Claim Previous Awards Totaling in Excess of $1 Million Seafarers and dependents who are interested in furthering their education but need financial assistance should explore the scholarship opportunities being offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP each year offers scholarships to qualified Seafarers and dependents who are hoping to continue their education. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers and five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears below and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria to determine if they are eligible to participate. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2012. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2012. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t allow the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals—the SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has for years made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last eight years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 15 Seafarers and 45 dependents. A breakdown of these awards (by year) is as follows: ■ 2011 - Three active Seafarers and five dependents shared grants totaling $132,000. Seafarers designated to receive these awards were: AB Cleveland Foy, AB Timothy Squire Jr., and AB Judith Merwin. Dependents claiming scholarships included: Randi Isenhart, daughter of Inland Captain Randy Isenhart; Nermine Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abadelwahab; Hailey Grubbs, daughter of Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs; Allison Matias, daughter of Chief Cook Efren Matias; and Gabrielle Camacho, daughter of AB Noel Camacho. ■ 2010 - $146,000 in scholarships was awarded under the SHBP’s 2010 scholarship program. Recipients included Recertified Bosun Lon Oliver; Robert Firme, son of Steward Roberto A. Firme; Alisha Wood, daughter of AB Wilbert E. Wood; Margot O’Meara, daughter of retired Inland Master James O’Meara; Eizie Giray, daughter of deep sea Bosun Rufino J. Giray; Jacob Miller, son of retired Chief Engineer Marlin Miller; Sime Masnov, son of Chief Engineer Marijan Masnov; and Molly Johnson, daughter of the late Bosun Michael Johnson. Please send me the 2012 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.............................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address............................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code.................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ........................................................................................................................................... This application is for: Mail this completed form to: ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Union Plus Offers Financial Aid to College-Bound Union Members, Dependents Applications for the 2012 Union Plus Scholarship Program are now being accepted, according to officials at Union Privilege. One-time cash awards, the scholarships range in amounts from $500 to $4,000 and will be awarded to union members, their spouses and dependents who plan to pursue higher education degrees beginning in the fall of 2012. In total, $150,000 in scholarships will be provided. Eligibility criteria ■ Because the SIU participates in Union Plus, current and retired union members, their spouses and their dependent children (including foster children, stepchildren, and any other child for whom the individual member provides greater than 50 8 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 8 percent of his or her support) can apply for a Union Plus Scholarship. Grandchildren are not eligible unless a legal dependent (as defined by IRS regulations). Participating union members from the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada are eligible to participate. ■ Members do not have to purchase any Union Plus program product or participate in any Union Plus programs to apply for the scholarships, and scholarship awards are not based upon participation in a Union Plus program. ■ At least one year of continuous union membership by the applicant, applicant’s spouse or parent (if applicant is a dependent) is required in order to participate. The one year membership minimum must be satisfied by May 31, 2012. ■ This is a competitive scholarship. Applicants will be evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended. ■ The applicant must be accepted into a U.S. accredited college or university, community college, technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Awards must be used for the 2012 - 2013 school year. ■ Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. ■ 2009 – Two Seafarers and six dependents were awarded $132,000 in scholarships. Claiming these grants were: Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired Deep Sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland AB-Tankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. ■ 2008 – Scholarships totaling $140,000 awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. ■ 2007 – $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. ■ 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. ■ 2005 –Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were 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. ■ 2004 – Six individuals—one active Seafarer and five dependents—shared $106,000 in scholarship awards. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gibson, son of James O. Gibson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys I. Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. To receive consideration for these scholarships, an applicant must complete and submit an application package This year’s application is entirely online which allows prospective students to complete their applications over time and save their responses. Those interested in applying should visit www.unionplus.org/education. All packages must be received by Union Plus on or before 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time) Jan. 31, 2012. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered. All applications will be judged by a committee of impartial post-secondary educators. This committee will determine recipients of scholarship awards by May 31, 2012. During the first two weeks of June 2012 award recipients will be individually notified by mail, and all applicants will be sent an email with notification that the award list is posted at UnionPlus.org/ Scholarships. Due to the volume of applications, Union Plus cannot provide any information on the status of an application before award announcements are made. The Union Plus Scholarship Program since 1992 has awarded in excess of $3.2 million to students of union families. More than 2,100 union families have benefited from Union Plus’ commitment to higher education. November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:04 PM �Ohioans Register Win For Working Families Coalition of Supporters Get Repeal of SB 5 on November Ballot Supporters of working families who oppose the highly controversial Ohio Collective Bargaining Bill – Senate Bill 5 or SB 5 – have achieved their goal of protecting workers’ rights by putting a referendum on the November ballot to have the measure repealed. Led by the organization We Are Ohio, teachers, firefighters, and unions in Ohio – including members of officials from the Seafarers-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) – in April united forces and launched a drive to collect signatures to place the measure before voters in the November elections. A minimum of 1,000 Ohio voter signatures were required before official petition language could be approved and circulated. After that, backers of collective bargaining rights needed to collect more than 231,000 additional signatures by a July deadline to get the referendum on the November ballot. Both requirements were met and a referendum on the contentious law officially has been certified for the November ballot, with several hundred thousand valid signatures to spare. Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted’s office in mid-July certified as valid 915,456 of the nearly 1.3 million signatures collected by We Are Ohio. The group only was required to have at least 231,149 valid signatures, though certain thresholds had to be met in half of the state’s 88 counties. Now that the measure has been certified as a referendum item, there is another situation that voters should know about, according to We Are Ohio: The law will no longer be known as SB 5 nor will it be called that on the November ballot. According to the organization, SB 5 is now “Issue 2,” and that is how it will appear. When Governor Kasich signed Senate Bill 5 into law, the fight to get it off the ballot turned into the fight not against Senate Bill 5, but State Issue Two, the organization said. “We Are Ohio is pleased that Ohio Sec- retary of State Husted and the Ohio Ballot Board chose to follow the Ohio constitution and legal precedent by making a ‘no’ vote on Issue 2 a vote to repeal SB 5,” said Melissa Fazekas, spokeswoman for We Are Ohio. “While our opposition may try to play political tricks to confuse voters, [the] decision by the Ohio Ballot Board will make that harder. Now that another hurdle has been cleared, We Are Ohio is focused on making sure our more than 1.3 million supporters know to vote ‘no’ on Issue 2 in November.” “A no vote on Issue 2 will completely erase SB 5 from the books,” said UIW Vice President Great Lakes Bob Love. “So I challenge our union brothers and sisters to keep working hard to get the message out that if this bill remains on the books all of us will suffer. Hopefully our actions here in Ohio will shed light on the fact that all governors who are out to break unions really have only one agenda: to balance their budgets on the backs of middle class workers.” Signed into law March 31, SB 5 limits collective bargaining for public employee unions. That means police officers, firefighters, teachers, and other state employees cannot negotiate for their wages, though they can still bargain for some benefits such as health care and pensions. As written, SB 5 was slated to take effect July 1. However, the statewide campaign to repeal the bill means that it has been suspended until after the Nov. 8 election. As of June 30, 2010, approximately 102,000 Ohio local government and 196,000 school district employees were covered under collective bargaining contracts. Of the 112,800 persons employed by institutions of higher education in the state, approximately 19,500 are represented by unions. SIU Submits Comments on STCW Convention to DOT Continued from Page 2 Train the Trainer will also need to be rewritten to correspond with the changes. Therefore, we request guidance of the course submission components because the new language introduced leaves much room for interpretation and request clarification on the following points: (Editor’s note: The comments go on to list seven areas including performance objectives, instructor information and more.) Further, we would like to point out a number of items which should be included in Section 10.402, as follows: the new NMC mandated course codes; the course scope, objective, prerequisites, textbooks and homework assignments; how grades are determined; test questions, if used; how records are kept; and, instructor’s manual. Specific tabs should be established for those listed items; they should be removed from the teaching syllabus; the course outline; and, instructor resumes. ■ Onboard Assessments: We are concerned about verifying onboard assessments conducted outside of an approved program, especially when we do not know the assessor. What measures will be in place to verify that student assessments conducted on board were done, done correctly, and documented properly in satisfying prerequisites for mariners who did not come through our approved programs? Our fear is that we might need to reassess students who come to us with onboard assessments that we cannot verify. We recommend that the National Maritime Center qualify assessors for onboard assessment, perhaps with an endorsement on their license or MMC, or by a letter qualifying them as Designated Examiners used in onboard towing assessments. Further, instructors under a course approval who are qualified as assessors should be able to conduct skills assessments onboard a vessel or school ship. We also notice that onboard assessments for STCW Elementary First Aid are not equal for officers and ratings. We believe that this is an oversight on the part of the Coast Guard and should be addressed. Additionally, we would like to November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 9 request that instructors who teach Coast Guard-approved courses should be able to self-certify on those courses that they teach when those courses are required for license renewal. For instance, a First Aid/ CPR instructor could self-certify on First Aid/CPR; a Water Survival Instructor could self-certify on Water Survival, etc. ■ Basic Safety Training – Documentation: We are concerned that the Coast Guard will be unable to track sea service dates that have a bearing on whether a mariner will meet certain qualifications criteria. We feel that implementation of the new regulations will put a huge burden on the National Maritime Center that will require rigorous evaluator training and strict oversight. ■ Requirements to Qualify for an STCW Endorsement as Able Seafarer-Deck – A Gap between Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) and Able SeafarerDeck: We believe that there will be a glut of mariners sailing internationally as RFPNW if they are not restricted to lookout duties until they become able seamen-special per the Code of Federal Regulations. While the RFPNW earns sea time and satisfies the requirements of A/ II-5 of the Code, the path to able seamanspecial remains balanced if the restriction remains in place. Under the 1995 amended Convention, the SIU-affiliated SHLSS created an eleven-month program from entry to AB-Special to meet the RFPNW/Able Seaman-Special training and assessment requirements. Most of the competencies of A/II-5 are accomplished in this program. This existing program can be modified to allow competencies for Able Seafarer-Deck to be added if the National Maritime Center will continue to grant sea service credit. Therefore, we recommend that the NMC grant sea service credit and actual sea service time to mariners who are enrolled in an approved program and who have completed all other requirements of Able SeafarerDeck and are otherwise qualified for the endorsement. ■ Certification of Tankerman: We would like to bring to your attention inconsistencies in the tanker cargo operations provisions, 13.603 and 13.605 and the tankerman PIC requirements in 13.201 and 13.203. The supplemental notice includes no sea service requirement for basic or advanced oil cargo operations as indicated in the STCW. Further, topics 13.603 and 13.605 should be modified to contain specific sea service and training requirements to obtain the advanced tanker STCW endorsements. These should acknowledge and include service aboard barges with appropriate equipment so that service aboard such vessels allows for obtaining the onboard training and assessments to meet Regulation V/1 of the Convention. Finally, it is our belief that a combination of sea service, shipboard experience, and classroom training should be used as a qualification standard for tankermen on modern tank ships and barges. ■ Engineer Officer Endorsements -- License and STCW Endorsement Pathway: We believe that the proposed changes in the engineering training requirements in the supplemental notice represent a significant improvement over the notice of proposed rulemaking. However, we believe additional changes are needed to ensure an engineering career path that meets the twin goals of safety and practicality. We recommend the following additional changes to further modify the proposed requirements: ‡ Remove route restrictions from engineering licenses. An engineer seeking to sail on an international or ocean voyage will require an STCW endorsement. We believe that the need to obtain an STCW endorsement creates a route restriction. ‡ Eliminate the Chief Engineer Limited-Near Coastal license and replace it with a Chief Engineer Limited license limited to vessels less than 1600 GRT, unlimited horsepower. Consistent with the corresponding service requirements for deck licenses, we recommend that the service time required for a Chief Engineer Limited license also be reduced from five years to four years. There are many unlicensed engineers and limited scope licensed engineers who perform duties and have responsibility as engineer aboard vessels sailing internationally. We recommend grandfather provisions upon proof of sea service. We feel that these mariners should be granted a limited-scope license and an STCW endorsement that allows them to continue to serve in the capacity in which they have sailed. This limitation could be restricted to a specific type of vessel, tonnage, and/or equipment the Coast Guard finds appropriate, but it is crucial that these qualified mariners are able to continue sailing. ‡ Allow direct crossover from lower level to upper level licenses where appropriate, including a new crossover from Chief Engineer Limited to First Assistant Engineer Unlimited. ‡ Provide a direct crossover from Third Assistant Engineer to DDEUnlimited horsepower and Assistant Engineer Limited to vessels under 1600 GRT, and from Second Assistant Engineer to Chief Engineer Limited to vessels under 1600 GRT. Tellez then noted that both the SIU and the Paul Hall Center “applaud the Coast Guard for undertaking this challenging and complicated issue and compliment the agency for their work at the International Maritime Organization in amending the STCW Convention. Since the United States is a signatory to the Convention and a prime mover for its acceptance worldwide, we are cognizant that the agency is under a great deal of pressure to fully finalize the implementation of the STCW by its effective date next year. However, we must caution the agency to take its time in this endeavor and get it right so that mariners will not be negatively impacted. Therefore, before publishing a final rule, we ask that stakeholders be given additional time to comment on the proposal.” Seafarers LOG 9 10/24/2011 12:59:04 PM �WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Two longtime Seafarers recently picked up their first pension checks in Norfolk, Va. In photo above, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (right) congratulates new pensioner Donald Hood, who sailed for 42 years, most recently as an AB. Pictured in the photo at left is John Cooper, who retired after 44 years, including recent trips as a GUDE. BOOK PRESENTATION IN JACKSONVILLE – During the September membership meeting in Jacksonville, Fla., SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) presents a B-book to AB Larry Byrd. At Sea And Ashore With the SIU ABOARD HORIZON TRADER – Bosun Antonio Mercado (left) is shown during a recent voyage aboard the Horizon Trader. After 40plus years with the union, the bosun is planning to retire. SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, who emailed this photo to the LOG, thanked Mercado for a job well done and wishes him well in retirement. ABOARD APL PRESIDENT ADAMS – SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (left) and Patrolman Mark R. von Siegel (right) on Sept. 19 met with Seafarers aboard the APL President Adams in Staten Island, N.Y. The Seafarers in this photo are (from left, starting second from left) Chief Cook Erni Lizada, ACU Saeed Alahmadi and Recertified Steward William Churney. READY TO SAIL – Unlicensed Apprentice Do Luong is all business as he completes paperwork just prior to joining his first vessel – a Crowley tugboat in Jacksonville, Fla. CRESCENT BOATMEN IN SAVANNAH – Patrolman Brian Guiry in early September met with SIU boatmen in Savannah, Ga. The Seafarers are employed by Crescent Towing, which recently relocated its offices on Hutchinson Island. Pictured from left to right in photo at left are Justin Taylor, Doug Lewis and Ben Murphy. The photo at right includes Murphy (right) and Randy Sikes. 10 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 10 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:10 PM �Recollections from the Murmansk Run Editor’s note: Last month’s Seafarers LOG contained the first installment of an occasional series written by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out at age 16, during World War II. LOG readers were introduced to Woods’ writing a little more than a year ago; he shared a separate story that was published off and on from September 2010 to July 2011. “Recollections from the Murmansk Run” is a combination of Woods relaying the accounts of an old shipmate and filling in the blanks “with what I think could have taken place, based on my own wartime experiences at sea. For this reason, I call this narrative a non-fiction novel.” The names of the main character and his vessels are fictional. The World War II convoys to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel were dangerous and often deadly. Dozens of American-flag ships were sunk on the Murmansk Run, including many SIUcrewed vessels. Last month’s installment ended with the ship Pine Hill under attack in the North Atlantic, four days into its voyage as part of a convoy in late December 1943. It bothered me that while under attack we couldn’t shoot back, without permission from the convoy commodore. I learned that fighting an unseen enemy while part of a convoy was routine. The only time you could get a look at a UBoat was if it surfaced, its crew believing it had the advantage and could use its deck guns. A U-Boat would only come up if you were sailing alone without escorts. Ed Saunders, the engine room cadet, told me that a cadet from the King’s Point maritime academy was killed and went down with his ship after sinking a German raider off the west coast of Africa. The raider had fatally damaged the cadet’s ship and came close by to finish it off believing that the fight was over. The cadet, although badly wounded, was able to fire the 3” 50, hit the raider dead on and caused an explosion that sank it. Only a few members of the crew from the cadet’s ship lived to report the boy’s act of heroism. The noise and vibrations of the depth charges continued throughout the night. A destroyer passed in front of our bow and shortly after, a Canadian Corvette followed in its wake. The two war ships were dropping depth charges and the noise and vibrations were startling. There was no sleep that night. In the morning, when things had quieted down, all dayworkers were told to get some sleep and be on standby. Later, as we neared Iceland, we saw planes in the sky and hoped the planes would keep away the U-Boats. The rumor was that the day before, we had passed through a field of German U-Boats – an infamous Wolf Pack. The subject of a “magic box” was also discussed. What was it that the commodore used to keep the ships in an orderly grid? It was known that our Navy escorts also had the so-called magic boxes that could see in the dark and in the distance. None of us, including the Navy gunners, knew how the boxes worked. It wasn’t until many months later that we heard about radar. I eventually went through the entire war on ships without radar or sonar. My deck officers relied on their own navigational skills, using charts, sextants and good old dead reckoning. The second mate, Mr. Hale, who was the assigned navigator aboard ship, was a real gentleman and very friendly. When he was off duty, he would come aft to the poop deck and tell us about his past experiences and, more importantly, tell us the latest news. The ship was always full of rumors, but whatever the second mate November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 11 This photo was taken Sept. 3, 2011 in Murmansk, Russia. It shows U.S. Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Carr placing flowers at the graves of American Merchant Mariners who died supporting the Arctic convoys of World War II. The Carr is on a three-month deployment supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeff Troutman) told me, I believed. He was that type of person. As we passed Iceland and neared Ireland, I noticed that about half of the ships in our convoy had disappeared. Mr. Hale told us that the freighters in our convoy were on their way to Murmansk, Russia. Our ship would continue south towards England. Our oil and planes were needed there. Russia needed other war material: tanks and ammunition, but not oil. England needed fuel for the fighter planes to fight the German bombers and for the ships and small craft that would be used in the eventual invasion of mainland Europe. Some of the older men tried to learn the names of the two ships that had been torpedoed and if any survivors had been picked up. I guess all of us thought that it could have been our ship: torpedoed and now down in the depths of the cold North Atlantic Ocean. I quietly gave thanks to God for sparing me and the Pine Hill. On our ninth day at sea, we entered the North Channel between Ireland and Scotland. We were pleased to see British destroyers waiting to escort us through the Irish Sea. We anchored off Belfast, Northern Ireland, for the night and then the next day crossed over to Liverpool, England. Liverpool had been ruthlessly bombed by the German Luftwaffe, many of its beautiful old buildings destroyed. As a safety precaution, many young children had been sent to the rural countryside to live outside the metropolitan area where there were fewer targets for the German air force. Other kids had been sent to the United States and Canada. The city of Liverpool was alive with American military personnel on leave from the many camps that surrounded the city. There was talk in the pubs, mostly rumors, of a coming invasion of northern Europe. The United States and its allies were already in Italy pushing the Germans north with heavy causalities on both sides. Larry and I received permission to stay ashore overnight and, after making a tour of Liverpool and strolling down notorious Lime Street, we took a train to London. The damage and devastation I had witnessed in Liverpool was minor compared to what the German Luftwaffe had inflicted on London. I was pleasantly surprised, though, to see the Londoners going about their daily routines in spite of the formidable damage to their homes. They referred to their stance as “keeping a stiff upper lip.” Many of the pre-war attractions (museums and churches) were closed or, if opened, offered limited entry. We were, however, permitted to climb the stairs leading to the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral and thereby have an impressive view of the city. Unfortunately, we could also see heavy smoke rising in the nearby distance. A guide told us the smoke was coming from the docks along the Thames. The area had been bombed numerous times and many of the old docks and warehouses set afire, some as recently as the night before. We then had to hurry along to the railroad station to catch the evening express train back to Liverpool. We knew it wouldn’t be in our best interest to be late for duty following our first overnight shore leave. Late that evening, as our train was arriving at Liverpool Station, the city was once again under a bombing attack. We were directed to an air-raid shelter beneath the railroad platforms where we stayed until daylight, when the all-clear alarm was sounded. The buses and trams were not operating and we had to walk to the area on the Mersey River where the Pine Hill was at dock. On the way, we were stopped numerous times by local rescue groups and asked to help move debris off collapsed buildings. It was expected there were people still alive buried beneath the rubble. We did what we could and then hurried along. Upon our arrival at the docks, we were shocked to learn that the Pine Hill had suffered a direct hit from a bomb and was on fire. There were a number of fireboats and tugs alongside, pumping river water into the holds and tanks. A man who appeared to be in charge was yelling and telling the boats to stop pouring water into the ship. “You’ll sink her right here where she sits. Better to let the fire burn itself out.” The official proved to be correct. The Pine Hill’s tanks had been emptied and only fumes remained to burn. The fire sent black smoke into the sky all along the river and into the city center. My immediate supervisor, the first assistant engineer, spotted Larry and me standing by and came over to tell us that arrangements were being made for the entire Pine Hill crew to stay at a local seamen’s club. He gave us the address and told us to report there for further instructions, as there was nothing more to be done here at the pier. We had lost all of our personal gear in the fire and would need clothing and other personal items. We stopped at a local food shop on the way to the club, as we had missed breakfast. We ordered coffee and small cakes that were sitting on the open counter. The coffee proved to be all chicory and the cake was as hard as nails. Larry made an unfavorable remark about the coffee and cakes to the waitress, who quickly reminded us that it was wartime. “I can see the two of you are a couple of young Yanks and I appreciate you coming over here to help us fight the Huns but please remember, we have but little to offer.” I apologized for the two of us and we continued on our way. When we arrived at the seamen’s club and showed our identification, we were told we couldn’t stay there as we were under 18. We would need to go the Angel Street Club for young seamen. The clerk said he would inform our ship’s officers of our whereabouts. I couldn’t believe my ears. Here we were, miles from home in a war zone, delivering war supplies and being told we were too young to stay at a Continued on Page 20 Seafarers LOG 11 10/24/2011 12:59:10 PM �Barbara Shailor Special Representative International Labor Affairs U.S. Department of State Alison McGarry ITF Women’s Coordinator Paul Hall Center Ho Michael Sacco SIU President ‘Landmark’ Event Focuses The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education hosted dozens of maritime union women leaders from across the globe Sept. 25-30. The attendees travelled to Piney Point, Md., to participate in the International Transport Workers’ Federation Women’s Conference on Leadership, Strategy and Organizing. The ITF described the meeting as “a landmark conference” featuring 37 David Heindel SIU Sec.-Treasurer and Chair, ITF Seafarers’ Section participants from 25 countries Bernard, executive director of Law School (who helped orga International Affairs Director President Jacqueline Smith; an national Labor Affairs, U.S. S and Secretary-Treasurer David the ITF) also addressed the gro SIU participants included P Hazel Galbisco and Tracey M Section. Karen Horton-Genne tertainment and Allied Trades According to the ITF, the c the opportunity to share exper ther strengthen their unions an Smith stated, “The maritim ing members and losing jobs. our unions and our leaders to c The gathering concluded w to develop practical union acti maritime workers,” the ITF no Alison McGarry, ITF Wom veloped strategic plans – all o union power and securing mor Attendees from 25 countries meet at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Conference attendees and others are pictured near the meeting room. 12 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 12 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:14 PM �Dr. Elaine Bernard Executive Director Labor and Worklife Program Harvard Law School Jacqueline Smith President Norwegian Seafarers Union Cathy Feingold AFL-CIO International Affairs Director osts ITF Women’s Conference es on Leadership, Strategy, Organizing ntries. Among the featured speakers were Dr. Elaine or of the Labor and Worklife Program at Harvard organize and co-sponsored the event); AFL-CIO ctor Cathy Feingold; Norwegian Seafarers Union th; and Barbara Shailor, special representative, Inter.S. State Department. SIU President Michael Sacco David Heindel (who chairs the Seafarers’ Section of he group as the conference got started. ded Port Agents Elizabeth Brown, Becky Sleeper, ey Mayhew, who also serves on the ITF’s Fisheries ennette represented the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Enades Union. the conference “provided maritime women leaders xperiences and tactics and strategize on how to furns and build women leaders.” ritime industry is moving and changing. We’re losobs. We need to move and change and better equip s to cope with the times. We need dynamic unions.” ed with attendees “using strategic planning tools n action plans to tackle the challenges confronting TF noted. Women’s Coordinator, commented, “The women deall of which are ultimately contributing to building g more wins for all workers, men and women.” Elizabeth Brown SIU Port Agent Karen Horton-Gennette, SEATU Asst. VP (left), and Becky Sleeper, SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso SIU Port Agent November 2011 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 13 Tracey Mayhew SIU Port Agent Seafarers LOG 13 10/26/2011 12:16:07 PM �14 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log_X.indd 14 November 2011 10/26/2011 12:16:11 PM �Federal Benefits ‘Open Season’ Ends Dec. 12 This year, the federal benefits “open season” runs from Nov. 14 through Dec. 12. During open season, CIVMARS may review their respective health benefit plan options and select a health plan that meets their specific needs and the needs of their families. The Seafarers International Union strongly encourages all CIVMARS to review health care plan options very carefully. For instance, selecting a plan that provides health care coverage for accidents or illness which may occur outside the United States is very important for all CIVMARS who sail aboard vessels forward-deployed. Currently, the union is negotiating with the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) to ensure that CIVMARS who become injured or ill abroad will receive prompt treatment in medical facilities which offer care similar to the level of care offered by physicians and hospitals located in the United States. Health care treatment for CIVMARS who become ill or injured while in the service of a vessel abroad is a very complicated issue, according to a spokesperson for the SIU’s Government Services Division. Along with MSC, the Department of Labor-Workman’s Compensation Division and other governmental agency regulations play a part in determining how CIVMARS will receive treatment and how payments for health care services abroad may be made. The SIU will be sending out additional information to CIVMARS as negotiations progress and once negotiations are completed. While not every hospital abroad takes private health insurance, enrolling in a government-sponsored health care plan with overseas coverage may help expedite care in the event a CIVMAR needs emergency medical treatment. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management website -- http:// www.opm.gov/insure/index.aspx -- in part is designed to help CIVMARS understand health plan coverage options. Each health plan also has its own website that may be reviewed. Other websites which are potentially useful to CIVMARS and their family members in comparing plans and analyzing coverage include Consumer Checkbook (www.checkbook.org) and Plan Smart Choice (www.plansmartchoice.com). CIVMARS who have additional questions are encouraged to call their union representative or email civmarsupport@seafarers.org. Personal Glen Hutton, who was an active SIU member from 1976 to 1985, would love to hear from former shipmates and school buddies. He is on Facebook and resides at 8615 Woodbrook Lane, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. December 2011 & January 2012 Membership Meetings Piney Point......................Monday: December 5, January 2 Algonac..............................Friday: December 9, January 6 Baltimore.......................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Guam.........................Thursday: December 22, January 19 Honolulu........................Friday: December 16, January 13 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2011 - October 15, 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C 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 12 0 5 10 5 13 41 27 5 11 20 40 16 24 4 2 2 40 2 22 301 10 3 6 12 6 5 18 27 2 2 5 24 23 13 3 3 5 17 0 28 212 Total Shipped All Groups A B Deck Department 4 13 8 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 11 4 0 1 2 3 6 3 3 47 17 3 25 15 1 7 6 2 6 1 0 18 0 1 41 19 5 11 13 1 24 10 1 4 1 0 2 0 0 6 3 3 23 7 0 0 3 5 19 15 34 266 128 2 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 16 4 0 3 8 0 1 14 15 1 2 2 26 5 12 0 0 1 8 0 13 115 18 2 9 25 7 13 85 54 3 20 24 79 31 48 8 1 14 58 4 48 551 14 5 11 22 7 9 30 50 2 12 10 32 37 21 8 5 9 29 1 56 370 3 0 1 1 1 4 10 7 1 1 1 5 7 0 1 0 1 9 0 5 58 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 3 1 5 7 5 6 12 12 3 4 6 12 6 11 4 2 3 9 1 4 116 6 0 3 8 0 0 11 23 1 2 2 12 17 11 5 6 6 10 2 12 137 Engine Department 1 4 4 0 1 0 0 4 1 0 6 6 0 2 0 0 4 2 3 13 5 1 15 16 0 5 4 0 7 1 0 4 2 1 10 11 1 3 10 0 11 9 0 4 1 0 4 2 0 2 3 0 11 6 1 0 2 1 9 5 9 119 90 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 2 3 0 0 3 6 1 4 0 5 2 5 0 1 1 7 0 10 51 3 1 5 12 5 16 27 35 2 11 9 20 19 15 4 1 6 21 2 13 227 3 0 9 7 0 2 24 46 3 3 2 18 33 16 5 5 9 17 4 21 227 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 9 21 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 0 3 4 1 12 21 12 0 6 3 20 11 15 4 0 1 18 1 28 161 4 0 2 2 3 0 5 7 1 2 1 2 14 5 0 2 2 7 0 5 64 Steward Department 0 2 4 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 7 1 0 0 0 1 7 0 0 16 5 0 13 6 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 3 1 0 14 1 0 9 7 1 14 2 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 14 2 0 0 1 0 15 3 2 124 38 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 2 0 1 4 7 0 0 0 1 4 4 0 0 0 3 0 5 32 4 0 5 11 4 19 31 35 1 11 10 39 15 30 3 1 2 30 3 44 298 4 0 2 7 5 0 11 7 0 6 2 6 17 9 0 0 2 11 2 7 98 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 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 0 1 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 2 4 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 10 33 15 2 3 5 2 7 12 16 2 6 6 30 22 18 3 12 1 12 2 17 193 Entry Department 16 2 15 0 0 2 4 1 6 6 0 2 0 0 3 4 3 2 4 3 9 13 2 9 1 1 1 2 0 2 5 0 3 2 4 17 18 0 17 4 5 15 4 0 1 8 0 15 0 0 0 3 2 12 1 0 1 5 3 7 100 26 139 7 0 2 0 0 4 0 2 1 0 0 7 9 8 1 9 1 2 0 6 59 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 7 1 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 18 4 0 0 0 0 6 5 6 0 1 3 11 1 5 0 0 1 11 1 9 64 12 3 7 18 3 13 30 41 2 10 3 55 38 29 2 5 2 21 2 49 345 26 1 2 10 1 4 12 22 4 5 7 17 41 20 4 1 0 8 1 30 216 GRAND TOTAL 611 606 145 80 216 1,140 1,040 303 Houston..........................Monday: December 12, January 9 Jacksonville...................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Joliet..........................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Mobile....................Wednesday: December 14, January 11 New Orleans...................Tuesday: December 13, January 10 New York........................Tuesday: December 6, January 3 Norfolk..........................Thursday: December 8, January 5 Oakland.....................Thursday: December 15, January 12 Philadelphia...............Wednesday: December 7, January 4 Port Everglades.........Thursday: December 15, January 12 San Juan........................Thursday: December 8, January 5 St. Louis.........................Friday: December 16, January 13 Tacoma..........................Friday: December 23, January 20 535 395 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Wilmington....................Monday: December 19, January 16 November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 15 Seafarers LOG 15 10/24/2011 12:59:20 PM �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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 Inquiring Seafarer Editor’s note: This month’s question was posed to individuals who are taking upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What are your views on the state of the economy and how has it affected you? Thomas Miller GUDE Our economy is not in good shape right now. I think that we are all going to have to pull together to defeat forces that want to tear down the economy even more. If we don’t pull together then we as a nation are going to fall. It’s imperative that we get organized, work toward positive, achievable goals and not allow ourselves to be thrown off course by forces from the right wing media who don’t have the country’s best interests in their agenda. Rather than listen to them, people should look around, utilize other outlets and find out things for themselves; things that will help the economy recover. Doing this would put the fear of God into the hearts of those who are trying to destroy this country. Personally, I have lost $8,000 to $10,000 that I had invested in the market in mutual funds and stocks. It will take me some time to recover from these losses, but still I‘m not giving up on America and I’ll continue to invest in it. These stocks really do help me out; they pay me. Every time I come off of a ship, the payoff gets put into the market as well as the bank and someday I hope to be rich. When that day comes, I will know that I have earned the right to be rich. Chris Smith Ordinary Seaman Things are pretty bad right now where the economy is concerned. In my view it was inevitable that the economy had to change given everything that was going on. Knowing that a downturn was going to happen, I downsized and it has become more of a manageable situation for me. For the public, I think it has made them focus on achieving realistic goals rather than pursue unrealistic dreams. For me personally, the bad economy has awakened me up to reality. I won’t generalize on what the future holds on a broad spectrum economically, but I do think that things eventually will get better. The best advice I can give is to go back to work if you can, enjoy what you do and you’ll make money. Daniel Fields AB The economy is not in the best shape now like it used to be, but I hope and pray that it will get better. The downturn has not really had a big impact on me because I keep going to work, saving my money and resisting the temptation of going on mad spending sprees. The other thing is that I live by faith, pray and focus on God rather than on the economy. As long as I live life by faith, then I know that I’m in good shape because I know that God has my back. So, at the end of the day, if people live by faith everything will be fine. David Quade QMED I really hope the economy gets better soon because a lot of people are out of work and looking for jobs. I have not met that fate and I consider myself lucky because so far it looks like I made the right choice where my career is concerned. So the bad economy has not really affected me that much because this union has really kept me gainfully employed and shielded me from the bad conditions which many people are facing. I know a lot of people are suffering now, but hopefully things will get better soon. Melissa Gooch STOS The state of the economy is actually the reason I’m here and a member of the SIU. My previous job was in real estate; I did it for five years. The market went south on me so I wanted to find another career path, a change in lifestyle. Things are looking up for me now thanks to my new career with the union, which I started in May 2010. I love it a lot because sailing is a somewhat of a family tradition. One of my grandfathers, sister and brother-in-law all did it and my other grandfather was in the Navy. 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 For the SIU-sponsored Little League Baseball team of Puerta de Tierra, P.R., 1977 was a championship season. The squad (pictured with coaches and two young supporters) placed first that year in the Puerto Rico Championship, winning the finale by the score of 15-0, according to accounts from that season. 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 66941_SIU_Log.indd 16 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:24 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 LEWIS DESCHAINE Brother Lewis DesChaine, 66, joined the SIU in 1980. He initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother DesChaine was born in Washington, D.C., and worked in the steward department. In 1984, he began sailing with the Military Sealift Command. Prior to his retirement, Brother DesChaine worked on the USNS Charles Drew. He lives in St. Anthony, Minn. He upgraded three times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Lugtu resides in Las Vegas. INLAND CLARENCE MURPHY Brother Clarence Murphy, 62, started sailing with the SIU in 1988. He was initially employed aboard the Dynachem. Brother Murphy was a member of the engine department. His final trip was on the Horizon Reliance. Brother Murphy attended classes in 2002 at the Piney Point school. He calls San Francisco home. ANDREW HUNTER Brother Andrew Hunter, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1964 while in Mobile, Ala. He originally worked on the Steel Flyer. In 1979 and 1981, Brother Hunter took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Hunter worked in the engine department. He makes his home in Alabama. GREGORY JOHNSON Brother Gregory Johnson, 56, began sailing with the union in 1977. His first trip was on the Baltimore. Brother Johnson worked in the deck department. He upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Johnson’s final voyage was on the Maersk Missouri. He settled in Ronkonkoma, N.Y. VICTOR ROSADO Brother Victor Rosado, 65, began his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. The engine department member’s last trip was aboard the Yorktown Express. In 2001, Brother Rosado enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center. He is a resident of Houston. Brother Franklin Kosiboski, 70, donned the SIU colors in 1977. His earliest trip was with Michigan Interstate Railway. Brother Kosiboski enhanced his skills in 2008 at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. His most recent trip was aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother Kosiboski, who sailed in the deck department, lives in Mt. Plymouth, Fla. ROMERO LUGTU Brother Romero Lugtu, 67, became a Seafarer in 1983 while in the port of Honolulu. His first trip was aboard the Constitution; his last was on the Lightning. Brother Lugtu was born in Pampanga, Philippines, and worked in the deck department. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 17 PETER ALBANO Brother Peter Albano, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1967 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was with Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Albano enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. His most recent trip was aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. Brother Albano, who sailed in the engine department, lives in Atlantic Beach, Fla. WILLIAM CLIETT Brother William Cliett, 62, joined the union in 1978 while in Jacksonville, Fla. His first ship was the Manhattan Island; his last, the Padre Island. Brother Cliett was born in Georgia and worked in the deck department. Brother Jerry Stuart, 71, was born in Barbados. He started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the SIU. In 1999, Brother Stuart visited the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Stuart’s last voyage was aboard the Maersk Ohio. He makes his home in Wellington, Fla. Brother Leonard Viles, 58, signed on with the union in 1974. He initially worked on a Vivian Tankship Corporation vessel. On numerous occasions, Brother Viles took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Horizon Spirit. Brother Viles resides in Encino, Calif. CECIL YEARWOOD Brother Cecil Yearwood, 71, began sailing with the SIU in On three occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Cliett settled in Savannah, Ga. tan Island. Brother Lytjen was born in Savannah, Ga. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Liberty Island. Brother Lytjen continues to reside in Georgia. PETER DEPEDER RICHARD ROSSER Brother Peter Depeder, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1978. His earliest trip was on a Gulf Canal Lines vessel. Brother Depeder shipped in the deck department. His final vessel was operated by Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Depeder resides in his native state of Illinois. Brother Richard Rosser, 57, joined the SIU in 1974. He mainly worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage of New Orleans. Brother Rosser was a member of the deck department. He makes his home in Belle Chase, La. ALFREDO DIGREGORIO Brother Alfredo Digregorio, 58, signed on with the SIU in 1971. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Salvage Company. Brother Digregorio worked in the deck department. He calls New Orleans home. JOHN LYTJEN Brother John Lytjen, 61, became a union member in 1979. He originally sailed on the Manhat- NATIONAL MARITIME UNION THEODORE RYWELSKI Brother Theodore Rywelski, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He worked in the engine department. Brother Rywelski’s final voyage was aboard the Cape Douglas. He was born in New York and settled in North Charleston, S.C. This Month In SIU History JERRY STUART LEONARD VILES FRANKLIN KOSIBOSKI 2001. He shipped aboard vessels including the Ltc. John U D Page and the APL Agate. Brother Yearwood attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He was born in Barbados and worked in the deck department. Brother Yearwood is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1942 British Prime Minister Winston Churchill offered his thanks and the thanks of the Royal Navy to the crews of two SIU-contracted ships that returned to New York after 11 months on the run to Russia. A commendation relayed by Adm. E.S. Land, director of the War Shipping Administration, from the British Admiralty said in part, “Mr. Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister, has particularly requested that he be associated with this message of congratulations…. I should like also to offer my congratulations to you and your crew for excellent work you all performed during this encounter, which is a great credit to the United States Merchant Marine.” The ships are unnamed for security reasons. 1951 After many months of building preparations the SIU moved into its new headquarters over the weekend of Nov. 17. The building at 675 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, was acquired over a year ago and was made necessary by the fact that SIU outgrew the old headquarters building at 51 Beaver Street in downtown New York. The move was made by the headquarters staff, and the office staff, with many rank-and-file members assisting. The new building is perhaps one of the finest union offices to be found anywhere in the country. It is only a little more than seven years since the move from the small and dingy office at 2 Stone Street near South Ferry in downtown New York which used to house the headquarters of the union. 1962 The latest in a series of important advances to assure all Seafarers the best possible food and food service aboard ship is now underway at SIU headquarters with the launching of a new refresher school for SIU chief stewards as part of the Steward Department Recertification Program. Five veteran stewards are enrolled in the first class. The program, developed over the past couple years, is the result of a recommendation by a committee of rank-and-file members of the steward department. It features both classroom and practical work to upgrade the steward and teach him the skills necessary for a chief steward’s rating. 1970 In a program that began on Sept. 14 at the Harry Lundeberg School, Piney Point, Md., more than 500 of the union’s members - active Seafarers and pensioners – participated in a 12-week series of crew and pensioner conferences. The purpose of the conferences was to provide members with an opportunity to learn more about their union and the maritime industry. The conferences gave members a closer look at the history of the SIU, the union contract and constitution, and their pension and welfare benefits. In addition, it made SIU members more aware of the problems and of the future of the maritime industry. The conferences have been part of a union experiment in education at the school [featuring] the blending together of trade union seminars, vocational training, and academic education. Seafarers LOG 17 10/24/2011 12:59:25 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA JACK ALVES Pensioner Jack Alves, 80, died April 21. Brother Alves became a Seafarer in 1960 in the port of San Francisco. He initially sailed with Liberty Navigation Trading Company. The Connecticut native was a member of the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Brother Alves worked aboard the Consumer. He settled in Pine Grove, Calif. RAFAEL AQUINO Pensioner Rafael Aquino, 80, passed away April 11. Brother Aquino began sailing with the union in 1970 from the port of San Francisco. He was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. During his seafaring career, Brother Aquino sailed on vessels including the Santa Mariana and President Washington. He went on pension in 1996 and lived in San Francisco. LAWRENCE BANKS Pensioner Lawrence Banks, 81, died April 23. Brother Banks was born in Mobile, Ala. He signed on with the SIU in 1953. Brother Banks, a member of the steward department, originally worked with Waterman Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Banks became a pensioner in 1989 and continued to reside in Alabama. JAMES BOYLE Pensioner James Boyle, 74, died May 7. Brother Boyle first donned the SIU colors in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He initially shipped aboard the Santa Mariana. Brother Boyle, who sailed in the steward department, was born in New York. He last worked on the Cape Mohican. Brother Boyle retired in 2002 and made his home in Reno, Nev. GILBERTO BURGOS Brother Gilberto Burgos, 61, passed away February 9. Brother Burgos joined the SIU in 1997. The engine department member initially shipped on the USNS Denebola. Brother Burgos was born in Ponce, P.R. His final trip was aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Burgos continued to call Puerto Rico home. JAMES BUSH Pensioner James Bush, 81, died 18 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 18 April 21. Brother Bush was born in Indiana. He started sailing with the union in 1964. Brother Bush, who sailed in the deck department of both the inland and deep sea divisions, first was employed aboard the Seawind. His last voyage was with Mariner Towing. Brother Bush went on pension in 1987. He was a resident of Brooksville, Fla. ARNOLD BUSTILLO Pensioner Arnold Bustillo, 79, passed away May 1. Brother Bustillo joined the union in 1970 in the port of New Orleans. He originally worked aboard the Steel Maker. Brother Bustillo’s final trip was on the Stonewall Jackson. The deck department member was born in Honduras. Brother Bustillo retired in 1996 and called River Ridge, La., home. VIRGIL CAMPBELL Pensioner Virgil Campbell, 86, died May 3. Brother Campbell began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 while in the port of Houston. He was born in Andalusia, Ala. Brother Campbell initially shipped aboard the Steel Scientist. His final ship was the Leader. Brother Campbell, who sailed in the steward department, went on pension in 1991. He continued to live in Alabama. SALVADOR CORDERO Pensioner Salvador Cordero, 72, passed away May 7. Brother Cordero became an SIU member in 1969 while in the port of New York. His earliest trip was aboard the American Pride. Brother Cordero last shipped on the Pride of Texas. He was born in Puerto Rico and sailed in the deck department. Brother Cordero started receiving his pension in 2003 and made his home in Orlando, Fla. ANTIONIO ESCOTO Pensioner Antionio Escoto, 73, passed away April 29. Brother Escoto started sailing with the SIU in 1962. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Escoto first was employed with Waterman Steamship Company. His final trip was aboard the Willamette. Brother Escoto became a pensioner in 2003. He was a resident of Texas. ERNEST HARRIS Pensioner Ernest Harris, 82, died April 27. Brother Harris began his SIU career in 1951 while in the port of New York. He was an Ohio native and worked in the steward department. Brother Harris initially sailed on AH Bull Steamship Com- pany vessels. Prior to his retirement in 1996, he shipped aboard the Rover. Brother Harris called Racine, Ohio, home. WALTER LECLAIR Pensioner Walter Leclair, 75, passed away March 3. Brother Leclair became a union member in 1953. He originally was employed with Interocean American Shipping Company. The deck department member was born in New Hampshire. Brother Leclair last sailed on the Anchorage. In 2000, he retired and settled in Chatham, Mass. OLMAN MORALES Pensioner Olman Morales, 96, died April 19. Brother Morales was born Costa Rica. He first donned the SIU colors in 1951. Brother Morales’ first vessel was the Cubore; his last, the Santa Maria. He worked in the engine department. Brother Morales retired in 1980 and made his home in Valencia, Calif. THOMAS NAVARRE Pensioner Thomas Navarre, 83, passed away December 22. Brother Navarre became a Seafarer in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. He initially worked aboard the Del Sud. Brother Navarre, a member of the steward department, was a Louisiana native. Prior to his retirement in 1991, one of his last ships was the Long Lines. Brother Navarre resided in San Pedro, Calif. WILLIE PATTERSON Pensioner Willie Patterson, 87, passed away April 28. Brother Patterson joined the SIU in 1958 while in the port of New Orleans. His initial trip was on the Del Valle. Brother Patterson, who sailed in the steward department, last shipped aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Patterson went on pension in 1990 and settled in Louisiana. Prior to his retirement in 1984, he sailed on the Delta Manpower. Brother Robinson, a member of the deck department, made his home in Louisiana. in 1971. He called Massachusetts home. JEFFERY SAXON Pensioner Jeffery Saxon, 65, passed away April 20. Brother Saxon became an SIU member in 1964 while in Mobile, Ala. He initially shipped aboard the Monticello. Brother Saxon was born in Alabama and worked in the deck department. He last sailed on the Sulphur Enterprise. Brother Saxon retired in 2010 and continued to reside in his native state. JUDEX FAISCA Pensioner Judex Faisca, 86, died April 29. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1987. Brother Faisca was a resident of Bronx, N.Y. EDMUND SOIHET Pensioner Edmund Soihet, 80, died January 25. Brother Soihet started his seafaring career in 1966. He originally sailed aboard the Del Mar as a member of the engine department. Brother Soihet was born in Honduras. His final trip was on the Archon. Brother Soihet went on pension in 1997. He was a resident of La Cieba, Honduras. OLA STORNES Pensioner Ola Stornes, 100, passed away March 12. Brother Stornes was born in Norway. He signed on with the SIU in 1962 while in the port of New York. Brother Stornes originally worked in the engine department of a Seatrain Lines vessel. He last sailed aboard the Jacksonville. Brother Stornes went on pension in 1976 and continued to live in Norway. INLAND GEORGE BAGGOTT Pensioner George Baggott, 80, died April 29. Brother Baggott became an SIU member in 1976 while in Houston. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Marine Contracting & Towing Company. Brother Baggott was born in South Carolina. He started receiving his pension in 1992 and resided in Charleston, S.C. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JOHN ROBINSON Pensioner John Robinson, 83, died May 6. Brother Robinson began shipping with the SIU in 1946 from the port of Houston. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Wild Ranger. CLARENCE BROOKS Pensioner Clarence Brooks, 98, died April 25. Brother Brooks, a native of Honduras, became a pensioner RAFAEL CAMACHO Pensioner Rafael Camacho, 86, passed away April 25. Brother Camacho was born in Manhattan, N.Y. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Camacho settled in Longwood, Fla. EPIFANIO PADILLA Pensioner Epifanio Padilla, 86, passed away April 19. Brother Padilla was a native of Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1972. Brother Padilla lived in Manhattan, N.Y. LUIS ORTIZ Pensioner Luis Ortiz, 83, died April 19. Brother Ortiz was born in Ponce, P.R. He went on pension in 1967 and continued to call Puerto Rico home. ANGELO SAN FLIPPO Pensioner Angelo San Flippo, 83, passed away May 19. Brother San Flippo was a native of Camden, N.J. He retired in 1969. Brother San Flippo made his home in Collingswood Borough, N.J. NERO THREET Pensioner Nero Threet, 76, died April 3. Brother Threet was born in Venice, Fla. He became a pensioner in 1999. Brother Threet settled in Lynnwood, Wash. JAMES WALTON Pensioner James Walton, 91, passed away April 13. Brother Walton was a Morganton, N.C., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1980. Brother Walton lived in Lansdowne, Pa. Name Age DOD Colomb, Joseph 79 April 2 Cruz, Julio 92 Feb. 21 Davis, Prince 94 March 10 Dumas, Enrique 87 March 18 Ellison, Michael 87 Feb. 15 Fercovich, Marion 87 March 10 Harris, Taylor 80 March 32 Malkinson, Frederick 63 Martinez, Ernesto 87 Morales, Alberto 102 Ruiz, Oscar 86 March 5 March 11 Jan. 29 March 21 Smith, Clyde 72 April 4 Strong, Andrew 85 March 20 Washington, Wilfred 90 March 16 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:30 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), August 2 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Manuel Basas, Educational Director Ely Cuaresma, Deck Delegate Jose Bautista, Steward Delegate Francisco Calix. Chairman touched on contract extension and upcoming project. Educational director reminded fellow mariners to keep documents current and recommended taking advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read President Mike Sacco’s column online at www.seafarers.org. Cable operation project is still in progress and is expected to be finished by month’s end. Bosun thanked crew for shipboard safety and “good separation of garbage.” Ship’s fund contains $4,000. Special thanks given to Chief Cook Franz Schnell for the good food he serves. Next port: Portland, Ore. ENDURANCE (Crowley), August 16 – Chairman Michael Presser, Secretary Raymond Lackland, Educational Director Travis Moody, Deck Delegate Artis Williams. Under old business, crew discussed contract issues including lack of financial compensation in certain circumstances. Chairman talked about importance of communicating crew’s requests and suggestions, including ways to boost productivity while decreasing company’s costs. Educational director advised crew of the importance of upgrading and the need for regular re-training to keep up with an ever-changing industry. He said we all need to keep pace with technology. Disputed OT reported in all three departments. Crew further discussed concerns about contract. Chairman expressed gratitude to SIU members for maintaining their professionalism and diligence while aboard what he described as the largest RO/RO in the American-flag fleet. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 28 – Chairman Mark Downey, Secretary Louins Johnson, Educational Director Thomas Miller, Deck Delegate Michael Merrell. Chairman reported a smooth, injury-free trip. He also asked everyone to become familiar with contract and informed members that copies are available at the ports. He thanked Recertified Steward Johnson for excellent menus and food. Secretary thanked chairman and crew for assistance with trash boxes. He reminded members to check expiration dates on documents and also encouraged them to read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed about issues that affect the maritime industry. Educational director recommended everyone take advantage of training offered at Piney Point. He also encouraged members to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made to reduce retirement age, increase vision benefits and reduce sea time required for medical benefit eligibility. Next port: Point Comfort, Texas. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), September 3 – Chairman James Walker, Secretary Willie Massaline, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Deck Delegate Gerald Ray, Engine Delegate Alexander Cordero, Steward Delegate Gregorio Blanco. Chairman and secretary November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 19 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 SIU Members Aboard the OSG Tanker Overseas Long Beach These photos of the OSG tanker Overseas Long Beach and some of its crew were taken Sept. 20 on the West Coast. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are Patrolman Nick Marrone II, Bosun Samuel Porchea, GUDE Alfredo Nieto, Chief Cook Cleto Lindong and Recertified Steward William Burdette. encouraged fellow members to read SIU President Michael Sacco’s column in each edition of the LOG. Secretary urged members to support the union’s leadership, contribute to SPAD and contribute to the Maritime Defense League. He said that with contract negotiations on the horizon, it is more important than ever to “perform our jobs in top fashion.” Educational director reminded mariners to keep documents current and keep track of expiration and renewal dates. Treasurer discussed use of fund that’s maintained for no losttime injuries. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washing machine has been installed. It requires highefficiency washing machine detergent. Membership thanked galley gang for job well done – the food has been excellent. Crew requested that the LOG publish more information pertaining to medical and pension benefits and the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. CHARGER (Maersk Line, Limited), September 18 – Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Rolando Lopez, Educational Director Andrew Linares, Deck Delegate Julius Dagoldol, Engine Delegate M’Barek Nouhairi, Steward Delegate Khaled Taffi. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for next day, and reported a successful voyage with no accidents. He thanked crew for working safely. He asked mariners to close laundry door quietly for off-duty watchstanders who are sleeping. He emphasized proper use of elevator and reminded everyone going ashore not to forget their TWIC. He thanked steward department for excellent meals. Secretary reported that sanitary inspections went very well. He asked mariners to leave rooms clean, strip off bunks and leave fresh linen. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade in Piney Point. He thanked galley gang for excellent meals. Treasurer reported $720 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to increase vacation benefit. Chairman announced that new TV, DVD player and CD player will be purchased and installed at the gym. Next port: Los Angeles. GREEN POINT (Central Gulf Lines), September 4 – Chairman Eduardo Morre, Secretary Darlene Steede, Educational Director Pasquale Dibiase, Deck Delegate Samuel McDaniel, Steward Delegate Lamberto Palamos. Chairman suggested that mariners communicate with union officials about any unresolved problems or issues. He reminded crew about Labor Day holiday and OT. He thanked galley gang for hard work, good food “and being friendly to all.” Secretary had discussion with crew concerning stores (quantities and quality of provisions) and thanked them for their assistance. Educational director recommended upgrading at Piney Point and also recommended participating in Seafarers 401(K) Plan. Treasurer reported $500 in ship’s fund and said extra gym equipment and/or movies will be purchased. Deck delegate emphasized importance of shipboard safety. Crew requested new mattresses. Photos from shipboard barbeque will be sent to the LOG. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), September 3 – Chairman George Khan, Secretary William Bryley, Educational Director Joseph Egan, Deck Delegate Chuck Turner, Engine Delegate Mike Bautista, Steward Delegate Jamie Austria. Chairman noted crew will have a little extra time in Honolulu this trip due to Labor Day holiday. He encouraged crew to communicate with SIU VP Contracts George Tricker if they need assistance, and he also reported on the company’s recent refinancing. Secretary reminded everyone to separate plastics from wet garbage, and also to leave rooms clean for new members coming on. Educational director urged everyone to check out the new version of the SIU website and in particular the members-only section, which includes work history and other information. He encouraged Seafarers to donate to SPAD “to help fight for our jobs.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported delay in receiving LOGs. Crew also read President Sacco’s recent column about a number of SIU-contracted companies being honored for safety. They noted more and more members are being featured in the newspaper for safety awareness. Crew recommended name change for one benefit plan and also reminded each other to minimize noise in passageways as off-duty watchstanders sleep. Chairman formally introduced Unlicensed Apprentice Lucas Osborn and encouraged everyone to show him the ropes and answer any questions he may have. “After all, we were all new to this game at one time.” Next ports: Honolulu, Tacoma, Wash., and Oakland, Calif. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 5 – Chairman Wilfred Maurice, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Jessie Ulibas. Under old business, crew said no communications have been received concerning bonuses for traversing hostile waters. Chairman reported payoff scheduled for following week in Newark, N.J. Vessel just completed another quarter with no lost-time injuries, which extends the streak to longer than seven years. He advised everyone to secure staterooms and workplaces for North Atlantic crossing and said it has been a smooth trip. Secretary said last LOG received was the June edition. He advised members to “stay informed and read it because it has all the up-to-date information and changes on benefits and shipping rules.” He reminded fellow members to contribute to SPAD “because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters.” He also advised crew who are getting off to leave rooms like they would like to see when they are joining ship. Educational director recommended taking advantage of upgrading opportunities at Piney Point. Besides issue of bonus for sailing in hostile waters, steward delegate reported several problems with port stewards and expressed concern about food budget. Crew thanked steward department for great meals. Crew made a dozen suggestions concerning contracts and benefits plans. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Line, Limited), September 10 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Trent Sterling. Crew attached letter concerning contract clarification they are seeking. Secretary reminded departing members to make sure their rooms are clean and to leave clean linen. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Votes of thanks given to deck and engine departments for jobs well done. Crew requested increase in pension benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 10/24/2011 12:59:31 PM �War Memories Remain Fresh in Mariner’s Mind Continued from Page 11 regular seamen’s club. Many of the English sailors we met when we arrived at the young seamen’s club were younger than us. Bill, the other wiper, was there complaining that he was almost 18 years old and didn’t like spending time with a bunch of kids. He calmed down once he saw that we were there with him. The English sailors looked about 14 years old and were slightly built compared to Larry, Bill and me. We had to pay a fee of one shilling, about 20 American cents, for the night’s lodging and the morning breakfast. There was a huge hot water urn on a table next to the check-in desk that was in use day and night to brew tea for anyone who wanted it. The English kids spent most of their time next to the urn. The next morning, there was a message for us at the desk: “… report to the British Merchant Navy’s crewing office on High Street, without delay.” The entire crew of Pine Hill was at the hall when we arrived. The ship had been declared unfit for sea service and would need extensive repairs. The authorities were attempting to have it towed across the Irish Sea to Belfast where there were marine repair yards. In the meantime, we would be assigned to ships that needed replacement personnel. Larry and I were able to stay together by volunteering to work on an American Liberty ship that had finished being repaired. It had suffered damage in a gun battle with a German raider. Bill was assigned to an oil tanker heading back to the States. He told us that we were both crazy letting ourselves be put aboard a ship going who knows where. We told him we heard the new ship was bound for Russia. He couldn’t understand that we thought of it as an adventure – something we never expected to do and would, most probably, never again have the opportunity. Our new ship, a Liberty type, the S/S John Henry, was only a few months old. It was docked in Birkenhead on the opposite side of the Mercy River from Liverpool. The crewing office arranged transporta- tion for the two of us and we left immediately to take on our new responsibilities. We had been hoping to spend a few more days in Liverpool to take in the sights of the old city, but it was not to be. The engine room on the John Henry was different from the Pine Hill. On the Pine Hill, we had steam turbine engines; now, we had a reciprocating engine, known as an up-and-down engine. They were much nosier and made the engine room dirtier. Well, not exactly dirty, but they did throw more oil about and made our work a bit harder. We had to keep the floor plates clean and as dry as possible. Our new first assistant engineer let us know the first time we met him that he wanted and expected a clean engine room. “We don’t want anyone slipping and falling because of dirty floor plates, do we?” He proved to be an all right guy once he learned we were new to the sea and had less than a month’s experience on ships. We told him about losing our gear in the fire and he immediately had the ship’s purser open up the slop chest so we could buy clothing and other personal items. We bought dungarees, shirts, shoes, toothbrushes, toothpaste and shaving kits. We didn’t have any money to pay the bill. The purser said not to worry about it; he would charge it to our account. He told us that we would most likely be reimbursed for our losses from the fire on the Pine Hill when we returned to the States. We had said our goodbyes to the Pine Hill crew when we left the crewing office. Billy had been a good friend and we would miss him. Our new first assistant engineer introduced us to a third wiper, a real old-timer about 50 years old, named Tex. He had been on the John Henry since it was launched some months before. He quickly let us know that he was qualified to sail as a fireman/watertender or an oiler, as he had passed the examinations and had the required United States Coast Guard endorsements. He said that over the years he had become tired of standing watches and preferred day work. The first told us that he would give the work orders to Tex each morning and for us to follow his instructions. The gunnery officer, Ensign Kelly, assigned me aft to the big 5 inch 38. The lead Navy gunner told me that I would be the hot-shell catcher. This meant that during gunnery practice I would try to catch and salvage the spent shells and toss them into a nearby bin. However, if we were to engage in enemy action, I was to toss the shells overboard as quickly as possible so they would not get in the way of the gunners. There were five U.S. Navy gunners assigned to the gun. It was the biggest gun aboard ship and would be the most important in any fight. I was not happy with my new assignment and I let it be known. Ensign Kelly told me that every job was important but he would keep me in mind when he needed a man for a 20 mm. Tex asked if we knew that we were on a ship loaded with practically every explosive used by the military: bombs, grenades, assorted ammunition and various-sized weapons both small and big. He said, “If you think a tanker loaded with high-test gasoline will blow sky-high when hit with a torpedo, you gotta see what this ship will do. Yes, sir, I’ve seen my share of good ships loaded with explosives get hit; they evaporate, disintegrate, and disappear.” He seemed to take satisfaction in watching the two us wince. The next day, in a small convoy escorted by British destroyers, we sailed for the British navy base at Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands off northern Scotland. When we arrived at the anchorage, we learned we would be part of a larger convoy bound for Murmansk, Russia. An American Navy officer came on board and offered heavy warm clothing to anyone who thought they would need it on the voyage. Bill and I asked for winter jackets and heavy underwear. Tex laughed when he heard about our request and said, “You know, unless something very unusual happens, you sure won’t need heavy clothing in the engine room.” We reminded him that we expected to go ashore in Murmansk. In the meantime, the only clothing we had was what we were wearing the day we left the Pine Hill and the few things we bought from the John Henry’s slop chest. For the first two days, we were on alert 24 hours a day. The Navy gunners were standing watches of four on and four off in order to keep as many men on lookout as possible. The sounds of the sirens, horns and whistles from the escorts as they chased sonar readings were endless. Our ship’s captain, J. B. Behlmer, sent word to the chief engineer that he wanted any man from the engine room that could be spared from work to come topside and stand lookout. It was said that more lookout personnel improved the chances of seeing a U-Boat or the wake of a torpedo before it hit. A few seconds’ notice of an oncoming tin fish (torpedo) can frequently give the helmsman the time to veer out of its path. As ordered, Larry and I reported to the chief mate, Mr. Elmer Smith. He posted us to the boat deck, the uppermost deck of the ship – Larry to the port and me to the starboard. It was bitter cold and I surely was pleased that I had requested the extra warm clothing when we were at Scapa Flow. Each hour and 20 minutes, we would be relieved for 10 minutes and allowed to go below to the mess hall to warm up and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. Finally, at the end of a four-hour watch, we were told to go below and get some sleep. Those were the best words I had heard in a long time. However, as we got to our fo’c’sle, all hell broke loose. Loud explosions filled the air and the ship vibrated, as the two of us grabbed our lifejackets and raced topside. The air was filled with black smoke and, yet, in the darkness, I could see ships on fire. Liberty ships are not noted for their speed and it was obvious the engine crew had the John Henry going as fast as she could. Larry and I went to our battle stations where we were told that the convoy was breaking up. We were in the middle of a German wolf pack and the commodore had ordered every ship to separate from the group and to sail alone. “Every ship for itself!” 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 20 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.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 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:31 PM �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 Computer Classes Offered at Paul Hall Center Date of Completion Deck Department ECDIS December 10 December 16 GMDSS November 26 December 9 Lifeboat November 12 November 25 Engine Department Welding November 26 December 16 Steward Department Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began October 31. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 12 November 25 Basic Safety Training November 14 December 5 November 18 December 9 Medical Care Provider November 26 December 2 Important Notice For All Paul Hall Center 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 cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Four upgraders recently completed training in various computer classes at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are Class Instructor Rich Prucha along with graduates Haeven Bautista, Elmer Marko, Mony Williams and Ronnie Hamilton. In addition to classes for phase one through three unlicensed apprentices, and assorted upgrading courses for merchant mariners, the Southern Maryland-based school offers a five-day, independent computer familiarization class. This class introduces students to the computer, its operations, and the basics of the Windows Operating System. Students may venture into word processing, database, spreadsheet, graphics and typing training programs as time permits. Hundreds of mariners take advantage of these classes annually during their stays at the school for upgrade training. NOTICE: 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 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. 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. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ❏ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ 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______________________ COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ 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_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 21 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. 11/11 Seafarers LOG 21 10/24/2011 12:59:33 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 751 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 30: Leonilo Arano, Brian Beasley, Jared Cabasug, Eric Garcia, Julius Gimutao, Ronnie Hamilton, Chace Jabotte, Rachel Janssen, Christopher Johnson, Eser Kaptan, Leonard Patterson, Robert Sale, Victor Sanchez, Antonio Tindugan, Justin Vacencia and Dionta Winstead. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat – Four upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 23. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: James Copeland, Alan Jacobson, Omar Madrid and Gary Turner. Class Instructor Stan Beck is at the far left. Marine Electrician – Ten upgraders completed their training in this course Sept. 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Miguel Abad, Levy Calzado Jr., Linaizys Castillo, Trevor Cohn, Stravon Jordon, Michael Kelly, Nat Lamb, Ronald Pheneuf, Jesse Tornabene and Steven Wilson. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization – Ten upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 30. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jeffer Baguio, Fontaine Barber, Michael Carruba, Daniel Fowers, Anecito Limboy, Osar Lopez, Butch Lumansoc, Harry Massa, Kevin Moore and Kennetth Taylor. Brad Wheeler, their instructor, is fifth from the left. Medical Care Provider – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Haeven Bautista, Kelly Doyle, Brian Frederick, Joseph Krajnik, Edison Lalin, Forrest McGee, Felix Nunez, Freddie Patterson Jr., DonJuan Quarterman, and Justin Valencia Rodriguez. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far left. GMDSS – Eight Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Sept. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlo Balaiadia, Nicole Geidman, Enchantress Johnson, Karen Laycock, Elmer Marko, Robert Taylor, Richard Trovillo and Alexander Ward. Class Instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Junior Engineer – Two classes of upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 16. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Jason Albertson, Jose Bonita, Jeffery Bull, Chris Ceyzyk, Daniel ChisumCoffey, William Coffy, Rollin Crump, Michael Durago, Charles Gaitu, Armando Garayua, Thomas Hawks, Detricke Kelly, Barry Knowles, Jared Latta, John McKay, Douglas McLaughlin, Loreto Orosco, Orlando Pajarillo Jr., Carmus Peet, Leland Peterson, Victor Rios-Lopez, Alberto Semedo, Steve Shaffer and Reylan Tendido. Class Instructor RObert Ott is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG 66941_SIU_Log.indd 22 November 2011 10/24/2011 12:59:38 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following individuals (left, in alphabetical order) completed their training in this course Sept. 30: Ritchie Acuman, Richard Cole, Dante DeMcCutac, Enchantress Johnson, Frederick Kotoky-Sackson, Karen Laycock, Clayton Lupton, Roy Madrio, Mark Maduro, Elmer Marko, Terrance Maxwell, Stephen Morris, Aisea Mua, Hashiem Pittman, Mykola Smitnov, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, Clive Steward, Anthony Thomas, Allen Ward and Michael Wittenberg. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are at the far left and far right respectively. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 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 place Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 9: Kenneth Benton, Ronnie Hamilton, Steve Reiber, Kerian Reyes and Dionta Winstead. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed their requirements in this class Sept. 24 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Erikka Crain, Savio DeSena, Anthony Dickey, Jessica Eskew, Stephen Fosnight, Shemeka Hamilton, Jammal Key, Kyle Knight, Neil Lawinger, Kristin Mich’L, Brad Norris, Chris Prentice II, Jarrett Willis, Gregg Buford, Hillary Kruse, Errol Davis and Christopher Pogue. Designated Duty Engineer (Test Prep) – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 23. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Clint Haylock, Bill Hryhorchuk, Bryan Hughes, Michael Hurst, Edison Lalim, Danny Mayfield, Freddie Patterson, Jr., Don Quarterman, Ricky Shumock and William Tucker. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course Sept. 17 in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Angel Barto, Mary Brenner, Marguerite Gonder, Jeremy Hebda, Aqui Johnson, Christopher McCabe, Samantha Moser, Donna Jones Reid, Justin Sinclair, Jessica Ware, Alexander Wildar, Steven Hirschi, Anjulia Ebanks-Rivera, Seabastio Gomes, Wilfred Pave, Owen Wallace and Michael Henderson. Pumpman – Five upgraders completed this course Sept. 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Haeven Bautista, Francis Brown, Gregory Johns, Eddy Newman and Tijani Rashid. Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. November 2011 66941_SIU_Log.indd 23 BST (Hawaii) - Fourteen individuals graduated from this course Sept. 10 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii. Completing their requirements (above, in no particular order) were: Kenny Chong, Justin Flynn, Nicolas Gardner, Konstantin Kolyabin, Thomas Preston, Steven Vela, Timothy Nelson, David Martinez, Alexander Mrazek, DeWitt Cooper, Todd Cook, Meghan Moroney, Elizabeth Bailey and Julie Hunter. BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Aug. 27 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Erikka Crain, Savio DeSena, Anthony Dickey, Jessica Eskew, Stephen Fosnight, Shemeka Hamilton, Jammal Key, Kyle Knight, Neil Lawinger, Kristin Mich’L, Brad Norris, Chris Prentice II, Jarrett Willis, Gregg Buford, Hillary Kruse, Errol Davis and Christopher Pogue. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 10/24/2011 12:59:42 PM �Volume 73, Number 11 November 2011 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 8 Seafarers in Tacoma, Wash., (photos above, at right and below right) enjoyed a full house, live entertainment, and great food at a barbeque hosted at the union hall on Sept. 23. Seafarers Enjoy Annual Gathering in Tacoma The Tacoma, Wash., hall was bustling with Seafarers, friends, family, and even pets on Sept. 23 at the annual barbeque and monthly membership meeting. The hall was packed with around 120 members and guests who came out to spend some of their off-time discussing union business and enjoying good food prepared by their union brothers and sisters. In addition, Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn, who is a semi-professional keyboardist and singer, performed an outdoor concert and played a variety of hit songs for the attendees. “This year marked the fifth annual barbeque,” said Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. “In the past, we’ve held a Fourth of July barbeque on our July membership meeting day. This year we chose Labor Day instead, an appropriate day (in this case, Sept. 23) for Seafarers to gather and reflect not only on their work aboard ships but on the availability of work and the near-seamless process of registering and securing a job at the hiring halls.” The event couldn’t have been a success without the hard work from a variety of Seafarers who voluntarily took time to plan, shop, and prepare, according to Vincenzo. The committee this year consisted of Recertified Stewards Travis Jefferson, Tom Belvin, Michael Meany, and Lewis Johansen, as well as Chief Cooks Ingra Maddox, Keesha Smith-Holloway, and Nasser Ahmed. Manning the grills this year were Ahmed, Meany, QMED Chad Hess, BREC Ben Born, Chief Cook Abdullah Falah, and Recertified Steward Jioia de Leon. Born, in addition to donating 30 pounds of beef brisket, was approached by a man walking down the street who said he was hungry. Born, Vincenzo, and other members made sure he got something to eat. Following the success of the fifth annual barbeque, the Tacoma hall is looking forward to many more. Around the Port of Tacoma AB Cesar Runatay (left) takes the union oath and receives his book from Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. Chief Cook Chris Hopkins, North Star AB Kaid Adam, North Star Seafarers (photos at left and above) pack the Tacoma, Wash., hall for the September membership meeting. 66941_SIU_Log.indd 24 10/24/2011 12:59:48 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 November 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU WELCOMES NEW TONNAGE USNS WILLIAM MCLEAN DELIVERED TO MSC; MAERSK ADDS TANKER, 2 HEAVY-LIFT SHIPS TOTE NAMES TACOMA-BASED TERMINAL IN MEMORY OF LATE LEADER BOB MAGEE UNION WEIGHS IN ON STCW AMENDMENTS MAERSK ADDS TANKER, 2 HEAVY-LIFT SHIPS GENERAL DYNAMICS DELIVERS USNS WILLIAM MCLEAN TO MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND SIU WEBSITE’S MEMBER PORTAL FEATURES NEW ADDITIONS CONFERENCE TACKLES PIRACY ON WORLD MARITIME DAY NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY MTD PORT MARITIME COUNCIL SPOTLIGHTS MARITIME’S FUTURE WHILE SALUTING ITS PAST MARITIME INDUSTRY URGES SUPPORT FOR CARGO PREFERENCE NEW INITIATIVE AIMS TO HELP VICTIMS OF PIRACY WORLD MARITIME DAY EVENT IN PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEMS OF PIRACY ON THE HIGH SEAS GENERAL FRASER TAKES HELM AT TRANSCOM CONGRESSMAN INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO SAFEGUARD JOBS IN U.S. MARITIME INDUSTRY CROWLEY RECOGNIZED FOR SAFETY HISTORIC CARGO DELIVERED FEDERATION STANDS UP FOR JOBS AMMV CHAPTER MEETS IN FT. LAUDERDALE OHIOANS REGISTER WIN FOR WORKING FAMILIES COALITION OF SUPPORTERS GET REPEAL OF SB 5 ON NOVEMBER BALLOT RECOLLECTIONS FROM THE MURMANSK RUN PAUL HALL CENTER HOSTS ITF WOMEN’S CONFERENCE ‘LANDMARK’ EVENT FOCUSES ON LEADERSHIP, STRATEGY, ORGANIZING FEDERAL BENEFITS ‘OPEN SEASON’ ENDS DEC. 12 WAR MEMORIES REMAIN FRESH IN MARINERS MIND SEAFARERS ENJOY ANNUAL GATHERING IN TACOMA 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 11/01/2011 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. 11 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/83cf707c956fe5177d707a4e781529b8.pdf 1b6fa5ac426386b907b0e8c771791419 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 11 November 2012 Christenings Signal New SIU Jobs Crowley Adds ATB; Navy Welcomes High-Speed Vessel The SIU-crewed fleet recently expanded as Crowley christened an articulated tugbarge (the ATB Legend, photo at top) while the Navy launched the civilian-crewed high-speed vessel USNS Choctaw County (bottom right). SIU members and officials along with company representatives joined the Crowley ceremony in Tampa, Fla., (group photo below) as Joan Grune christened the tugboat (photo above). Meanwhile, more than 700 people turned out for the Choctaw County ceremony in Mobile, Ala., where Theresa Gilliam Pitts (photo at immediate right) broke a champagne bottle across the bow. These fleet additions mean new jobs for SIU members. Page 3. (USNS Choctaw County photos courtesy Austal USA) CIVMARS Honored Page 2 11769_November.indd 1 SIU Election News Page 4 Scholarship Information Pages 11, 14 10/25/2012 7:25:17 PM �President’s Report After Election Day No matter who’s in the White House, our industry must – and will – continue working to preserve the laws and programs that keep the American flag flying on the high seas. This is a particularly important and challenging assignment as our nation edges closer to the infamous “fiscal cliff” that’s also known as sequestration. Sequestration refers to an automatic cut of portions of federal agencies’ budgets, spurred by the Budget Control Act of 2011. No one knows if a compromise or some other solution will be reached before the end of the year, when the cuts are scheduled to kick in. Sequestration is complicated. We have many people in the union and industry studying what could happen. But Seafarers should know that it threatens to weaken the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws, among many others. It also could reduce the number of ships in our Government Services Division. Collectively, that means our jobs are in the crosshairs. There isn’t much comfort in knowing we’re not alone, but this truly is a massive, nationwide threat. A recent study prepared for Congress estimated that sequestration-related cuts might eliminate 2.1 million American jobs in the next fiscal year. Many of those jobs are not in the government. Much in the same way that, for instance, expenditures related to the Jones Act help create and maintain hundreds of thousands of related jobs, federal agency spending sustains work in three different ways. As the author of the congressional report put it, direct jobs result from paying the salaries of government employees (including CIVMARS) and contracting with various companies to produce goods. When those contractors buy products from other firms, the spending helps support what are termed indirect jobs. And when employees in those first two categories spend parts of their paychecks out in the community – everything from routine trips to the grocery store to big-ticket items like buying a new car – additional jobs are supported by federal spending. Apparently, the term for that last category is “induced jobs,” but I don’t care what we call them as long as people are working. There has been a general feeling in and around the nation’s capital that sequestration somehow won’t happen – that the job losses would be too severe, and would occur at an exceptionally unfortunate time. (We all know, of course, there is no “fortunate” time to lose a job.) President Obama in the final pre-election debate surprised many by saying the cuts wouldn’t take place, but it’s late October as of this writing, and no concrete solution is in sight. We have to be prepared. Like I said, and as many Seafarers already know, it’s a complex situation. But the maritime industry is united in our ongoing fight to protect our jobs, and we will do whatever it takes to succeed. There’s still time to hit the brakes before going over that cliff. That is why it is very important to reach out to your U.S. senators and representatives to let them know you depend on your seafaring job to support your family and your community. Safety First Although the wrangling over sequestration-related cuts is an extreme example, in a roundabout way it reinforces the importance of the outstanding work performed by SIU members aboard all types of vessels. When we go to bat for our members and for the programs that help sustain the U.S. Merchant Marine, whether we’re in the halls of Congress or in a contract negotiation, what we promote first and foremost is you. Safety is a huge part of that equation, and on that note, I believe our crews are trained as well as, or better than any others around the world. It shows in your consistently reliable, safe work, whether on a tanker, a RO/RO, a containership, or a passenger ferry. From tugboats along the Mississippi to self-unloaders on the Great Lakes, and from military prepositioning ships in Diego Garcia to the Pride of America cruise ship in Hawaii, SIU members deliver. Your success helps us secure good contracts. Your safe work gives confidence to ship operators looking to grow their fleets. Your effectiveness reinforces the foundations of our arguments about the vital importance of job-sustaining programs like the MSP and cargo preference. Keep up the good – and safe – work! Volume 74, Number 11 November 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, Brian Ahern; 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 11769_November_X.indd 2 Committee members meet in Piney Point, Md. Union Continues Fight for Mariners The SIU is looking out for its members’ interests with an advisory committee designed to simplify the Coast Guard’s mariner medical review process. Chaired by Dr. Kenneth Miller, the Department of Homeland Security’s Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Committee (MMMAC) met recently at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., to do just that. Miller is the medical director of the SIU’s Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan’s clinic system. “It’s important (mariners) know we’re there to protect their livelihoods and to ensure the Coast Guard provides fair medical standards to the credentialing process,” Miller said. Established with the passage of the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, the MMMAC is tasked with improving a medical review process that was widely seen as problematic and time-consuming. Prior to the formation of the committee, the Coast Guard established the review process completely on its own. Miller said that resulted in a lengthy medical review process that often cost mariners money-making sea time while they awaited approval. “We wanted to let the Coast Guard know what the industry thinks and how (the medical review process) is affecting people’s careers,” Miller said. “Part of the reason to get a specific committee was to advise the Coast Guard with mariner input and get union people to participate in the process.” Miller said the SIU took an active role in establishing the MMMAC, adding the composition of the committee was also seen as very important. The MMMAC consists of ten health care professionals and four professional mariners – none of whom work for the federal government. “The committee structure was to balance out the experience,” Miller said of the decision to include both professional mariners and doctors on the committee. “It wouldn’t be just a bunch of doctors talking to one another.” While the MMMAC’s work could take some time, Miller said the committee is making progress. The most recent meeting had the committee discussing ways to streamline the review process and making the Coast Guard’s medical evaluation guide – known as the NVIC 04-08 – more transparent and current. “At this stage, it’s still really early,” Miller said. “Down the road we might have more formal of an agreement.” When it comes to streaming the review process, Miller said the committee is considering the establishment a nationwide network of Designated Medical Examiners (DMEs) who would evaluate mariners specifically for the Coast Guard’s medical review process. Currently, mariners are examined by their own doctors – a situation that can result in multiple visits and weeks of additional waiting if those doctors fail to fulfill all of the Coast Guard’s requirements. “One of the big hold-ups (in the review process) is when people are asked to get more information from their doctors. By the time they go through that loop again it can take some time,” Miller said. Under the DME program, “the assumption would be – if you went to one of these (DME) doctors you would know before you submitted your application (what was needed) and they would be able to do some of the testing right there.” Currently, the medical review process takes an average of three to six weeks, though it can sometimes take several months if there are issues. With the DME program, Miller said, the process would be shortened and many of those issues could be avoided. “We’re working on making the credentialing process fairer for mariners so people can get their documents done more quickly,” Miller said. He added a quicker review process is especially important since the time between renewals may get shorter. While many mariners are currently required to renew their medical credentials every five years, that might change to every two years once the Coast Guard adopts the STCW’s new international medical standards. Regardless of when that happens, Miller said mariners should know MMMAC is there to look out for their interests. “We wanted this committee so the unions would have some input into the Coast Guard’s process of credentialing our mariners,” Miller said. “It gives us a voice.” SIU CIVMARS Earn MSC Accolades Seventy-one CIVMARS from the union’s Government Services Division were recognized Oct. 7 for their respective roles in making the U.S. Navy’s first Afloat Forward Staging Base (interim), the USS Ponce, an operational reality. Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC), which has operational authority of the vessel, recognized the CIVMARS, three civilian vessel officers, and 17 uniformed U.S. Navy personnel who collectively comprise the Ponce’s combined crew. The awards were presented aboard the vessel while she was underway in the Arabian Sea. Ten of the CIVMARS were recipients of flag letters of commendation while the remaining 61 were awarded letters of appreciation. The Ponce’s civil service master, chief engineer and first assistant engineer each received DOD Meritorious Service Awards. Uniformed Navy personnel collectively were the recipients of one Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, seven Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and seven flag letters of commendation. “The capabilities you brought— folks on the other side of the street are taking note of the capability you brought in,” Buzby told the award re- cipients. “We read it in Washington all the time. “You’ve done things that have never been done before,” the admiral continued. “You’re also setting the pace for the follow-on version of this ship, still being built. This old girl’s got a ways to steam and a lot of love for you to put into her.” Navy Capt. Jon Rodgers, the Ponce’s commanding officer, also presided over the ceremony. The Ponce is a 41-year-old amphibious transport dock that originally was scheduled to be decommissioned on March 30. Decommissioning was cancelled, and the vessel has been converted into an interim AFSB to fulfill a longstanding U.S. Central Command request. The AFSB (I) is a new kind of vessel staffed by a mixed crew of civilians and U.S. Navy sailors. She will be used to support minesweeping, helicopter operations, and patrol craft. The vessel can also be utilized as a mobile staging base for special operations forces. SIU Government Services Division members on the USS Ponce (pictured last year) recently were honored by the Military Sealift Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman) November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:24 AM �SIU Welcomes New Jobs as Crowley Christens ATB SIU members and officials took part in the celebration Sept. 27 in Tampa, Fla., as Crowley Maritime Corporation christened the 16,000-horsepower tugboat  Legend and 330,000-barrel tank barge  750-2. Together the vessels comprise the company’s newest SIU-crewed articulated tug-barge (ATB) – one that will be used to transport petroleum products between the U.S. Gulf and East Coasts, including regular port calls in Tampa where the company currently discharges nearly 163 million gallons of product each month. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey attended the christening and met with the union crew. “Crowley’s continued investment in the U.S. Merchant Marine is a credit both to the company and to our membership,” Tricker stated. “We were happy to join in the celebration and we appreciate the strong partnership we enjoy with Crowley.” Corgey pointed out that the Legend “means additional work in the Jones Act trade, which is good for U.S. national and economic security. This new tonnage is a classic win-win for everyone involved.” The  Legend/750-2 is the second of three petroleum tank vessels in its class The Legend is a state-of-the-art ATB that means new jobs for SIU members. in terms of size, speed and capacity in the company’s fleet, and together measures 674 feet in length. It carries a crew of 14. “We are extremely pleased to add another 750-class ATB to the fleet,” said Crowley Petroleum Services Senior Vice President and General Manager Rob Grune. “The Legacy/750-1 has proven to perform amazingly well and meet our customers’ needs. We are confident that, like the first of its kind, the Legend/750-2 will also exceed industry standards for the safest possible transportation of petroleum and chemical products.” Grune’s wife, Joan, acted as vessel sponsor and participated in the time-honored tradition of christening the  Legend, assisted by  the wife of Gregg Qualls of Marathon Petroleum Company, Christina, who christened the barge 750-2. In addition to the SIU contingent, more than 100 guests, including customers, friends and employees from Crowley; the shipyards – VT Halter Marine, of Pascagoula, Miss., and Dakota Creek Industries, of Anacortes, Wash. – attended the event. A celebratory reception followed at the Florida Aquarium. ATBs at a Glance Articulated tug-barges (ATBs) consist of a tank vessel (barge) and a large, powerful tug that is positioned in a notch in the stern of the barge, which enables the tug to propel and maneuver the barge. Unlike an ITB (integrated tug-barge), where the tug and barge are locked together in a rigid connection and become for practical purposes one unit, the ATB has an articulated or “hinged” connection system between the tug and barge. This allows movement in one axis, or plane, in the critical area of fore and aft pitch. Advantages of ATBs include improved reliability and safety over towed barges, improved operating efficiency as compared to towed barges and tankers, and the fact that they can be delivered in less time than it takes to construct and deliver new conventional tankers. ---Source: Crowley Maritime Corporation Navy Launches Second High-Speed Vessel: USNS Choctaw County The U.S. Navy recently launched the second of 10 joint high-speed rapid transport vessels to be crewed by civil service and civilian contract mariners. Launching from Mobile, Ala., in October, the newly christened USNS Choctaw County is the second of a 10-ship, $1.6 billion program designed to provide joint high-speed vessels (JHSVs) for rapid transport of troops and military equipment. The Choctaw County signals new jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division – it will operate from Little Creek, Va., and is expected to begin conducting missions for the Navy during the first quarter of 2014. “The ship’s performance will be matched by the unique qualities of her crew – 21 civil service mariners committed to freedom, democracy and compassion,” said Deputy MSC Commander Rear Adm. Brian LaRoche while addressing more than 700 people during the ship’s christening event. “Choctaw County will carry the Military Sealift Command funnel stripes and the strength of the U.S. military wherever America needs it.” November 2012 11769_November.indd 3 “It’s great to be able to share another milestone with the people who were an integral part of designing and creating such an innovative vessel, which will continue to help us provide our customers with the best available technology, safety and cost effectiveness for years to come,” said Grune. “We’re looking forward to doing it again once the final 750-class vessel is completed and ready to work.” The last of the three ATBs in this class being built for the company, the  Liberty/750-3, is under construction and, once completed, will operate in the Jones Act U.S. coastwise trade. Altogether, the 700-class ATBs will bring the company’s total ATB fleet to 17, including four 155,000-barrel and ten 185,000-barrel ATBs. The 750-class barges are 45,000 deadweight tons, 600 feet in length, 105-feet, six-inches in breadth and 54-feet, threeinches in depth. The fully loaded draft is 35 feet. Both barges, 750-1 and 7502, were built by VT Halter Marine Inc. in Pascagoula and the tugs Legend and Legacy  were constructed by Dakota Creek Industries. The Liberty/750-3 is scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2013. All 10 MSC-owned JHSVs will be civiliancrewed. The first four – including the Choctaw County – will be manned by federally-employed civil service mariners, while the remaining six will be crewed by civilian mariners working for private companies under contract to MSC. The JHSVs – 338-foot-long aluminum catamarans – are designed to be fast and maneuverable in both deep and shallow water, making them effective at transporting troops and materiel within a theater of operation. The vessels are part of the U.S. Defense Department’s next generation of multi-use platforms and can be quickly adapted to whatever the mission calls for, according to MSC. That includes everything from carrying containerized portable hospitals for disaster relief to transporting tanks and troops. Civilian Capt. Jose Delfaus, who serves as Choctaw County’s civil service master, said the ships fit perfectly with the new concept of forward-basing. The goal of forward-basing is to cut back on the number of overseas bases by equipping more forward-deployed ships with troops and gear. “JHSVs can join up with these ships and help them essentially by being their delivery truck, delivering anything they need from troops and gear to provisions or cargo,” he said. JHSVs can transport 600 tons of troops, supplies and equipment 1,200 nautical miles at an average of 35 knots, according to the Navy. Their aviation flight decks can support day and night operations, Christina Qualls christens the barge in Tampa. SIU Capt. William Lenfestey (center) is pictured with SIU VPs George Tricker (left) and Dean Corgey. while each vessel also has sleeping accommodations for up to 146 and airline-style seating for up to 312. “The JHSV bridge functions more like a 747 cockpit than a traditional ship’s bridge,” Delfaus said. “Everything you need to move the ship is available through an elaborate control panel. The navigation team also sits in the bridge, as does the engineering consul. It’s a very unique set up – the rows of people make it look a bit like Star Trek.” The USNS Choctaw County is moved from Austal’s assembly bay in Mobile, Ala. (Photo courtesy Austal USA) Seafarers LOG 3 10/25/2012 7:25:31 PM �Union Election Voting Began Nov. 1 The voting process for officers of the Seafarers International Union’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/ NMU is under way. Eligible SIU members began casting their secret ballots at union halls Nov. 1. That process will go on until Dec. 31, as members may continue to vote at these locations or make their selections via absentee ballots in the mail. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election – which will determine union officials for the 2013-2016 term – are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is outlined in the union’s governing document, the SIU Constitution. The ballot, a sample of which appeared on pages 7 and 8 of the October 2012 edition of the Seafarers LOG, lists the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this district-wide election. Absentee Ballots Available for Members Voting for the election of officers for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU commenced Nov. 1. 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: n Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. n Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. n Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. n 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. n 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. n 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. n 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. n 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. n 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. 4 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 4 The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 16, and submitted to the membership at the September monthly meetings, indicated 26 candidates had qualified to run for 25 positions. (The committee report also was published in the September 2012 LOG.) The 25 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 20 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided in the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots between 9 a.m. and noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot along with the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be marked with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenged.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. Full-book members in good standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters: 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The SIU Constitution lists all acceptable reasons for obtaining an absentee ballot. Balloting Process Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and then dispatched in the mail. These steps help ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rankand-file committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene in early January 2013. NOTICE OF 2012 ELECTION FOR ELECTION OF 2013-2016 OFFICERS SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District/NMU Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9:00 a.m. to noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2012 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2012. Voting Locations Algonac 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 Anchorage 721 Sesame Street, Suite 1C Anchorage, AK 99503 Baltimore 2315 Essex St. Baltimore, MD 21224 Ft. Lauderdale 1221 South Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Guam Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 103B, 422 West O’Brien Dr. Hagatna, Guam 96910 Honolulu 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 Houston 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 Jacksonville 5100 Belfort Road Jacksonville, FL 32256 Joliet 10 East Clinton Joliet, IL 60432 Mobile 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 New Orleans 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 New York 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 Norfolk 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 Oakland 1121 7th St. Oakland, CA 94607 Philadelphia 2604 South Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 Piney Point Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Piney Point, MD 20674 Puerto Rico 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Santurce, PR 00907 St. Louis 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 Tacoma 3411 South Union St. Tacoma, WA 98409 Wilmington 510 North Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 Coast Guard Issues STCW Policy Letters Correspondence Provides Guidance for Mariners, Vessels That Must Comply The U.S. Coast Guard on Oct. 15 posted three policy letters offering guidance to mariners and ships that must comply with the STCW Convention. Individual links to the full announcement and the individual letters are available on the agency’s National Maritime Center website at: www.uscg.mil/nmc/stcw/default.asp. Both the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center are working closely with the Coast Guard to help ensure a smooth transition to the 2010 amendments, particularly when it comes to course approval guidelines, some of which will be further clarified Each of the recently issued policy letters includes a disclaimer that reads in part, “This guidance is not a substitute for applicable legal requirements, nor is it itself a regulation. It is not intended to, nor does it, impose legally-binding requirements on any party. It represents the Coast Guard’s current thinking on this topic. You can use an alternative approach if the approach satisfies the requirements of the applicable statutes and regulations.” The eight-page letter titled “Hours of Rest Policy” notes that new minimum rest periods for “every person assigned duty as officer in charge of a navigational or engineering watch, or duty as a ratings forming part of a navigational or engineering watch, or designated safety, prevention of pollution, and security duties onboard any vessel that operates beyond the boundary line” consist of “a minimum of 10 hours … in any 24-hour period, and 77 hours … in any 7-day period,” though there are exceptions. The letter titled “Security Endorsements Policy” is seven pages, and it covers “issuance of endorsements and approval of training for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) and vessel personnel requiring security awareness training.” The 17-page letter titled “Endorsements and Training Approval Policy” points out that the most recent STCW amendments “establish new endorsements, and revise other existing endorsements. Consistent with these changes, upon publication of this policy letter, the Coast Guard will begin issuing endorsements for the following: Able SeafarerDeck (AS-D), Able Seafarer-Engine (AS-E). These endorsements correspond to the domestic rating endorsements of Able Seaman and Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED)…. The 2010 amendments to STCW also revise the requirements for endorsements for personnel serving on oil, chemical, and liquefied gas tank vessels. The Coast Guard will make changes to the verbiage of the STCW endorsements that are currently being issued, and expand the scope of mariners who may qualify for STCW endorsements for service on tank vessels.” November 2012 10/25/2012 7:25:33 PM �New York Port Council Honorees Salute America’s Working Families The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity honored three individuals who stood up for the contributions of working people in accepting awards during the council’s annual dinner-dance Oct. 13. The SIU is an MTD affiliate, and SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as MTD president. International Union of Operating Engineers General President (and MTD board member) James Callahan, U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) and David Foster, who as president and CEO of SIU-contracted American Steamship Company accepted that firm’s award, noted the hard work of those who have come before as well as those who meet the daily struggles at their jobs. Callahan served as president and business manager of IUOE Local 15 in New York City prior to being elected to lead his international. He saluted the solidarity found within the labor movement. “No matter what has to be done, we stand together,” Callahan stated. Upon receiving the council’s Paul Hall Award of Merit, the 32-year IUOE member noted it was “quite an honor.” He said he studied the life of the late MTD president and saw “he was looked down upon with bats. He worked and fought and took injuries for the working men of this country.” In introducing Callahan, MTD President Sacco said the IUOE president is “doing a great job not only with his union, but also as a member of the AFL-CIO Executive Council, where we both serve. He has worked his way up through the ranks, so he understands the challenges faced by the rank-and-file. And he is a true champion of America’s working families.” Pictured from left are Port Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Peter Busacca, Port Council President Joseph Soresi, IUOE General President James Callahan, MTD President Michael Sacco and MTD VP Scott Winter. Sacco also pointed out a recent New York Times article that stated Wall Street employs about 160,000 related to its business while the port of New York has close to 280,000 workers. “Isn’t it interesting that those overpriced bankers and money-changers begrudge and belittle honest working men and women who show up no matter what the weather’s like and do their jobs for a family-sustaining wage,” the MTD president declared to applause from the nearly 600 in attendance. Port Council President Joseph Soresi (who also serves as SIU vice president Atlantic Coast) presented Congressman Grimm with the Government Man of the Year Award. Grimm wished his father, who had been a member of Roofers and Waterproofers Local 8, could have witnessed the occasion. The freshman legislator and Persian Gulf War veteran said it was his father who taught him “the respect and belief that we will do whatever it takes to give our children more than what we had. I know what built this country,” Grimm told the gathering. “It was the hard-working men and women who built this country. I will be with you the whole way. You are the beacon of hope, the beacon of life for the whole world. I share in your pride.” The council’s Herb Brand Memorial Award was presented to American Steamship Company, the largest U.S.-flag company on the Great Lakes. President and CEO Foster acknowledged, “It is the employees who keep us working; it is the customers who keep us in business. A company is only as good as its people, and we have great people.” Foster saluted the good working relationship the company has with its contracted unions – the SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. He ended his remarks with a statement that brought the crowd to its feet: “Long live the Jones Act!” Clinic Expansion Means More Convenience, Less Travel for SIU Members The union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan are moving ahead with strategies to expand the network of SHBP-contracted clinics. To that end, officials from the SIU and the SHBP were scheduled to meet in late October with representatives from the SIU-contracted companies comprising the American Maritime Association. As reported at the October membership meetings, the extended network will greatly expand the number of clinics available to Seafarers. This will allow members to complete their physicals, functional capacity tests and other medical procedures closer to home. Seafarers also will be able to take follow-up exams that are re-evaluations rather than additional comprehensive physicals (a result of the standard contracts negotiated and ratified earlier this year). Additionally, Seafarers will have the option of utilizing the members-only portal on the union’s website (seafarers.org) to initiate clinic services. The expanded network tentatively is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2013. Details will be reported in the LOG, on the website and at regular membership meetings. Meanwhile, rank-and-file members and officials from the union and the SHBP are visiting some of the new medical facilities and completing some of the tests in order to help verify the quality of the clinics and the fairness of the procedures. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker stated, “We are aggressively working towards putting the final touches on improved clinic services that, once enacted, will provide greater access for our membership and eliminate the need for pre-sign-on physicals.” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen pointed out that expanding the network “is designed to offer greater accessibility to participants. Also, like our current clinics, the new additions are very high-quality facilities.” Officials, Trustees Break Ground for New PHC Claims Building Individuals who work in the SIU’s claims department, all members of the Seafarersaffiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), now are one step closer to accomplishing their mission on a daily basis in the comfort of a pristine, state-of-the-art facility. A symbolic ground-breaking ceremony signaling the start of construction for the new claims department building at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) was held Sept. 12 at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The ceremony was attended by union officials, trustees, guests and rank-and-file members who earlier had attended the 2012 Quinquennial Convention of the Seafarers International Union of North America at the school. Actual construction of the new structure, which has been in the planning stages for some two years, will commence in early 2013, according to PHC Vice President Don Nolan. Nolan said the new three-story 36,000 square- foot structure–which will be situated on the same tract of land on which the current claims building sits—should be completed within the next year to 18 months. Once open, the new complex will house some 40 individuals who provide assistance and information regarding claims and health benefits to active SIU members, retirees and dependents, as well as to members of SIU-affiliated unions. Office space in the facility also will be utilized by members of the SIU Medical Department, according to Nolan. Some 12,000 square feet of the new structure will be set aside for future expansion, he added. Eventually, this space will be chartered to tenant organizations that are affiliated with the union. While the new facility will represent a welcomed and much-needed upgrade for many, it undeniably has nostalgic implications for others. One such individual is SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. “The old claims building had and still has Union officials and trustees ceremonially break ground for the new claims building at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 5 a great deal of sentimental value to folks who went through Piney Point during the 60s, 70s and early 80s,” said Heindel, who attended the school in in 1973 and was a member of Class 137. “It was the mess hall during those days. “That’s where everyone gathered to socialize and of course have three squares a day,” he continued. “It was sort of the place that everybody met…. Aside from the old theater and bowling alley, it was really the only thing we had to look forward to. Everything else involved going to class and doing details such as picking up cigarette butts. “So to see the old building go will be like losing a piece of history for some of the older trainees,” Heindel concluded. “But we must step aside and allow progress to take place. I.m sure the tenants of the new facility will appreciate the new fresh surroundings and state of the art systems that will be available to assist our members’ claims needs.” Students partake in a meal inside the old dining facility at the Paul Hall Center which currently is used as the claims building. The new building will sit on the same tract of land. Seafarers LOG 5 10/30/2012 6:49:30 AM �Seafarers Sail With DOE for Science Horizon Spirit Helping Scientists Better Understand Earth’s Climate A Horizon Lines container ship will be collecting more than just cargo over the next year as it makes its trips between Los Angeles and Honolulu every two weeks. Seafarers aboard the Horizon Spirit will work alongside advanced scientific equipment designed to collect atmospheric data that could help scientists better understand the Earth’s climate and atmosphere. Horizon Lines – which is contracted with the SIU – allowed scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to install the equipment for a year-long mission. Set to take place through September 2013, the study will collect data along the Horizon Spirit’s Los Angeles-Hawaii route repeatedly in different seasons and weather conditions. Scientists are calling it the most elaborate climate study ever mounted on a commercial vessel. “We are very grateful to Horizon Lines for giving us the opportunity to install our research equipment aboard the Horizon Spirit,” said lead investigator Ernie Lewis, an atmospheric scientist at the DOE’s Brookhaven Na- Brookhaven scientist Ernie Lewis stands near one of the mobile SeaTainer units now installed aboard the Horizon Spirit. tional Laboratory. “Collecting data on a wide range of atmospheric conditions over an entire year, including the transitions among cloud types along this particular route, will give us a large amount of data to help refine and validate models of Earth’s climate.” Officials with Horizon Lines said they were happy to help. In fact, said Vice President of Operating Services Pete Strohla, the project was a win-win. “Horizon Lines is happy to cooperate in the yearlong … project to improve climate modeling,” he said. “Our hope is that better understanding of climate change will facilitate more accurate weather forecasting, which in turn will help our industry plan safer and more fuel-efficient vessel routes.” While low marine boundary layer clouds over the ocean have a large influence over the Earth’s climate through their interaction with the ocean and atmosphere, scientists have been unable to effectively study that interaction before. That’s where the Horizon Spirit comes in. The ship’s route along a marine environment with variable cloud cover gives scientists the ability to study those clouds thoroughly, “providing a great opportunity for extensive data collection,” Lewis said. “These shipbased measurements can provide much more detailed information than can be determined from satellites, and these data will provide a valuable addition to other measurements that have been made in marine conditions, albeit for much shorter periods.” Scientists have spent the last nine months preparing the instruments and optimizing their performance for data collection. Many of the instruments are housed in three modified 20-foot SeaTainer cargo containers designed for mobile deployment. Other instruments include radars that are mounted to tables designed to maintain stable “vision” despite a rocking ship. “We approached Horizon about working together on this project with the idea that our equipment could be installed on the ship with no disruption of their ordinary operations,” Lewis said. In the meantime, the scientists will be eagerly awaiting the results of the lengthy data collection period. “In the end, these data will greatly enhance our understanding of clouds, aerosols, Earth’s energy and water balance … providing an unequalled dataset for Workers load scientific instruments into a modified 20-foot evaluating and improving climate models, Lewis said. cargo container aboard the Horizon Spirit. With Seafarers on the West Coast SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez met with Seafarers on the West Coast in late September and early October, both aboard ship and ashore. During discussions with the crews, he emphasized the importance of backing pro-maritime candidates on Election Day, and also updated Seafarers on the latest industry news affecting their livelihoods. Tellez made stops in and around Tacoma, Wash., and Long Beach, Wilmington and Oakland, Calif. A few photos from those meetings are published here. Aboard the Alaskan Navigator in Long Beach (from left): AB Manuel Enrico, AB Michael Ostrowski, Tellez, Recertified Bosun Greg Hamilton. Seafarers from three different vessels pose with Exec. VP Augie Tellez aboard the Cape Isabel in Long Beach, Calif. From left are DEU Richard Pepper (USNS Curtis), Electrician Mark Campbell (USNS Curtis), DEU Jason Stutes (Cape Inscription), Tellez, Bosun Rick Barnhart (Cape Inscription), Steward/Baker Leola Johnson (Cape Inscription) and Bosun Ron Sagadraca (Cape Isabel). Updating Seafarers aboard the Horizon Spirit in Long Beach, Calif., is SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (right). 6 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 6 Shore gang members in Oakland, Calif., welcome officials for an informal meeting and photo opp. Members and officials gather for a photo aboard the Keystone State in Alameda, Calif. Some of the crew came over from the ROS ships Gem State and Grand Canyon State. November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:36 AM �Ocean Atlas Ordeal Shines Light on MDL Defense Fund Vitally Important To SIU Members Since 1967 The importance of having a well-funded Maritime Defense League (MDL) was made abundantly clear this summer when Venezuelan authorities, including armed military personnel, boarded an SIU-contracted ship and detained the crew. While the two-week ordeal eventually turned out to be caused by a customs misunderstanding, the SIU crew and the AMO officers of the Ocean Atlas were initially threatened with jail time in a Venezuelan prison. SIU officials knew they had to do something to prevent that from happening, so they turned to the MDL. “With the Ocean Atlas we had a developing situation,” said SIU Counsel Leslie Tarantola. “During an appropriate drug search, weapons were discovered that were being carried on the vessel for use when the vessel travels through areas where the threats of piracy attacks are very real. It turned out to be a misunderstanding, as the weapons were declared, but we needed to immediately retain legal consultants and that is when we were able to turn to the MDL. I am quite certain that without it (the MDL), it would have taken a lot longer to resolve this situation and the mariners would have been detained and separated from their families for a substantially longer duration.” Formed in 1967 after various laws and court decisions prevented the SIU from using dues revenue to directly help mariners who were facing job-related criminal legal problems, the MDL remains a vital tool for the SIU to help members who are in legal trouble. It is funded exclusively through donations and has repeatedly come to the aid of SIU members who find themselves entangled in often baseless legal attacks. SIU Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, who regularly encourages members to contribute to the MDL, said situations like the Ocean Atlas show why donating is so important. “There’s no better place to spend that money than when our brothers and sisters are detained overseas and we need legal help,” he said. “The next time it could be you.” As the Ocean Atlas story made headlines around the world, Tarantola said company officials were able to retain a local Venezuelan lawyer for the crew while, thanks to the MDL, the union retained the counsel of a former U.S. congressman who knew and worked closely with high-level Venezuelan officials. The crew arrived safely in Houston soon after. “He was really able to expedite the process of getting the ship released,” Tarantola said of the former congressman. “I can’t say enough about how important his assistance was.” Members of the Ocean Atlas crew were certainly happy The recent saga of the Ocean Atlas underscored the MDL’s importance. with the results. Without the MDL, it’s widely agreed that the process would have taken much longer than it did. Instead of potentially facing extended delays in Venezuela, the crew celebrated its homecoming in Houston. “I’m very grateful to everybody that pulled us through and got it worked out,” Recertified Bosun David Hetrick told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG aboard the Ocean Atlas following its arrival in Houston. “It could have been terrible for all 15 of us.” Prior to the MDL, mariners were often left to fend for themselves when facing criminal legal challenges. In a 1967 speech proposing the creation of the MDL, former SIU Vice President Robert A. Matthews said many mariners went bankrupt trying to pay for their own legal defense. Whether they were falsely arrested for striking for decent wages or detained due to a misunderstanding – like the Ocean Atlas crew – Matthews said mariners needed to know they weren’t one set of handcuffs away from the poor house. “The law says the union can’t provide assistance, legal help or otherwise, unless the man is acquitted and released – even if the union believes it can help prove the man’s innocence,” Matthews said. “It’s too late then most of the time anyway because a union member has probably used up all his savings, if he has any – he’s hocked his house, car and everything else to pay for his defense – and after he beats the charge he’s back to where he started except for being broke and having a bad name.” Matthews went on to cite instance after instance of mariners being falsely imprisoned and intimidated by the police simply because of certain beefs or picket issues – situations that could very easily happen today. And that’s where the MDL comes in. “It is a most worthy cause and … it deserves the support of every SIU member and every union in member in this industry,” Matthews said. “It is the only way to provide the help that is needed at the time it is needed.” Thanks to the MDL, help was provided at precisely the right time for the Seafarers aboard the Ocean Atlas this summer. “It should be comforting to our brothers and sisters that we have this fund available to provide a safety net when and where it is needed.” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “The Ocean Atlas is just the latest example of MDL’s importance. And even though its original intent was to assist members on picket lines and such, the world is a much different place today. Seafarers are governed by many different laws and regulations today, both domestically and internationally. The MDL is a vital tool that allows the SIU to protect our members’ livelihoods without having to be concerned with spending their savings or going into debt.” When it comes to the difference between a member potentially going bankrupt or having his or her brothers and sisters donate a modest amount to the MDL, Orzechowski added, the decision should be obvious. “What the heck is $100 a year to put into that? Guys will put a hundred bucks a week into cigarettes and beer,” he said. “The MDL is a safety net. It’s cheap insurance for when these types of situations happen.” Orzechowski said the MDL is also about more than just getting mariners out of legal entanglements. “It’s also important for their families to understand there is a fund there so they’re not wondering, ‘How do I get my husband, wife, son or daughter home,’” he said. “[The SIU] is a pretty close-knit group of people and this is important.” While times have changed in the 45 years since the MDL’s founding, the legal threats facing mariners worldwide are still very real. As the case of the Ocean Atlas showed, the cause Matthews rallied for in 1967 is just as important in 2012. “SIU men have been subjected to harassment, jailings and legal problems.… Seamen everywhere have always been fair game for this kind of thing, whether because of a strike or job action, and for any other kind of job beef.” Matthews said. “It’s happened before, it’s happening now and it will happen again.” Black Eagle Lands in California In late September, Patrolman Nick Marrone II serviced the SIU-crewed Black Eagle in Concord, Calif. The Sealift Inc.-operated ship had just returned from delivering cargo in two African ports and was readying for a voyage to Japan. Chief Cook Jonda Tanner (right) shows Chief Cook Jasper Jackson around the galley before signing off. AB Romero Jomoc (right) welcomes Patrolman Nick Marrone II aboard after signing him in at the gangway. November 2012 11769_November.indd 7 Longtime Seafarer Vernon Huelett (right, with Patrolman Marrone) is sailing as a mate aboard the Black Eagle. He credits the SIU for giving him opportunities to advance. Chief Steward Brian Cushing (left), SA David Dingman Seafarers LOG 7 10/25/2012 7:25:45 PM �Bosun Praises Union-Affiliated School Gender No Obstacle in Seafarer’s Career Ascension Bosun Michele Laycock is anything but a crusader. She just happens to have found her niche in an industry – and a shipboard department – Earlier this year, Laycock accepted a safety award on behalf of fellow mariners from the USNS Effective. that’s more commonly occupied by men. But Laycock says there’s much to like about life as a merchant mariner, especially when one enjoys both the protections of a union contract and the opportunities available through the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). Scheduled to complete the PHC’s third mate course in late December, Laycock says she’d recommend a seafaring career to anyone who might be interested – regardless of age or gender. “There are so many different ships that do so many different things, there is definitely one for anybody that wants to sail,” points out Laycock, a Kentucky resident who’s in her early thirties. “When I first entered the industry, somebody told me don’t pay attention to what anybody in the hall says about a ship, because you don’t know why they’re saying it. Any time you go out, just take the job and see for yourself. I thought that was very good advice and I think that’s the best thing you can do. Go out with an open mind and try it. This might be the perfect fit for you.” For Laycock, sailing wasn’t a childhood dream. “Honestly, I fell into this job,” she recalls. After high school, she completed some college coursework and then started working on dinner boats. In the year 2000, she joined the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) in Indiana. Three years later, assisted by current SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, Laycock joined the SIU and signed on aboard the USNS Bowditch as a member of the deck gang. “My chief mate was a hawsepiper and he was always encouraging me to upgrade,” Laycock remembers. “Everybody on that ship was helpful; it was a wonderful experience. It was a good starting point, but I haven’t really ever had a bad ship.” She has stuck with the career for many reasons, not the least of which is the PHC. “This school is fantastic. It really is,” says Laycock, who has upgraded at the Piney Point, Md., facility more than a half-dozen times. “People can say all they want about union dues, but I have more than taken advantage of mine just in the classes that I’ve taken here – three times over, probably, in what I would have paid elsewhere. I have gotten my money’s worth, and people definitely should take advantage of what this place offers. They’re changing with the times, too. I may not always love being here but they do a good thing at this school.” She adds, “It is beautiful here. But what I really like – and I’ve taken classes in other places – is the instructors…. You don’t feel like you’re learning from somebody who only read the material out of a book. They’re fantastic.” As for the job itself, Laycock says she appreciates “meeting people from all walks of life,” the physical nature of deck-department work, and the vacation time. It’s also important that as a bosun, “I have an opportunity to initiate change. My opinion matters and the higher-ups listen to me.” She also values being covered by a union contract. “You don’t have to argue for your wages,” points out Laycock, who normally ships from the St. Louis hall. “Traditionally, for various reasons, when women are bidding for their own wages, they get lower pay than men. I don’t have to worry about that.” Speaking of tradition, while there are no official barriers between women and the deck department, it’s still an arena mostly occupied by men. Nevertheless, Laycock says she rarely experiences signs of resistance or discomfort from the male Seafarers she supervises. Those who haven’t met her usually take an initially cautious approach, but overall she has seen almost no irregular treat- Bosun Michele Laycock says the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point has helped her advance, largely thanks to top-notch instructors. ment other than one isolated (and very tame) experience. “You have to accept that people grew up in different eras and areas,” she notes. Laycock isn’t certain about her long-range plans, but she wants to make at least one more trip as a bosun, and she is interested in earning an associate’s degree through the PHC. Already, though, she has accumulated many good memories, including five-plus years sailing as a bosun and helping her most recent ship – the Maersk-operated USNS Effective – earn the prestigious Jones F. Devlin award for (in this case) going 10 years without a lost-time accident. Laycock believes she has grown as a bosun, including having learned to be more assertive. “Unless you’re born into that leadership position, there’s a transition and there’s a lot to learn,” she acknowledges. “But 99 percent of it is how you deal with people.” AB Recalls Crossing Equator Editor’s note: The SIU-crewed Ocean Atlas currently is known by most Seafarers for its recent detention in Venezuela – a tense saga with a happy ending. Before the confinement, though, AB Russell Macomber wrote the following story covering a traditional event from the previous voyage. At least somewhat ironically, the original headline was “Fun Times Aboard M/V Ocean Atlas.” No Shellbacks or pollywogs were harmed during the ceremony. Nor was anyone else, for that matter. Men’s Domain? Don’t Tell Mate’s Class The third mate’s class at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center that’s scheduled to end in late December includes four women: SIU members Nicole Geideman (above right), Samantha Murphy-Ortiz (above left), Stacy Murphy (below) and Michele Laycock (featured elsewhere on this page). Seafarers LOG readers may recall that sisters Stacy and Samantha were featured in the March 2010 edition. At that time, they said they planned to continue working their ways up through the ranks, and that’s exactly what they’re doing. 8 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 8 The Crowley-operated and Intermarine-owned heavy lift vessel M/V Ocean Atlas was en route from Savannah, Ga., to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when it was discovered that four pollywogs were amongst the crew. As the route would bring the vessel into the southern hemisphere, the rest of the crew – all of them Shellbacks – were aghast to find out that their brethren had never sailed across the equator. Preparations for an initiation ceremony began immediately. The chief mate played the role of King Neptune and issued a royal summons demanding that the pollywogs appear in his presence to pay the price for invading his kingdom. The SIU crew, playing the part of King Neptune’s court, gathered up the offensive crew members and assembled them on the main deck. The king issued individual punishments for each of the four and the chastisement began. Once he was satisfied that they had paid the penalty for their misdeeds, all four sailors were assembled before the king and doused in seawater. Having been washed clean by the water that represents his kingdom, King Neptune declared all four worthy of being his subjects and each of the sailors was awarded Shellback status. Everyone on the ship had fun and was grateful for a break in the routine of what was to turn out to be a long voyage. After a port call in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the vessel headed across the Atlantic to Ghana, Africa, then back across the pond to Brazil once again where it stopped in both Rio Grande and Santos. The Ocean Atlas finally headed home to Houston only to be delayed by Tropical Storm Ernesto. However, the crew persevered and made it safely to their home port. Once in Houston, Captain Scott A. Lund awarded certificates to the following members of the crew as proof of their new Shellback status: AMO member 3rd Mate Timothy J. Ramstetter and SIU members Electrician Jack Croft, GUDE Samir Tarsha and ACU Rashaad Mangram. Pictured left to right are GUDE Samir Tarsha, Third Mate Timothy Ramstetter, Captain Scott A. Lund, QMED/Electrician Jack Croft and ACU Rashaad Mangram. November 2012 10/30/2012 6:49:46 AM �Retired Lakes VP Byron Kelley Dies at 79 Byron Kelley, retired longtime vice president of the SIU’s Great Lakes and Inland Waters District, passed away Oct. 4 in Allen Park, Mich. He was 79 and had been in poor health. A Michigan native, Kelley made his living in the maritime industry for more than 50 years, and he remained active in the labor movement even after officially retiring from the SIU in 2000. “I always enjoyed working with Byron,” said SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “He was an oldschool trade unionist and he always fought hard for the members. He was a good guy and a solid SIU guy. We’re going to miss him.” Tom Orzechowski, who succeeded Kelley as the union’s vice president Great Lakes and Inland Waters, said, “Byron was a stalwart for workers’ rights. He was well-known throughout the labor community in Detroit and Wayne County. He will certainly be remembered.” Kelley (left) chats with a member in 1978 at the old SIU hall in Detroit. SIU Manpower Director Bart Rogers worked with Kelley in Alton, Ill., and elsewhere. He remembered Kelley as “always professional and knowledgeable. He was a hard worker who ran the Lakes when a lot of things were changing up there, and he stood fast to his union beliefs.” The son of a tugboat captain, Kelley began sailing in 1951. He served four years in the U.S. Coast Guard (1953-57) before returning to the merchant marine, where he earned licenses as a tugboat captain and pilot. He came ashore to work for the union in 1973 and held positions including representative, safety director, and assistant vice president. He became a vice president in 1990 and remained in that post until his retirement. Reflecting on his career, Kelley in the year 2000 stated, “It sounds cornball, but what I enjoyed the most was seeing the comfort of the working guy improve to the point where they make a damn good living. When I started sailing, if you got a 2-cents-an-hour raise, that was something. Today, it has evolved and become a job to be proud of. Here on the Lakes, the money and the benefits through the SIU are such that the members don’t want to give them up. So, my ability to help through the negotiating process is probably my greatest source of pride.” During his sailing days, Kelley worked Cape Kennedy and Cape Knox Byron F. Kelley 1933-2012 for Great Lakes Towing, Dunbar and Sullivan Dredging, and others. When he retired, more than 200 wellwishers turned out for a combination birthday party-retirement gathering in Allen Park. Attendees included numerous officials from the SIU and other labor organizations, U.S. House of Representatives Minority Whip David Bonior, and U.S. Rep. John Dingell. Overseas Houston New Orleans-Area Seafarers Vote ‘Aye’ for New Contracts These photos were taken earlier this year in and around New Orleans as SIU members voted on the new standard freightship and tanker agreements and (separately) a new pact covering Seafarers employed by Crowley. The contracts featured wage increases and either maintained or boosted benefits, and they passed by overwhelming majorities. SIU New Orleans Safety Director James Brown is in two of the photos (Overseas Houston and one of the Crowley pictures), wearing a hat and glasses. The photo at left and those directly above show some of the Seafarers who voted on the Crowley contract. The photo at right shows one of the ATBs aboard which they work. November 2012 11769_November.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 10/25/2012 7:25:53 PM �MEETING ABOARD EVERGREEN STATE – Seafarers are pictured in early July following their monthly union meeting aboard Crowley’s Evergreen State. Above at left is Recertified Bosun Greg Jenkins. In the group photo are (seated, from left) AB Emmanuel Wilson, Oiler Abdul Ghaleb, Chief Steward Tyrell Thabit, (standing) AB Ernesto Lomboy, AB Nestor Rapusas, Pumpman Montree Nakwichet, AB John McElhaney, Oiler Jacob Diefenbach, ACU Demetrio Faulve and SA Adriana Chavero. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU WITH SEAFARERS IN TACOMA – Pictured on the dock next to the Midnight Sun are OMU Alexis Frederick (left), SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (center) and AB Gamal Muflahi. SHIPBOARD REUNION – When Second Mate (and SIU hawsepiper) Jeff Yegge (left) and then-UA Ross Halsted sailed together aboard Pasha Hawaii’s car carrier Jean Anne, it marked a reunion of sorts. Twenty years earlier, they sailed as bellhops aboard the cruise ship SS Independence. Halsted is now an FOWT. CONGRATS ON RETIREMENT – Longtime Oakland, Calif., shore gang member Reynaldo Dimacale (center) receives his first pension check after 32-plus years of membership. Congratulating him at the Oakland hall are Safety Director Kathy Chester (left) and Administrative Assistant Dianna Marrone. 10 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 10 JUST DESSERTS – Recertified Steward Travis Jefferson shows off his retirement cake on board the Horizon Anchorage returning from Alaska. Recertified Steward Scott Opsahl (who submitted the photo) pointed out that Jefferson’s first ship, Alaska Steamship Company’s SS Tatalina, also sailed to Alaska some 47 years ago. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Kenneth Johnson (left) received his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif., in mid-September. Congratulating him is Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Johnson’s most recent ships included the Horizon Pacific and Keystone’s USNS Stephen W. Pless. SAFETY AWARDS ON GREEN POINT – Vessel master Capt. John E. Belcourt (right in each photo) recently commended the work of Seafarers aboard the MV Green Point, operated by Central Gulf Lines. In particular, he pointed out that AB Jackson Gourgue (photo at right, above), AB Gregory “Dollar Bill” Saguran (photo directly above) and AB John Sanchez (remaining photo) received safety awards in the Gulf of Aden “for outstanding safety, especially in these high-risk waters. All three are outstanding sailors who are very much appreciated.” November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:01 PM �SHBP Scholarship Program Offers $132,000 in Grants Union Officials Encourage Eligible Seafarers, Dependents to Apply Contemplating attending college and finding ways to pay for it may be stressful under any circumstance, but that’s particularly so in light of today’s skyrocketing tuition costs, state budget cuts, volatile economy and growing numbers of applicants. In-state tuition costs at four-year public colleges increased by 15 percent from 2008-09 to 2010-11, according to college affordability data released in June by the U.S. Department of Education. Further, the data revealed, tuition at community colleges increased by 16.6 percent and by 9.7 percent at four-year non-profit colleges. Hikes of 8.1, 13.5 and 12.6 percent were posted by four-year for-profit, two-year nonprofit and two-year for-profit colleges, respectively, during the same period. If those numbers seem daunting, the good news for Seafarers and their dependents looking to further their educations is that financial help is available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHPB), which each year offers scholarships to qualified applicants. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers while five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears on this page and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, applicants should check the eligibility criteria. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2013. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2013. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last nine years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 68 college-bound individuals –18 Seafarers and 50 dependents. A list of these awards (by year) follows: Prospective College Students May Now Submit Applications For Union Plus Scholarships Applications are being accepted for the 2013 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their spouses and dependents. SIU members, retirees and their dependents are eligible to apply because of the union’s participation in Union Plus, which is part of the AFL-CIO. This year’s application is entirely online—which will allow students to complete their applications over a period of time and save their responses. To apply, interested individuals should visit UnionPlus.org/Education. November 2012 11769_November.indd 11 2012 – A trio of Seafarers and five dependents shared scholarship awards totaling $132,000. Claiming the grants for active Seafarers were AB Daniel Giles, AB Curtrina Duck, and QMED Jesse Tornabene. Claiming the dependents’ awards were: Kathryn Flanagan, daughter of Recertified Bosun Thomas Flanagan; Julio Marcone, son of Steward/ Baker Julio Marcone; Patricia Madrio, daughter of ABG Roy Madrio; Abigail Tesfaye, daughter of QEE Tesfaye Gebregzaibher, and Heidi Garner, daughter of Capt. Edward Garner. 2011 - Three active Seafarers and five dependents shared grants totaling $132,000. Seafarers designated to receive these awards were: AB Cleveland Foy, AB Timothy Squire Jr., and AB Judith Merwin. Dependents claiming scholarships included: Randi Isenhart, daughter of Inland Captain Randy Isenhart; Nermine Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abadelwahab; Hailey Grubbs, daughter of Recertified Bosun Robert Grubbs; Allison Matias, daughter of Chief Cook Efren Matias; and Gabrielle Camacho, daughter of AB Noel Camacho. 2010 - $146,000 in scholarships was awarded under the SHBP’s 2010 scholarship program. Recipients included Recertified Bosun Lon Oliver; Robert Firme, son of Steward Roberto A. Firme; Alisha Wood, daughter of AB Wilbert E. Wood; Margot O’Meara, daughter of retired Inland Master James O’Meara; Eizie Giray, daughter of deep sea Bosun Rufino J. Giray; Jacob Miller, son of retired Chief Engineer Marlin Miller; Sime Masnov, son of Chief Engineer Marijan Masnov; and Molly Johnson, daughter of the late Bosun Michael Johnson. 2009 – Two Seafarers and six dependents were awarded $132,000 in scholarships. Claiming these grants were: Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda; QMED Robert Oliveto; Jeffrey Monteiro, son of Deep Sea Engineer Francis Monteiro; Bethany Horner, daughter of inland Captain Arthur Horner; Matthew Taylor, son of inland Captain Rodger Taylor; Jillian Cairco, daughter of retired Deep Sea Chief Engineer Gary Jarvis; Giselle Bodden, daughter of inland AB-Tankerman Albert Bodden; and Alyssa Rothschild, daughter of inland Chief Mate Robert Rothschild. 2008 – Scholarships totaling $140,000 were awarded to AB Peter R. Hokenson; Brittany Redding, daughter of Chief Steward Dennis Redding; Christopher Wozunk, son of FOWT John Wozunk; Benjamin Wilmoth, son of QE Wendel Wilmoth; Albert Balatico, son of AB Albert Balatico; Xiao Xiao Li, daughter of SA Meli Seegers; and Sidney Kirk, daughter of AB Robert Kirk. 2007 – $120,000 in endowments were awarded to Sarah Abdelwahab, daughter of AB Mohamed Abdelwahab; Alice Cooper, daughter of tugboat Captain James Cooper III; Nicole LaPointe, daughter of AB Robert LaPointe; Justine Lopez, daughter of Oiler Oswaldo Lopez; Marian O’Neill, daughter of QMED Guillermo O’Neill Jr.; and Jenna Stillman, daughter of AB Jerry Stillman. 2006 – Gifts totaling $132,000 were bestowed upon Seafarers Rahul Bagehi, Ken Stathos, Karen Domerego, and Brian McLarnon. Dependents selected were: Renee Dunham-Jones, wife of Recertified Steward Raymond Jones; Ryan Kirby, son of deep sea member Michael Kirby; Suci Madjidji, daughter of QMED Sjamsidar Madjidji; Shaval Stewart, daughter of AB Mark Stewart; and Kayla Watson, daughter of AB/Tankerman Randy Watson. 2005 –Three Seafarers and five dependents received $132,000 in funding. Seafarers selected were Chief Cook Kristen Swain, Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery. Dependents receiving scholarships were 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. 2004 – Six individuals—one active Seafarer and five dependents—shared $106,000 in scholarship awards. Mark A. Dyer claimed the Seafarers scholarship. He was joined by dependents Mary A. Hornby, daughter of James L. Hornby; Eleanor R. Preston, daughter of Chester W. Preston; Aaron J. Gibson, son of James O. Gibson; Rafika J. Shibly, daughter of Mohammed Shibly; and Glenys Castro, daughter of Salome M. Castro. Please send me the 2013 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................ Street Address............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code.................................................................................................................................................. Telephone Number ( ) ...................................................................................................................................... This application is for: o Self o Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 The application deadline is January 31, 2013. available to help union families afford higher education: Eligibility Requirements n Scholarships to help union members and leaders finish their degrees with an affordable, flexible and convenient online program at the National Labor College. n Discounts of 15 to 60 percent on college and graduate school test preparation courses from The Princeton Review. Includes classroom, online and private tutoring for the SAT, ACT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE and MCAT, as well as college affordability and admissions online courses. Interested individuals may visit UnionPlus.org/CollegePrep or call 1-888-243-7737 for more information. Applications and eligibility requirements for these two benefits are available at UnionPlus.org/Education. Other Union Plus programs include mortgages, insurance protection and money-saving offers on flowers, car rentals and AT&T wireless service. Union members and their families may visit UnionPlus.org for more information. In addition to demonstrating academic ability, all applicants are required to submit essays of no more than 500 words describing their career goals, detailing their relationship with the union movement and explaining why they are deserving of a union scholarship. In addition, individuals applying must be accepted into an accredited college or university, community college or recognized technical or trade school at the time the award is issued. Graduate school students are also eligible for Union Plus Scholarships. There is no requirement to have participated in any Union Plus program in order to apply. Union Plus since 1991 has distributed more than $3.2 million in scholarships to working families. In addition to the Union Plus Scholarships, the following benefits are Seafarers LOG 11 10/25/2012 7:26:01 PM �The Forgotten Sailors Of World War II More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in World War II due to attacks like this one. Editor’s note: Beginning in September 2010, the LOG regularly has featured articles by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out during World War II, as a teenager. The earlier stories were run as two series, with the more recent one concluding in the September 2012 edition. Brother Woods recently submitted the following article along with the photo of some of his medals. R ecently, my grandchildren asked me about my World War II experiences. Their renewed interest in WWII is probably due to the success of the recent Hollywood movies covering the D-Day Invasion and other important military engagements. They, like many others, expressed surprise when I told them 16-year-old American boys served in World War II. They were more amazed to learn the United States government actively recruited 16-year-old boys for training and service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. I know this to be a fact, because I was one of them. I was a typical teenager of the early 1940s and, like most of my peers, I was a patriotic and a dedicated loyal American. It was the way I was raised. I believed the United States could do no wrong and I was ready to fight to prove it. I had heard of the atrocities committed by the Germans and Japanese in the countries they conquered. The movies and the media constantly reminded evThe author is pictured in 2006. 12 Seafarers LOG 11769_November_X.indd 12-13 eryone that we could expect the same cruel treatment if we lost the war. We were told, “Each and every one of you is expected to do his or her share in our fight to preserve democracy.” I believed it and I wanted to do something about it! Displaying one’s patriotism was the accepted norm of the day. In the theaters, before the movies started, the American flag would be displayed on the screen and everybody was expected to stand and sing our National Anthem. If anyone failed to rise during the singing, someone in the audience would threaten the nonconformist with grave bodily harm. There would be shouts, “What are you, a spy?” When I first heard this, I thought a spy must be very dumb to go to a local movie house and attract attention by not standing during the singing of our National Anthem. It was a problem for a boy who looked to be 18 years of age and not in uniform. He would be called a slacker. It did not take much to have a stranger say, “How come you’re not in the service. Are you a draft dodger?” It seemed that no one was exempt from being challenged about his patriotism. On the subway on my way to school, I recall seeing men with Asian features wearing badges that read, “I’m a loyal Chinese American.” They wanted everyone to know they weren’t Japanese. One day, while I was still attending school, I took a subway ride down to Times Square with two neighborhood friends, Vinny McCarvill and Eddie O’Brien. The area was not considered a suitable place for young boys to visit and I had been cautioned against going there. Among other adult attractions, there had been burlesque houses along 42nd Street until Mayor Fiorello La Guardia forced the operators to move their theatres across the river to Union City, N.J. When I heard of these adult activities and other various sights to be found at the “Crossroads of the World,” it made the area very inviting to a coming-of-age teenager and I decided to see Times Square for myself. During World War II, the Times Square district was filled with servicemen on leave looking for amusement. There were numerous military policemen patrolling the area to ensure the servicemen obeyed all the rules of good conduct. It was a busy and crowded intersection. There were also Italian prisoners of war on leave from their internment camp mingling with the crowd and flirting with the local girls. It annoyed me to see the American girls chatting with the POWs. The U.S. government considered the Italian prisoners harmless and gave them passes to go on liberty. They were only required to wear an arm patch identifying their status. On the day of our visit, a very young sailor in a U.S. Navy uniform decided to challenge us and asked why we weren’t in uniform. He was obviously drunk and older than us. We didn’t know how to handle the situation. We weren’t afraid of him but we realized how bad we would look fighting with a sailor in Times Square. Fortunately, two shore-patrol sailors came over and asked what was happening. The drunken sailor knew enough to keep quiet and I, wanting to be patriotic, told the SPs he was asking us for directions, and that ended the encounter. My two older brothers had been drafted in to the Marine Corps and my family had not heard from them in months. The only news we had were reports of U.S. Marines and U.S. Soldiers engaging in heavy fighting and suffering casualties on unknown islands in remote parts of the Pacific Ocean. On hearing this news I, more than ever, desperately wanted to become part of our fighting force. First, I tried to enlist in the Navy. The minimum age for enlistment, however, was 17. Someone in my neighborhood told me 16-year-olds could go to the Navy recruitment office, take the physical examination, and complete the necessary paperwork. They then would be called back on their seventeenth birthday to take the oath of enlistment and be immediately sent to a Navy boot training camp. It sounded very promising. I went downtown to the Navy recruitment office in lower Manhattan with my friends Vinny and Eddie, who were also 16 years old. While there, I was told I had a spine problem, diagnosed as scoliosis, and I would never pass the Navy physical examination. I felt devastated. I didn’t know I had a medical problem, and it had never bothered me. However, the recruiters told me there was some good news. The Maritime November 2012 Service was accepting 16-year-olds for training for sea duty in I had to attend classes to familiarize myself with the types of but legally we, the merchant crew, did not have the same protecthe U.S. Merchant Marine, and my scoliosis problem would not guns I could expect to find aboard ship. I was taught the basic tion. prevent me from enlisting with them. I’ll never know if I was operations of the big 5-inch 38-caliber and the smaller 3-inch He continued, “If you men are ever taken captive by the told the complete truth. It seemed like Maritime Day at the Navy 50. There was also an assortment of anti-aircraft (AA) machine enemy and they had any thought you had used arms against recruiting office. There were maritime recruiting personnel on guns. I took a liking to the 20mm AA and later, when I finally them, you would be subject to immediate execution.” He added, the premises to answer our questions and it seemed like every got out to sea, it was my first weapon of choice when the Naval “For this reason, you have to volunteer; no one can order you to kid was being told by both the Navy and the maritime persongunnery officer needed volunteers from the merchant crew. handle or fire any guns.” He told us to remember that at all times nel we would be doing the most for our country and ourselves if Next to the gun mounts was a gas mask training area. Here I we were subject to the Articles of War and the United States we joined the Maritime Service. They said German U-boats had was taught the correct way to don and wear a gas mask. After a Navy Rules and Regulations. He emphasized, “All of you are sunk so many of our merchant ships there was now a dire need very brief training period, I was led into a small building filled under the command of the United States Navy.” I was surprised for war supplies to be delivered overseas. “New ships are being with gas and told to remove my mask. I did as I was ordered to hear that he thought he had to remind us of this obligation. built all the time and young men are needed to sail them.” We and immediately began to cough and shed tears. It was a most From the day I enlisted, I believed I was under the orders of the hurried over to the nearby maritime office and applied. As preuncomfortable experience and, as I left the building, I prayed United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. In fact, dicted, we passed the physical examination and were accepted that I would never be involved in a gas attack. I realized, of many of the base personnel, at the Sheepshead Bay Training Stafor training. course, from news reports that the Germans and the Japanese tion were United States Navy enlisted men. They told me that It was May 1944, I was in my second year of high school, were capable of using cruel and inhuman weapons and I had to my training was identical, without exception, to the training at and I quit before the term ended. I made a promise to myself be prepared to defend myself. I was one teenager who would be the United States Navy basic training camps. that I would be back after the war to finish my education. I liked prepared for whatever the enemy would try to do to me. It’s possible I wasn’t the first one to raise his hand to offer school and had always done well with my studies. My mother D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy, took place while my services but I tried to be, as I dismissed the thoughts of being cried when I told her I was leaving school and going to sea. She I was in training and it made me all the more eager to get out to shot at dawn or walking the gangplank of an enemy raider. I cried again when she reluctantly signed the permission paper that sea and hopefully to sink a few U-boats and shoot down some could hardly believe my good fortune – an opportunity to shoot allowed me to enlist. enemy aircraft. I passed every aptitude test I was given and I at the enemy. The AGO assigned me to the big 5-inch 38 as the Within a few days, I was on my way by subway to the qualified to go to any of the advanced training schools. The base hot shell catcher. It wasn’t exactly what I wanted but at least I Sheepshead Bay Maritime Training Station in Brooklyn, N.Y. personnel (ship’s company) then gave me some bad advice. would be a part of any action taken against the Nazis. There were about another hundred 16-year-old boys with me. They said there was a desperate need for messmen and stewards On the return trip from Liverpool, England, I was reassigned We were escorted by a grouchy old petty officer who let us aboard the ships and if I wanted to get to sea without any further to a 20 mm anti-aircraft machine gun. The lone Navy gunner know at once who was in charge. As expected, nobody chaldelay, I should take advantage of this opportunity. They added assigned to the gun was from New York and we became close lenged him and we were all practicing our, “Yes, sirs” before we that after I made a short trip or two, I could switch over to the friends. The gunnery officer told the gunner to teach me all he arrived at the base. engine department – my first choice. could about the gun, its maintenance and its operation. I loved During the next few days, we were divided into companies On graduation day, I was sent to a staging area in a midtown it. I eventually learned to take the gun apart and put it back tocalled sections and assigned to barracks. I was given another Manhattan hotel at 30 West 44th Street, New York City. It gether. I was also taken to the ammunition locker (ammo room) physical and received inoculations for just about every imaginhad been renamed The United States Maritime Service Graduand taught how to fill a magazine with the shells in the correct able disease. I was also issued uniforms and bedding. Every ate Station. Within a few days, I was assigned to a brand new firing order and to put the magazine under the proper tension piece of the government clothing issued to me had to have my oil tanker, the S/S Horseshoe. The ship was operated by War ready to mount on our gun. At gunnery practice we took turns name stenciled on it, including my socks. Emergency Tankers Inc. (WET INK), a subsidiary of Standard firing the weapon. The hardest job on the gun was changing the My training started immediately. I was told to learn to “box Oil, for the United States government under the supervision and barrel when it became overly heated. It was hot and heavy. Howthe compass” or face serious consequences. I quickly learned to orders of the United States Navy. ever, many times since, I have wished I was a teenager again recite the points of the compass starting from any given point. I made my way over to the big oil refinery in Carteret, N.J, and able to relive the excitement of answering the call to battle A “night watch” or “fire watch” list was posted each evening. to board her and reported to the chief steward. He posted me to stations as I asked myself, “Was this a practice drill or the real If my name was listed, I had to stand a two-hour watch that the crew’s mess hall where I quickly learned I was at the bottom thing?” night. I always hoped I would be assigned to an 8-10 PM or a of the pecking order of the ship’s crew. I was pleased that I had I eventually made two crossings of the Atlantic Ocean and 4-6 AM. If I was given the 12-2 AM or the 2-4 AM it meant my my close friend Vinny McCarvill with me to commiserate. The four crossings of the Pacific before the end of hostilities on sleep would be interrupted and I would lose about three hours of two of us were given similar assignments and we immediately August 15, 1945. While I was in the Pacific, the Navy made the sleep. The previous watch would wake me about a half-hour bevowed to switch to the engine or the deck department at the first Panama Canal Zone my ship’s home port. I didn’t visit the mainfore my scheduled tour and later it would take another half-hour opportunity. land United States for well over a year. to be debriefed by the duty officer. I would be dead tired when The excitement of being in a wartime convoy on the North I was in the invasion and retaking of Manila and was awarded reveille sounded the next morning. Everybody hated it! Atlantic Ocean en route to England took away my disappointthe Philippine Liberation Medal. I was awarded the Combat A drill instructor took charge of our section and we began to ment of being assigned to lowly mess hall duties. I thought of Ribbon for action with the enemy and the Atlantic and Pacific practice drilling as soon as we arrived at the base. The marching Humphrey Bogart in the movie Action in the North Atlantic and War Zone ribbons. A German mine blew a hole in my ship as we and drilling never stopped until the day I graduated. As my secwanted to be just like him. Fortunately, both the armed guard were departing Bremerhaven, Germany, before the official end tion made progress in formation drilling, we were taught some crew and the merchant crew all seemed to be great fellows. of the war. I spent many sleepless nights at battle stations listencomplicated maneuvers; moves like “to the four winds march,” Many of the merchant crew let me know they had started out in ing to destroyer escorts chasing U-boats or unidentified aircraft. I and we began to enjoy the exercises. Every section wanted to be the mess hall too. remember passing through an uncharted mine field off an island the best when we marched in review on the parade grounds beThe night before we sailed, the armed guard officer (AGO), a in the South Pacific. A lookout had reported sighting a mine off fore the officers’ reviewing stand on Saturday mornings. Navy ensign, held a muster in the crew’s mess hall. He came to our port bow and within a few seconds, four more mines were There was a lot of emphasis on lifeboat training. I was given the point at once, and said, “I have X-number of guns aboard this reported. At first, the lead gunners mate was ordered to try to a lifeboat training time card that was punched for each hour I ship to maintain and use against the enemy, however, I am far blow them out of the water using a rifle. It didn’t work and one spent with my crew rowing a lifeboat on Jamaica Bay. It eventushort of the trained manpower to do the job efficiently without of the 20 mm anti-aircraft machine guns was put to use. A deally added up to 44 hours of actually being in a boat and rowing the assistance of you, the merchant crew. I need volunteers and stroyer came into sight and took over the job of destroying the in the water. On occasions, our coxswain would challenge other I need them now.” He explained that the Articles of War offered Continued on Page 20 boats to a race. The fun and excitement of wanting to win gave some protection to his Navy gunners if they were taken captive, me energy I didn’t know I possessed. The time I spent in the water was in addition to the time I spent on the pier learning how to raise and lower a boat on its davits. Each step of the operation was done manually – strenuous for a skinny kid, but a lot of fun and I learned some very useful knot tying. I was told if I ever had to abandon ship, the first few minutes would be the most critical. Without question, learning how to launch a lifeboat and to get it away from a sinking ship would be crucial to my survival. It wasn’t easy, but I enjoyed every moment of it. Like myself, many of the other kids were products of the Great Depression and were underweight and we looked it. However, three solid meals each day and the training and discipline soon got us in good physical condition. I was issued a Lifeboat Man Certificate when I graduated and I still value it today among my wartime mementos. There was an obstacle course on the base and my drill instructor had the boys in my section run through it every few days. He timed us, and we were expected to show an improvement in our skill and speed each time. I found the rope-climbing to be the most strenuous and challenging. I couldn’t do it at This photo from 1944 was taken at the maritime training facility in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. Ed Woods is pictured in the third row, second from right. Vinny first, but after much practice and exercise, I learned the technique. McCarvill, mentioned in the story, is third from right in the same row. November 2012 Seafarers LOG 13 10/30/2012 6:51:11 AM �11/12 14 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 14 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:07 PM �TWICs Issued in 2007 Now Beginning to Expire Seafarers are reminded to check the expiration dates on their federally issued Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC), particularly now that the first documents issued back in 2007 have begun expiring. Mariners weren’t required to secure TWICs until April 2009, but the cards were available beginning in October 2007. So, any of the TWICs issued at that time with fiveyear expiration dates are due for renewal. Additionally, as previously reported, the Transportation Security Administration is offering certain TWIC holders the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a threeyear Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC. That credential costs $60 and may be obtained via a single trip to an enrollment center. Detailed information about the three-year credential was published in recent issues of the LOG (including page 4 of the August edition) and is available at www.seafarers.org in a June 15 post in the “News” section. Information is available directly from the TSA at 1-866-347-8942, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern, and at www.tsa. gov/twic. When the agency announced the EED TWIC, the policy bulletin read in part: “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.” Personal To Anyone Who Sailed With Samuel Tolcha Shar Mans would like to hear from anyone who sailed with late NMU member Samuel Tolcha. Brother Tolcha passed away in 2004, at age 85. Shar Mans may be reached via email at sharm@att.net December & January 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: December 3, January 7 Algonac...............................Friday: December 7, January 11 Baltimore........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Guam...........................Thursday: December 22, January 24 Honolulu...........................Friday: December 14, January 18 Houston..........................Monday: December 10, January 14 Jacksonville....................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Joliet.............................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2012 - October 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 5 10 1 8 9 1 1 14 14 2 1 3 0 0 3 0 0 3 1 1 6 5 2 1 0 0 1 13 6 3 13 9 2 16 6 0 5 22 25 5 1 5 2 0 1 0 0 6 11 2 15 4 1 9 8 0 3 19 4 2 61 11 3 26 10 1 16 99 23 6 30 22 1 21 9 0 10 58 51 2 5 7 2 3 3 1 1 6 10 4 9 3 3 3 2 1 0 15 5 4 8 4 1 8 3 0 0 23 6 2 51 18 1 34 13 0 16 82 33 4 14 14 3 9 14 4 2 34 40 16 19 9 3 12 2 1 3 44 13 3 1 4 0 4 3 0 0 7 8 3 3 4 0 1 2 0 0 4 6 0 10 2 1 9 5 0 5 12 8 4 44 18 3 25 12 2 16 65 27 6 3 1 1 1 0 1 0 5 1 2 23 22 4 20 11 1 7 64 42 8 322 175 34 210 116 13 86 595 334 79 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 3 3 2 2 2 0 5 5 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5 2 1 3 2 1 7 9 3 5 3 0 3 3 0 2 18 8 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 5 1 3 3 1 0 14 6 0 19 10 2 14 9 0 8 31 22 4 17 23 2 19 7 1 8 42 39 4 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 3 1 4 3 0 1 0 0 0 7 4 1 6 3 0 1 1 0 0 9 5 0 16 10 4 14 6 0 3 29 21 4 6 10 1 4 4 1 3 19 23 4 9 3 2 4 2 0 1 26 8 5 3 2 0 1 0 0 1 6 3 1 1 4 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 2 2 0 0 2 0 1 3 13 1 16 8 1 7 4 1 3 30 15 3 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 2 2 2 16 15 1 7 7 0 5 23 40 10 132 111 21 86 55 9 36 276 233 44 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 1 5 3 2 0 1 1 4 6 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 2 3 0 1 6 2 0 5 5 0 8 2 1 5 14 6 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 9 3 0 7 1 0 2 18 6 0 26 2 1 8 4 1 3 37 11 2 15 6 1 10 4 0 6 29 13 1 1 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 4 0 6 4 1 3 1 0 0 7 3 2 8 1 2 2 1 1 1 13 3 3 14 6 0 15 1 0 6 33 9 0 8 12 1 10 10 2 6 14 23 1 15 2 3 9 1 0 2 27 6 7 2 1 1 1 0 0 1 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 4 0 0 1 3 0 0 13 4 0 8 4 0 6 31 6 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 27 2 1 10 1 0 4 55 6 1 159 59 15 103 35 7 46 301 109 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 1 17 19 3 9 7 1 3 19 28 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 1 3 0 1 3 8 0 7 1 0 5 0 0 0 12 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 7 2 3 5 0 5 4 11 5 18 3 1 4 1 1 4 24 12 2 20 13 2 6 2 1 4 37 21 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 6 2 0 4 3 1 1 0 0 0 6 6 4 28 11 2 11 5 1 11 57 23 1 13 17 1 7 5 0 1 34 45 2 13 5 1 3 1 2 4 19 15 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 3 0 1 1 0 0 9 3 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 10 3 2 4 2 4 2 15 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 20 9 6 13 4 3 13 52 32 25 161 98 22 74 36 13 52 302 218 GRAND TOTAL: 638 506 168 421 280 65 181 1,224 978 364 Mobile.......................Wednesday: December 12, January 16 New Orleans......................Tuesday: December 11, January 15 New York..........................Tuesday: December 4, January 8 Norfolk..........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 Oakland........................Thursday: December 13, January 17 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: December 5, January 9 Port Everglades............Thursday: December 13, January 17 San Juan.........................Thursday: December 6, January 10 St. Louis............................Friday: December 14, January 18 Tacoma.............................Friday: December 21, January 25 Wilmington....Monday: December 17, *Tuesday: January 22 * Wilmington change created by Matrin Luther King Jr. birthday holiday. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 15 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 10/30/2012 6:49:47 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 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by Seafarers who were upgrading at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: What do you typically do for the holidays, and/or what are your plans for the upcoming holiday season? James Copeland AB I’m always at sea so I’m never home for the holidays. You have a nice holiday meal, but it’s still a normal 12-hour day. You wouldn’t know it’s a holiday unless someone puts up deco- rations. Sometimes I don’t go home until the spring, so that’s when I open my gifts. Nicole Geideman AB I’m usually at sea. It’s a good time to be on a ship – most people want to be with their families and you get holiday pay. The ship usually does a good job putting out a huge spread during Thanksgiving and Christmas. When you go into a port it’s usually a party anyway. 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 Daniel Bradberry AB When you’re at sea you’re always wish- ing you were at home. On the ship we generally do a big meal. At home, I really just enjoy being with my family. when it falls that year. Casey Pearson SA I’m going to spend time with my family, and that’s pretty much it. I’ll be seeing my niece for the first time – she’s over a year old. I’ll also see my grandparents and my brother, who’s also a Seafarer. Grant Gutter Engineer To me, it’s just another day. You’re at work. We do have a turkey. When I’m at home I usually do Christmas either early or late depending on Debbie Hutchins SA I’m planning to spend it here at Piney Point until December 22, then home. I have spent holidays at sea and it’s not bad. I enjoy the camaraderie more than the food, but the food is good, too. Right now I’m taking chief cook (at the school). I’ll be flying home to Skowhegan, Maine. Michele Laycock Bosun Spend as much time as I can with family. I haven’t seen much of them this year. I’m a heck of an aunt – it’s the best job in the world. Give ’em candy and give ’em back! 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 This photo was published in the December 28, 1951 edition of the LOG. The accompanying text read in part, “Seafarers who fall ill aboard ship have the assurance of expert long-distance medical diagnosis through the facilities of the International Radio-Medical Center in Rome. The center has been functioning for 17 years. It was founded by Professor Guido Guida (right), a retired Italian naval doctor, who runs the whole works including the radio station, which he owns, at his own expense. There are 40 physicians on the center’s staff…. The center diagnoses illnesses aboard ship and transmits instructions on how to care for the case via an established radio wave band known to all ships.” 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 11769_November.indd 16 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:12 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 SHERMAN ANDERSON Brother Sherman Anderson, 66, signed on with the Seafarers in 1980. He originally sailed aboard the Oceanic Independence. Brother Anderson shipped in the steward department. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Anderson’s most recent trip was on the Cape Intrepid. He lives in Federal Way, Wash. HORACIO ARNOLD Brother Horacio Arnold, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1966 while in New York. He initially sailed aboard the John Tyler. Brother Arnold was born in the Virgin Islands and sailed in the engine department. His most recent ship was the Ponce. He is a resident of Vega Baja, P.R. REHUEL ASCANO Brother Rehuel Ascano, 65, began sailing with the union in 1988. He started in the inland division as a member of the steward department but spent most of his career sailing deep sea. Brother Ascano’s first trip was with Moran Towing of Texas. He upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ascano’s most recent ship was the Diamond State. He calls Anthony, N.M., home. GERALD CASSIE Brother Gerald Cassie, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1998 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The deck department member’s first trip was on the USNS Bowditch; his most recent was aboard the Innovator. Brother Cassie makes his home in Spokane, Wash. MIRIAM CHACON Sister Miriam Chacon, 67, joined the union in 1995. She was initially employed with Delta Queen Steamboat Company. Sister Chacon worked in the steward department. She attended classes frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Sister Chacon most recently shipped aboard the USNS Bob Hope. She resides in Kenner, La. November 2012 11769_November.indd 17 JOSEPH LEEKS Brother Joseph Leeks, 67, became an SIU member in 1998. He primarily sailed on vessels operated by Maersk Line, Limited which included the USNS Sisler and Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Leeks was born in New Orleans and sailed in the deck department. In 2001 and 2003, he enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Leeks settled in Pahrump, Nev. GINCEZAR RELOJO Brother Gincezar Relojo, 67, was born in the Philippines. He began sailing with the SIU in 1987. Brother Relojo first worked on the USNS Dutton. He upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Relojo sailed as a member of both the deck and steward departments. His most recent voyage was aboard the Charger. Brother Relojo is a resident of Morgan Hill, Calif. JOSE VAZQUEZ GOMEZ Brother Jose Vazquez Gomez, 59, started sailing with the union in 1974. The engine department member was born in Bronx, N.Y. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s earliest trip was on a Sea Tankers vessel. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. Brother Vazquez Gomez’s most recent ship was the Horizon Discovery. He lives in Palm Coast, Fla. JOHN ZIMMERMAN Brother John Zimmerman, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978, initially sailing aboard the Mohawk. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Zimmerman’s most recent trip to sea was on the Trader. He calls Honolulu home. INLAND DALE MCKELVIE Brother Dale McKelvie, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1980 while in Jacksonville, Fla. He originally shipped with Z Tug Management Corporation as a member of the deck department. Brother McKelvie upgraded in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Prior to his retirement, he worked aboard the Manhattan Island. Brother McKelvie resides in Temple Terrace, Fla. can Sea Ocean; his most recent was the American Republic. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Cameron settled in Holiday, Fla. HERMAN MONINGKA RICHARD PIPER Brother Herman Moningka, 62, became a union member in 1994 while in Wilmington, Calif. A native of Indonesia, Brother Moningka enhanced his seafaring abilities at the maritime training center in Piney Point. The deck department member first sailed on the Spirit. Brother Moningka last shipped with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He makes his home in Montclair, Calif. Brother Richard Piper, 58, is a Michigan native who joined the SIU in 1978, initially working with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Piper was a member of the engine department. His most recent trip was on the Sam Laud. Brother Piper calls Alpena, Mich., home. GREAT LAKES DAVID CAMERON Brother David Cameron, 65, began sailing with the union in 1968. He was born in Michigan and worked in the engine department. Brother Cameron’s first ship was the Ameri- NATIONAL MARITIME UNION GEORGE DORSEY Brother George Dorsey, 65, started his NMU career in 1969. He was born in Maryland and shipped in the deck department. Brother Dorsey most recently sailed aboard the Admiral William Callaghan. He is a resident of Baltimore. RONALD PAGE Brother Ronald Page, 64, started his SIU career in 2001 as the NMU was merging into the Seafarers. The deck department member primarily worked with Marine Personnel & Provisioning aboard the St. Louis Express. In 2001, Brother Page attended classes at the Piney Point school. He continues to reside in his native state, Georgia. DARRYL POWELL Brother Darryl Powell, 65, became an NMU member in 1971. The Maryland native last sailed on the American Pioneer. Brother Powell lives in Baltimore. WAYNE RODERICK Brother Wayne Roderick, 55, was born in Massachusetts. He joined the NMU in 1979. Brother Roderick’s most recent vessel was the Keystone Rhode Island. He resides in New Bedford, Mass. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1950 An order giving sweeping control of the nation’s seamen, waterfronts and ships to the Coast Guard was issued last week by President Harry S. Truman, under authority embodied in the new security law enacted by Congress last month. The law allows the president to take such action if in his opinion the security of the United States is endangered by subversive activity. Under the new order, the Coast Guard now has the power to search and control the movement of all U.S. ships and is also empowered to deny employment to seamen and officers who have not taken out the new “validated papers.” Under this provision, the Coast Guard Commandant is authorized to deny the new papers to persons known to be subversives. He is also allowed to deny papers in cases where he “is satisfied that the character and habits of life of such persons are such as to authorize the belief that the presence of the individual on board would be inimical to the security of the United States.” 1965 Former Seafarer Donn Pearce, whose first novel, “Cool Hand Luke,” recently received critical acclaim from the New York Times Book Review, is now on his way to Hollywood to begin work as a scriptwriter. Just a few days after the publication of “Cool Hand Luke,” executive movie producer Gordon Carroll was scanning an edition of the Publisher’s Weekly, saw Pearce’s book mentioned and read it. The company plans a production in the near future. “Cool Hand Luke” is the story of a real man, who was the leader among his fellow prisoners. Luke has youth, vitality, a love for hard work, energy, skill and a talent for the banjo – everything the average person would need to become a success in the conventional sense. But he chooses to buck society and social laws and this conviction is the crux of the novel. Author Pearce joined the SIU in 1955. First shipping out deckside as an OS and then as a member of the steward’s department, he later switched over to AB. 1970 With the stroke of the presidential pen, the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 became the law of the land. The act, incorporating many of the provisions backed by the Seafarers International Union, had passed both Houses of Congress by substantial majorities before it was sent to President Richard M. Nixon for signature. In particular, the bill will benefit SIU men by means of a provision to construct 300 new ships for the foreign trade in the next 10 years. The new ships will mean more jobs for Seafarers in the years ahead. In addition, the provisions on construction subsidies will include ships of the bulk carrier fleet, which were excluded under the 1936 Merchant Act, which narrowed assistance down to 14 shipping lines. Under the 1970 bill, all shippers in the foreign trade will be eligible for subsidy. 1982 An agreement signed by the U.S. Departments of Energy and Transportation earlier this month will put American seamen back to work by rectifying longterm abuses in the Special Petroleum Reserve (SPR) program. After much prodding from the SIU, Transportation Secretary Drew Lewis and outgoing Energy Secretary James Edwards agreed the Energy Department would abide by the terms of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954. This law requires that at least 50 percent of all government-generated cargo be carried on American-flag vessels. The Energy Department has consistently failed to meet those standards when filling the SPR. As a result of this and the general slump in the economy, as many as 28 SIU-contracted tankers now sit idle for lack of cargo. It is expected that a number of these ships will come out of layup to carry SPR oil. Seafarers LOG 17 10/25/2012 7:26:14 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MACARIO CAAMPUED Pensioner Macario Caampued, 90, passed away May 15. Brother Caampued was born in Manila, Philippines. He started sailing with the SIU in 1957 in the port of New York. Brother Caampued initially shipped on the Steel Direct. He worked in the steward department. Brother Caampued’s last voyage was aboard the Mariner. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1984. Brother Caampued lived in the Philippines, in Pangasinan. DEVAUGHN HARRISON Pensioner Devaugh Harrison, 83, passed away June 1. Brother Harrison first donned the SIU colors in 1947. His earliest trip was on the City of Alma. Brother Harrison was born in Alabama. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Dodge Island. Brother Harrison went on pension in 1982. He was a resident of Saraland, Ala. tinued to make his home in Rhode Island. THOMAS KREIS Pensioner Thomas Kreis, 70, passed away May 3. Brother Kreis joined the SIU in 1969 in Mobile, Ala. His earliest voyage was aboard the Windjammer Polly. Brother Kreis was a steward department member. His final trip was on the Liberty Sea. Brother Kreis became a pensioner in 2004. He was born in Alabama but settled in Sarasota, Fla. FREDERICK MAYER Pensioner Frederick Mayer, 79, died April 16. Brother Mayer started sailing with the union in 1960. His first trip to sea was aboard the Sampan Knot. Brother Mayer sailed in the deck department. He last worked on the China Sea. Brother Mayer went on pension in 2004. He was a resident of Seattle. FRANK TIMMONS Pensioner Frank Timmons, 84, passed away June 24. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Brother Timmons first donned the SIU colors in 1953. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Timmons sailed aboard vessels operated by CSX Lines including the Afoundria and Freedom. In 1991, he began receiving his retirement compensation. Brother Timmons settled in Des Moines, Wash. INLAND JOHN FRANKLIN Pensioner Joseph Miller, 77, passed away June 13. Brother Miller was a New York native. He first donned the SIU colors in 1961. Brother Miller originally sailed aboard the Fairland. The steward department member last shipped on the OMI Courier. Brother Miller retired in 1998 and lived in Jacksonville, Fla. Pensioner John Franklin, 86, died May 28. Brother Franklin was a Florida native. He joined the SIU in 1976. Brother Franklin primarily shipped with Allied Transportation Company. The steward department member became a pensioner in 1993. Brother Franklin lived in Norfolk, Va. BOBBY RIDDICK STANLEY GUIDRY JOSEPH MILLER Pensioner Victor Hernandez, 89, died June 8. Brother Hernandez joined the union in 1970 while in New Orleans. He was first employed on the Steel Maker. Brother Hernandez was born in Central America and sailed as a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1988, he worked on the Ambassador. Brother Hernandez resided in Honduras. Pensioner Bobby Riddick, 66, died May 15. Brother Riddick was born in Virginia. He began sailing with the union in 1968 while in the port of New York. Brother Riddick worked in the deck department of both the deep sea and inland divisions. His earliest trip was on the Producer. Brother Riddick’s final ship was the Manhattan Island. He started collecting his pension in 2002. Brother Riddick called Norfolk, Va., home. Pensioner Stanley Guidry, 87, passed away May 16. Brother Guidry was born in Louisiana. He retired in 1987 and called Breaux Bridge, La., home. MIGUEL HIDALGO WILFRED SCALES Brother David Ledeaux, 68, passed away June 8. He started sailing with the SIU in 2004. Brother Ledeaux was born in Jefferson, Texas. He mainly worked aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. Brother Ledeaux was a resident of Galveston, Texas. VICTOR HERNANDEZ Pensioner Miguel Hidalgo, 78, passed away May 27. Brother Hidalgo was born in California. He began his seafaring career in 1978 while in the port of San Francisco. He originally shipped aboard the Santa Maria and primarily sailed in the steward department. Brother Hidalgo’s final ship was the Cape Girardeau. He retired in 2002 and called San Francisco home. CHESTER IANNOLI Pensioner Chester Iannoli, 92, died June 16. Brother Iannoli became a Seafarer in 1947 while in New York. His first vessel was the Choctaw; his last, the Calmar. Brother Iannoli, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Woonsocket, R.I. He started receiving his pension in 1975 and con- 18 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 18 Brother Wilfred Scales, 54, passed away Feb. 26. He joined the SIU ranks in 1986. Brother Scales was born in Wailuku, Hawaii. The steward department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the USNS Assurance. Brother Scales last shipped on the Manoa. He continued to make his home in Hawaii. JACK SINGLETARY Pensioner Jack Singletary, 74, died June 8. Brother Singletary became a Seafarer in 1967. He initially shipped aboard the Burbank Victory. Brother Singletary was born in Klamath, Ore. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Singletary’s final ship was the Cape Trinity. He went on pension in 1999. Brother Singletary was a resident of Bacliff, Texas. EDWARD KOKOSZKA Pensioner Edward Kokoszka, 86, died June 18. Brother Kokoszka became a union member in 1956 while in Baltimore. He sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland for the duration of his career. Brother Kokoszka went on pension in 1987. He continued to reside in his native state, Maryland. DAVID LEDEAUX JOCELYN LEE Pensioner Jocelyn Lee, 89, died April 17. Brother Lee was a native of New York. He joined the union in 1943. Brother Lee was last employed with G&H Towing as a member of the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1987 and made his home in Houston. JOSEPH MUSCATO Pensioner Joseph Muscato, 91, passed away April 29. Brother Muscato began his seafaring career in 1977. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Muscato’s first ship was the Montpelier Victory. Before his retirement in 1988, he worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Muscato was born in New York but called Jacksonville, Fla., home. ROBERT LAMB SALVATORE NOTARILE EPIFANIO MANDRY-ARREGUI Pensioner Salvatore Notarile, 83, died May 28. Brother Notarile first donned the SIU colors in 1983. He was employed with New York Cross Harbor Railroad. The deck department member was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Notarile went on pension in 1990. He lived in Middletown Township, N.J. JOHN PIRES Pensioner John Pires, 86, passed away May 10. Brother Pires was born in Brava, Cape Verde Island. The steward department member retired in 1968. Brother Pires settled in New Bedford, Mass. GORDON THOMAS Pensioner Gordon Thomas, 88, died May 13. Brother Thomas became an SIU member in 1971. He primarily shipped with Z Tug Management Corporation. Brother Thomas worked in the deck department. He was a Florida native but made his home in Walnut Creek, Calif. Brother Thomas started collecting his pension in 1985. JAMES WILLEY Pensioner James Willey, 72, passed away June 15. Brother Willey joined the SIU ranks in 1969. He initially sailed with Virginia Pilot Corporation as a member of the steward department. Brother Willey was born in Hood River, Ore. He most recently shipped on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Willey became a pensioner in 2005. He continued to reside in his native state. GREAT LAKES RICHARD BELLANT Pensioner Richard Bellant, 66, died May 13. Brother Bellant, a Michigan native, began sailing with the union in 1970. His first ship was the Nicolet; his last, the Indiana Harbor. Brother Bellant sailed in the steward department. He went on pension in 2010 and settled in Lakeland, Fla. Pensioner Robert Lamb, 85, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Lamb was born in Norfolk, Va. He became a pensioner in 1967 and called Orlando, Fla., home. Pensioner Epifanio MandryArregui, 87, died Feb. 9. Brother Mandry-Arregui was a native of Puerto Rico. He began receiving his pension in 1984. Brother Mandry-Arregui resided in Juana Diaz, P.R. PORFIRIO ORDONEZ Pensioner Porfirio Ordonez, 79, passed away April 18. Brother Ordonez was born in Honduras. He retired in 1989 and continued to live in Honduras. RENFRO PITTMAN Pensioner Renfro Pittman, 84, died Feb. 18. Brother Pittman was an Earle, Ark., Native. He started collecting his pension in 1967 and settled in Metairie, La. GENE VAN KLINKEN Pensioner Gene Van Klinken, 77, passed away March 6. Brother Van Klinken was born in Washington State. He went on pension in 1990. Brother Van Klinken was a resident of San Francisco. EDWARD WILLIAMS Pensioner Edward Williams, 83, died Feb. 25. Born in Panama, Brother Williams became a pensioner in 1995. He lived in Orlando, Fla. Name Age DOD Alston, Richard 87 Brown, Edward 83 Calix, Fernando 90 Connors, Robert 82 Correira, Henry 87 Ingram, Willie 87 Inigo, Luis 84 Jones, Verlin 85 Moss, Fred 87 Nettles, Ralph 93 Pappadoulis, George 82 Perez, Cesar 74 Perucci, Jeano 96 Phillips, Alfred 85 March 26 Jan. 28 March 12 March 6 Feb. 10 Jan. 30 Feb. 21 Feb. 22 Feb. 29 March 27 Feb. 28 April 8 Feb. 16 Feb. 22 Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. LESTER ARMSTEAD Pensioner Lester Armstead, 97, died Feb. 26. The Brooklyn-born mariner went on pension in 1969. He made his home in Clearwater, Fla. November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:17 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings BURNS HARBOR (American Steamship), August 27 – Chairman Ben J. Skuban, Secretary Dariusz T. Czepczynski, Educational Director Richard Fredrick, Deck Delegate Larry Skowronek. Chairman reminded crew of dates available to vote in union election and passed out 401K packages. He talked about the difference between Money Purchase Pension Plan and 401K investments. He encouraged mariners to have documents up-to-date before registering for work at the union hall. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase optical benefits and check in to getting faster internet. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), August 5 – Chairman Darryl G. Smith, Secretary Almarca Martinez Arriola, Educational Director Jonathan A. Stratton, Deck Delegate Dennis Gaffney, Engine Delegate Dennis Riley. Chairman announced payoff on August 6 and reminded departing crew members to clean their respective rooms. He also reported the Horizon Tacoma was number one in safety for the month of June. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director reminded mariners to go to Paul Hall Center in Piney Point for upgrading, and also to check expiration dates and renew documents on time. Treasurer reported $1,844 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to purchase new toaster and microwave for crew lounge. Suggestion was made to reduce time required in order to file for vacation pay. Next ports: Tacoma,Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. INTREPID (Maersk Line, Limited), August 19 – Chairman Rufino J. Giray, Secretary Ronald J. Fluker, Educational Director Eeric L. White, Deck Delegate Charles E. Turner, Engine Delegate Ronald Celious, Steward Delegate Eduardo S, Munizaga. Chairman thanked crew members for safe voyage and announced upcoming payoff. Secretary thanked everyone for keeping public areas neat and good cooperation all around. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions were raised pertaining to STCW requirements. JEAN ANNE (Interocean American Shipping), August November 2012 11769_November.indd 19 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. “Captain Cook” (Daniel Severino) handles the grill as DEU Andrew Bell looks on. From left: Recertified Steward Chris Amigable, Captain Daniel Severino, AB Andrew Donaldson, OMU Sotero Berame, AB Asker Shaibi, Bosun Michael Hester, DEU Faissal Alamri, AB Mohsen Said Celebrating Labor Day Aboard Midnight Sun “The captain did it again!” So reports Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, who definitely wasn’t complaining about the efforts of Midnight Sun vessel master Capt. Daniel Severino. The captain gave the galley gang a break on Labor Day, taking over food prep for a shipboard holiday cookout. “We nicknamed him Captain Cook,” Ahmed noted in a letter to the LOG. “He did a great job, as always – he has a love of cooking. We had a great time and we appreciated his help.” The luncheon menu featured a wide range of international cuisine along with traditional North American dishes. Ahmed added that life is good aboard the TOTE-operated Midnight Sun. “We really enjoy being crew members aboard this vessel and being close to the home port of Tacoma (Wash.),” he wrote. “Our great thanks go to the senior officials of the SIU for offering us a great opportunity as merchant mariners.” Chief Cook Sal Ahmed keeps a watchful eye on menu items for the Midnight Sun’s holiday cookout. 26 – Chairman Daniel J. Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director Martin M. Hamilton, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Steward Delegate Ingra Maddox. Chairman discussed EED TWIC and tour of duty requirements. He urged crew to keep documents current and renew early so they won’t lose the eligibility to sail. Secretary reported good morale. Members would like a union representative to visit more often. Treasurer thanked steward department for providing diverse meals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for union physicals to be taken at clinics near place of residence for those members that live long distances from union halls. (Editor’s note: See related story on page 5.) JOHN BOLAND (American Steamship), August 12 – Chairman Jaber M. Jaber, Secretary Mohamed Algalham, Educational Director Ibrahim Yahya. Bosun talked about new contract and advised Seafarers to take advantage of Piney Point school. He also urged everyone to keep documents current, don’t fall behind on dues, and contribute to Maritime Defense League (MDL). No beefs or disputed OT reported, but deck delegate raised questions about jurisdiction. New radio and tools were requested. MIDNIGHT SUN (Interocean American Shipping), August 19 – Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Charles L. Wharton. Chairman reported good voyage and good crew. Educational director suggested all mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center, and he let them know new washing machine has been installed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from most recent Seafarers LOG and went over highlights. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Anchorage, Alaska and Tacoma, Wash. ST. CLAIR (American Steamship), August 26 – Chairman Mohamed H. Mohamed, Secretary Juan R. Palacios, Educational Director Donald R. Jaegle, Deck Delegate Doyle Ling. Chairman thanked all crew members for being professional and following safe work procedures. He reported that Apprentice Randy Harrel did an excellent job in all departments, especially the engine area. Educational director updated crew on new EED TWIC and BST training renewal. He also reviewed ASC 2012 onboard conveyor safety training program and vessel tours. Mariners were urged to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Special thanks to galley gang for a job well done. KEN BOOTH SR. (American Steamship), September 16 – Chairman John D. Cedeno Jr. Secretary Steven Eberspacher, Educational Director Tousif Ahmed. Chairman reviewed policies covering smoking and electronics, respectively, also explained shipping rules for time on vessels according to A, B and C seniority. He encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Secretary asked crew to clean out linen tray in dryer, put condiments back after use and cover furniture before sitting with dirty clothes on. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point and urged everyone to keep all paperwork and shipping documents up-to-date: clinic card, medical forms, TWIC, passport, etc. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged deck gang to utilize fall-protection gear when rinsing cargo holds. Conveyor man asked crew to report any leaks of hydraulic oil when passing through machinery areas. Steward reminded members to leave fresh linen in rooms for reliefs and to keep shoes off chairs. Next ports: Duluth, Minn., Gary, Ind. and Two Harbors, Minn. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), September 2 – Chairman Marco A. Galliano, Secretary Robert Davis, Deck Delegate Osnane Ariola, Engine Delegate Teodoro Norales, Steward Delegate Rose Ward. Chairman requested information about new contract and rest period for watchstanders on day of arrival. Secretary urged crew members to check white board (communication board) for updates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for doing a great job. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas, Houston, Jacksonville, Fla., and Charleston, S.C. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), September 2 – Chairman William M. Richards, Secretary John L. Foster, Educational Director Troy Ancar. Chairman encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer stated $2,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like a new computer and microwave for crew dayroom. All hands expressed appreciation to steward department. Seafarers LOG 19 10/25/2012 7:26:19 PM �Retired Mariner Reflects on World War II Experiences Continued from Page 13 deadly devices. Shortly after, we could hear explosions in the distance. I spent my first Christmas away from home in Tamara Bay, a watering station near Hollandia, New Guinea. My ship was the only vessel in the little port that lonely Christmas Eve. It was one of the few times I was homesick during my wartime travels. I went ashore with Vinnie and we cut a green branch off a tropical tree. We hung it in the mess hall and decorated it with pieces of colored paper. That night, some of us sang Christmas carols. We were close to the equator. It was hot and humid. It didn’t feel like Christmas to me, a teenager from the northern latitudes of New York City. The next day we sailed northwest to the island of Morotai and I saw my first Japanese plane. We were at battle stations and heard that a Japanese reconnaissance plane flew over the island each day. It was not explained why it was allowed to do this without any interception. My last foreign port of call in World War II was Buckner Bay, Okinawa. I discovered my two older brothers, Marine enlisted men, were on the island and I tried to make contact with them. Unfortunately, due to a pending typhoon, my ship had to leave port to ride out the storm at sea. When I returned three days later, the fleet post office and the port facilities had been destroyed and I was not able to locate the boys. The three of us eventually met again at home in New York City at Christmastime 1945. We all went over to the Holy Trinity Catholic Church on West 82nd Street with our Mom and gave thanks for our safe return home. One can only imagine my disappointment when I learned I would not share in the “GI Bill of Rights.” I sincerely believed I was part of the United States military forces and would enjoy the benefits given to all veterans at the end of the war. I didn’t receive recognition as a WWII veteran until January 1988 – 43 years later! There were no retroactive benefits. The war did not officially end until December 1946. By then I had switched to the engine department and worked up to fireman\water tender and oiler. I wanted to go back to school but couldn’t afford it. I was envious of my teenaged friends who entered the military after the end of hostilities, August 15, 1945 and never left the States. They were entitled to all of the benefits of the GI Bill of Rights. Near the end of WWII on August 22, 1946, I had been issued a Certificate of Continuous Service. It stated that based on my wartime service to my country I was exempt from the Selective Service System and could not be drafted. Later, in 1950, shortly after I had returned from working for the Army in Korea, I was summoned to my local draft board and told the exemption only applied to the Selective Service Act of 1940. This was 1950, it was a new draft law, and I should ready myself for induction. I took the physical again and was declared fit for duty. There was no mention of a spine problem. Since I was married and expecting my first child, I applied for and received an exemption based on my family obligations. President Roosevelt had declared that he wanted us, the WWII U.S. Merchant Marine veterans, to be included in the GI Bill of Rights program. Unfortunately, his untimely death did not allow him to follow through with his good intentions. In 1949, I had written to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Jr. who by then was my congressman. He said bills had been introduced in Congress to give benefits to WWII merchant seamen veterans. Nothing came of this either. I have often wondered how different my life would have been if I’d had the advantage of the education benefits of the GI Bill. I did my share in the fight against America’s enemies. I realize I didn’t do anything heroic, but I did put my life in jeopardy for the sake of my country. I believe the United States government owes a lot to the kids who put their lives on the line in WWII. Without any doubt, the merchant seamen of the war years deserve the same recognition as other WWII Veterans. It is now 67 years since the end of WWII; I cannot believe or understand why our elected officials are still ignoring our country’s obligations to a bunch of kids who were there when our country needed them the most. By percentage, the merchant marine casualties in World War II were greater than any other branch of military service. Time is of the essence. We are dying at the rate of over a thousand a day. Soon there won’t be any of us here to say, “Thank you for remembering us.” Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia August 2012 Some of Woods’ wartime medals and documentation are shown here. WWII mariners didn’t receive veterans’ status until 1988, and they aren’t included in the GI Bill of Rights. 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 11769_November.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. November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:21 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 toward 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. Hands On Steward Department Training Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department ECDIS December 8 December 14 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Renewal (One day) November 6 November 6 Chief Cook Johnny Sawyer puts the finishing touches on a pot of chicken soup during a steward department upgrading class. Practical training is an important part of many of the classes upgraders and unlicensed apprentices take at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. December 7 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) November 10 Welding November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class will begin Monday, November 5. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will start Monday, November 5. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW December 1 December 7 Government Vessels November 24 November 30 Medical Care Provider Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 December 8 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. November 2012 11769_November_X.indd 21 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 website. Important Notice for Students At SIU-Affiliated Paul Hall Center 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. 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. 11/12 Seafarers LOG 21 10/30/2012 6:49:49 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class #764 – The following Phase I unlicensed apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 28: Jarvis Atkins, Robert Bell Jr., Nancy Bestwick, Christopher Brindley, James DeMarco, Sean Foote, Joshua Freeland, Jasmine Garrett, Jacob Gaskill, Sonika Jack, Raymond Martinez, Benjamin Rodrigues, Russell Durham, Mario Standberry, Christopher VanHoose and John Zotti. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. Water Survival – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course Sept. 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bryan Benak, Kevin Lewis, Michael Murner, Mana Muhsen and Leanne Smith. Pumpman – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ashley Carmichael, Juan Castillo, Archie Eldridge Jr., Bryan Fletcher, Thomas Hawks, Braden Horne, Melvin Ratcliff Jr., Reylan Tendido, David Turley and Joshua Zelinsky.Class Instructor Jim Shaffer is at the far left. Machinist – Ten upgraders completed their requirements in this course Sept. 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ashley Carmichael, Jerome Dooms, Marcus Gramby, Thomas Hawks, Braden Horne, Eric Martin, Melvin Ratcliff, Reylan Tendido, David Turley and Joshua Zelinsky. Steve Haver, their instructor, is at the far left. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Six Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 28. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maximo Aguiran, Mutea Alnuzely, Dominador Diaz, Younis Kaid, Florante Labtingao and Arturo Reyes. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is third from the left. Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 28: Michael Batten, Jason Brown, Patrick Devlin, Michael Harris Jr., Tyrone Hernandez, Enrique Medri, Timothy Russell and Felix Somorostro. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far right. FOWT – The following individuals (photo at right, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 14: Majed Alsharif, Brett Arcouette, Mashanda Carr, Ryan Crowell, Rodney Davis, Bobbie Gibbs, Joseph Haines, Febian Jefferson, Lucion Liles, Trevor Manion, Enrique Medri, William Mercer, Mana Muhsen, Michael Papaioannou, Michael Robinson and Fadhel Saleh. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG 11769_November.indd 22 November 2012 10/25/2012 7:26:31 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Tankship Familiarization – Two classes of unlicensed apprentices completed this course Sept. 7. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Jeffrey Angeles, Nathaniel Balos, Oscar Cordero, Matthew Dugan, John Garrett, Jose Gonzalez, Johnathan Harrell, Stephen Heinz, Jamar Henderson, Bill Hunt, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Christopher Johnson, Todd Lander, Ryan Lindsoe, Robert Lloyd, Gina Lucas, Joshua Moton, Frank Sambula, Corey Sanders, Matthew Schmitz, Benjamin Smith, Freddie Taylor, Matthew Thomas, Jose Vega and Pedro Vega. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at the far right wearing a plaid shirt. 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. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Twelve individuals completed this course Sept. 28. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Benavente Jr., Xerxes Cunanan, Jason Davis, Archie Eldridge, Braden Horne, Tess Kannuck, David Johnson, Keith Marion, Timothy McKibbon, Rodney Payne, Robert Puckett and Reylan Tendido. Class Instructors Wayne Johnson and Joe Zienda are at the far left and far right, respectively. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished this course Sept. 21: Bryan Brady, Jason Brown, Ryan Crowell, Patrick Devlin, Michael Harris Jr., Tyrone Hernandez, Gregory Howard, Enrique Medri, Victor Sapp, Felix Somorostro, Marvin Tucker and Djaun Wright. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. BST – Twenty individuals finished their training requirements in this course Sept. 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulla Alwaseem, Kyren Ancrum, Michael Batten, Franklin Beck, Reuben Brown, Carlos Cacho, Andrew Eastman, David Grieg, Andrew Higbee, Nasir Isa, McKinley Jones Jr., Julie Major, Mustafa Malik, Benjamin Matthews, Julius Obilania, James Oling, Adiawor Otumfo, Carlos Parrilla, Aaron Sills and Henry Tucker. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) – Fifteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Aug. 11 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Cassandra Kerney-Rogers, Thomas Alan Allsage, Ricardo Rogriguez, Jade Tubera, Barron Gaines Jr., Steven Stahl, Phonicial Washington, Jay Cosca, Constantino Bertoso Jr., Ronnie Salosa, Joel Guevara, Maria Lew, Silvia Bresson, Alana Duncanson and Shawn Mabe. November 2012 11769_November.indd 23 Steward Department Classes – Five upgraders recently completed their requirements in various steward d epartment classes. Those graduating and their respective classes (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jatniel Aguilera, chief cook; David Johnson, advanced galley; Emmanuel Matias, certified chief cook; Ely Tayag, galley operations; and Evelyn Tayag, chief steward. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST (Hawaii) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) graduated from this course Sept. 8 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers Training Facility: Clifford D Souza, Bradley Daniels, Mary Dermid, Lindsey Dorman, Sheena Earl, Peter Franada, Mallory GrandPre, Melinda Hartman, Nicole Hawkins, Nikkolas Hawkins, Edward Jenkins, Erin Jenkins, Sarah Karp, Stepahnie Lisa, Kyle Nieft, Ralph Sacayle, Samuel Spare and Michael Stingo. Seafarers LOG 23 10/25/2012 7:26:39 PM �Volume 74, Number 11 November 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Major Progress In Piney Point Waterfront Project S everal phases of the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s multi-stage waterfront restoration project are complete; however, a few segments still must be finalized. A ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremony signaling the completion of these phases and the reopening of the waterfront restoration area was held Sept. 11 at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The event was attended by union officials, trustees, convention delegates and guests who attended the Seafarers International Union of North America’s 26th Quinquennial Convention. In addition to a new concrete pier and floating marina with 12 double slips (photo immediately below), the waterfront now features a new pier site for the MV John F. Fay training vessel (photo above), a single point davit with fast rescue capability (bottom photo below) and a new life boat davit with new lifeboats (photo at right). Besides these four features which significantly enhance maritime training at the center, more than 1,500 feet of old piers have been replaced on the waterfront as has old seawall and in excess of 1,000 feet of old bulkheads. Also gone via demolition are the old railway, marina, Hagglund Crane and marine museum. A much anticipated waterfront park, whose amenities are still being considered, is expected to be completed next year. 11769_November.indd 24 10/25/2012 7:26:47 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 November 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CHRISTENINGS SIGNAL NEW SIU JOBS UNION CONTINUES FIGHT FOR MARINERS SIU CIVMARS EARN MSC ACCOLADES SIU WELCOMES NEW JOBS AS CROWLEY CHRISTENS ATB NAVY LAUNCHES SECOND HIGH-SPEED VESSEL: USNS CHOCTAW COUNTY UNION ELECTING VOTING BEGAN NOV. 1 COAST GUARD ISSUES STCW POLICY LETTERS NEW YORK PORT COUNCIL HONOREES SALUTE AMERICA’S WORKING FAMILIES OFFICIALS, TRUSTEES BREAK GROUND FOR NEW PHC CLAIMS BUILDING SEAFARERS SAIL WITH DOE FOR SCIENCE OCEAN ATLAS ORDEAL SHINES LIGHT ON MDL BOSUN PRAISES UNION-AFFILIATED SCHOOL AB RECALLS CROSSING EQUATOR RETIRED LAKES VP BYRON KELLEY DIES AT 79 THE FORGOTTEN SAILORS OF WORLD WAR II TWICS ISSUES IN 2007 NOW BEGINNING TO EXPIRE MAJOR PROGRESS IN PINEY POINT WATERFRONT PROJECT 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 11/01/2012 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/ac38acb02df79a79b60e25febd4315b4.pdf a5f88a9a7c96d1a665ed12816b98d8a3 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 11 November 2013 Last month officially marked the union’s 75th anniversary. The SIU got its charter on Oct. 14, 1938 from the American Federation of Labor during a convention in Houston. Turn to pages 10-14 for a timeline (including photos) that touches on many of the highlights of the SIU’s first 75 years. For additional thoughts on this milestone, check out SIU President Michael Sacco’s column on page 2. Eligibility Rules Modified Page 2 MSP Gets Full Funding Page 3 Scholarship Information Page 9 �President’s Report After 75 Years, SIU Still Going Strong In our union’s infancy, people who were just learning about the SIU usually did so through word of mouth, pamphlets, demonstrations and meetings. Today, most people first hear of us through the Internet, where a basic description starting on our home page serves as a snapshot. There was nothing wrong with the old ways in the late 1930s and early 1940s, and there’s nothing wrong with how it is now. In the Internet age, it’s the same for most organizations – your website is your first impression. But there’s a difference between making an introduction and capturing the essence of a union. As our organization’s 75th anniversary year winds down, if I could only have one shot at truly defining the SIU, I’d turn to the rank-and-file members and listen to them. More specifically, I am thinking of the graduation speeches year after year from many of the upgraders at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. The fact Michael Sacco that most of those speeches are similar doesn’t detract from their power or sincerity. In fact, it heightens and sharpens and reinforces the message. The gist is usually the same. Members describe how the SIU gave them a chance for a better way of life. In some cases, they talk about the second chance they got through our union and our school. They express the satisfaction of working hard in a viable career that helps them raise a family, buy a home, put their kids through school. They describe living the American Dream, and taking pride in that fact their work supports U.S. national and economic security. That’s who we are: a gateway to the American Dream. That doesn’t mean it’s always a love affair or that it’s easy. We’re not perfect – no one is – and our members aren’t shy about voicing concerns. But they are also the most loyal, reliable, productive mariners on Earth. In my eyes, SIU members are second to none. No review of our identity would be complete without mentioning our ongoing role as America’s fourth arm of defense. Seafarers have served in every conflict since World War II, supporting our troops across the globe, risking their lives by sailing in harm’s way to deliver the goods. That’s who we are as well. We are also, of course, part of the broader labor movement, and we are no less dedicated to promoting workers’ rights than we are in working on maritime-specific issues. It’s no secret that organized labor has taken some hard punches lately, but we, like those who came before us, can and will turn it around. Education is going to be a key part of our rebound. Besides our country’s outdated labor laws and sophisticated union-busting, I think our challenge simply begins with getting people to wake up to reality. I’ve heard and read many times that unions had a purpose back in the day, but people don’t need them anymore. That is an incredibly naïve outlook. As proud and grateful as I am for the SIU’s fantastic working relationships with our contracted companies, it is crazy to rely on benevolence for all the things that sustain a good, family-wage job. But, too many people don’t know any better. They think that things like workplace safety regulations, benefits, good pay scales, retirement care, paid holidays and vacations and overtime pay either fell out of the sky or were always there. In the labor movement, we know they were secured through the money, marbles and chalk of generations past. We’ve got to do much better at spreading that message. My final thought for this month, and for our milestone anniversary, is a personal one. It’s been said that the truly happy man is one who loves his work. Brothers and sisters, for the last 25 years, I have had the honor of serving as your president, and I wouldn’t trade those years for anything. Thank you for your support. Thank you for asking questions and for speaking up when you see better ways to do things. Thank you for always answering the call, no matter the voyage or campaign. Thank you for having so much confidence in me, and in the staff who help me make the SIU the greatest union in the world. Like I said, we’re not perfect. But we are a winning team, we are a family, and as long as we stick together, in the long run I know we will remain on top. Happy 75th Anniversary! Volume 75, Number 11 November 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; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2013 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 SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (standing in both the photo above and the one below) makes a presentation on the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s new eligibility requirements during the October membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. SHBP Announces Changes In Eligibility Requirements Officials Begin Campaign to Educate Members Changes in eligibility for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) are on the horizon, and SIU and SHBP officials are working to make sure members understand how those changes affect them. Through a letter directed to all SHBP participants, public presentations and one-on-one question-and-answer sessions, officials are getting the word out about what the new eligibility requirements mean to members and what’s needed to obtain and maintain coverage. Set to go into effect on Jan. 1, the new rules were created to comply with requirements tied to the Affordable Care Act of 2010 (known also as ObamaCare). SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who gave a presentation on the new requirements following the October membership meeting at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md., said members would ultimately benefit from the changes. “This allows you to obtain eligibility much faster. That’s what it boils down to,” Heindel said during his presentation. “It’s definitely a positive.” Under these rules, new members and those re-establishing eligibility require less time to qualify for coverage. Eligibility for existing members will be divided into two six-month periods instead of over the entire year; children between the ages of 18 and 26 will be covered; and coverage limits will be removed. Heindel’s presentation and a letter from Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen delved into what the new requirements meant in specific circumstances. Following is a breakdown of how the new rules work for certain members and situations. Initial Eligibility New employees and those seeking to re-establish eligibility will now require 90 days of “continuous” employment to become eligible for benefits, instead of the 125 days of employment required under the old policy. According to Bowen, “employment is considered to be ‘continuous’ if there is a break of less than 90 days between jobs. Only days of employment for a company that is required to make contributions to the SHBP on the employee’s behalf count for determining eligibility.” That means those returning to work after an absence could start receiving benefits much faster. to qualify for a pension. Like before, those retiring on disability pensions must have at least 4,380 days of covered employment to receive health benefits. Those retiring on any other type of pension require at least 5,475 days of covered employment to receive health benefits as a pensioner. In addition, employees must have 125 days of work in the year prior to retirement. Those retiring after Jan. 1, 2015 will need to meet new medical requirements prior to applying for pension, as described in the next paragraph. “You will need to have at least 60 days of covered employment in the two consecutive six-month periods prior to the date on which you become eligible for and apply for a pension,” Bowen wrote. “For example, if you retire in August 2015, you would need 60 days of covered employment from the period from July through December 2014 and January through June 2015 in order to be eligible for pensioner’s health benefits.” Other Changes Other changes to the SHBP beginning in 2014 include: coverage of children up to age 26, coverage for those with pre-existing conditions, and the elimination of annual limits on certain essential health benefits. Moreover, as noted in the letter (which in addition to being mailed is posted on the SIU website), there will be a transition period “so that no [Seafarer] will be adversely affected by this new rule. During the first six months of 2014, the old eligibility rule will apply. This means that from January 1, 2014 through June 30, 2014, you will be eligible for benefits if you had 125 days of covered employment in 2013, and one day of covered employment in the past six months. However, if you did not have eligibility under the old rule at the beginning of the year, you will be able to establish eligibility after 90 days under the new rule for re-establishing eligibility. Beginning on July 1, 2014, you will only be eligible for benefits if you meet one of the new eligibility rules.” Maintaining Eligibility Under the new rules, employees must work 60 days over a six-month period to receive benefits during the next six-month period. The first period runs Jan.1-June 30, while the second period runs July 1-Dec.31. “This means that if you have 60 days of covered employment any time between January 1 and June 30, 2014, you will be eligible for coverage from July 1 to December 31, 2014,” Bowen wrote. “Covered employment may also include certain time when an employee attends upgrading classes at the Seafarers Harry Lundberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS), and certain time when an employee receives sickness and accident benefits.” During his presentation, Heindel said it’s also important to remember that the 90 days required to obtain the benefits in the first place also worked toward maintaining them in the following eligibility period. “Because you worked 90 days you would be eligible immediately (for coverage over the next six months),” Heindel said. “You met (and exceeded) the 60-day requirement and would be covered in the next period.” Pensioners There are no changes to the number of days needed November 2013 �MSP Gets Funding for Fiscal Year 2014, Fight for Future Full Funding Continues Union’s Efforts Instrumental in Key Victory for Maritime Industry The last-minute deal reached in October to reopen the federal government and avoid default on the nation’s debt included full funding for the Maritime Security Program (MSP) for Fiscal Year 2014. The SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO (MTD) played important roles in securing full funding for the program, which is a bedrock of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Part of that effort included working with allies throughout the U.S-flag maritime industry to alert Congress and the White House to fix an anomaly created when the program had some leftover funds that rolled into the Fiscal Year 2013 calculations. Preliminary budget figures for the coming year did not take that anomaly into account. Bipartisan support on the Hill in both the Senate and the House corrected the problem. The MSP amount for 2014 returns to the called-for $186 million. However, the compromise passed on Oct. 16 was approved only for three months. The union will work the rest of maritime labor to monitor negotiations headed toward the Jan. 15 deadline, and will work with the Congress and administration to ensure full funding for MSP. In taking the case for full funding of the MSP to Capitol Hill, the union and other backers of the program pointed out that any reductions would harm America’s national and economic security. The MSP keeps 60 militarily useful, American-crewed, U.S.-flag ships in service so they’re available to our armed forces in times of conflict or emergency. The program is extremely cost-effective – American military leaders have estimated it would cost the government billions of dollars to replace all the assets our military receives through the MSP at a relatively tiny fraction of that amount. Before full funding had been secured last month, the SIU issued a statement that read in part, “The U.S. Gen. William Fraser, commander of U.S. Transportation Command, said earlier this year at the MTD convention that reductions to the MSP would weaken America’s military readiness. Maritime Administration has advised the SIU and others in the industry that there is a possibility of up to 20 vessels being removed from the MSP fleet (all of them SIU-crewed) as a result of contract terminations or suspensions. Calling the idea of slashing the MSP ‘penny-wise, pound-foolish’ doesn’t begin to describe the potentially catastrophic consequences of such a devastating cut. “Our troops depend on the U.S. Merchant Marine; the heads of the U.S. Transportation Command and the U.S. Military Sealift Command recently stated that they simply couldn’t do their jobs without the vital support provided by our industry. Our capacity to support the troops is directly tied to full funding for the MSP… Our men and women in uniform need to know that when they’re sent into harm’s way, they can still rely on U.S. Merchant Mariners to deliver the goods to them, anywhere, any time.” Meanwhile, the MTD pointed out, “Leading members of Congress and the Defense establishment have noted for many years that the MSP gives the Pentagon access to a reliable source of sealift and to a global logistics network that is second to none at a fraction of what it would cost the American taxpayer if the federal government were to build, operate and maintain this capability itself. Moreover, the program generates billions of dollars of economic activity and tax revenues, while providing tens of thousands of middleclass jobs.” An MSP report prepared in 2006 for the Maritime Administration put it this way: “If the Department of Defense needed to replicate the … capacity of the MSP fleet, the capital cost alone would be $13 billion.” The report went on to note that the U.S. Transportation Command — the agency within the U.S. military responsible for ensuring that U.S. troops and supplies are sent to areas in crises in a timely manner – estimated “it would cost the U.S. government $52 billion to replicate the intermodal system that has been developed, maintained, and continuously upgraded by MSP participants.” “Without fully funding the MSP, which ensures the continued operation of the nation’s commercial maritime security fleet, America would either have to place the safety of our troops and the security of our nation in the hands of foreign shipping interests or be forced to spend billions of taxpayer dollars to achieve the commercial sealift capability that the U.S.-flag commercial industry currently provides,” wrote the chairmen of House Subcommittees on Seapower and Projection Forces, Readiness, and Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation earlier this year. The MSP became law in 1996 when a Republican-led Congress passed legislation that was signed by President Clinton to enact the original 10-year program. It has been extended with additional 10-year terms twice, thanks again to strong bipartisan support. The SIU was – and continues to be – a strong supporter of the program, going back to its formative stage during the George H.W. Bush administration with a Democratic-led Congress in 1992. Ship Seizure Showed Why America Needs Strong U.S.-Flag Fleet During some of the recent verbal battles in Washington, D.C., concerning two key American maritime programs, supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine reminded skeptics about a highprofile incident involving a runaway-flag ship that basically held more 10 percent of Canada’s military might hostage. The saga involving the GTS Katie happened in 2000, but the lesson remains timely. Namely, when a country relies on a foreign nation to help carry out its military operations – in peace or war – it takes a big risk. As Vice Adm. James B. Perkins, then the commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, put it at the time, “Canada’s dilemma is a classic example of the danger of becoming militarily dependent on ships registered in other countries. Even if foreign ships are available, it’s unwise now or ever for any country to rely on foreign tonnage and foreign seamen to carry out its defense or foreign policy mission. “The United States should remember this lesson well, and realize once again that it cannot function militarily without a robust maritime fleet grounded on a thriving U.S. Merchant Marine,” Admiral Perkins continued. “We simply can’t do without ships under the American flag, and manned by American crews as a vital part of our national defense arsenal.” Sailing under the flag of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the GTS Katie was carrying 200 of Canada’s 2,000 armored vehicles, along with five tanks and 390 crates packed with rifles, ammunition and communications equipment. The ship was sailing from Kosovo after a peacekeeping mission when her owners reportedly ordered her to stop short of her destination (Becancour, Quebec) and anchor in international waters. At issue was a pay dispute with the charter company. Shipowner Third Ocean Marine Navigation (based in Annapolis, Md.) refused to send the freighter to port and unload the cargo until the debt was settled. After two weeks of fruitless negotiations, two Canadian war ships, equipped with torpedoes and deck guns, were dispatched to the cargo ship’s position. Canadian officials eventually secured permission from St. Vincent and the Grenadines to board the vessel and resolve the situation. (Under international law, a vessel can only be boarded after either the captain or the country of registry gives consent.) No shots were fired, and the crew eventually received its wages after the materiel was secured. Movie Puts U.S. Merchant Marine in Spotlight The Oct. 11 debut of the critically acclaimed movie “Captain Phillips” brought an unusual amount of attention to the normally overlooked U.S. Merchant Marine. It also reawakened the general public’s awareness of maritime piracy. The film retells the story of the SIUcrewed Maersk Alabama, largely focusing on how the mariners refused to allow a takeover of their vessel despite having been boarded by gun-wielding Somali pirates; and on the harrowing days Capt. Richard Phillips (played by Tom Hanks) subsequently spent in a lifeboat with those pirates. The Maersk Alabama mariners were members of, respectively, the SIU, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, and the Masters, Mates & Pilots. Maritime labor, including Phillips, who still sails, used the premier to promote a strong U.S.-flag fleet. In a well-covered news conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., and in other promotional venues, industry advocates spoke out on behalf of the Maritime Security Program, Food Aid and the general need to maintain a viable U.S. Merchant Marine. November 2013 While the movie itself got rave reviews, not all of the publicity was positive. A lawsuit by some of the officers and crew against the shipowner and vessel operator also made headlines. Following is the statement the SIU released in advance of the movie: SIU Statement Most of the mariners (12) sailing aboard the Maersk Alabama when it was attacked in 2009 were members of the Seafarers International Union. Regardless of any storytelling liberties taken by Hollywood, we welcome the opening of “Captain Phillips” because it calls attention to an often overlooked but vital American industry. Ironically, the film opens at a time when Washington is on the verge of doing what the pirates couldn’t do: taking the Maersk Alabama – and many other American-flag ships – out of service. In addition to fighting off maritime pirates, our industry collectively is being attacked by foreign-flag interests and others who either don’t understand or don’t care about the extremely important role played by the U.S. Merchant Marine in America’s national and economic se- curity throughout our history. Dubbed the nation’s “fourth arm of defense” by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the U.S. Merchant Marine consists of civilian seafarers who sail aboard many different kinds of vessels. Some of those ships sail in commercial trades, and others specifically serve as U.S. military support ships. All of the crews are available to mobilize in support of military operations (such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, where in both cases the U.S. Merchant Marine transported more than 90 percent of the war cargo into theatre) and humanitarian efforts (such as the relief mission in Haiti and the one following Superstorm Sandy). American military leaders have stated they couldn’t ensure that our troops will get the materiel they need without U.S. mariners. They’ve also repeatedly pointed out that it would cost the government billions of dollars to replace the ships, infrastructure and manpower that they now receive via the U.S. Merchant Marine (including commercial U.S.-flag ship operators) for a relatively tiny fraction of that cost. And that’s to say nothing of the obvious pitfalls of putting our troops in a position where they’d rely on foreign-flag, foreign-crewed ships to deliver their cargo. “Captain Phillips” of course is a humaninterest story rather than a movie specifically about the U.S. Merchant Marine, but we hope it increases the public’s awareness of the industry – one that has enjoyed strong bipartisan support throughout our nation’s history but is currently fighting for survival. In a further irony, the Alabama was carrying Food Aid cargo when it was attacked. The Food Aid program – a timetested success that has fed hundreds of millions of people around the world while maintaining around 55,000 American jobs – is under severe attack. Finally, we also hope the movie raises awareness of maritime piracy itself. The SIU has fought against piracy for decades; we recommend visiting www.saveourseafarers.org for more information. As we said in April 2009, Captain Phillips, his fellow officers and the SIU crew members of the Maersk Alabama deserve credit for handling a life-and-death situation. The Navy SEALS who ended the standoff also have our gratitude. Seafarers LOG 3 �Piney Point Hosts Industry, Labor, Political Leaders UIW, SEATU Conventions Address Labor Movement, Organizing Successes A pair of conventions for two SIU-affiliated unions recently brought a cadre of industry leaders, politicians and labor officials to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. Held in late September and early October, the conventions for the United Industrial Workers (UIW) and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU) saw delegates, officials and supporters outline strategies to strengthen the labor movement and generate more good-paying union jobs. The first of the two events was the UIW convention, which took place from Sept. 30-Oct. 1. Formed in 1949, the UIW represents a wide range of employees, including factory workers, medical technicians, office personnel and much more. Aside from re-electing UIW President Michael Sacco, National Director John Spadaro and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, the UIW also heard from guest speakers who voiced their views on the state of the labor movement, politics and what the UIW and its members can expect in the future. One of those speakers was Kroger Labor Relations Director Steve Loeffler. He said Kroger sees the UIW, and the labor movement as a whole, as vital to the company’s success. The good wages and benefits unions fight for lead to high-quality employees, Loeffler said, adding that Kroger values its relationship with the UIW. “We feel that those benefits, those wages we pay, help our business,” Loeffler said. “We’re 350,000 associates strong and about 280,000 of them are unionized employees. Depending on the time of year, it’s between us and UPS for being the largest union employer (in the country).” In his speech, Baltimore AFL-CIO President Ernie Grecco expanded on the importance of those types of good-paying union jobs. More needs to be done, he added, to ensure the jobs won’t simply disappear. “We have got to make some changes,” Grecco said. “One of those changes is we’re reaching out to other groups to help us. We need to help one another.” Grecco said the need was especially evident in Baltimore. While the city has gotten its share of facelifts and has become more of a tourist attraction, Grecco said it is sorely missing the middle class union jobs – like those offered in UIW shops – that made America such a land of opportunity. “Yes, Baltimore is pretty. But I’ll take the old neighborhoods and manufacturing jobs. Every one of those had a union contract,” Grecco said. “Middle class Americans could buy a home and put their kids through college.” Maryland State Sen. Roy Dyson – who represents St. Mary’s County, where the PHC is located – echoed those sentiments as well, adding that the labor movement, including the SIU and UIW, most certainly has a positive impact. “I’m proud of you,” Dyson said. “This facility has done so much for St. Mary’s County.” The UIW convention also heard from SIU/UIW Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen who addressed the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and from SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman who elaborated on the SIU’s efforts in Washington. Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary Daniel Duncan discussed the need for solidarity and explained how the UIW benefits from its various labor affiliations. Delegates and guests converged on the PHC again the following week; this time for the SEATU convention. Formed in 1995, SEATU represents workers in the service, hospitality and gaming industries. SEATU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Vice President Augustin Tellez and Vice President Tom Orzechowski were all re-elected, while the convention’s guest speakers discussed the ever-expanding roster of SEATU-contracted properties and the hard work done by SEATU and the labor movement to improve the lives of middle class Americans. Ernie Grecco, President Metropolitan Baltimore AFL-CIO 4 Seafarers LOG The stakes simply couldn’t be higher, said Fred Mason, president of the Maryland and Washington, D.C. AFL-CIO. He added that union members must do more than simply punch the clock every day. If the labor movement is to survive, Mason said, those members must be involved in their central labor councils and their communities as a whole. “That is where the collective comes together,” Mason said. “We are in some challenging times. The anti-worker forces out there really want to take us back – back to where workers had no rights, back to where people in general had no rights. They’re not only attacks on unions, but they’re also attacks on civil rights.” UFCW Local 27 Executive Vice President Tim Goins – whose union partnered with SEATU to organize more than 2,500 new casino and gaming workers over the past three years – said the need to organize is vital to the nation, the economy and the middle class Americans who depend on those jobs. “Your labor union is the only vehicle that can improve your members’ wages and working conditions,” Goins told SEATU officials during his convention address. He said, however, that unions will have to stick together if they’re going to survive the constant onslaught on anti-worker forces. “We’re all organizers in this room. But if we don’t continue to organize our unions we are going to die a slow death,” Goins said. “We need to continue to organize the unorganized to survive.” When it comes to SEATU’s organizing drives, substantial progress is beng made. Representatives from SEATU-contracted properties reported good working relationships with the union and a bright future. “We work so well with SEATU. We did well during the difficult (economic) times through the last several years,” said Penn National Gaming Senior Vice President for Human Resources Gene Clark, adding that Penn had a surge in SEATU-represented properties in recent years. “We were able to grow…and you grew with us. We know we can count on this union and its leadership to keep a profitable and healthy business.” Maryland Live! Senior Vice President and General Counsel Howard Weinstein had good news to report as well. He said SEATU-contracted Maryland Live! – which opened in 2012 – has emerged as the secondlargest casino in the country in terms of revenue, thanks in no small part to the dedication of SEATU and its membership. “This place has taken off in ways no one has anticipated,” Weinstein said, adding that he agreed with the employees’ decision to choose representation with SEATU. “The employees needed representation and people who would be looking out for them,” Weinstein said. “We got to where we are with Maryland Live! and the relationship with SEATU in a 16-month, fairly accelerated pace.” Impressed by the success Maryland Live! and other gaming properties, Maryland State Delegate John Bohanan told the SEATU convention that he would continue to fight for the industry in the state house. He added SEATU has done a good job of reaching out to both the private and the public sectors, and the success seen by the union and the gaming industry shows the work is paying off. “The entire gambling industry in our state is going to continue to do well and take off. We are going to be very supportive of that,” Bohanan said. “We’re going to continue to have the kind of partnership you need. You have to have a good partnership between the public and private sector.” Several additional guest speakers addressed both the UIW and SEATU conventions. They included National Labor College Union Skills Program Director Jean Dearden, who touched on the importance of learning within the labor movement; and Union Plus Representative Valerie Cole, who outlined the benefits of Union Plus programs. Fred Mason, President Maryland/D.C. AFL-CIO During his address to delegates and guests, President Michael Sacco reflected on the progress SEATU has made since the last convention. Roy Dyson Maryland State Senator John Bohanan Maryland State Delegate Tim Goins Executive VP UFCW Local 27 Officials take the oath of office near the end of the UIW convention. Gene Clark, Senior VP Human Resources Penn National Gaming Howard Weinstein VP and General Counsel Maryland Live! Steve Loeffler Senior Director, Labor Relations Kroger Company November 2013 �Seafarers on Crowley ATB Make Another Rescue Seafarers aboard Crowley’s Achievement/650-8 have once again saved lives off the Florida coast, marking their second rescue in nine months. This latest rescue saved the lives of four fishermen whose 30-foot boat was sinking about 35 miles offshore from Clearwater, Fla. The incident occurred Sept. 15 after a sudden and powerful squall moved through the Florida coast, resulting in heavy rains, 50-knot winds and a flood of distress calls coming from small boats in the area. During all of this, the Achievement/650-8 was instructed to stand by and not proceed with its plans to enter Tampa Bay. “While the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) was very responsive in assisting the boaters in distress, one fisherman in particular was having difficulty communicating over his radio, as it got drenched from the storm,” said Gus Cramer, captain of the Achievement/650-8. “It was clear, however, that he was offshore and in the stormy conditions. At that time, the Coast Guard was stretched very thin because the squall caught everyone by surprise and there were many boaters in distress. After a few minutes of monitoring their calls for assistance, it was clear that we were the closest vessel to their location, approximately 12 nautical miles south.” Hoping to get to the distressed boat before the sun went down, Cramer called the Coast Guard to inform them that the Achievement/650-8 would be assisting the sinking fishing boat immediately. He and the crew then directed the ATB to the site of the distressed vessel at full speed, keeping contact with the boat the whole time. “What made the rescue more difficult was the fact that the captain of the fishing boat had to keep running with the winds and waves in order to prevent the vessel from continuing to take on water and sinking,” Cramer said. “Unfortunately, the winds and waves caused them to move farther and farther away from us and further offshore. After 45 minutes of traveling in their direction, we only gained four or five miles.” It took two hours for the Achievement/650-8 to spot the distressed fishermen, and the timing couldn’t have been better. Night was just about to fall and the radio of the sinking fishing boat finally gave out. After readying the rescue equipment, the crew of the Achievement/650-8 lowered the pilot ladder over the side. Chief Mate Ryan Emmons then prepared it on the starboard side and directed the boat to come alongside the ATB using only his flashlight and voice commands. The ATB then made a slow, sweeping turn that allowed the four uninjured fishermen to board the vessel. While the Achievement/650-8 attempted to tow the stricken fishing boat back to Tampa, the line had to be cut due to continued high seas. The crew communicated the coordinates of the boat to the Coast Guard, however, so it could be retrieved later. The Achievement/650-8 finally arrived at the Tampa sea buoy at 12:30 a.m. and made its petroleum berth in downtown Tampa at 5:30 a.m. The four rescued fishermen walked off the ATB without needing any medical treatment. “The Crowley crew did a phenomenal job working as a team to save the lives of these fishermen,” Cramer said. “We chose the safest possible plan and it worked because everyone knew what to do well in advance and the crew worked as a team.” Of the SIU mariners aboard the Achievement/650-8, 10 of them have completed safety training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The crew has also participated in company-sponsored safety programs designed to train mariners for emergency situations. “The great actions of this crew are due to their safety training, diligence and ability to work together,” said Rob Grune, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager for petroleum and chemical transportation. “The entire Crowley family is exceptionally proud of the crew for their bravery and competency in yet another challenging situation this year. These crew members are true heroes and deserve to be recognized for their actions.” The mariners aboard the Achievement/650-8 included: Capt. Cramer, Chief Mate Emmons, Second Mate Peter Madden, AB Thomas “Duke” Ellington, Third Mate Dennis Blackman, AB Louis Ferrer, Engineer Vince Mull, Assistant Engineers Zach Lindsey, Calvin Burrus, and Mark Lettieri, AB/Tankerman James Robinson and Cook Robeson Carrier. The same crew was involved in another rescue earlier this year in which a badly injured man was saved while bobbing in the water near the base of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay. During that rescue, the crew pulled the man from the water within eight minutes of spotting him and kept him warm until emergency crews could arrive. Industry Honors Rep. Peter King Report: U.S. Shipbuilding Results In Huge Benefits for U.S. Economy AMP Presents New York Congressman with Prestigious Award The SIU-affiliated American Maritime Partnership (AMP) recently honored one of the maritime industry’s highest-profile allies: U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.). AMP presented King with the 2013 edition of the prestigious Champion of Maritime Award, an honor designed to recognize individuals who have displayed extraordinary dedication to and consistent support for the American U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) November 2013 maritime industry. King is the former chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee and represents New York’s 2nd congressional district, an area which is home to hundreds of high-quality maritime jobs that generate more than $38 million in annual economic activity. First elected to Congress in 1993, King has spent his time in Washington as an outspoken advocate for the maritime industry, especially when it comes to the important role the industry plays in the nation’s security. Most recently, King led a successful fight in Congress to obtain more than $60 billion in emergency funding to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy – many of whom were aided by SIU members as well. “Our nation’s maritime industry is part of the foundation of America’s national security,” King said at the awards ceremony, praising the mariners who helped rescue more than half a million people who were stranded on Manhattan following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. “Even 12 years later, we are reminded again why it is so very important to have a vibrant maritime fleet that will always be there to support the people of our great nation.” AMP Chairman Thomas Allegretti added that the industry is proud to have such a strong ally as King. “As a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, Rep. King deeply understands the integral role that American maritime plays in our nation’s safety and security,” Allegretti said. “He is a strong and unwavering advocate for the hard-working men and women who make up our growing industry, and for that, we thank him as our Champion (of Maritime) for 2013.” King’s recognition from AMP won’t be his only maritime honor this year. The United Seamen’s Service recently announced King would be one of the recipients of its 2013 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) awards at a benefit dinner on Nov. 15 in New York City. SIU President Michael Sacco is this year’s AOTOS dinner chairman. “Congressman King is a leader in the ongoing effort to have homeland security funding based on threat analysis and is a strong supporter of the war against international terrorism,” said retired Gen. Kenneth Wykle while announcing the recipients of the AOTOS award. Study Finds Industry Generates Billions of Dollars A recent study by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) illustrates the enormous impact the nation’s shipbuilding and repair industry has on the American economy. Appropriately titled, “The Economic Importance of the U.S. Shipbuilding and Repairing Industry,” the study found that the overall benefit of the shipbuilding industry came to $36 billion in gross domestic product (GDP), with direct and indirect benefits reaching all 50 states. Aside from the $36 billion in GDP, the industry also supported 402,010 jobs and $23.9 billion in labor income. According to the report, each job in the shipbuilding and repair industry results in another 2.7 jobs in other parts of the U.S. economy. While the industry directly provides jobs in 40 states, every state in the nation feels indirect benefits from the industry, both in jobs and revenue. The study also found that the average labor income per shipyard was approximately 45 percent higher than the national average for the private sector economy and the nation’s shipbuilders have delivered more than 1,200 vessels per year since 2010. Because of that work, the study found the U.S. shipbuilding industry has run a trade surplus six of the last 10 years, with a cumulative surplus of $410 million over that 10-year period. “Shipyards create quality jobs and support economic growth far beyond our nation’s ports and waterways,” said recently retired U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who headed the Department of Transportation (DOT) while the study was being conducted. “This report shows that wherever you live across the country, Americans benefit from opportunities generated by the shipbuilding and repair industry.” The response to the report has been very positive. Shipbuilders Council of America President Matt Paxton outlined and praised its findings during a presentation to the SIU-affiliated American Maritime Partnership (AMP) annual meeting, while the findings have also been touted by key Washington politicians and officials. One of those advocates is Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), chairman of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee. In a statement issued shortly after the report’s publication, Forbes said the findings show why the maritime industry as a whole is vital to the nation’s economic and national security. “MARAD’s latest report reminds us of the interconnectivity of the American maritime industry. From Hampton Roads (Va.) to South Dakota and (38) states in between, the ship construction and repair industry is an essential part of local communities,” he said. “There is an inseparable link between the strength of our domestic maritime industry and U.S. naval power. As this report demonstrates, preserving and expanding America’s maritime industry is a project that all Americans can embrace.” Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen has also showcased the report’s findings while emphasizing the Obama administration’s efforts to improve shipbuilding throughout the country. Since 2009, the DOT has allocated nearly $150 million to improve the infrastructure of U.S. shipyards through its small shipyard grant program. “Our shipyard investments go directly toward an industry that’s vital to our economic security and national defense,” Jaenichen said in a statement. Based on the recent boom in demand for shipbuilding, the need for such investments could not be greater. According to the DOT, America’s shipyards are the busiest they’ve been in 20 years, due in large part to the transportation needs tied to surging domestic energy production. Jaenichen recently discussed the situation during the TradeWinds Jones Act Shipping Forum in New York. During his address, Jaenichen said the increased transport of domestic energy among U.S. ports also illustrates the importance of the Jones Act – the law that requires all cargo transported between U.S. ports to be carried on American-made ships with American crews. “America’s Jones Act fleet will benefit from this new and abundant cargo source,” he said. “When domestic cargoes are moving, U.S. ships are moving them. The Jones Act works.” Seafarers LOG 5 �In the photo at left, some of the attendees begin gathering for food and fellowship. Rosamaria Machado (left in photo above), Hazel Bernal (right) and two other event supporters are pictured in the Philippines. Seafarer Helps Lead Philanthropy in Philippines AB Sean Wilson When AB Sean Wilson talked with his mother, Reverend Dr. Rosamaria Machado, about the poverty he’d seen in the Philippines, they decided to do something about it. In the resulting trip there last fall, they led a mission that fed 600 area children one evening, while also gently offering some spiritual considerations. The menu featured hamburgers and juice. “We just did what we could for them,” recalled Wilson, who started sailing with the SIU in 2007. “The kids were ecstatic. For most of them, it was the first time they’d had food from a restaurant. The primary staple in the Philippines is rice; it’s all they normally eat because it’s all they can afford.” A graduate of lifeboat class 698 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center, Wilson developed a fondness for the Philippines after several voyages there. He hopes to open a tour-boat business and eventually wants to Steward Provides Tips For Healthful Shipboard Life Editor’s note: Recertified Steward Steve Dickson recently wrote this article for fellow Seafarers while sailing aboard the Overseas Long Beach. Dickson has been an SIU member since 1991. Sea Fit It is said that people either live to eat or eat to live. It’s also usually easy to tell which is which at first glance. How many of you out there are struggling to lose weight or fighting diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels or hypertension (high blood pressure)? Being healthy while working and living aboard ships can be challenging. We work seven days a week for months at a time and it can be difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are many temptations at sea which can derail the best of intentions to stay fit and test your willpower. Sweet snacks are usually at close proximity and it’s easy to grab a pastry or a handful of cookies instead of a healthy snack while on breaks. Sugar is our enemy. It is sweet and seductive and our bodies and brains crave it once we get a taste for it as children, but it can wreak havoc upon us. It has no real nutritional value and turns to fat rapidly. Refined sugar is a product of the modern age; it was never part of any older cultures. They ate natural sugar in very small quantities, consumed foods that were found locally and traded for foods which they had no access to. The consumption of so much sugar in our culture has led to unprecedented levels of obesity and the associated diseases that come with it. It also costs us all billions in health care services. Alternatives to refined white sugar are 6 Seafarers LOG use some of the profits to give back to the country. “For me, it’s a wonderful place,” he said. “I’ve always loved being there, and helping the place seems natural.” Similarly for Machado, outreach is a way of life. She has done worldwide ministry work for years, in countries including New Zealand, Brazil, and Poland. “Whenever she sees an opportunity to help, she tends to jump on it,” Wilson noted. “She has just been a saint, actually. And we were in the worst of the worst area of the Philippines” (near Pilar Village in the City of Las Pinas, part of Manila Metropolis). “I think it went fantastic,” said Machado. “It’s a pretty impoverished area. Human trafficking is very high in those areas…. If we can give those kids a leg up, even a good meal, we’ve done something good.” She added that the kids were friendly and excited, and said her son was “fantastic. lence of fresh salad bars. Processed meats such as sausage, hot dogs and lunch meats should be avoided or consumed in moderation. Try to have at least five portions of fruits and vegetables every day. If you want to know how much a portion is, open your hand. One proper portion will fill the palm area. Portions served in America are almost brown sugar, honey or agave nectar and always far more than should be consumed at these can be used in baking recipes as well. one sitting. Try cutting down on portions and Cinnamon is very good for you and can be have nutritious snacks between meals. made available for oatmeal or cereals. Soft Fresh fruits and vegetables should be drinks should be avoided altogether and washed thoroughly before serving, extra care healthy fruit juices can be ordered instead taken especially when purchased in foreign of sugary sodas. Water is of course the best countries. Steam fresh vegetables instead of thing to drink to stay healthy. boiling to help retain their nutritional value. There are many fad diets making the Brightly colored fruits and vegetables are the rounds which claim amazmost nutritious. ing results, but individual Olive oil is also metabolisms vary and very nutritious and can your body will usually be used extensively in return to its former shape cooking as well as nonafter time has passed. GMO canola oil. SunThe only way to lose and flower and peanut oils maintain weight loss is a are also healthy alternacombination of a sensible tives to lard or vegetable diet and exercise. The shortening. Oils found human body is a compliin nuts and avocados cated machine and food are actually good for is what makes it work, eiyou and necessary for ther efficiently through a a healthy diet. Butter in balanced diet; or it breaks small quantities is better down if the wrong things by far than margarine, are ingested such as trans which is basically just fats, sugars, too much salt one molecule away from and processed flour such being plastic. as white bread. Many People usually eat modern food products conwhat they grew up with, so Recertified Steward tain large amounts of sugar it is sometimes hard to get Steve Dickson and salt, and care should be someone to try healthier altaken when using these. Ceternatives. Menus should reals are notorious for being too sugary and always include variety and as many heartthere are alternatives such as hot cereal or healthy options as possible. Making healthy mueslix or even just fruit and nuts. snacks available such as fresh fruits, peanut It was once very common to see crew butter, whole grained crackers and non-butmembers eat only meat and potatoes, and tered popcorn helps as well, instead of cookthat has changed due largely to the preva- ies, cakes and pastries, although these are He seemed to be drawn to the kids most in need, the ones who were a little rebellious. And those kids seemed to gravitate to Sean, I think because he showed them he’s a merchant mariner. There was an implied message: ‘If I can do this (career), you can do this.’ That was a big factor for me.” The gathering lasted from around 7 p.m. until midnight. SIU Patrolman Brian Guiry said he wasn’t surprised to learn of Wilson’s charitable efforts. The two sailed together on Guiry’s last ship, the Freedom, when he was the bosun and Wilson was an OS straight from Piney Point, Md. They still occasionally keep in touch because Wilson ships from the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla., where Guiry is based. “Sean has a lot of energy,” Guiry said. I’ve watched his growth as a Seafarer and have to say I’m proud of him. He’s very generous.” For more information about Rev. Machado’s ministry, call (386) 478-4688. loved by most crew members. During the days of wooden ships and iron men, many seafarers fell sick due to scurvy caused by lack of vitamin C. The British discovered that citrus fruits contained vitamin C and they stowed limes aboard their ships for the crews, thus becoming “limeys”. Foods are the best source of all the vitamins and minerals that we need but if your diet is lacking in fresh fruits and vegetables, supplements are recommended. After working hard all day it is not an easy task to go to the gym and work out. But, just 20 to 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise helps to maintain fitness. There are things that you can do in your quarters to stay fit such as isometric exercises and doing crunches and push-ups. There are many exercises that can be done with just a chair. Doing sit-ups on your bed is a good way to tighten abdominal muscles and strengthen the back. Well before there were Stairmasters, there were stairs. For a quick cardio workout if conditions allow, walk rapidly up and down the stairs on the ship. Depending on the type of ship and if weather and safety permit, take a brisk walk on the deck. Car carriers have decks that are excellent places to walk. Exercise also stimulates the whole body and can alter your mood for the better. Being in good physical condition is vital for seafarers because we all want a long and healthy life and career, and we must at times face hazardous conditions which require the ability to move quickly and come to the aid of others. Realize that agility tests are being added to annual physical examinations and your ability to work at sea depends on passing these. Discuss fitness during union meetings and see what kinds of ideas and input your shipmates bring forward. Find someone to exercise with and keep each other motivated to succeed. Do your part to be as healthy as possible in order to see fit to be fit at sea. November 2013 �At Sea And Ashore With The SIU RALLYING FOR UNITED MINE WORKERS OF AMERICA (UMWA) – Maritime Trades Department Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (right in photo at left above) was one of 15 people arrested Sept. 24 during a peaceful march and rally outside the Peabody Energy headquarters in St. Louis as the UMWA protested the company’s continued refusal to pay for health care benefits promised to retired miners, their widows and dependents. Also arrested during a sit-down protest in the street directly in front of the Peabody tower were UMWA President Cecil Roberts and Coalition of Black Trade Unionists President Terrence Melvin. The demonstration took place after a march by several thousand union members (some of whom are shown in the other photo) and their allies that blocked several streets in downtown St. Louis. B-BOOK IN OAKLAND – SA Larry Wilkinson (left, with SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona) recently picked up his full B-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. His most recent ships include Maersk’s USNS Effective and USNS Dewayne Williams. Wilkinson said he plans to upgrade as quickly as possible, adding that he takes great pride in what the SIU stands for. W E L C O M E ASHORE IN MOBILE – Port Agent Jimmy White (right) presents newly retired AB Harry J. Brown with his first retirement check at the union hall in Mobile, Ala. Brown’s most recent ship was USS Transport’s MV Houston. MEETING AT HARLEY MARINE – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Patrolman Mark von Siegel (left) recently met with Harley Marine Operations Manager Brian Kelly in New York. The SIU represents two dozen boatmen sailing on the company’s tugs and barges in the New York Harbor. Most of their work involves bunkering operations. SAFETY AWARD ON USNS HENSON – Vessel Master Capt. Gene Barry aboard the USNS Henson let the LOG know AB Jumar Rapuet (left, with Chief Mate Mel Santos) recently won a Maersk safety award “for diligent watchstanding and avoiding serious transmission damage to the hydrographic survey launch he was driving by immediately shutting down propulsion once he realized the prop had fouled.” SAFETY AWARD ON USNS IMPECCABLE – Congratulations to SA Ahmed Omar (right, with vessel master Captain J. Brokaw) for earning the Maersk Line, Limited safety award aboard the USNS Impeccable. According to the write-up sent to the Seafarers Log, “Omar was working in the crew’s mess when he discovered a class ‘C’ fire in the electrical wiring in the standup refrigerator. He directed one crew member to secure the power, which resulted in the fire going out, and then he called the bridge and reported the incident and stood by on reflash watch until the engineers responded to the scene. His fast and prompt response potentially averted a much larger fire. He stated he just used what he had learned previously in BST and damage control school.” HELPING KIDS OVERSEAS – SIU and AMO members from the USNS Wheeler and its support ship, the USNS Fast Tempo, spent two days in early September volunteering at the Sung Ae Won Home for Children, an orphanage in Busan, Korea. Wheeler vessel master Capt. John Mansfield credited the mariners for their generosity and hard work. A few of the volunteers are shown in these two photos, with local kids and adults. The vessels are operated by TOTE Services for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. November 2013 Seafarers LOG 7 �New York/New Jersey Port Council Recognizes Four Hundreds of union members and U.S.flag shipping representatives packed the ballroom of the Sheraton New YorkTimes Square on Oct. 19 for the 52nd annual dinner hosted by the Maritime Port Council (MPC) of Greater New York/ New Jersey and Vicinity, part of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department (MTD). Honorees for the evening included New Jersey State AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Laurel Brennan with the Paul Hall Award of Merit; Anil Mathur, president and CEO of SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company, with the Herb Brand Memorial Man of the Year Award; U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) as the Government Man of the Year; and U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.) with a Special Lifetime Achievement Award. In presenting Brennan with the Paul Hall Award, PMC Secretary-Treasurer Peter Busacca said she is “what one looks for in a labor leader.” Busacca cited his years of working with Brennan not only on behalf of the port council, but also in his position as president of the Hudson County (N.J.) Central Labor Council. He pointed out Brennan is the first woman to serve as the state secretary-treasurer thanks to the work she did throughout her career to advance females in the union movement. “I am honored to receive the Paul Hall Award of Merit,” Brennan told the audience. She said she respected Hall’s belief in supporting unions through organizing. Before wrapping up, she reminded New Jersey residents that Nov. 5 is Election Day and urged them to support the amendment to raise the state’s minimum wage. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (also an MTD executive board member) talked about his first meeting with Mathur years ago. He recalled that Mathur said “each one has the power to create a safe environment on a vessel.” Tellez added that Mathur shows a fierce Gathering before the annual dinner are (from left) Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, SIU VP and Port Council President Joseph Soresi, Port Council Secretary-Treasurer Peter Busacca, SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, New Jersey AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Laurel Brennan, Alaska Tanker Company President/CEO Anil Mathur, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and MTD VP Scott Winter. commitment to having the safest vessels on the high seas. “He trusts unions and the people who work for him,” Tellez concluded before offering the Herb Brand Award. Mathur told the gathering that he was “overwhelmed by all this attention. All of us [work] together achieve great things. Trust is the foundation which gets things done.” Mathur added he is proud of his relationship with the SIU. He noted, “Value is created by the workers themselves.” When it was time to recognize Schatz, SIU President Michael Sacco (who is also president of the MTD) declared, “Anybody who is a friend of Neil Abercrombie is a friend of ours.” (Abercrombie is a longtime supporter of the U.S.-flag fleet, having served in Congress before being elected governor of Hawaii in 2010.) Schatz became senator from Hawaii upon the death of lifetime U.S.-flag supporter Daniel Inouye last year. Schatz was the lieutenant governor at the time. Sacco saluted the senator for his efforts to support workers and the industry during his brief time in Washington: “Senator Schatz has stood with us on every issue.” Accepting the award on Schatz’ behalf was his chief of staff, Andy Winer, who apologized for the senator as he was called home on a family emergency. Winer said the senator understands “the tradition for strong leadership for maritime.” He noted that during Schatz’ first interview after Safety Directors Meet in Maryland SIU safety directors met last month at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., and at the union’s headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. They brushed up on the latest safety and training news affecting the industry and also gained insights about other issues that are vital to Seafarers. Pictured outside headquarters with Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (fourth from right) are Safety Directors Kathy Chester, Abdul Al Omari, Warren Asp, Ben Anderson, Ashley Nelson, James Brown, Osvaldo Ramos and Sam Spain. 8 Seafarers LOG coming to Washington he was asked about the Jones Act. “He said he is an unmoved supporter of the Jones Act. He understands these are American jobs!” Winer added that the senator also supports the Food for Peace Program and is seeking to improve and upgrade the nation’s ports and harbors. MPC President Joseph Soresi (who is vice president of the SIU’s Atlantic region) accepted LoBiondo’s award, as the congressman also could not attend the event. Soresi thanked all who have supported the dinner throughout the years, and who have stood with the maritime workers and the industry. He expressed his special appreciation to his assistant, Michele Nardo, for all her work behind the scenes to make the evening a success. Remembering Sister Holmes Fellow Seafarers and officers aboard the Horizon Pacific honored the memory of Recertified Steward Gloria Holmes during a shipboard ceremony Oct. 13. In accordance with her family’s wishes, Sister Holmes’ ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean. The late Seafarer died Sept. 2, two weeks shy of her 66th birthday. She had sailed with the SIU from 1978-2011. These photos show vessel master Capt. John Jablonski and some of the other mariners aboard the Horizon Pacific. November 2013 �SHBP Makes $132,000 Available for 2014 Scholarships College graduates earn nearly $20,000 more per year than the average high school grad, according to 2010 U.S. Census Bureau statistics. Further analysis of this data by the Pew Research Center revealed that over a 40-year career, the average college graduate earns $550,000 more than a high school graduate. Clearly, the financial investment of attending college and getting a degree is worthwhile. Nonetheless, the former reports indicate that the average college grad also leaves school with $23,000 in loans. This can be a heavy financial burden to bear, but it does not have to be this way, particularly for Seafarers and their dependents. Financial help is available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHPB), which each year offers scholarships to qualified applicants. Designed to ease the financial challenges associated with college and vocational studies, the 2014 SHBP Scholarship Program will offer eight awards totaling $132,000. Three scholarships will be designated for Seafarers, while five will be targeted for spouses and dependents. One of the endowments reserved for Seafarers totals $20,000 and is intended to help defray the costs associated with attending a four-year, college-level course of study. The remaining two are in the amount of $6,000 each and are designed as two-year awards for study at a postsecondary vocational school or community college. Each of the five scholarships for spouses and dependents is for $20,000. Now is an ideal time to begin the application process. The first step is to send for the 2014 SHBP Scholarship Program booklet. The package contains eligibility information, procedures for applying for the scholarships and an application form. To obtain a copy of this handout, simply complete the form which appears on this page and return it to the address provided. As an alternative to requesting a package through the mail, they also are available at SIU halls. Once the scholarship booklet has been received, Please send me the 2014 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................ Street Address............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code.................................................................................................................................................. Telephone Number ( ) ...................................................................................................................................... This application is for: o Self Mail this completed form to: o Dependent Scholarship Program Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 applicants should check the eligibility criteria. They should also begin collecting and assembling the remainder of the paperwork needed to submit with the full application, which must be received by April 15, 2014. Items that need to be incorporated in the final application package include transcripts and certificates of graduation. Since some institutions respond slowly in handling transcript needs, requests should be made as early as possible. Letters of recommendation – solicited from individuals who know the applicant’s character, personality and career goals – should be included as part of the application package. A high-quality photograph and a certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate are also required and should accompany the package. A scholarship selection committee, consisting of a panel of professional educators, will examine the 11/13 high school grades of all applicants as well as evaluate scores from their Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT) and American College Tests (ACT). Accordingly, arrangements should be made by applicants who have not done so to take these tests no later than February 2014. Doing so will virtually assure that the results reach the evaluation committee in time for review. Seafarers and dependents who previously applied for the scholarship program and were not selected are encouraged to apply again this year, provided they still meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t let the rapidly increasing costs of higher education prevent you from realizing your goals. The SHBP Scholarship Program can make the same difference for you that it has made for other Seafarers and dependents. In the last 10 years alone, the SHBP has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 76 college-bound individuals – 21 Seafarers and 55 dependents. Union Plus—helping hard-working union families get ahead CIVMARS Support Our Troops Scholarships Helping union families realize their dreams G oing back to school? Sending your children to college? Learn more about the scholarship opportunities available to you as a union member. Union Plus supports working families by providing $150,000 annually in scholarships to help you focus on your studies instead of your tuition bill. Members of the SIU Government Services Division constantly support U.S. military operations. In photo below, the CIVMAR-crewed USNS Big Horn sails in the Atlantic Ocean in late September during an at-sea replenishment with the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan. In the photo above, the Seafarerscrewed USNS Leroy Grumman (right) conducts an unrep in the Mediterranean Sea in midOctober with the USS Kearsarge, which is deployed in a fleet supporting maritime security operations. (Photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Who may apply: Deadline to apply: Current and retired participating union members, January 31, 12 p.m. (noon), Eastern Time their spouses and their dependent children. Recipients announced: May 31 What kind of school is eligible: Union Plus also offers: The scholarship is open to students who attend • Discounts on college test prep or plan to attend a U.S. college, university, from The Princeton Review community college, or a technical/trade school. • College planning tools and guides Students attending undergraduate or graduate schools are eligible. • Computer discounts through Scholarship amounts: Recipients will receive $500 to $4,000. Dell and HP • National Labor College scholarships Details and online application available at: UnionPlus.org/Scholarships 11/1310/13 November 2013 Seafarers LOG 9 �Delivering Since 1938 SIU Commemorates 75 Years Of Service to Members, Nation A lthough we started observing our 75th anniversary a little early – beginning with last year’s Seafarers International Union of North America convention – October 14 was in fact the actual date on which, in 1938, the old American Federation of Labor presented our charter. In some ways, it seems fitting that the true anniversary happens at a time when our union and many allies throughout maritime labor are fighting to preserve and revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine. It is not hyperbole to say the industry is under severe and perhaps even unprecedented attack. But, nothing about American maritime labor’s history has been easy. As SIU President Michael Sacco has said more than once, “No one is going to give us anything.” It has always been that way for mariners, including long before the SIU got started. We haven’t shied from that challenge and are continuing to employ every 1938 – American Federation of Labor (AFL) presents an international charter for mariners to Harry Lundeberg on October 14. The union is known as the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA). It consists of three separate districts: Atlantic, Gulf and Great Lakes, which will be referred to as SIU. 1939 – First contracts with shipping companies (Savannah Line, P&O Steamship and Colonial Navigation) are signed. Among the issues won by members are overtime pay for work on Saturday afternoons, Sundays and holidays, two weeks of vacation and hiring through the union hall. Union gains war bonuses for crews sailing into dangerous zones. Also, delegates from the Atlantic, Gulf and Great Lakes districts approve the SIU’s first constitution. 1940 – SIU’s Atlantic and Gulf districts merge after ratification by membership. The SIU overwhelmingly wins an NLRBconducted representation election for the crews of Calmar Line vessels. 1941 – John “Whitey” Hawk is elected to head the SIU Atlantic and Gulf District as its secretary-treasurer. A German submarine sinks the SIU-crewed SS Robin Moor on May 21, the first time an American-flag vessel is torpedoed. Crew members were given 20 minutes to abandon ship. 1942 – The SIUNA holds its first convention. Harry Lundeberg is elected president. The SIU joins with the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific (SUP) to oppose attacks on the Jones Act, the nation’s freight cabotage law. War Shipping Administration takes control of U.S.-flag merchant fleet. 1943 – Union members continue war effort, risking life and injury to deliver needed supplies to troops around the globe. 1944 – SIU fights effort by Maritime War Emergency Board to cut mariners’ wages. With bonuses and overtime included, the average seaman’s salary is $32.25 a week. The SIU opens its new building at 51 Beaver Street, combining the New York hiring hall with the Atlantic and Gulf District headquarters. 1945 – The SIU creates the position of director of organizing to prepare for the battle to recruit new members and sign non-union companies at the war’s end. New York Port Agent Paul Hall is appointed. The SIU and other maritime unions fight an attempt by the U.S. Coast Guard to control the U.S.flag merchant fleet in peacetime. The campaign to represent crews aboard the Isthmian fleet begins. 1946 – Membership approves committee to investigate the possibility of establishing an upgrading training school in New Orleans. Voting for representation begins aboard Isthmian ships. The AFL creates the Maritime Trades Department to give maritime-related unions equal status with the Building Trades and Metal Trades departments. The SIU shuts down the nation’s ports with a general strike when negotiated wage increases are rejected by the federal Wage Stabilization Board. After eight days, the board approves the increases, which match those approved for West Coast unions, and the strike is called off. 1947 – Paul Hall is elected secretary-treasurer of SIU, the union’s highest position. The SIU wins the campaign to represent Isthmian crews and signs a contract with the company, completing the two-year campaign. Seafarers march with members of the United Financial Employees to help them in their strike against the New York Cotton Exchange. This began the SIU’s commitment to helping other non-maritime unions in times of need. possible resource to stand up not just for our union but also for an often overlooked industry that is so vital to national and economic security. Meanwhile, at such an historic juncture, we offer on this page and several that follow, a sampling of events and images from the SIU’s history. The headline on this page is our anniversary theme, and it sums up the service of Seafarers past and present. Not to be overlooked in those 75 years is the service of our members who sailed in harm’s way to support our troops – especially the 1,235 Seafarers who lost their lives in World War II. SIU members also stepped up as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense in every conflict since then, reliably answering the call and delivering the goods from Korea to Vietnam to the first Persian Gulf War, through Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. They have mobilized with equal dependability and professionalism during numerous humanitarian missions around the world. 1948 – Cities Service unlicensed tanker crews vote for SIU representation with more than 83 percent saying yes to the union. The vote followed a yearlong organizing effort which met with stiff opposition from the company. However, labor laws call for another ballot to be conducted. New agreements with contracted companies retain the union hiring hall, a major issue during the negotiations. 1949 – The forerunner of today’s United Industrial Workers (UIW) is chartered by the SIU as the Marine Allied Workers Division. The SIUNA charters the SIU of Canada to restore democratic trade unionism in that country following threats of a communist takeover. Despite the anti-union campaign waged by Cities Service, 89 percent of the crew again votes for SIU representation. The company continues to fight despite NLRB certification that the SIU is the bargaining agent. Congress passes separate bill backed by the SIU calling for 50 percent of military cargo going to non-communist countries as well as 50 percent of goods headed to Europe under the Marshall Plan to be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed vessels. 1950 – The SIU becomes the first mariners’ union to negotiate a company-financed welfare plan for its members. The plan would provide Seafarers with a $500 death benefit and $7 per week hospital benefits. Just days before a Senate hearing looking into Cities Service’s anti-union campaign, the company signs a contract with the SIU, thus ending the union’s four-year effort to organize the tanker fleet. Korean Conflict begins and SIU-crewed ships are delivering the goods to U.S. troops. 1951 – The SIU gains an industry-wide vacation plan for its members. The program provides for the equivalent of two weeks’ vacation pay for each 12 months of service. Union headquarters moves from Manhattan to 675 Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn. 1952 – The first of three projected upgrading schools opens for Seafarers. Operating out of headquarters in Brooklyn, the first class qualifies members to obtain their AB certificates. Plans call for training to start soon for both engine and steward department members. Welfare plan expanded to include maternity and disability benefits. SIU membership overwhelmingly approves new constitution. Union implements scholarship program for members and their dependents. Andrew Furuseth’s relentless efforts led to the Seamen’s Act of 1915, a milestone for American maritime labor. 10 Seafarers LOG Harry Lundeberg founded the Seafarers International Union of North America. 1953 – Two unions join the growing ranks of the SIUNA: the Marine Firemen, Oilers and Watertenders Union (MFOW) and the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S). AFL calls on the Seafarers to help in the creation of a new longshoremen’s union after the International Longshoremen’s Association is removed from the national labor federation on corruption charges. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in World War II. 1954 – SIU protests the transfer of 80 U.S.flag Liberty ships (including 26 under contract to the SIU) to runaway flags by the U.S. maritime administrator. The union terms the action a “torpedo to the midships of the American Merchant Marine” because it not only means the loss of thousands of American jobs but also places the vessels in competition with the U.S. fleet. 1955 – The SIU adopts its seniority system of A, B and C book membership. Welfare plan expands to include hospital and surgical benefits as well as doctors’ visits at home for spouses and dependents. Union negotiates an industry-wide health and safety plan to establish clinics in all ports. The SUP, MFOW and MC&S – all SIUNA affiliates –begin work as the SIU Pacific District. Andrew Furuseth Training School opens in Mobile, Ala., to go along with upgrading facilities in Brooklyn and New Orleans. The AFL merges with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) to form the AFL-CIO. 1956 – Dr. Joseph B. Logue named medical director of the Seafarers Welfare Plan Medical Program. First of four health centers is ready to open near the Brooklyn headquarters. The SIU along with others in maritime labor and the shipping industry defeat a proposal in the Senate to weaken the nation’s cargo preference laws. 1957 – SIUNA founder and President Harry Lundeberg dies. SIU Secretary-Treasurer Paul Hall elected to replace him. Brooklyn clinic opens; others set for Baltimore, Mobile and New Orleans. Members’ families are eligible to use the facility. 1958 – Optical benefits for members cover free eye exams and glasses. The SIU and National Maritime Union (NMU) launch campaign to combat runaway-flag shipping situation with the help of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). The Great Lakes District votes to affiliate with the Atlantic and Gulf District. November 2013 �1967 – U.S. Coast Guard approves lifeboat training offered by the Lundeberg School. SIU President Paul Hall announces the purchase of property in southern Maryland to serve as a consolidated training center for SIU members. The Lundeberg School moves to Piney Point, Md., where members can upgrade their skills and newcomers can learn the skills to become mariners. 1968 – Campaign launched by the SIU and MTD to rebuild the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Union blasts cuts in federal budget directed at the Maritime Administration as reflecting “a lack of awareness of maritime’s essential role in our defense efforts and our peacetime economy.” Members are pictured in Marcus Hook, Pa., during the general strike of 1946. 1959 – SIU implements blood bank program for members and their families. The union provides additional training facilities at headquarters so members can obtain lifeboat tickets. Ordinary seamen and wipers are given upgrading opportunities. 1960 – The membership approves a revision to the SIU constitution. Under the changes, the membership meetings will be held monthly, the presiding officer’s title goes from secretary-treasurer to president and the district’s name becomes the Seafarers International Union Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). A committee of galley gang members recommends creation of a recertification program for chief stewards. 1961 – SIU optical plan coverage expands to include members’ spouses and dependents. Welfare plan now includes provisions for Seafarers who become sick or injured off the job. Union negotiates first pension plan for deep sea members. 1962 – Agreement allows SIU-contracted ships to carry fresh canned milk, now available because of technology changes, aboard vessels. This means steward departments will not have to take chances by purchasing milk in foreign lands. First steward recertification class gets under way at headquarters. SIU marches with other maritime unions in support of ILA strike in Atlantic and Gulf ports. 1963 – SIU-crewed Floridian strafed by Cuban jets 50 miles north of the island nation. Seafarers fly to Germany to crew the world’s largest cable ship, the Long Lines. The SIU wins the first union contract to cover crew members aboard an oceanographic research vessel, ending a threeday strike aboard the Anton Brunn. 1964 – The union begins its seniority upgrading program so B book members can gain their A books. The SIU attacks efforts by the U.S. government and grain companies to eliminate cargo preference provisions for carrying American grain to the Soviet Union. President Lyndon Johnson creates the Maritime Advisory Committee. 1965 – SIU fights attempts to weaken the Jones Act by allowing foreign-flag vessels to enter the Puerto Rican-U.S. mainland trade. The SIUNA testifies before Congress on the need to build new U.S.-flag bulk carriers to make the fleet more competitive in the world market. Training programs operating as the Andrew Furuseth Training School change their name to the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in memory of the SIUNA founder. 1966 – As the war in Vietnam calls for an increase in shipping, the SIU works with MEBA-District 2 to enable engine department Seafarers to upgrade their skills and obtain an engineer’s license. SIU meets the manpower need created when vessels are broken out for the war effort. 1969 – Members concur with a headquarters resolution to create a ship’s committee – composed of a chairman, secretary and delegate from each of the three departments – aboard each SIU-contracted vessel and to hold regular shipboard meetings. The Nixon administration unveils its maritime program. It is designed to build new ships, encourage increased private investment and guarantee more government cargo for U.S.-flag vessels. 1970 – Congress passes and President Richard Nixon signs into law the Merchant Marine Act of 1970, the first major piece of maritime legislation enacted since 1936. The measure calls for 300 ships to be built. The Lundeberg School institutes a reading program to help members who are slow readers increase their literacy skills. The school also is accredited by the state of Maryland to conduct high school diploma equivalency (GED) tests. The union commences a series of crew and pensioner conferences. 1971 – SIU and MTD fend off congressional attacks on both Jones Act and funding for U.S. Public Health Service Hospitals. Congress approves law that eliminates the need for mariners to pay withholding tax in more than one state. SIU-contracted companies Waterman Steamship and Delta Steamship receive subsidies to build new vessels under provisions of the 1970 Merchant Marine Act. Shown in 1946, the New York hall on Beaver Street also served as the union’s headquarters from 1944 to 1951. 1972 – Bilateral agreement reached between U.S. and Soviet Union calls for one-third of cargo between two nations to be carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels. New, faster containerships – the SL-7s – begin sailing with SIU members as crew. 1973 – The bosun recertification program begins at the Lundeberg School. Seafarers take over as the crew for formerly military-manned Military Sealift Command tankers. Legislation approved to start work on Trans-Alaska oil pipeline. President Nixon addresses SIUNA convention, reaffirming his strong support for the U.S.-flag fleet. 1974 – Lundeberg School launches training program for liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers. SIU fights for oil cargo preference legislation. The measure is passed by Congress, but vetoed by President Gerald Ford. 1975 – Alcohol Rehabilitation Center opens in Valley Lee, Md., near the campus of the Lundeberg School. The crew of the SIU-contracted Mayaquez is held captive for 72 hours by Cambodian rebels. The crew was released unharmed following action by U.S. armed forces. QMED upgraders can take advantage of new shipboard automation course at Piney Point. The SIU organized Isthmian’s 100 ships and tied up vessels in most major ports for eight days in 1947 after the company refused to negotiate a contract. 1976 – Following a vote of the memberships, the Inland Boatmen’s Union merges with the AGLIWD. SIU signs vacation plan with Steuart Petroleum, the first in the inland industry. 1977 – Seafarers crew the first LNG carrier built in the Western Hemisphere, the LNG Aquarius, constructed at the shipyard in Quincy, Mass. Later in the year, SIU members climb the ladder aboard the first privately constructed and operated hopper dredge, the Manhattan Island. SIUcrewed tankers carry some of the first loads from the Trans-Alaska pipeline. Sea-Land’s Galveston transports the first oil from the pipeline in a 30-gallon drum to Seattle where the crude was divided into souvenirs. 1978 – MC&S votes to merge with the AGLIWD, the first time East Coast and West Coast shipboard jurisdiction is united. Coast Guard recognizes upgrading time at Lundeberg School for on-the-job credit. New three-year pact with Interstate Oil Transport establishes new benefits for inland members, including major medical coverage for dependents. Pictured from left in 1946 are SIU New York Port Agent Paul Hall, SUP New York Port Agent Morris Weisberger, and SIU Secretary-Treasurer John “Whitey” Hawk. 1979 – Seafarers crew UST Atlantic, the largest vessel built in the Western Hemisphere, at the Newport News (Va.) shipyard. Great Lakes members man the new thousand-footer, Indiana Harbor. The Coast Guard backs off its attempt to eliminate a certified tankerman as part of crew on tank barges under tow. The SIU had been fighting this action for five years. The SIUNA-affiliated Atlantic Fishermen’s Union merges with the AGLIWD. A change in the SIU Welfare Plan allows members to use either the U.S. Public Health Service hospital or a private facility for covered care. Paul Hall was the first president of the union’s A&G District and founder of the Piney Point school. He was the New York port agent when this photo was taken outside the hall, where he rallied members against a Communist-led attempt to seize power on the waterfront. November 2013 1980 – SIUNA and SIU President Paul Hall passes away. Frank Drozak takes the helm of both organizations. Seafarers climb the ladder for the first diesel-powered Sea- Land containership, the Sea-Land Patriot. On June 21, the SIUcrewed Oceanic Independence sets sail from Honolulu, marking the return of the U.S. flag to deep sea passenger The union moved its New York operations to this building in Brooklyn in 1951. Seafarers LOG 11 �The rotary shipping board in Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1951. ships after a nearly 10-year absence. Crew members train a t Piney Point prior to manning vessel. 1981 – AFL-CIO announces support for five-point U.S.-flag program to increase manpower and vessels in fleet. Reagan administration eliminates U.S. Public Health Service hospitals from budget, cuts funding for new vessels called for in 1970 Merchant Marine Act. Seafarers Welfare Plan restructures because of the loss of the hospitals, which had provided treatment for mariners since the start of the nation. The SIUNA-affiliated Military Sea Transport Union merges with the AGLIWD. 1982 – Union headquarters moves from Brooklyn to the Washington, D.C., suburb of Camp Springs, Md., in order to be closer to Capitol Hill and thereby facilitate the SIU’s opportunities to continue fighting for a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet. 1983 – The Lundeberg School continues to meet the everchanging needs of the maritime industry. The first shiphandling simulator is installed while basic and advanced computer training are offered. But the change that catches the eyes of most in Piney Point is the opening of the sixstory, 300-room Seafarers Training and Recreation Center (TRC). The Reagan administration completely eliminates the shipbuilding provisions of the 1970 Merchant Marine Act from the budget. Seafarers board a bus in front of the Brooklyn hall heading for the Keystone Victory. Aboard the Steel Maker in 1953 1988 – SIUNA and SIU President Frank Drozak succumbs to cancer. Michael Sacco succeeds him as the head of both organizations. After a decades-long legislative fight, World War II-era mariners are granted veterans’ status. However, the action is limited to sailing between December 7, 1941 and August 15, 1945 rather than December 31, 1946, as is the case for other veterans. members march with the U.S. armed forces in the national victory parade in Washington, D.C. On the anniversary of Paul Hall’s birth, the grounds of the Lundeberg School are named in memory of the late SIU president: the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The Seafarers Welfare Plan holds benefits conferences in each of the union’s ports. The SIU, along with the other maritime unions, sues the Coast Guard to prevent the implementation of user fees for z-cards. 1989 – SIU-crewed vessels deliver food and other aid to former Communist-bloc countries in Eastern Europe as the Iron Curtain comes down. The grounding of the Exxon Valdez (crewed by what amounted to a company union) in Valdez, Alaska, sets in motion a series of new regulations that will affect Seafarers for years to come. The Lundeberg School initiates an oil spill prevention and containment course. 1990 – Seafarers respond to the nation’s call to sail materiel to U.S. troops stationed in Saudi Arabia after Iraq over- 1992 – In testimony before Congress, the Bush administration outlines a program to revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Seafarers crew two new cable ships, the Global Sentinel and the Global Mariner. SIU Pacific District members climb aboard the first new containership built in the U.S. since 1987, the R.J. Pfeiffer. UIW members win campaign to keep Queen Mary in Long Beach, where they work aboard the hotel. Nearly 20 SIU-crewed vessels are deployed to Somalia to assist a U.S.-led, UN relief effort to the war-torn nation. 1993 – The House of Representatives passes a maritime revitalization bill. Negotiations for the new standard tanker and freightship agreements lift the cap on pensions for eligible Seafarers. Mariners aboard 16 Dyn Marine oil spill response vessels vote to join the SIU. 1994 – President Bill Clinton becomes the first U.S. chief executive to tour the Paul Hall Center when he attends a luncheon at the facility. Seafarers crew vessels assisting U.S. troops in Haiti restoring democracy to the Caribbean nation. SIU members also sail to the Persian Gulf to support the nation’s armed forces when Iraq threatens to invade Kuwait. Union members play an active role in oil spill clean-up operations in San Juan and Houston. The Clinton administration unveils a new maritime revitalization program. Although it passes the House, it is blocked by farm-state legislators in the Senate. Boatmen for New Orleans-based E.N. Bisso Co. vote for SIU representation. The Lundeberg School conducts EPA-approved refrigerant handling courses in each of the union’s ports. 1984 – SIU members crew a series of military supply and prepositioning vessels, including the fast sealift ships (former SL-7s). Members attending a deep sea crew conference and an inland conference outline a series of proposals designed to carry the SIU into the future. Among the calls adopted by the union are a change in pension credits for members who have sailed more than 3,000 days; the need for continued grassroots support as well as contributions to the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD); a standardized set of procedures for obtaining military contracts; and supporting the union’s effort to organize the unorganized. 1995 – Congress passes and President Clinton signs SIUsupported legislation allowing the export of Alaskan North Slope oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. More new jobs along the rivers are created when the paddlewheel steamboat American Queen begins sailing. The vessel is the first overnight passenger ship built in a U.S. yard in 40 years. Seafarers crew the first two Army prepositioning ships, the SP5 Eric G. Gibson and the LTC Calvin P. Titus. 1985 – The union moves forward by continuing to crew military-support vessels, thus providing new jobs for members. The Lundeberg School updates its curriculum to include courses that will assist Seafarers working on these vessels, including underway replenishment, crane operations and helicopter operations. Led by officials (right to left) Joe DiGiorgio, John Fay and Al Kerr, SIU marchers participate in a New York Labor Day parade in the 1960s. 1986 – The SIU works with others in labor, maritime, environment and consumer groups to defeat a proposed oil pipeline from Baton Rouge, La., to Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The effort saves hundreds of jobs in the tanker industry. The union gains recognition to represent the unlicensed crews aboard Lavino Shipping oceanographic vessels. runs Kuwait. The Maritime Administration breaks out the Ready Reserve Force fleet, and despite challenges with the operation, no SIU-crewed vessel sails shorthanded. The union works with the Bush administration to keep maritime out of the world trade talks, known as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). 1987 – The AGLIWD and SIU of Canada along with other shipping unions and companies urge representatives from the two countries to keep the nations’ maritime laws out of a U.S.-Canada free trade agreement. The Overseas Joyce becomes the first U.S.-crewed (and SIU-crewed) car carrier to bring Japanese automobiles to America. 1991 – The Persian Gulf War lasts 43 days as United Nations (UN) forces repel Iraq from Kuwait. Seafarers continue to supply troops in the region and then return the goods when the fighting is over. The action of the U.S.flag fleet draws high praise from government and military officials. It also calls attention to the need to revitalize the fleet. Donning the union’s traditional white caps, SIU 1996 – Congress passes and President Clinton signs the Maritime Security Act of 1996, a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program that will help fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels. Seafarers meet with, call and write members of Congress to express support for the nation’s cabotage laws. Members ratify new five-year standard tanker and freightship agreements that include a money purchase pension plan, 100 percent medical coverage for Seafarers and their dependents, dental coverage for dependents, wage increases and much more. The Maritime Administration announces a program to build Major Ken “K.C.” Conklin (right) founded the trainee program at Piney Point and oversaw it with strong leadership until retiring in 1993. The apprentice program in Piney Point provides a gateway to rewarding careers in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Frank Drozak served as the union’s third president. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2013 �The union moved its headquarters operations to Camp Springs, Md., in 1982. five double-hulled tankers in U.S. shipyards. SIU members will crew the ships. The SIU-crewed American Queen and American Republic carry the Olympic torch in preparation for the Atlanta games. 1997 – The Paul Hall Center overhauls its curriculum to meet the needs of Seafarers for the 21st century. The center develops and issues a Coast Guard-approved Training Record Book to help members satisfy the requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW). The Paul Hall Center launches an LNG recertification program and tankerman (PIC) barge course. The steward department upgrading schedule is rewritten. Finally, the school creates an all-new, nine-month apprentice program for people entering the maritime profession to replace the old trainee program. Seafarers crew the first three of eight newly built prepositioning ships to be operated by Maersk Lines. Other new jobs are provided by several reflagged vessels as well as new Crowley tractor tugs. The SIU launches its website, www.seafarers.org. 1998 – SIUNA and NMU announce talks under way to affiliate NMU with SIUNA. Seafarers Welfare Plan initiates prescription plan that eliminates out-of-pocket expenses for qualified pensioners. SIU joins fight with other unions to stop nationwide effort to limit the ability of the labor movement to participate in political activities. Paul Hall Center breaks ground for state-of-the-art firefighting school, named in memory of the late SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco. World War II mariners score another overdue victory when the cutoff date for veterans’ recognition is extended to match that which applies to the armed forces. 1999 – SIU members climb the gangways to new car carries (the Green Dale and the Tanabata) as well as other new vessels. Expansion of the U.S.-flag cruise ship fleet becomes more promising as the president of American Classic Voyages and the president of Ingalls Shipbuilding sign a contract in the U.S. Capitol to build two vessels for the Hawaiian market. The Paul Hall Center opens the world-class Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. SIU crews continue supplying materiel to U.S. troops stationed in the Persian Gulf and the Balkans. SIU and NMU members vote to proceed with talks for a proposed merger. 2000 – The Paul Hall Center installs a new simulator, opens a safety school in Honolulu and announces planned construction of single-occupancy dorm rooms on the Piney Point, Md., campus. The union opens new halls in Balti- A world-class marine fire fighting school is part of the Paul Hall Center. The facility is named for the late SIU Executive VP Joey Sacco (inset). more and Guam and completely refurbishes the facility in Wilmington, Calif. It’s a huge year for new job opportunities, as SIU-contracted companies either begin operating or announce plans to build no fewer than 20 new ships, Zdrive tugs and ATBs. (Editor’s note: The nation somehow survived widespread concern about the so-called Y2K bug, which turned out to be not much of a problem after all.) 2001 – SIU members are among the first to respond to the terrorist attacks of September 11. Seafarers aboard NY Waterway ferries transport an estimated 168,000 people from lower Manhattan, while members of the union’s Government Services Division crew up the hospital ship USNS Comfort when it activates in response to the attacks. Earlier in the year, the NMU merges into the SIU, following approval by the memberships of both unions. Intermittent merger talks between the two unions had gone on since the mid-1950s. Seafarers welcome numerous gains that were secured in new contracts, including the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Members crew up newly contracted military support ships and other new vessels. The U.S. Coast Guard approves the Paul Hall Center’s new global marine distress and safety system (GMDSS) course. 2002 – Seafarers support U.S. troops involved in Operation Enduring Freedom. The union stands up for mariners’ rights during hearings and forums in the U.S. and abroad examining port and shipboard security – a result of September 11. The union gains jobs aboard military support ships, passenger ferries, a hopper dredge, a heavy-lift ship and an oceanographic survey vessel, among others. SIU members perform several daring rescues at sea. The union continues its work with the ITF. The Seafarers Pension Plan issues check No. 1 million. Work is completed on the new hotel near the Paul Hall Memorial Library. 2003 – More than 2,000 Seafarers crew up dozens of RRF ships and mobilize prepositioning vessels in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. President Bush signs a Defense bill that includes a 10-year extension of the U.S. Maritime Security Program. The SIU makes no fewer than 20 addi- Michael Sacco (left), pictured with President Clinton in the White House, became the union’s president in 1988. He later engineered the long-awaited merger with the NMU. November 2013 Of all the legacies of SIU members, none is greater than the unfailingly reliable delivery of cargo for our troops, wherever and whenever needed. Above, the SIU-crewed Cape Texas sails through choppy seas during the first Persian Gulf War. Upgraders at the Paul Hall Center utilize the bridge simulator. tions to its contracted fleet. More jobs are on the horizon as Norwegian Cruise Lines unveils plans to start a U.S.-flag division. In an historic decision, consolidation of the east and west coast CIVMAR units is approved by the Federal Labor Relations Authority – benefiting both mariners and the agency. The union opens a new hall in Joliet, Ill. The Paul Hall Center, SIU and Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao make history in developing and approving the first ever National Apprenticeship Standards for the maritime industry. The SIUNA welcomes the AMO as its newest autonomous affiliate. 2004 – SIU members continue delivering the goods in the next phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Afghanistan as well as in Operation Enduring Freedom. NCL America’s Pride of Aloha sets sail in July. Construction continues on the first two T-AKE vessels, to be crewed by CIVMARS. Seafarers reelect Michael Sacco as union president in an election that ends Dec. 31, 2004. The union wins organizing campaigns in Philadelphia, San Juan and Cleveland. SIU President Michael Sacco (standing) chats with upgraders several years ago in Piney Point. Sacco was there from the school’s beginning in 1967. Seafarers LOG 13 �Maritime has always been a bipartisan issue, and the SIU has always backed those who support the industry, regardless of party. In this 2006 photo, SIU President Michael Sacco introduces President George W. Bush at a Labor Day ceremony in Piney Point. Health care benefits dominate contract talks across the country (for all unions). The U.S. Merchant Marine is included in the new National World War II Memorial. The SIU pushes for enactment of the Employee Free Choice Act. The union mourns the losses of retired Vice President West Coast George McCartney; Major Ken Conklin, founder of the Paul Hall Center’s trainee program; Ed Turner, retired executive vice president; Steve Edney, retired UIW national director; Keith Terpe, retired SIU of Puerto Rico president; and others. 2005 – The year begins with Seafarers mobilizing to support victims of the tsunami which struck in the last days of the prior year, and ends with members still on duty in the U.S. Gulf Coast where they helped provide relief for hurricane victims. SIU members continue sailing in OIF and OEF. SIU-contracted OSG announces it will operate 10 new tankers to be built in Philadelphia. NCL America launches the Pride of America. Matson orders two additional containerships, while the second and third Alaskaclass tankers are delivered. The union establishes the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund. The Paul Hall Center’s vessel security officer (VSO) course becomes the first such curriculum approved by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Adjustments administered to benefits through the SHBP reflect a nationwide crisis. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay dies at age 73. 2006 – President Bush delivers his Labor Day address at the Paul Hall Center. U.S. Shipping Partners and NASSCO announce plans to build nine tankers. Horizon Lines reveals plans to charter five new U.S.-flag ships for 12-year terms. NCL America adds the Pride of Hawaii to its fleet. Crowley christens the first of six new 185,000- barrel ATBs. Seafarers continue supporting our troops and are recognized in ceremonies conducted by MarAd and MSC. Seafarers approve new standard contracts that improve wages, maintain medical benefits and preserve jobs. CIVMARS crew up new ammunition ships. More than 7,000 students train at the Paul Hall Center. Assistant Vice President Contracts Steve Judd, 45, and retired Vice President Contracts Angus “Red” Campbell, 84, are among those mourned by the union. 2007 – The SIU introduces a 401(k) savings plan. Seafarers climb the gangways to new ships and replacement tonnage including the first three Veteran-class tankers, the third and fourth T-AKE ships and five new Horizon vessels. Delegates to the SIUNA convention plot a course consistent with the event’s theme: Mapping Out a Brighter Future. They reelect Michael Sacco as president. The union continues to weigh in on the new Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program. The Paul Hall Center celebrates its 40th anniversary. MSC approves the school’s helo fire fighting training. The school upgrades its simulators and makes other improvements. The Horizon Falcon rescues Chinese sailors in the North Pacific. 2008 – Seafarers deliver life-saving MRAPS for our troops. CIVMARS perform rescues at sea. Progress continues in the new tanker build programs in San Diego and Philadelphia. Maersk Line, Limited adds three new vessels. The Paul Hall Center begins offering online courses. During MTD meetings, U.S. military leaders powerfully declare support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. More new tankers and T-AKE ships are delivered. Alaska Tanker Company achieves safety milestone of 12 million man hours without a lost-time injury. The USNS Mercy begins a fourth-month humanitarian mission. The TWIC deadline for CIVMARS is extended to April 2009. Hawaii Superferry’s Alakai joins the SIU-crewed fleet. Certain Paul Hall Center courses are approved for college credits. The union endorses Senator Though the industry faces significant challenges, new tonnage continues to enter the American-flag fleet, through new-build programs and flag-ins like the one that saw the Maersk Illinois enter service two years ago. Barack Obama for president. 2009 – SIU members play major roles in two stories that generate worldwide headlines: the rescue of citizens from a downed aircraft in the “Miracle on the Hudson” and the protection of fellow shipmates (as well as the vessel) in the pirate attack aboard the Maersk Alabama. In both cases, Seafarers cited safety training they’d received at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center as having helped them through the respective ordeals. Despite the Great Recession, the union welcomes new tonnage including T-AKE ships, tankers, containerships, RO/ROs and ATBs. SIU members formally participate in inaugural parade for President Barack Obama. Voting results are announced confirming that members have reelected President Michael Sacco and other officials to four-year terms. The union in late November completes a welcome move to a new hall in Jacksonville, Fla. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan awards $132,000 in scholarships to SIU members and their dependents as part of an annual program. SIU halls add new, electronic shipping boards and begin the switch to a stateof-the-art shipping and registration system featuring new scanners and computers along with faster network connections. The new system is known as SMIS (Seafarers Management Information System). 2010 – SIU members mobilize for relief efforts in Haiti following a 7.0-magnitute earthquake; more than a dozen Seafarers-crewed vessels would sail in Operation Unified Response. New tonnage enters the SIU fleet, primarily through four new-build programs. The union teams up with numerous allies to successfully fight off ridiculous attacks against the Jones Act following the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico. The Paul Hall Center receives top marks from the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center, and names a training vessel in memory of late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel is elected chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Section, thereby becoming just the second American to hold the prestigious post (the other was the aforementioned John Fay). The union publishes a book, America’s Seafarers, chronicling its history. 2011 – Despite the ongoing recession, new tonnage continues to join the SIU fleet, including the heavy-lift ships Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas, Crowley ATBs, the USNS Spearhead (the first of 10 high-speed vessels on order) and others. The USNS Comfort finishes a fivemonth deployment called Continuing Promise, during which the hospital ship visits nine countries and provides medical assistance to nearly 70,000 people. The union continues its efforts, both in U.S. and international forums, to reduce and ultimately eliminate maritime piracy. The U.S. Navy presents a safety award to the hybrid crew of the submarine tender Emory S. Land. The union launches a revamped version of its website (the second such remake) featuring a members-only section with access to an array of information. 2012 – Major progress is made in the waterfront restoration project at the Paul Hall Center. The union defies nationwide trends in other industries by securing numerous contracts calling for wage increases and maintaining benefits – headlined by new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Seafarers on no fewer than six ships and boats uphold the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea by performing rescues. The U.S. Department of Labor recognizes the Paul Hall Center’s apprentice program as one of the nation’s best. The SIU, other maritime unions In January 2009, members from seven SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries pulled 143 of the 155 people to safety from the downed aircraft that landed in the Hudson River, including the pilot. The other 12 individuals from the plane were secured by other rescuers in what became known as the Miracle on the Hudson. 14 Seafarers LOG Crowley’s new-build program, which includes tankers and ATBs, has been a major plus for Seafarers. and the Military Sealift Command culminate years of work on revisions to the Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction 610. The SIU-crewed Ocean Atlas, USNS Rappahannock and Maersk Texas successfully turn back pirate attacks. SIU members step up right away to help bring relief to victims of Superstorm Sandy in the northeast. The International Labor Organization ratifies the Maritime Labor Convention, 2006, also known as the mariners’ bill of rights – a move long advocated by the SIU. The Seafarers-crewed Ocean Atlas survives an unwarranted, tense detention in Venezuela. Collectively, the industry is blindsided by lastminute, secretive cuts to cargo preference that threaten to wipe out American maritime jobs. Rene Lioeanjie, the last president of the National Maritime Union and a retired SIU vice president, dies at age 89. Longtime SIU ally Sen. Daniel Inouye dies at 88. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) greets President Barack Obama at a labor event. 2013 – President Obama’s signature on the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013 extends the Maritime Security Program through 2025, but later in the year, a combination of sequestration and Congress’ failure to approve a budget threaten the program, which is a staple of the U.S. Merchant Marine. New jobs for Seafarers are on the horizon following the announcement that Ocean Ships, Inc. will operate the first four mobile landing platform (MLP) vessels. A committee of rankand-file Seafarers announces the results of the union’s election, in which President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Gulf Coast Vice President Dean Corgey, West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone, Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi, Great Lakes Vice President Tom Orzechowski, Government Services Vice President Kermett Mangram and others are certified as winners. Members approve an amendment dropping the word “District” from the union’s name. U.S. Reps. Cedric Richmond (D-La.) and Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) form the Congressional Maritime Caucus. The SIU and the Paul Hall Center announce a waterfront park at the Piney Point, Md., campus that features engraved bricks. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan launches a bigger, better clinic system. The union teams up with allies to win a tough, key fight protecting the Food Aid program, though the battle continues. New tonnage arrives as Maersk Line, Limited replaces older ships with newer ones. The Paul Hall Center becomes the first school to receive NMC approval for courses leading to the new able seafarer-deck and able seafarer-engine endorsements. SIU-contracted Crowley orders new tankers to be built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, while American Petroleum Tankers (whose vessels are operated by Crowley) orders new tankers to be constructed at General Dynamics NASSCO. Longtime ally Sen. Frank Lautenberg dies at 89. A movie about the 2009 Maersk Alabama incident premiers. The union pursues plans to relocate its New York-area operations from Brooklyn to Jersey City, N.J. The MLC, 2006 takes effect. The parent company of SIU-contracted Seabulk Tankers, Inc. orders new Jones Act vessels. November 2013 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2013 - October 15, 2013 Total Registered Union President Takes in MTD Convention in Los Angeles The president of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, Joseph Nigro, is pictured Sept. 5 at the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), AFL-CIO convention in Los Angeles. President Nigro is a member of the MTD executive board. The LOG inadvertently omitted his photo from the convention coverage contained in the October edition. Personals Rob McCausland would like to get in contact with David R. Harvey. McCausland’s email address is rghmcc@gmail. com. His phone number is (757) 464-6804. Fromer Seafarer Nancy Hilpisch (formerly Nancy Artrip) wants to contact Paul Su with whom she sailed aboard the Independence and Constitution. Brother Su, or anyone who worked with her in 1982 or 1983, may contact Nancy at (803) 316-0154. December 2013 & January 2014 Membership Meetings Piney Point.......................Monday: December 2, January 6 Algonac...............................Friday: December 6, January 10 Baltimore.......................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Guam...............................Thursday: December 19, January 23 Honolulu..........................Friday: December 13, January 17 Houston............................Monday: December 9, January 13 Jacksonville......................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Joliet...............................Thursday: December 12, January 16 All Groups B Total Shipped C New York.......................Tuesday: December 3, January 7 Norfolk............................Thursday: December 5, January 9 Oakland..............................Thursday: December 12, January 16 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: December 4, January 8 Port Everglades..................Thursday: December 12, January 16 San Juan..................................Thursday: December 5, January 9 St. Louis....................................Friday: December 13, January 17 Tacoma....................................Friday: December 20, January 24 Wilmington................Monday: December 16, *Tuesday: January 21 *Wilmington change due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2013 Trip Reliefs 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 6 0 3 0 1 1 0 1 18 2 0 0 6 0 0 16 17 0 3 0 19 2 5 2 0 4 15 0 9 100 17 0 11 24 4 28 80 68 6 23 19 73 27 36 6 3 11 59 6 62 563 17 1 13 25 4 11 27 41 6 8 3 27 40 12 7 1 10 30 4 42 329 4 2 2 3 1 1 4 7 0 2 3 6 13 3 0 0 2 11 3 4 71 Engine Department 1 2 1 1 0 0 2 2 1 10 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 16 5 0 12 14 1 4 2 0 2 0 1 1 2 0 12 7 0 8 5 0 7 3 0 3 5 0 1 2 0 1 3 0 13 5 0 0 1 0 6 6 0 100 67 7 1 0 0 4 0 1 8 8 1 0 1 4 3 2 2 1 1 4 0 4 45 3 1 6 16 2 15 38 48 3 10 6 25 17 18 6 1 1 32 2 21 271 3 1 5 7 1 6 14 37 4 4 3 19 23 11 3 8 10 13 3 23 198 1 0 2 4 2 2 3 11 1 3 0 6 2 2 2 0 2 2 0 3 48 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 4 2 2 1 0 0 3 1 0 15 6 0 11 8 1 0 2 0 3 0 0 3 1 0 20 3 0 9 7 1 13 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 12 3 0 0 0 0 18 0 0 118 36 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 7 0 0 1 9 2 5 0 0 0 1 0 8 37 4 0 4 12 6 24 36 30 2 9 6 32 17 32 0 1 3 30 3 40 291 7 2 2 10 2 6 11 12 2 1 2 14 19 5 1 3 2 7 3 3 114 1 0 0 1 0 1 3 2 1 3 2 1 6 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 23 Entry Department 2 3 6 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 5 9 3 2 7 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 4 8 4 0 8 7 3 7 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 6 8 4 0 0 0 6 10 2 29 74 33 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 4 0 2 18 3 0 1 1 0 2 8 4 0 2 3 8 0 7 0 1 1 9 0 11 61 9 2 5 10 1 8 27 24 2 5 6 43 34 14 1 1 2 23 1 37 255 21 1 4 4 1 11 11 20 1 3 2 31 50 15 2 4 1 6 0 28 216 200 1,186 896 358 Port A 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 14 0 9 14 2 17 52 37 5 14 14 32 22 19 1 3 7 36 2 43 343 9 2 5 17 4 4 17 24 7 4 3 16 22 11 4 3 7 13 2 21 195 0 0 1 2 0 1 6 1 0 0 1 2 10 2 1 0 3 3 2 4 39 Deck Department 8 10 2 1 4 5 9 13 1 2 9 3 37 11 20 14 6 3 10 1 6 2 39 9 14 11 16 6 5 1 3 2 5 4 33 17 1 2 29 5 257 122 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 7 9 1 8 21 20 4 4 6 18 9 12 3 2 0 17 2 12 157 4 0 3 6 1 3 8 24 3 1 2 9 14 6 3 5 4 9 2 6 113 1 0 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 17 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 6 0 2 7 3 14 16 21 0 4 1 18 13 18 0 1 3 20 1 24 172 4 0 0 5 0 0 9 10 2 0 0 10 9 3 1 0 0 3 0 5 61 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 7 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 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 1 0 1 1 7 0 7 0 1 1 4 0 6 35 10 2 4 5 0 6 18 17 0 2 4 27 19 7 2 2 0 9 1 15 150 12 0 1 3 1 8 3 9 0 1 1 8 15 6 1 3 1 8 0 9 90 GRAND TOTAL: 707 519 153 Mobile.................................Wednesday: December 11, January 15 New Orleans........................Tuesday: December 10, January 14 C A All Groups B Registered on Beach 504 299 64 A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 SIU members in Piney Point, Md., aboard the Crowley tug Admiral in Los Angeles and visiting SIU headquarters. Question: What’s your favorite thing about seafaring? 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 Mark Merenda OMU Michael Pirch GUDE Casey Pearson Chief Cook It’s great seeing the world. It’s the ultimate jack-of-all-trades type of job. Every day you can see and do something new. My best friend’s dad was an electrician on a ship and he talked to us about it and told us how cool it was. He was right. It was curiosity that got me into this and that’s what I like so much about it. You get to learn about and do some really interesting things. You get to explore the whole world. And I like all the freedom this job allows. In my off time I get to work with cars. I’ve always been around the water and loved it. My grandfather and my father were both part of it. So I just kind of fell into this. I really like everything about it. The money and the benefits are great. They really are. And I get to travel and see the world. Nick Dueul Chief Mate I’d probably say just working on the water. I drive 30 minutes from home to here (the port), and I’m excited. I also like the guys I work with and the job I do. It’s the best decision I ever made. 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 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 Alejandro Esparza AB Being able to spend lots of time at home, and also the guys I work with. We’re like a family here. We get to know each other pretty well. I was a Piney Point graduate in 2009 and went straight to Crowley. Chad MacAulay Captain The variety and the interesting people you meet, from all walks of life and all different parts of the world. My family has been in this industry for a long time. Craig Perry Chief Engineer Working for Crowley, the schedule is awesome. It gives you a chance to have a family and home life. On the job, you have freedom and you meet a lot of different people. It keeps things fresh. Raphael Dewberry AB I love traveling and learning to become a better seaman. I really like working with my hands and doing maintenance. It’s always fun to fix stuff. You can also apply a lot of what you learn when you go back home. Pic-From-The-Past Members of Lundeberg School Lifeboat Class 16 practice knot-tying aboard the yawl Manitou in Piney Point, Md., in the summer of 1969. 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 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 November 2013 �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 make his home in New Orleans. DAVID BROWN ANTHONY MABEN Brother David Brown, 66, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1990. He was originally employed aboard the Seawolf. Brother Brown was a steward department member. He upgraded in 2002 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Brown’s most recent ship was the Mercury. He was born in Norfolk, Va., and now resides in Virginia Beach, Va. Brother Anthony Maben, 67, became an SIU member in 1967, initially sailing on the Arizpa. Brother Maben worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Mercury. In 1995, 1996 and 2001 he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Maben lives in Virginia Beach, Va. JOSE CONSTANTINO Brother Jose Constantino, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1996 while in Piney Point, Md. He initially shipped on the USNS Capella. Brother Constantino, who sailed in the steward department, enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He was born in the Philippines and concluded his career aboard the Intrepid. Brother Constantino lives in Affton, Mo. LEONARDO CORTEZ Brother Leonardo Cortez, 71, joined the SIU ranks in 1999. His first ship was the Independence; his most recent, the Horizon Enterprise. Brother Cortez worked in the engine department. He frequently took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Cortez was born in Manila, Philippines and calls Aiea, Hawaii, home. JUANITA CUNNINGHAM Sister Juanita Cunningham, 70, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. She upgraded in 2003 at the Piney Point school. Sister Cunningham was last employed on the APL Philippines. She shipped in the steward department. Sister Cunningham is a resident of Suisun City, Calif. FREDDIE KESIRE Brother Freddie Kesire, 70, began sailing with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He was born in New Orleans and sailed in the deck department. In 2001, Brother Kesire attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent ship was the Delaware Trader. Brother Kesire continues to November 2013 PAUL PATON Brother Paul Paton, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1980. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Paton first sailed on the Columbia. He shipped primarily in the steward department. Brother Paton’s most recent trip was on the Alpena. He settled in his native state of Michigan. RALPH SCHNEIDER Brother Ralph Schneider, 66, started shipping with the union in 2001 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first voyage was aboard the USNS Sisler; his most recent was on a Maersk ship. Brother Schneider was born in Indianapolis. In 2003, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Schneider, a member of the deck department, continues to reside in Indiana. THOMAS SWANSON Brother Thomas Swanson, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. The deck department member was born in New York. Brother Swanson enhanced his skills on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. His final ship was the Racer. Brother Swanson lives in Southwest Ranches, Fla. PETER TUSA Brother Peter Tusa, 65, began his seafaring career in 1984 in the port of Honolulu. His first ship was the Independence; his last, the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Brother Tusa worked in the deck depart- ment. He makes his home in Mastic Beach, N.Y. department. His most recent trip was aboard the Courage. Brother Jaegle was born in St. Louis and now makes his home in North Port, Fla. INLAND WILLIAM HIRST Brother William Hirst, 62, joined the SIU in 1979. The engine department member primarily sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Hirst calls San Diego home. RICHARD HURST Brother Richard Hurst, 63, started sailing with the SIU in 2006. He was employed with Express Marine Inc. for the duration of his career. In 2008, Brother Hurst, who sailed in the deck department, upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He calls Grimstead, Va., home. GEORGE JAEGLE Brother George Jaegle, 59, signed on with the union in 1973. He initially shipped on the George D. Goble. Brother Jaegle was a member of the engine MICHAEL KOSCAK Brother Michael Koscak, 68, began his seafaring career in 2006. He worked mainly aboard Allied Towing vessels. Brother Koscak sailed in the steward department. He lives in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. DESIRE NIKOLIC Brother Desire Nikolic, 70, first donned the SIU colors in 1995 while in Norfolk, Va. For the duration of his career, he sailed with Great Lakes Dredge & Dock. Brother Nikolic was born in Malinska, Croatia, and sailed in the engine department. He attended classes in 2001 at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Nikolic is a resident of Durham, N.C. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION PRUDENCIO GACITA Brother Prudencio Gacita, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. A member of the deck department, Brother Gacita finished his career with Keystone Shipping Service. He resides in Bacoor City, Philippines. MIRCEA OPRICIU Brother Mircea Opriciu, 55, was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. He was born in Yugoslavia. Brother Opriciu attended classes in 2001 at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in Bronx, N.Y. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. and dance floor, barber shop, parking lot, pool room and game room, television rooms, shower room piped music and public address system. 1942 The SIU is opposing a bill, pending in Congress, to deny seamen protection under the Jones Act. The bill would sabotage seamen’s rights to sue the shipowners for injuries suffered in the line of regular work and to receive maintenance and care during illness, as guaranteed under provisions of the Jones Act. The SIU and the SUP are vigorously opposing the revision, passed in the House, and are demanding its defeat in the Senate committee now hearing it. In a letter to the Senate Committee, the SIU said, “The Atlantic and Gulf District of the Seafarers International Union of North America, on behalf of the merchant seamen who are keeping our merchant ships sailing regardless of the hazards of torpedoes, bombs and machine guns, sincerely urge that H.R. Bill No. 7424 as passed by the House be not passed by your honorable body.” 1956 With the Suez Canal shut down as an aftermath of fighting in the area, the SIU notified its contracted companies of the union’s desire to negotiate for a war area bonus. Preparations got underway this week for meetings on the issue of bonuses and insurance coverage for any SIU crew members whose vessels might be in waters defined as a war area. The boundaries of such an area would include a slice of the eastern Mediterranean and probably part of the Red Sea as well. Meanwhile, wholesale diversions of shipping were taking place as a result of the canal shutdown. 1954 With appropriate fanfare in welcoming ceremonies, the SIU in Baltimore formally opened the finest union hall in the Atlantic and Gulf District and one of the best of its kind in the country on Nov. 10. Opening ceremonies before the throng of several hundred Seafarers and their wives and other guests got underway with a special membership meeting at which Mayor Thomas D’Alesandro, Congressman Edward Garmatz, and others extended their congratulations to the men of the SIU for making the new building possible. The new building features a modern hiring hall and meeting hall, union offices, cafeteria, bar 1965 SIU President Paul Hall called on Congress to amend the U.S. labor laws in order to give the NLRB jurisdiction over crews of foreign-flag vessels substantially engaged in American commerce. The SIU president declared that this action would prevent disasters such as the sinking of the Yarmouth Castle, the American-owned, Panamanian-flag cruise ship which sunk in the Caribbean with a loss of 89 lives, after being destroyed by a fatal fire. He said that the SIU will urge the next session of Congress to amend the labor laws to make it clear that the NLRB has jurisdiction over the crews of foreign-flag vessels, the bulk of whose sailings are in U.S. commerce. This amendment would allow U.S. maritime unions to serve as bargaining representatives for these crews. It would also enable unions to insist upon maintenance of the safety standards prevailing on U.S.-flag ships. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES BRIGHENTI Brother James Brighenti, 56, passed away Jan. 11. He began sailing with the union in 2006. Brother Brighenti was born in Tripoli, Libya and originally worked on the Resolve. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Brighenti’s final ship was the USNS Waters. He made his home in Kodiak, Alaska. JACK BROWN Pensioner Jack Brown, 84, died Jan. 10. He became a union member in 1951. Brother Brown’s first vessel was the Pan Atlantic; his last ship was the Challenger. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Brown went on pension in 1990 and resided in Bay Minette, Ala. FAUSTINO CASTILLO Pensioner Faustino Castillo, 72, passed away Feb. 14. He started sailing with the SIU in 1991. Brother Castillo first sailed on the Independence. He was a steward department member. Brother Castillo’s final ship was the Overseas New Orleans. He retired in 2005 and was a resident of Houston. JERRY DELLINGER Pensioner Jerry Dellinger, 73, died April 9. Born in Cabarrus, N.C., he signed on with the SIU in 1966. Brother Dellinger’s earliest trip was aboard the Seatrain Savanna. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Dellinger most recently shipped aboard the Atlantic. He began collecting his pension in 2000. Brother Dellinger called Salisbury, N.C., home. CLIFFORD FEURTADO Pensioner Clifford Feurtado, 88, passed away April 4. He donned the SIU colors in 1970 while in the port of Houston. Brother Feurtado initially sailed on the Stonewall Jackson. He was born in Honduras and shipped in the steward department. Brother Feurtado last worked aboard the Star of Texas. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1989. Brother Feurtado continued to live in Honduras. EDDIE FISHER Pensioner Eddie Fisher, 82, died Feb. 7. Brother Fisher joined the union in 1963. His first ship was the Manhattan; his last, the 18 Seafarers LOG Inger. Brother Fisher was a steward department member. He started collecting his pension in 1992 and called Houston home. EDMOND HAWKINS Brother Edmond Hawkins, 67, passed away Jan. 29. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. Brother Hawkins first worked aboard the Cornhusker State. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Hawkins most recently sailed on the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. He made his home in Tacoma, Wash. JOSE HIPOLITO Pensioner Jose Hipolito, 90, died April 23. Brother Hipolito was born in Pennsylvania. He started his SIU career in 1971 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Hipolito was an engine department member. He originally shipped on a Penn Tanker Corporation vessel. Brother Hipolito’s final ship was the Liberty Star. He went on pension in 1994 and was a resident of Waynesville, Mo. CLIFFORD LEAHY Pensioner Clifford Leahy, 69, passed away Jan. 17. He began sailing with the SIU in 1965. Brother Leahy was originally employed aboard a Vantage Steamship Corporation vessel. He worked in the deck department. Brother Leahy’s last trip was on the Humacao. He retired in 2009 and called Toms River, N.J., home. MANUEL LOPEZ Pensioner Manuel Lopez, 83, died March 11. He became a union member in 1960. Brother Lopez’s earliest trip was aboard the Captain Sitina. The engine department member last worked on the Consumer. Brother Lopez began receiving his retirement pay in 1994 and resided in Las Vegas. CHARLES MARTINEZ Pensioner Charles Martinez, 91, passed away March 25. Brother Martinez joined the SIU in 1951 in Mobile, Ala. He initially sailed with Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Martinez was a native of Belize and worked in the engine department. His final trip was aboard the Caguas. Brother Martinez went on pension in 1986. He was a resident of St. Petersburg, Fla. KENDRICK MINCEY Brother Kendrick Mincey, 31, died Feb. 11. He was born in Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Mincey started sailing with the union in 2005. His first ship was the Global Patriot. Brother Mincey was a steward department member. His final trip was with Crowley Liner Services. Brother Mincey continued to live in Florida. TOMAS PEARCE Pensioner Tomas Pearce, 79, passed away March 13. A native of Mexico, Brother Pearce signed on with the Seafarers in 1966. He initially sailed on the Ames Victory as a member of the deck department. Brother Pearce last shipped aboard the Zapata Ranger. He retired in 1999 and made his home in Boulder City, Nev. DONALD PETERSON Pensioner Donald Peterson, 78, died Feb. 23. Brother Peterson joined the SIU ranks in 1978, originally sailing on the Economy. The engine department member was last employed aboard the Sgt. Matej Kocak. Brother Peterson became a pensioner in 1999 and settled in Foley, Ala. RAMON REYES Pensioner Ramon Reyes, 75, passed away April 2. Brother Reyes began shipping with the union in 1962. His first vessel was the Fairland; his last ship was the Value. Brother Reyes was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He worked in the deck department. Brother Reyes went on pension in 1994 and called Bronx, N.Y., home. DERRELL REYNOLDS Pensioner Derrell Reynolds, 82, died May 16. Born in Mississippi, Brother Reynolds became an SIU member in 1967. He initially shipped on the Cortland. Brother Reynolds was a member of the steward department. His final ship was the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Reynolds started collecting his retirement compensation in 1994 and resided in Mobile, Ala. deck and engine departments, settled in Manistique, Mich. MICHAEL WATSON Pensioner Michael Watson, 64, passed away Jan. 30. Brother Watson joined the Seafarers in 1968. He was originally employed aboard the Yellowstone. Brother Watson was born in Seattle and sailed in the deck department. He most recently shipped on the North Star. Brother Watson retired in 2009 and made his home in Tacoma, Wash. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have also passed away. MOON WOO Brother Moon Woo, 90, died April 25. He sailed with the Marine Cooks & Stewards before that union merged into the Seafarers in 1978. Brother Woo was born in China and worked in the steward department. He was a resident of Seattle. ROBERT BRUNO Pensioner Robert Bruno, 89, passed away March 22. Brother Bruno, a native of New Jersey, started collecting his retirement compensation in 2002. He lived in Brooklyn, N.Y. INLAND SILVAIN BOUDOIN Pensioner Silvain Boudoin, 87, passed away April 20. He first donned the SIU colors in 1971. Brother Boudoin’s first voyage was aboard a Western Towing vessel. His final trip was with Dixie Carriers. Brother Boudoin was a native of Nunez, La., and he called Kaplan, La., home. He went on pension in 1987. ROBERT WIX Pensioner Robert Wix, 80, died April 12. Brother Wix was born in Fulton, Texas. He joined the union in 1962, primarily working with G&H Towing. Brother Wix began receiving his pension in 1996. He was a resident of Clute, Texas. GREAT LAKES LAVERNE COLE Pensioner LaVerne Cole, 86, passed away May 19. Brother Cole signed on with the SIU in 1952. He was initially employed with Penn Dixie Cement Corporation. Brother Cole was born in Rogers City, Mich. His last trip was on the Southdown Challenger. Brother Cole, who sailed in all three departments, became a pensioner in 1989. He made his home in Haynes Township, Mich. KENNETH SMITH Pensioner Kenneth Smith, 82, died Feb. 21. Brother Smith started sailing with the union in 1963 while in Detroit. He originally shipped with Rockport Steamship Company. Brother Smith’s final ship was the Charles E. Wilson. The Illinois-born mariner began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1996. Brother Smith, who sailed in the MANNIE ALVES Pensioner Mannie Alves, 90, died March 31. Brother Alves was born in Portugal. He went on pension in 1969. Brother Alves continued to make his home in Portugal. CLYDE EVANS Pensioner Clyde Evans, 87, died March 27. Born in New Bern, N.C., Brother Evans became a pensioner in 1987. He lived in Florida. FELIPE HERRERA Pensioner Felipe Herrera, 80, passed away March 17. Brother Herrera was born in Honduras. He retired in 1995 and resided in Bronx, N.Y. WILLIAM JOHNSON Pensioner William Johnson, 86, died March 10. Brother Johnson was a native of Mobile, Ala. He began receiving his pension in 1988. Brother Johnson lived in Alabama. ROGELIO LISBOA Pensioner Rogelio Lisboa, 97, passed away Feb. 18. Brother Lisboa, a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, went on pension in 1970. He continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. FRANK PASCOE Pensioner Frank Pascoe, 87, died March 18. Born in Detroit, Brother Pascoe started receiving his retirement compensation in 1994. He lived in Dafter Township, Mich. JEROME PONSELL Pensioner Jerome Ponsell, 92, passed away March 3. Brother Ponsell was born in Waycross, Ga. He retired in 1986 and settled in Jacksonville, Fla. LOUIS SHACKIE Pensioner Louis Shackie, 95, died March 11. Brother Shackie, a native of New York, started collecting his retirement pay in 1987. He lived in Hayward, Calif. November 2013 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK DENVER (Maersk Line, Limited), August 28 – Chairman Stephen R. Kastel, Secretary Peter J. Schmitt, Educational Director Nicholas W. Collins, Deck Delegate Jonathan Davis, Engine Delegate Julian Avila. Chairman reported changeover from Meteor to Denver went smooth. He reminded members to get paperwork for safety endorsements from captain. Secretary encouraged mariners to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also urged them to keep necessary documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New washers and dryers were installed and crew received instructions from the engine department. Next ports: Newark, N.J. and Charleston, S.C. MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, Limited), August 4 – Chairman Vasily P. Semes, Secretary Willie E. Massaline, Educational Director Antoine L. Rainey, Deck Delegate Joel P. Harris, Steward Delegate Robert J. Costa, Engine Delegate Herman Castro. Bosun thanked the deck department for a safe voyage and entire crew for working well together. Secretary encouraged members to support our union officials and contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and MDL (Maritime Defense League). He stated, “Our union leadership is constantly striving to protect our jobs and ensure continued growth within our industry.” Educational director let crew members know he had forms for upgrading and suggested they check out www.seafarers.org to access their career information. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from Seafarers LOG was read. Payoff at sea on August 7 was announced. Recommendations were made to lower days required for retirement and increase pension amounts. CHARLESTON (USS Transport), September 8 – Chairman Charles J. Hill, Secretary Catherine M. With Seafarers Aboard MV Chapman These crew photos were taken aboard the Sealift, Inc.-operated prepositioning ship MV John A. Chapman. Pictured from left to right in the engine room (photo at top right) are DEU Maurice Ayuso, OMU Victorino Labrilla and OMU Michael Robinson. Shown in the other photo are members of the deck gang: from left in front, AB John Cragin, AB Emmanuel Wabe, AB George Phillips, AB Chris Hughes, (rear) Bosun Michael Nee and AB Christopher Curran. Hays, Educational Director Peter E. Joseph, Deck Delegate Tecumseh Williams, Engine Delegate Craig Croft. Chairman reported good crew and reminded them to renew BST and acquire shipboard security endorsement. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that new washing machine had been installed. Crew requested new chairs for rec room and mess hall. Members would also like new mattresses and electric blankets. Next ports: Houston, Corpus Christi, Texas and Philadelphia. GREEN POINT (Central Gulf Lines), September 22 – Chairman Pablo O. Borja, Secretary Jeffrey J. Badua, Educational Director Pasquale V. DiBiase, Deck Delegate Sally Santiago. Chairman announced payoff October 1 in Richmond, Calif. He also talked to the membership about the importance of donating Snapshot from USNS Dahl Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny emailed this photo of Recertified Steward Kim Strate (left) and Chief Cook Eileen Mendiola aboard the Ocean Ships-operated USNS Dahl. “Truly a pair of good feeders,” he noted. November 2013 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 SPAD and how it benefits members. Crew was notified that nonskid paint was being applied to the main deck. Secretary suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point and keep documents up-to-date. Educational director reminded members to keep dues paid up. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like union representative to come aboard in Richmond or send ship Coast Guard form for security endorsement. Chairman asked Seafarers to keep noise down while watch standers are resting. Steward department was thanked for great food and cookouts. Next ports: Richmond, Port Hueneme, Calif. and Guam. JEAN ANNE (TOTE Services), September 1 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Ingra Maddox, Educational Director Michael A. Papaioannou, Engine Delegate Dencio Cayan, Steward Delegate Mary Maddox. Chairman reminded mariners about obtaining security endorsement for MMC. Educational director urged all mariners to enhance skills at Piney Point school. He also mentioned they could get their GED in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Smooth trip was reported by all departments. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), September 8 – Chairman Marco A. Galliano, Secretary Robert S. Davis, Deck Delegate William D. Steele, Steward Delegate Quentin Hood. Bosun informed crew security letters would be issued to all who qualify. He thanked all members for a great voyage. Secretary asked mariners to check board in crew lounge for SIU news and department issues. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for small refrigerators in unlicensed rooms. Suggestions were made regarding pension and medical benefits. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas, Charleston, S.C., Baltimore and Jacksonville, Fla. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG Ship Management), September 19 – Chairman Tony Beasley, Secretary Dana A. Paradise, Educational Director Cary Pratts. Chairman discussed ship’s itinerary and urged mariners to keep documents current. Secretary advised members to see her for forms. Educational director reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to steward and deck departments. Next ports: Richmond, Calif. and Portland, Ore. PACIFIC TRACKER (TOTE Services), September 16 – Chairman John Mossbarger, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Deck Delegate Kevin Kellum, Engine Delegate Zachary Ross, Steward Delegate Christopher Hopkins. Chairman reminded crew members about deadline for submitting security letters to the Coast Guard. Secretary thanked mariners for help keeping house clean and being wellmannered. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He also talked about the importance of obtaining certification to be competitive when jobs are tight. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to limit time on computer to 15 minutes so everyone has a chance to use it. Mariners were reminded to leave rooms clean when departing vessel. Request was made concerning ventilation in gym. Next ports: Honolulu and Portland, Ore. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), September 29 – Chairman Jose Jimenea, Secretary Oscar R. Angeles, Educational Director Jesse J. Tornabene, Deck Delegate Michael Brisco, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles. Chairman talked about the need to have security endorsements by January 1. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new blankets and linens. All departments were thanked for a job well done. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), September 17 – Chairman Matthew Sagay, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Steward Delegate Evelyn Tayag. Bosun requested that members use appropriate washer when washing clothes. He reminded them that security documents are due January 1. Educational director recommended members train at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. He asked fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals and pay dues ahead of time. Treasurer reported $64 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members expressed gratitude to steward department for a great job, especially Chief Cook Tayag: “She is a tremendous cook.” Seafarers LOG 19 �Union Provides Mariners with Instructions For Obtaining STCW Security Endorsements With SIU Boatmen in the Gulf Don’t Miss the Boat! Your Job May Be at Stake As previously reported, because of requirements stemming from the most recent amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), all mariners serving on vessels engaged on voyages to which the STCW applies must have training in and an endorsement for Security Awareness (SA). If any of their assigned duties on ship will include security of the vessel, they must also hold the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) endorsement, according to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center. Sea time may be substituted for training if it meets specified requirements. For most Seafarers, complying with these new regulations will simply be a matter of securing a letter from their respective employers (companies or vessel masters) indicating that the mariner has performed security functions aboard ship for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years. The letter then is submitted to a Coast Guard regional exam center (REC) so the member may acquire an appropriate sticker indicating the corresponding security endorsement. SIU officials and personnel from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education have been assisting as many Seafarers as possible through this process. For Seafarers who don’t have the required sea time with security duties, the Paul Hall Center regularly offers courses to meet the new requirements. Other Notes n SIU members who currently have a Vessel Security Officer (VSO) endorsement already comply with the new requirement. n If demonstrating completion of an approved course, the certificate of completion should be attached to Coast Guard form 719B as an application for an endorsement. If the mariner is also seeking a renewal of an existing document, form 719K (Medical Evaluation Report) would also have to be filed. Those forms are linked in an SIU web post mentioned at the end of this article. n The three STCW security endorsements are: SA – VI/6 – Security Awareness VPDSD – VI/6 – Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties VSO – VI/5 – Vessel Security Officer n According to the policy letter, mariners will not be charged for adding an STCW endorsement if they apply before Jan. 1, 2014 unless they’re seeking a renewal or a raise in grade of their MMCs, nor will the expiration dates change. Sample Letter for those with Sea Time Prior to January 1, 2012: Dear Sir: This letter is to provide documentation that NAME has seagoing service with designated security duties for a period of at least six months during the preceding three years and meets the STCW qualifications for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties. Houston Patrolman Joe Zavala submitted these photos of Seafarers aboard the G&H Towing tug The Judge (top photo) and the G&H boat C.R. Haden (below). Both photos were taken in mid-October near Corpus Christi, Texas. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are Andy Morin, Rob Edler, William Ulch and Ray Brown. Sincerely, NAME OF MASTER OR COMPANY OFFICIAL For More Information n Questions may be directed to the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. n Questions may be directed to your port agent. n Questions may be directed to the Paul Hall Center’s admissions office at (301) 9940010. n A post on the SIU website includes a sample letter and links to related Coast Guard material. It is located at: http://www.seafarers.org/news/2013/Q1/ STCWSecurityEndorsementInfo.htm (Or, just go to www.seafarers.org and search for “VPDSD”) 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 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. November 2013 �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 two 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 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival November 9 December 7 November 22 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) November 9 December 6 Able Seaman November 16 December 13 Radar Renewal (One day) December 16 December 16 Engine Department Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding November 30 December 20 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Firefighting/STCW November 16 November 22 BST Renewal/VPDSD November 30 December 7 December 6 December 13 Government Vessels November 9 November 15 Medical Care Provider December 7 December 13 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Serve Safe November 23 November 29 The new waterfront park at the Paul Hall Center, part of which is shown above, features a miniature lighthouse, benches, gazebos and walkways that include engraved bricks. Visit www.seafarers.org/SIUBricks.htm for more information. 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 (1-888-4275662). 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. Important Notice For Paul Hall Center 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. Galley Operations - These modules start every Monday. Chief Cook - These modules start every other week. The next class will begin November 11. Advanced Galley Operations - 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. November 2013 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. 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. 11/13 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 777 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course Sept. 27: Aaron Baker, De’Mario Barganier, Kianna Calbourne, Stacy Fulcher, Jabrei Gill, Joseph Griggs, Steven Horta Ramos, Devin Koonce, Joshua Lee, Isaac Lesh, Christopher Mayall, Mohamed Obaid, Jesse Piner, Ronald Wiliams and Leroy Woods Jr. Ben Cusic, their instructor, is kneeling in the front row at the far right. Government Vessels – Two classes of Seafarers completed their requirements in this course Sept. 20. Those graduating (shown in the two photos above, in alphabetical order) were: Gerald Archie, Larry Baker, Jeffer Baguio, Andrew Bennett, James Brown, Ashley Carmichael, Henry Callahan, James Copeland, Jeremy Dozier, Joseph Garnett, Julio Gomez, Peter Hamm, Frank Iverson, Shirley Jenkins, Demarius Jones, Julian Lina, Don- Water Survival – Two upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course Sept. 17. Graduating (above, from the left) were Emmanuel Alcantara, and Alex Domadigo. Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. Tankship Familiarization DL – Twenty-three trainees finished their requirements in this course Sept. 6. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ellison Anthony, Dalton Artzner, Lindsey Austin, Xyla Bautista, Gregory Beebe, Fritz Bernier, Kenneth Biddle Jr., Lyncon Brathwaite, James Brooks, Randall Campbell, William Davis, Colton Edmiston, David Garrett Jr., Jasmine Garett, Keyon Gergory, Ivan Hassan, Brennon Hough, Christopher Mendoza, Christina Price, Khadim Robinson, Rachel Rodriguez, Michal Sinkiewicz and Sherre Wilson. nell Mazyck, Derrick Moore, Montree Nakwichet, Wagner Pellerin, Anton Popescu, Antoine Ragins, Tania Ramirez-Diego, Leonard Renaud, David Ruggirello, Peter Schuetz, Steven Sidler, Eddie Solichin, Lance Spain, Reylan Tendido, Eeric White, Brian Wilder, Jeffrey Wise and Elston Yu-Mateo. Mark Cates, the instructor for the two classes, is pictured at the far right in the back row in both photos. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Automatic Radar Plotting Aids – The following upgraders (above, from left to right) graduated from this course Sept. 27: Omar Aswad, Lawrence Cormier, Coda Russell and Vizcaino Erasmo. FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) enhanced their skills by completing this course July 12: Kyle Bennett, Sean Geddie, Julio Gomez, Rene HernandezRamos, Melchor Lapac Jr., Ali Malahi, Michael Pirch and Lamont Stewart II. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Radar Observer – Four Seafarers expanded their skills by graduating from this course Sept. 27. Finishing their requirements (above, from left to right) were Lawrence Cormier, Coda Russell and Omar Aswad. Also completing the course, but not pictured was Bernabe Pelingon. Medical Care Provider – Ten Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 27. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Francis Brown, Matthew Bryant, Ashley Carmichael, Jurgen Gottschlich, Andrew Hufana, Montee Nakwichet, Mario Silva, Eddie Solichin, Brandon Tanton and Brian Wilder. Mike Roberts, the class instructor, is at the far right. November 2013 �Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course Sept. 20: Juan Cardona, Carson Crowder, Stephen Heinz, Derick Martin, Kyle Neilson, Dennis Saggese and Roque Santa Cruz. Class instructor Tom Truitt is second from the left. BST Renewal – The following upgraders(above, in alphabetical order) improved their skills by graduating from this course Sept. 25: Jeffer Baguio, Henry Callahan, Jonas Castro, John Cragin, Cirico Geonang, Peter Hamm, Dustin Hutchins, Joseph Jacobs, Anthony Kimbrell, Julian Lina, Karl Mayhew, Scott Opsahl, Oleg Pankratov, Peter Schuetz, Romie Scott, Michael Shappo, Rosalind Sparrow and Reylan Tendido. Their instructors, Wayne Johnson Sr., and Joe Zienda, are at the far left and far right, respectively. BST (SIU) – Twenty-one Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 13. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Emmanuel Alcantara, Gerald Archie, Andrew Bennett, James Brown, Eric Cunanan, Joseph Garnet, Frank Iverson, Shirley Jenkins, Lonnie Jones Jr., Donnell Mazyck, Paula Minton, Piotr Mlynarczyk, Derrick Moore, Wagner Pellerin, Anton Popescu, Timothy Potter Jr., Leonard Renaud, Norman Rogers, Steven Sidler, Jeffrey Wise and Elston Yu-Mateo. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at the far right. BST (NCL) – Fourteen individuals completed their requirements in this course Sept. 6. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Stefanie Bomas, Megan Bussiere, Jlayjah Gary, Monica Hanofee, Emily Mattheson, Marcella Maysonet, Danny Moore, Matt Nolan, Markcedes Peyton, Virginia Provender, Gabriel Quintero, Trevor Rex, Brittany Stovall and Keith White. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far left. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 20: Francis Brown, Matthew Bryant, Brooke English, Cirico Geonanga, Andrew Hufana, Piotr Mlynarczyk, Anthony Pace, Miles Partridge, George Pobee, Mario Silva and Brandon Tanton. Their instructors, Wayne Johnson Sr. and Joe Zienda, are at the far left and far right, respectively. Steward Department Classes – Five Seafarers recently completed steward department courses. Those upgrading their skills and the courses they completed (above, from left to right) were: Robert Lloyd, chief cook; Manuel Daguio, advanced galley operations (ops); Ronald Byrd, advanced galley ops; and Rachel Janssen, chief cook. Todd Gallagher (not pictured) also completed the chief cook course. November 2013 Marine Electrician – Ten Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 20. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were Alex Amarra, Salvador Baclayon, Ernest Bullock Jr., Reginald Colbert, Terrance Colbert, Paula Gomez, Joseph Jacobs, John McKay, Eddy Newman and Daniel Tapley. Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. (Not all are pictured.) Steward Department Classes – Six individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in steward department courses. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) and the courses they completed were: Jamil Scott, advanced galley ops; Clifton Medley, advanced galley ops; Terrell McMillian, advanced galley ops; Steven Holmes, certified chief cook; Calvin Williams, cook baker; and Thomas Smith, steward baker. Steward Department Classes – Two Seafarers recently completed their requirements in courses in the steward department. Graduating and the courses they completed (above, from left to right) were: Anthony Harrell, advanced galley ops; and Gladiz David, galley ops. Seafarers LOG 23 �Volume 75, Number 11 November 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 Bosun James Grubbs Merilla Lata, wife of Chief Cook Joey Lata Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith Seafarers Step Up Again for ‘Paint Tacoma’ For SIU members in the Tacoma, Wash., area, giving back to the community is a way of life. The latest example of Seafarers’ philanthropy happened in late summer, as a group of 16 people – seven members, four union employees and five family members – teamed up for nearly two weeks of volunteerism in the annual Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful project. The SIU group scraped and painted the home of a local senior citizen and performed related work including pressure-washing and yard work. It marked the seventh straight year of Seafarers participating in the event known locally as Paint Tacoma. Organized by Associated Ministries of TacomaPierce County, the annual beautification project started in 1985. It aims to help low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners in the region. Since then, more than 2,100 homes have been painted. This year, more than 600 volunteers, including the SIU contingent, helped to paint 37 houses. “I am proud of all the Seafarers who stepped up to the plate this year and made it successful,” said SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, who once again headed up the union’s participation. “They raise the bar for us all to aspire to always do our best, whether on the deck plates at sea getting paid for our work or under the gables on the beach volunteering in the community.” Vincenzo especially noted the efforts of Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith, who put in more than 70 hours on this year’s project during the last week of August and first week of September. In addition to those two, the SIU group included AB Tony Kirven, AB Eric Melle, OS Greg Alsbach, AB Joseph Lacaden, GUDE Joseph Ritchey, Bosun James Grubbs, and GUDE George Arcenal. Chief Cook Joey Lata and his family members came out in force: He was joined by his wife, Merilla, sons Judo and J.J., and daughter, Merilei. Rounding out the group were Safety Director Ben Anderson, Administrative Assistant Jim Ott, Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner and her daughter Emilia. Smith said the single-story home of Carol Rybolt needed two coats of paint, and the project “went pretty well. I enjoyed doing it and the homeowner was happy.” This was his second time volunteering for Paint Tacoma. “It makes me feel good to see somebody else’s feeling of happiness,” Smith added. “She actually had a look of astonishment at how good the house looks. It was much-needed help and quite a bit of work, but it makes me feel good to give back to the community.” Rybolt said her home “looks beautiful. I’m very impressed with how everyone was so eager. It was great. Even the kids were here with their families. And Darryl – oh, my goodness. As hot as it was, he was there, hour after hour. “I’m still amazed,” she concluded. “I show everybody the pictures of all the people who were here.” Pictured from left are Safety Director Ben Anderson, Administrative Assistant Brenda Flesner, Recertified Bosun Darryl Smith, Chief Cook Joey Lata, Bosun James Grubbs, Merilla Lata, homeowner Carol Rybolt and Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. � 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 November 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SHBP ANNOUNCES CHANGES IN ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS OFFICIALS BEGIN CAMPAIGN TO EDUCATE MEMBERS MSP GETS FUNDING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014, FIGHT FOR FUTURE FULL FUNDING CONTINUES UNION’S EFFORTS INSTRUMENTAL IN KEY VICTORY FOR MARITIME INDUSTRY SHIP SEIZURE SHOWED WHY AMERICA NEEDS STRONG U.S.-FLAG FLEET MOVIE PUTS U.S. MERCHANT MARINE IN SPOTLIGHT PINEY POINT HOSTS INDUSTRY, LABOR POLITICAL LEADERS UIW, SEATU CONVENTIONS ADDRESS LABOR MOVEMENT, ORGANIZING SUCCESSES SEAFARERS ON CROWLEY ATB MAKE ANOTHER RESCUE INDUSTRY HONORS REP. PETER KING REPORT: U.S. SHIPBUILDING RESULTS IN HUGE BENEFITS FOR U.S. ECONOMY SEAFARER HELPS LEAD PHILANTHROPY IN PHILIPPINES STEWARD PROVIDES TIPS FOR HEALTHY SHIPBOARD LIFE NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY PORT COUNCIL RECOGNIZES FOUR DELIVERING SINCE 1938 SIU COMMEMORATES 75 YEARS OF SERVICE TO MEMBERS, NATION UNION PROVIDES MARINERS WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR OBTAINING STCW SECURITY ENDORSEMENTS SEAFARERS STEP UP AGAIN FOR ‘PAINT TACOMA’ 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 11/01/2013 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. 11 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1961122c9293dc30c6f389470497c3c2.pdf 3bae1acc26140e9e1029a43561e83569 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U 2014 ARY V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 76 NNO. O .112 2014 Crowley Celebrates New Tug, Tanker The SIU participated in a Crowley Maritime tugboat christening Oct. 15 in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and also welcomed news of a keel-laying ceremony a few weeks earlier for a Crowley tanker being built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. In the group photo at right, SIU members and officials including VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (front and center, in lighter jacket) and Port Agent Mike Russo (second from right) join Crowley President and CEO Tom Crowley (darker coat, next to Corgey) and vessel sponsor Coreen Busch (also next to Corgey) near the tug Ocean Sun. In the photo below, Busch breaks the ceremonial bottle of champagne across the hull. Page 3. SIU Jersey City Union Hall Hosts Ceremonial Opening With abundant camaraderie, more than 200 Seafarers and guests gathered at the new SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey (photo below), for a ceremonial opening Oct. 7. A few of the members are pictured in photo at bottom right with SIU Government Services Division Representative Kate Hunt (holding ceremonial scissors). Prior to the ribbon-cutting, Seafarers packed the hall for the October membership meeting, which featured remarks from SIU President Michael Sacco (photo at top right, with Patrolman Mark von Siegel in background) and other headquarters officials. Pages 12-13. Support for Jones Act Page 2 VP Biden Promotes Maritime Page 5 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 9 �Forum Speakers Say America Must Maintain the Jones Act President’s Report Good Move for the SIU I appreciated the opportunity in early October to spend time with Seafarers at our new hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Whether chatting with old friends or meeting other members for the first time, it was a great reminder of why the SIU fights every single day to protect the U.S. Merchant Marine. We are all about jobs and improving our members’ livelihoods. We are all about serving as America’s fourth arm of defense. Both the membership meeting and the hall’s ceremonial opening on October 7 made for a good day. The Brotherhood of the Sea was very evident as we covered some business, caught up with each other and broke bread together after the ceremony. The facility itself is first class, and it’s a sign of progress for our union. It’s an example of how we’re always working to improve. The comments Michael Sacco I’ve heard most often are that the new hall is in a better area, it’s very clean, and the separation of the membership lounge is a hit. I agree with those points and on a personal note I would add that it doesn’t hurt to have a church right across the street. We all understand that people usually don’t like change. Moving is a pain, whether it’s from one apartment to another, or one house to another, or one hall to another. Heck, getting a new car or a new cell phone is a pain. It’s exciting, but you have to re-learn everything, and it takes time. So I definitely recognize the growing pains associated with the Jersey City move, but the key word here is “growing.” We aren’t sitting around hoping something good will happen. We’re improving our facilities there and in Houston, as you probably have heard. We’re going to do the same thing in Puerto Rico. And under this administration, over the years, we’ve upgraded our halls in New Orleans, Baltimore, Jacksonville, Oakland and Tacoma. We opened brand new halls in Fort Lauderdale and Anchorage and Joliet. We refurbished our halls in Wilmington and Norfolk and Algonac. The main reason we’re able to keep moving forward is because of you, the rank-and-file members. The outstanding work you do aboard the ships and tugs and ferries, your reliability as America’s fourth arm of defense, the strong support you’ve always given to this administration, and your consistent willingness to be politically active are all key parts of the SIU’s success. So, when you visit or read about the Jersey City hall, and when you read about new jobs in the LOG or on our website, and when you see new buildings going up at our school in Piney Point it’s a credit to you and a reflection on our entire team, including our officials and staff. We’re a winning team. We’ve been a winning team for 76 years. Whether it’s looking at new property for a union hall, or deciding which political candidate to back, or working with one of our contracted operators to help ensure their success, or making improvements at our school, we always have a game plan, and we’re not afraid to take chances. As we wind down another year, I remain fully confident in the SIU and fully committed to our ongoing progress. The Jersey City hall is just the latest example of what we can accomplish by working together and keeping a steady hand at the wheel. Happy Holidays To all of our members and retirees who are military veterans, and to all the other men and women who’ve served in our great nation’s armed forces, I salute you and wish you the best on Veterans’ Day. My own service in the Air Force occurred many years ago, but I remain proud to have worn the uniform. Whether you’re at sea or ashore, I also wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy the holiday and above all, be safe. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 76 Number 11 o Key Maritime Law Benefits U.S. Many Ways Speakers at a recent Jones Act forum were united in their belief that America must protect the nation’s freight cabotage law. Echoing that theme Oct. 8 in New York City were U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen; Crowley Senior Vice President and General Manager Rob Grune; TOTE, Inc. President and CEO Anthony Chiarello; and American Maritime Partnership (AMP) Chairman Tom Allegretti. Transportation industry media entity TradeWinds sponsored the gathering, which took place at the New York Yacht Club. The Jones Act is a crucial component of America’s national and economic security – and a law that typically has enjoyed strong bipartisan backing since its origin in 1920. It requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels crewed, built, flagged and owned American. Jaenichen focused on the U.S.-build requirement when he mentioned, “This administration has invested more than $150 million to increase the competitiveness and efficiency of U.S. shipyards through MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant program. We know that increased production at our shipyards means good, middle-class jobs for Americans who not only build, but also operate these vessels. U.S. shipyards are experiencing the greatest volume of shipbuilding activity in more than three decades. Today, there are over 30 large, self-propelled, ocean-going Jones Act eligible tankers, articulated tug-barge units and container ships either under construction or on order at U.S. shipyards.” He further explained how the Jones Act creates jobs in a blog post originally written for the Department of Transportation, MARAD’s parent agency. “The Jones Act requires that any cargoes being shipped by water between U.S. ports be transported on a vessel owned by a U.S. company, crewed by U.S. mariners, and manufactured in a U.S. shipyard,” he wrote. “That U.S. shipbuilding requirement has stimulated investment in the privately owned U.S. companies that run shipyards and operate the vessels that employ the best-trained crews and merchant mariners in the world. So much so, employment opportunities for mariners to crew our U.S.flagged fleet on are vast.” Grune has said of the Jones Act, “I believe that [it] is critical in ensuring that the U.S. maintains its energy independence. Anthony Chiarello TOTE President/CEO Tom Allegretti AMP Chairman Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen speaks at the forum. (Photo courtesy MARAD) NO. 2 November 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, Nick Merrill; 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. 2 Seafarers LOG Rob Grune Crowley Senior VP/GM Without a strong domestic industry, our country would be completely dependent on foreign-flag ships, and that’s not a risk that I think we should be willing to take when it comes to our vital resources.” Allegretti also pointed out the current surge in Jones Act shipbuilding. “The domestic maritime industry, with the Jones Act as its statutory foundation, is investing heavily to meet the transportation demands of a booming energy economy,” he stated. “We are witnessing a new era of domestic vessel construction that is adding nearly 16 million barrels of inland and oceangoing tank vessel capacity. The Jones Act provides the certainty American companies need to commit the capital that makes this construction, and the jobs that go with it, a reality.” He then responded to critics’ comments on the relationship between the use of Jones Act ships and gasoline prices. “The average cost of a gallon of gasoline at the pump attributable to use of a Jones Act vessel is one cent or less per gallon,” Allegretti pointed out. “That makes it all the more perplexing why some would propose changes that undermine America’s national, homeland and economic security for such minor savings.” Illustrating that Jones Act ships are striving to stay on the cutting edge of technology, Chiarello brought good news to the podium: TOTE is converting two SIU-crewed ships, the Midnight Sun and the North Star, to LNG power. “It wasn’t a cost decision,” he said. “It was a decision based on the impact to the environment.” Union’s Houston Relocation Postponed to Mid-November The union’s temporary relocation from the current hall on Pierce Street in Houston to the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 6222 building a few blocks away has been bumped back to Nov. 17, a Monday. The SIU’s last day operating at the Pierce Street facility will be Friday, Nov. 14; the hall is scheduled to close that day at noon and also will be closed on Saturday, Nov. 15. As previously reported, the CWA building is located at 1730 Jefferson Street. The SIU estimates we’ll share space in that building for approximately one year. The SIU is in the process of acquiring new property where a permanent hall will be constructed. While at the CWA hall, the SIU’s phone and fax numbers will be the same as before: phone (713) 659-5152, fax (713) 650-8629. November 2014 �SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left in photo above) and SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (right) welcome Deacon Patrick LaPoint of the Stella Maris Seafarers Center of Lake Charles, Louisiana. The deacon, a friend of labor, blessed the SIU-crewed tugboat. In the photo at right, Crowley Maritime President and CEO Tom Crowley addresses the crowd at the tugboat christening. Ceremonies Mark Crowley Fleet Expansion Jones Act Tanker, Tugboat Signal SIU Job Opportunities SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime recently demonstrated its commitment to continued fleet expansion with a tugboat christening in Louisiana and a keel-laying ceremony for a new tanker in Pennsylvania. On Oct. 15, the fourth Crowley-operated ocean-class tugboat, the Ocean Sun, was christened in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The ceremony officially introduced the latest of the dynamic positioning 2 (DP2) tugboats in Crowley’s expanding ocean towing fleet, though all four vessels (Ocean Wave, Ocean Wind, Ocean Sky and Ocean Sun) have been involved in major offshore oil production installations in the Gulf of Mexico dating back many months. Ten SIU crew members, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo attended the ceremony, which included approximately 80 guests. The SIU crew consisted of Capt. Ted Caffy, Chief Mate James Mortimer, Second Mate Nathaniel Leachman, Chief Engineer Dominic Castner, Assistant Engineer Andrew Clarke, Assistant Engineer Steve Haver, AB Farrel Bodden, AB Steve Kendrick, OS Devin Koonce and Chief Cook Terrance Sawyer. Todd Busch, senior vice president and general manager of Crowley’s solutions group, opened the ceremony and was followed by a series of speakers including company President and CEO Tom Crowley. In his speech, Crowley said, “Today we are pleased to formally welcome the latest of our four Jones Act ocean-class tugboats to the fleet and culminate this multi-year build program… These boats, along with their exceptional crews, have consistently met and exceeded the expectations of our energy customers doing business in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. We look forward to many years of service from these powerful and reliable cornerstone vessels.” All four of the ocean-class tugboats are designed to have a minimum bollard pull of 150 metric tons and a range of approximately 12,600 nautical miles at 15 knots free running, according to the company. They are outfitted with twin-screw, controllable-pitch propellers in nozzles and high-lift rudders for a combination of performance and fuel economy. Corgey expressed what this new tonnage Title XI Loan Funds TOTE’s LNG-Powered Containerships The U.S. Department of Transportation announced a $324.6 million Title XI loan guarantee for SIU-contracted TOTE Shipholdings Inc.’s new Marlin Class vessels on Sept. 22. The two Jones Act vessels, which will be the world’s first dual-fuel, liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered containerships, will help serve the cargo transport needs of Puerto Rico. They are slated to enter service in 2015 and 2016, creating new jobs for Seafarers. “This is proof-positive that when we work to build America’s green energy economy, we can directly support the creation of meaningful jobs, supporting the president’s goal to strengthen America’s middle class,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “This one action significantly decreases emissions, supports jobs from one coast to the other, bolsters the nation’s manufacturing base, and continues growing our economy.” The Title XI Loan Guarantee program promotes the growth and mod- November 2014 ernization of U.S. shipyards and the U.S. Merchant Marine. It ensures the repayment of loans that shipowners obtained in the private sector for projects in U.S. shipyards. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (DCalif.), ranking member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee (part of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee), commended the administration for approving the loan application. “By using LNG fuel, which has a lower carbon footprint than diesel, these vessels also mark a significant step toward building a ‘green’ U.S.-flag fleet and promoting environmentally sustainable commerce,” Garamendi said. “For the first time in a generation, [the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration] is creating a comprehensive national maritime strategy. I hope that, as part of this strategy, they will call for the expansion of the Title XI program, as means to the SIU. “This is the fourth ocean-class vessel christened in the last two years, and it is a state-of-the-art vessel that firmly establishes Crowley and SIU members in the highly competitive dynamic positioning offshore oil and gas towing industry,” Corgey noted. “We think we have the advantage due to advanced training programs at Piney Point, Maryland (home of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center), as well as a competitive compensation package that allows us to attract and retain the very best mariners to safely and efficiently operate these vessels in our domestic energy market.” Three weeks prior to the tug christening, on Sept. 24, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (APSI) officially started construction on the first of four product tankers for Crowley with a ceremonial keel laying. The 330,000-barrel, Jones Act tankers are being built through a joint venture between Crowley and Aker, which is a union shipyard. Keeping with tradition, several coins were placed on one of the keel blocks by representatives from Crowley, APSI and others before the unit was lowered into place in the well other policy reforms and innovations to restore the prominence of the U.S. flag among seafaring nations.” TOTE President and CEO Anthony Chiarello stressed the important role that Title XI played in the construction of the new vessels. “This financing from the U.S. Department of Transportation and MARAD enables TOTE to invest in modern technology that will create jobs, reduce our impact on the environment, and ensure a safer and healthier workplace for our employees,” Chiarello said. Tim Nolan, president of SIU-contracted Sea Star Line (a TOTE subsidiary), added, “These ships will set new standards for safety and reliability in addition to their environmental benefits. We are proud to be the first company to operate LNG-powered containerships which will ensure a cleaner and safer environment for the people of Jacksonville and Puerto Rico as well as our employees.” The SIU is on record as stating that funding and implementation of the Title XI program “will help grow the U.S. economy and create and maintain American jobs in the domestic shipbuilding and related service and supply industries, as well as aboard U.S.-flag dry dock. The coins are a ceremonial sign of good fortune and safe travels. Rob Grune, Crowley’s senior vice president and general manager, petroleum and chemical transportation, spoke at the ceremony. “Adding these new Jones Act tankers to our fleet allows us to continue providing our customers with diverse and modern equipment to transport their petroleum and chemical products in a safe and reliable manner,” Grune said. “We are pleased with the progress being made on these vessels and with the good working relationships we have developed with Aker.” Delivery of the new tankers is expected in 2015 and 2016. The vessels will be constructed with consideration for the use of LNG for propulsion in the future. When completed, each vessel will be 600 feet long and capable of carrying crude oil or refined petroleum products. APSI Managing Director Steinar Nerbovik said, “These U.S.-built vessels play an important role in our country’s energy independence while providing good jobs for the men and women who build and sail her.” Anthony Foxx DOT Secretary commercial vessels. It will help maintain the nation’s defense shipbuilding base and an active U.S.-flag Merchant Marine, which is essential to U.S. defense sealift requirements.” The Marlin Class vessels are being built at San Diego’s General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard, a union facility. Seafarers LOG 3 �IMO, WHO Offer Ebola Guidelines In late October, it seemed as if almost everyone was talking about Ebola and how individuals can contract or avoid the virus. At times, perhaps due to misinformation circulating in the press and online, it was enough to cause a panic, although much of the fear is baseless, according to the U.S. Center for Disease control (CDC). For instance, at press time for the Seafarers LOG, there had only been three U.S. cases confirmed by the CDC. To combat the deluge of false information, several organizations recently put together tips and guidelines for mariners and other individuals, including those travelling to West Africa. The following information, produced by the World Health Organization and shared by the International Maritime Organization, may assist in the education of on-board personnel: “Ebola is introduced into the human population through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected animals. In Africa, infection has been documented through the handling of infected chimpanzees, gorillas, fruit bats, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines found ill or dead or in the rainforest. “Ebola then spreads in the community through human-tohuman transmission, with infection resulting from direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, and indirect contact with environments contaminated with such fluids. Burial ceremonies in which mourners have direct contact with the body of the deceased person can also play a role in the trans- A map of the affected areas in West Africa (Courtesy of the CDC) mission of Ebola. Men who have recovered from the disease can still transmit the virus through their semen for up to seven weeks after recovery from illness. “Ebola is not spread through the air. The incubation period, that is the time interval from infection with the virus to onset of symptoms, is two to 21 days.” The U.S. Coast Guard also released some tips and data regarding Ebola on Aug. 7. In the press release, the agency outlined the following key points: “Symptoms include fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, sore throat, and weakness, followed by diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. In addition, skin rash, red eyes, and internal and external bleeding may be seen in some patients. “Travelers could be infected if they come into contact with blood or body fluids from someone who is sick or has died from Ebola, 5 Ways to Avoid Ebola Contact Following are some helpful tips from the CDC in the event you are headed to West Africa, specifically ports in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea: ■ Practice careful hygiene. For example, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and avoid contact with blood and body fluids. ■ Do not handle items that may have come in contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids (such as clothes, bedding, needles, and medical equipment). ■ Avoid funeral or burial rituals that require handling the body of someone who has died from Ebola. ■ Avoid contact with bats and nonhuman primates or blood, fluids, and raw meat prepared from these animals. ■ Avoid hospitals in West Africa where Ebola patients are being treated. The U.S. embassy or consulate is often able to provide advice on facilities. sick wildlife, or meat from an infected animal. Health care providers caring for Ebola patients and family and friends in close contact with an ill person are at highest risk because they may come into contact with blood or body fluids. “Monitor your health for 21 days if you were in an area with an Ebola outbreak, especially if you were in contact with blood or body fluids, items that have come in contact with blood or body fluids, animals or raw meat, or hospitals where Ebola patients are being treated.” In addition, the International Chamber of Shipping, International Maritime Employers’ Council, and the International Transport Workers’ Federation released a joint statement on Aug. 4, which contained the following advice: ■ The master should ensure that the crew are aware of the risks, how the virus can be spread and how to reduce the risk. ■ The ISPS requirements on ensuring that unauthorized personnel do not board the vessel should be strictly enforced throughout the duration of the vessel being in port. ■ The master should give careful consideration to granting any shore leave whilst in impacted ports. ■ The shipowner/operator should avoid making crew changes in the ports of an affected country. ■ After departure the crew should be aware of the symptoms and report any occurring symptoms immediately to the person in charge of medical care. The most up-to-date information can be found at www.cdc.gov Federal Employees Pay More For 2015 Health Care Premiums Federal employees and retirees, including SIU Government Services Division members, will pay an average of 3.8 percent more toward their health insurance premiums in 2015, according to an announcement from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on Oct. 7. The hike in premiums is higher than the rise in the government’s portion, which will increase by 3 percent. The employees’ percentage is increasing faster because workers are choosing better plans, which require more out-of-pocket costs. Overall, the government pays about 70 percent of employees’ premiums. Overall premiums, including both the employee and government portions, will go up by 3.2 percent. That is less than last year, when they jumped 3.7 percent. OPM officials were satisfied with the figures, noting that 2015 will mark the fourth consecutive year in which the increase was below 4 percent – the longest such streak since the mid-1990s. “We generally feel we are in the low end of the industry average,” said John Foley, OPM’s director of planning and policy analysis. Foley added that private-sector estimates showed a range of 3 to 6.5 percent increases for premiums next year. OPM officials pointed to positive market trends and the effects of the Affordable Care Act as responsible for the relatively low rate hikes. Federal employees and retirees had to pay an additional 4.4 percent toward their premiums in 2014, while the government share went up 3.3 percent. In the three years prior to 2012, premiums went up overall by more than 7 percent annually. Still, federal employee advocates were not satisfied with the 2015 rates. Joseph Beaudoin, president of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, made the following remarks on the increase: “The health insurance premium increase will take another bite out of the already diminished paychecks of middle-class federal employees across the country. While the 3.2 percent increase in health insurance premiums is in line with the private sector, any increase means reduced take-home pay for federal employees, who, at most, will receive a 1 percent pay raise next year.” The exact increase will vary, based on the employee’s plan. The most popular option – the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Standard Option – will increase for self-only enrollees by 3.7 percent and for family participants by 4.1 percent. Premiums in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program will have more favorable numbers, with dental rates increasing by an average of 1.7 percent and vision premiums going up by an average of 1.5 percent compared to 2014. Enrollees in the federal flexible savings account plan will have the option to carry over a maximum of $500 into 2016 for the first time. They will no longer have the option to spend the money in their own accounts through the March 15 “grace period,” though they still have the option for their dependents. The minimum contribution will be lowered to $100, while the maximum will be $2,500. In March, the OPM sent out a call letter to insurers, kicking off premium negotiations by asking providers to focus on prescription drug costs, compliance with the ACA and wellness programs. The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program will offer a total of 257 plans in 2015, which is one more than in 2014. Four of the plans are new offerings, while 11 will be offered to all FEHBP participants. Open Season, when federal employees and retirees can enroll in FEHBP or switch plans, will run from Nov. 10 through Dec. 8. SHBP Letter Provides COBRA Rate Update for Certain Participants The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) in early October sent a letter to certain active participants concerning an upcoming change to COBRA premium rates. COBRA has become synonymous with extended health coverage. It’s an acronym for the Consolidated Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986, which amended other laws to provide opportunities for continuation of medical coverage that otherwise might be ended. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, “This coverage, however, is only available when coverage is lost due to certain specific events. Group health coverage for COBRA participants is usually more expensive than health coverage for active employees, since usually the employer pays a part of the premium for active employees while COBRA participants generally pay the entire premium themselves. It is ordinarily less expensive, though, than individual health coverage.” The SHBP letter was mailed to Plan participants who are either on COBRA or requested a COBRA packet recently. It points out that SHBP COBRA premium rates will increase as of Jan. 1, 2015 (the first such increase in several years) due to the rise in the cost of health care coverage. “If you are already receiving COBRA benefits, these are the rates you will be required to pay to continue to receive COBRA coverage after Dec. 31, 2014,” Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen stated in the letter. “If you are considering electing 4 Seafarers LOG COBRA because you recently lost coverage from the SHBP, these are the rates that will be in effect next year. Until that time, the monthly rates you have already been quoted remain in effect.” The following are the monthly premium rates scheduled to take effect Jan. 1: Coverage Level Core Core-Plus Plan S Individual Rate (Active Seafarers) $472 $519 $378 Family Rate (2 or more participants) $977 $1,194 Dependents not covered The new rates do not change the amount of time an individual is eligible for COBRA, which is set by federal law. Questions about the rates, or about COBRA coverage in general, may be directed to the COBRA coordinator at the Seafarers Plans at 1-800-2524674, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Pensioners with medical benefits who are interested in COBRA options should use the same Seafarers Plans contact information listed above to request the pensioner COBRA rates/election packet. November 2014 �SIU of Canada members and other supporters carry their pro-worker, pro-maritime message to Ottawa’s Parliament Hill. Undeterred by barriers, the demonstrators show solidarity. Canadian Coalition Marches to Denounce CETA Hundreds of trade unionists from around Canada, joined by allies from other organizations, marched through the streets of Ottawa to Parliament Hill to denounce the proposed Canadian-European Union (EU) Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) on Sept. 25 as it was being initialed by Canadian and EU representatives. Within the halls of Parliament, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper hosted Herman Van Rompuy, president of the European Council, and Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, in a ceremony to declare they have reached an agreement on CETA. They attempted to state that CETA had been finalized and all that remains for it to be implemented is for European member state parliaments to give their stamp of approval. However, to chants of “It’s not over!” the marchers vowed to keep the fight alive as votes for CETA’s approval must be taken by elected bodies in Canada and Europe. That process could last more than a year. In late August, the Seafarers International Union of Canada received information leaked from the secret trade talks that negotiators planned to give away many domestic seafaring jobs. A week later, the union’s president, Jim Given – with strong backing from the Seafarers International Union of North America and the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department – gathered maritime labor representatives from around the country to form the Canadian Maritime and Supply Chain Coalition. Since that initial gathering, the coalition has received support from others, including Canadianflag shippers. Before marching to Parliament Hill, Given set the militant tone for the demonstration: “CETA is a bad deal for Canada,” he declared. “It’s a bad deal for our industry, and we’re not going to take it anymore! We’re not going to sit back while bureaucrats and politicians dictate how we make our living! We’ve been too quiet for too long. Those days are over.” Barriers had been erected obstructing the stairs leading up to Parliament due to the pact’s initialing ceremony. Assembling in front of the barricades, Given added, “We come to these buildings, and they’ve got the gates up and the doors shut. This is our house. Not their house, our house! “And then they talk about us — they talk about labor – as if we’re just a commodity, one that can be traded at the stroke of a pen. Well, we’ve got bad news today: This is our house! And we’re taking it back! Don’t anybody think this is the end. This is where we start. Because the labor movement in this country has finally woken up. You kicked the dog once too often, Mr. Harper, and now it’s payback time!” Given told the gathering that “CETA will destroy the Canadian shipping industry. And make no bones about it, and don’t believe the lies, it will destroy us if it goes through. We’re going to afford this government no quarter, nowhere they can hide. Every time that they’re out on their campaign trails, we’ll be out beside them. Every time they make a stop to say how great they are, we’ll be there beside them to tell the truth. “We are surrounded by our friends today,” he continued. “Don’t think we’re alone. If you look at what’s happening Vice President Biden, Others Campion Maritime in Norfolk Vice President Biden speaks at the Norfolk event. November 2014 With SIU officials in attendance, Vice President Joe Biden visited the Port of Norfolk, Virginia, Sept. 24 to discuss the great importance of the American maritime industry. Biden was joined by U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia), U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia), Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim, Virginia Port Authority CEO/Executive Director John Reinhart, and U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen. The crowd gathered at Norfolk’s Nauticus Maritime Museum included SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker and SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny. Biden began his speech by emphasizing the value of maritime trade to the U.S. economy. “What most people don’t realize is that our economic maritime powers are just as important as our economic security, as our military maritime powers,” he said. “It is the single most important part in the in the EU, there are big problems for Mr. Harper’s agreement. How many times can they say it’s done, when it’s not done! There’s time! The EU want changes, we want changes!” Denise Gagnon, director of the Department of International Solidarity of Quebec Federation of Labor, spoke about workers’ demands for an open discussion of CETA. “For over three years, in Quebec and the rest of Canada, we have been demanding that there be talks and negotiations on the free trade agreements,” Gagnon declared. “Nothing was done and today they are telling us that this deal has actually been signed! No to CETA! We are not going to let the multinational corporations change our public policies on job development, health care, environmental protection, etc. What we see today – people from the maritime industry protesting – is just a beginning because as we learn more about the agreement, more and more workers will join the protest and demand that governments reject this deal.” Adding to labor’s call was Marie Clarke Walker, executive vice president of the Canadian Labor Congress (CLC). She pledged the support of the organization and its members in the fight against CETA. The CLC is a founding member of the Canadian Maritime and Supply Chain Coalition. Jon Whitlow, secretary of the Seafarers’ Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), said that by waging their struggle to block CETA and defend cabotage in Canada, trade unionists are defending all mariners, their industry, and cabotage rights everywhere. “I witnessed real anger at the secrecy of the CETA negotiations and the threat economic chain that allows us to prosper.” He then talked about America’s infrastructure, and the need for additional government spending. “We need to invest $3.6 trillion in infrastructure investment by the year 2020,” Bide asserted. “We invest in the United States of America only 1 percent of our [gross domestic product] in transportation and infrastructure. The United States of America is ranked 28th in the world (in such spending); that puts us behind Barbados. China invests 10 percent of its GDP in infrastructure…. There’s a lot at stake for our economy and for our middle class. That’s why it’s vital that we get this right. We’re at one of those inflection points in American history.” The vice president talked about the Department of Transportation’s new “Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery” (TIGER) grant program and its role in economic development. He then praised Virginia’s politicians for applying for, and successfully receiving, a $15 million TIGER grant to construct a new semiautomated motor carrier gate complex on the northern end of the Norfolk International Terminals. State transportation and port officials plan to make the entrance to the North Gate SIU of Canada President Jim Given tells the crowd the proposed trade deal is bad for workers. the agreement poses to maritime trade,” Whitlow stated. “The ITF and the European Transport Workers Federation fully endorse the importance of national cabotage, the need to retain Canadian cabotage and the necessity of further entrenching it in law.” Despite the government representatives signing CETA, the proposed free trade agreement must still clear votes in the Canadian provinces as well as throughout the national legislative bodies of EU states. Complex project more than five times bigger, increasing the number of lanes from four to 22. Port authority officials expect construction to begin by April 2015, with the port pitching in an additional $16 million to match the grant amount. McAuliffe also spoke about the importance of the Norfolk port: “I talk every single day about building the new Virginia economy. Building our assets is what we’re doing with this port.” In reference to the project, Jaenichen said, “The efficiency of the intermodal transportation system … is critical, and that’s where most of our ports are making their strategic investment in infrastructure.” He then emphasized the grant’s significance, adding that addressing port congestion will help move products quicker and make using U.S. ports more viable to domestic and international business prospects. He later said, in a blog post, “Carrying 95 percent of U.S. foreign trade, our maritime transportation system, which includes America’s ports, is a crucial component of our nation’s economy. And with our growing population – and the associated need to increase the amount of freight our transportation network carries – maritime’s value will only grow in the future.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Ashore Incident Reinforces Need for Safety, Precautions The SIU is reminding members to always play it safe when heading ashore, following a recent attack against a Seafarer. In a written communication sent to all SIU halls in mid-October, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker mentioned that a Seafarer recently was beaten and robbed while ashore in an overseas port. All indications are that the member (not named due to privacy considerations) was drugged by one or more of the locals, Tricker noted. The message continued, “All things considered, this experience, while awful, could have been far worse. In this case, the member is expected to recover from his injuries. He made it back to the ship – the robbers left him (unconscious) near the gate. NMC Offers Pointers to Individuals Who Apply for Maritime Credential The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) issued a notice Oct. 8 reminding individuals about the importance of accuracy when applying for a merchant mariner credential (MMC). Coast Guard Capt. Jeffrey P. Novotny pointed out the NMC recently has noticed an increase in the number of MMC applications “in which applicants have not properly disclosed previous convictions in Section III of the CG-719B application form. As required by 46 Code of Federal Regulations 10.211 (a): ‘At the time of application, each applicant must provide written disclosure of all prior convictions not previously disclosed to the Coast Guard on an application.’” The notice further pointed out, “If an applicant pleads guilty or no contest, is granted deferred adjudication, or is required by a court to attend classes, make contributions of time or money, receive “However, it’s also a reminder to our entire SIU family that safety extends beyond the vessel. You do not have to be a greenhorn or gullible to have something go wrong in a foreign land. The people who commit these types of crimes are slick opportunists.” Tricker added that although they may seem like common-sense considerations, some reminders are in order. They include: ■ When going ashore, it’s always best practice to go with at least one shipmate. ■ Be extremely careful not only about where you go, but what you consume – whether it’s a drink or food. ■ Let people know where you’re going and when you expect to return. ■ If you have a cell phone, keep it with you and make sure it’s fully charged. Family Welcomed Aboard USNS Benavidez treatment, submit to any manner of probation or supervision, or forgo appeal of a trial court’s conviction, then the Coast Guard will consider the applicant to have received a conviction. Further, an applicant’s signature in Section III of the CG-719B application form acknowledges the potential consequences of false statements. All applicants are encouraged to be completely forthcoming in their disclosure of convictions, including those items expunged or purged. When in doubt, list it.” Novotny added that an updated version of the CG-719B application “is making its way through the approval process and will highlight this area of the application, including more complete instructions, in order to prevent omissions that may result in denials. If you have questions, please contact the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662) or IASKNMC@uscg.mil.” SIU Affiliate Helps Salute Jeter The handiwork of union members from the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) was on display in late September at Yankee Stadium. UIW members bronzed the cap that longtime New York Yankee Derek Jeter received as part of his retirement celebration. Those members are employed at Bron Shoe/American Bronzing, based in Columbus, Ohio. The group photo was taken behind home plate before one of Jeter’s last home games. The brief ceremony also included a check presentation from cap maker New Era to Jeter’s charitable organization, the Turn 2 Foundation. The other photos show the cap being plated and the finished product. Recertified Bosun Michael Proveaux (right) and other mariners aboard the AMSEAoperated USNS Benavidez recently welcomed Yvette Garcia (next to the bosun), daughter of the vessel’s namesake, and other family members in Corpus Christi, Texas. “We were truly honored to meet them,” Proveaux said. U.S. Army Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez received the Medal of Honor in 1981 for valor in Vietnam. His heroic actions on May 2, 1968 saved the lives of eight Special Forces comrades pinned down by an overwhelming enemy force. Benavidez suffered a broken jaw and 37 bullet and bayonet wounds in the fight. He died at age 63 in 1998. The USNS Benavidez, a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessel (LMSR) is shown in the U.S. Navy file photo below. Are You Ready to Ship Out? Mariners who preparing to ship out should make sure that all of their documents and paperwork are current. The following checklist items should always be in order: ■ Merchant mariner credential (MMC) with security endorsements (security awareness and/or vessel personnel with designated security duties, abbreviated as VPDSD, VSO for officers) ■ MMC indicating completion of Basic Training (formerly BST) (VI/1 and related verbiage) ■ Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) ■ Passport ■ ServSafe Management (chief cook and higher) ■ ServSafe Food Handler (entry level) ■ Medical certificate (acquired by passing U.S. Coast Guard physical once every two years and submitting to local REC) ■ Annual physical exam and interval exam (required once every six months) ■ Drug test (every six months unless continuously sailing) ■ If you take prescription drugs, make sure your medications will last longer than the duration of your voyage. If you need early or extended refills, contact the claims department for assistance. Dial 1-800-252-4674 and follow the prompt for prescriptions. 6 Seafarers LOG November 2014 �Chief Cook Sal Ahmed described the item in the foreground (photo at left) as “SA Thomas Curley’s famous three-wheeler bike,” shown with the Midnight Sun in the background. Pictured in the photo above (from left) are: Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, Captain Daniel Severino, SA Thomas Curley, Recertified Steward Chris Amigable Midnight Sun Mariners Enjoy Labor Day BBQ Chief Cook Reports Smooth Sailing on TOTE Vessel It’s definitely not an everyday sight, but a captain in the galley of the Tote Services vessel Midnight Sun has become a Labor Day tradition. “We call him Captain Cook,” said Chief Cook Sal Ahmed in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. “Our captain, Mr. Daniel J. Severino, gave us a break relief this Labor Day. He stepped into the galley and did all the meats, cutting and marinating. He then grilled them, as he’s done before on previous holidays. He did a great job as always, and everyone appreciated his efforts and had a good time.” Ahmed also conveyed the crew’s thanks to Bosun Fadel Saleh, who helped set up and take down the grill. “As usual, we had lots of good stuff on the menu,” Ahmed added. “There were steaks, barbecued chicken, hot dogs and more. We had an open table full of goodies.” Ahmed concluded by saying the mariners generally remain in good spirits throughout their voyages, not just on special occasions. “It’s really a wonderful ship,” he noted. “We have a veteran bosun who treats every crew member with respect. We have a great steward gang under the supervision of Recertified Steward Chris Amigable, and together we make sure everybody is well-fed. Our thanks also go to the SIU officials for helping provide great opportunities for us to be here as merchant mariners.” With military cargo in the background, Captain Daniel Severino (above) shows a steady hand at the grill. In photo below, AB Gamal Muflahi (left) and DEU Mohamed Kassem help themselves to some of the captain’s creations. From left: Captain Daniel Severino, Bosun Fadel Saleh, AB Gamal Muflahi, SA Thomas Curley Federal Report Shows Many Americans Still Feeling Recession, Not Saving for Retirement Earlier this year, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System released the “Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S Households in 2013”. The Fed publishes this study once every three years, with the data coming from over 4,100 Americans who took The Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking (SHED), an online survey conducted by the Board’s Division of Consumer and Community Affairs. The data generated from the survey showed some startling trends, specifically on the subject of retirement. According to a press release by the Fed, “The Great Recession pushed back the planned date of retirement for two-fifths of those ages 45 and over who had not yet retired, and 15 percent of those who had retired since 2008 reported that they retired earlier than planned due to the recession.” Forty-five percent of those polled November 2014 also reported that they did not save any amount of their income. In addition, 31 percent said that they have no retirement savings or pensions, including 15 percent of those ages 60 and up. According to another survey released by Bankrate.com, a financial research firm, “26 percent of those who are age 50 to 64 have saved nothing for retirement. Some 14 percent of those 65 and older have nothing saved as well. The survey doesn’t address how much people in those age groups have saved (for other purposes), but it’s not expected to be enough for retirement…” As reported by The Fiscal Times, “Ownership of retirement plan accounts also fell sharply. In the bottom half of income distribution, just 40 percent of households owned any type of account – IRA, 401(k) or traditional pension – in 2013, down from 48 percent in the 2007 survey. The Fed attributes the drop mainly to declining IRA and 401(k) cov- erage, since defined benefit coverage remained flat.” Generation X (born between 1965 and 1978) was hit especially hard by the recession. According to a separate report released by the nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, “12 percent were laid off, 25 percent had their wages or hours reduced, and 4 percent lost their homes (during the most recent survey period). As a result, just 24 percent say saving for retirement is a top financial priority for them, while 48 percent are more focused on meeting current needs such as paying off debt and covering basic living expenses.” Despite those numbers, in general, the Fed survey found that the majority of American households were faring well, with 60 percent responding that they are either “living comfortably” or “doing ok” and 64 percent reporting that they were financially better off or about the same as last year. However, 24 percent of American families are additionally burdened with the weight of student loans, which average $27,840. Fifty-six percent of those reporting said that they felt that the costs of the education outweighed any financial benefits they received from the education. But that number changes drastically when sorted by education type, and mariners come out near the top. Seventy percent of graduates from a vocational or technical school, such as the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, said that they believed their educational benefits “far outweighed” or were “about the same” as the costs. Moreover, according to the Fed report, “The vast majority of households also appear to be living within their means, with 38 percent reporting that they spent less than their income over the course of 2012 and an additional 38 percent reporting that their spending was equal to their income.” Fifty-eight percent of Americans also said that they do not have enough savings to cover their expenses for three months, and 52 percent said that they could not directly pay for an emergency expense of $400 without resorting to selling possessions or borrowing money. In summary, the Fed said of the findings: “Large-scale financial strain at the household level ultimately fed into broader economic challenges for the country, and the completion of the national recovery will ultimately be, in part, a reflection of the well-being of households and consumers.” Seafarers LOG 7 �With Whole World Watching SIU-Crewed Cape Ray Accomplishes Critical Mission The U.S.-flagged, SIU-crewed Cape Ray enters the Medcenter Container Terminal in Gioira Tauro, Italy, Juy 1 where the crew received Syrian chemical materials from a Danish cargo ship. [U.S. Navy Photos by Petty Officer William Clark (main photo) and Seaman Desmond Parks] T he SIU-crewed, Keystone operated containership Cape Ray returned home Sept.17 following the completion of its mission that involved the destruction of Syrian chemical weapons. As previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, the Ready Reserve Force vessel – crewed by 36 civilian mariners and 60 U.S. chemical weapons specialists – spent 233 days at sea accomplishing unprecedented work supporting the absolute neutralization of the most dangerous chemical weapons prepared in Syria’s chemical weapon stockpile. The photos on this page – taken by U.S. Navy photographers and a LOG office staffer – show scenes of the vessel and crew during and after this historic mission that was accomplished while the whole world watched. Capt. Rick Jordan (center of photo above wearing dark shirt and making hand gestures) conducts an all-hands meeting aboard the Cape Ray while the vessel is underway in the Mediterranean Sea. In photo at right, GVA/OS Alex Rodriguez (left) and Bosun William Lima secure a container on the vessel’s main deck. (U.S. Navy photos) Crew members attend to their duties on the bow of the Cape Ray June 25 as a tugboat guides the vessel away from the pier at Naval Station Rota, Spain. (U.S. Navy Photo by Petty Officer William Clark) 8 Seafarers LOG U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen (left) poses with SIU members on the ramp of the Keystone-operated Cape Ray following a welcome home/awards ceremony in their honor Sept. 19 at the General Dynamics, Earl Industries shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. Other dignitaries pictured with the crew included (starting at far right and proceeding left) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy Ret.), former commander, Military Sealift Command, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny and Donald Kurz, president, Keystone Shipping Services, Inc. November 2014 �11/14 November 2014 Seafarers LOG 9 �ABOARD USNS BUTTON – Displaying their handiwork after refurbishing the name board on the Maersk-operated USNS Button are deck gang members (from left) AB Ryan Boltz, AB Mike Ratigan, OS Ryan Snow, AB Anita Santos, Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson, OS Sterling McCosh, OS Curtis Walker and AB James Minckler. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU # 1 ABOARD TYCO DECISIVE – Chief Steward Thomas Johnson (third from left) emailed this photo from the Tyco cable ship Decisive as the vessel arrived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in late September. The steward department members are displaying lobster for a meal provided by Tom Gould, Tyco port engineer. Pictured from left are SA Virgilio Brosoto, SA Francisco Calix Lambert, Johnson, SA Jamal Kassim and Chief Cook Walter Schoppe. WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Longtime deck department member Gregory Green (left) picks up his first pension check at the hall in Mobile, Alabama. Presenting the check is Port Agent Jimmy White. JONES ACT SUPPORT – Seafarers at the SIU hall in Honolulu in late September met with Hawaii State Representative Mark Takai, who is running for Congress. Takai thanked SIU members for their support and promised to protect the Jones Act, a vital maritime law. He is pictured directly behind the member in the front row who’s displaying the Seafarers LOG. Right next to Takai is SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (holding the pooch) . ONE THAT DIDN’T GET AWAY – Chief Steward Andrew Andrini hones his fishing skills at a tournament while on vacation in Santiago Beach in Puerto Rico. Andrini’s most recent ship was Waterman’s Green Bay. 10 Seafarers LOG WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Recertified Steward William (Mike) Simmons (left) recently called it a career after 43 years of sailing with the SIU. His most recent ship was the Yorktown Express, operated by Marine Personnel & Provisioning. Congratulating Simmons at the Houston hall is SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee. GRASSROOTS WALKING IN HOUSTON – Seafarers including those pictured here have been volunteering for block walks in Houston, in support of pro-worker, pro-maritime political candidates. Standing with Port Agent Mike Russo (second from left) in late September are SIU members (from left) Sean Mitchell, Rose Ward, Winton Rich, Patrick Hewitt and Willie Clemmons. November 2014 �At Sea & Ashore With the SIU # 2 ABOARD PRIDE OF AMERICA – The SIU represents mariners aboard the Pride of America, the only deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship. Pictured aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line vessel recently are Electrician Ruel Gaviola (photo above, center); (photo above, left, from left) OS Gjay Narvasa, AB Felix Quevedo, OS Anak Raja, AB Dominador Diaz and AB Dominador Hugo; and (photo at right, from left) OS Anak Raja and Recertified Bosun Rene Govico. SKILLS ON DISPLAY ABOARD MONTFORD POINT – Vessel master Capt. Mike Finnigan submitted this photo of ABs Steve Amthauer (left) and Jason Davis aboard the USNS Montford Point, which is operated by Ocean Shipholdings. The Seafarers had just finished “splicing in additional chaffing gear on the vessel’s Amsteel Blue Lines in preparation for upcoming exercises,” Finnigan noted. ABOARD JEAN ANNE – SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus (left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Jean Anne Sept. 17 in San Diego. Pictured starting second from left are AB Mohamed Saleh, QEE Martin Hamilton, GVA Mohammad Saddiq, Chief Cook Stephen Avallone and Steward/Baker Samuel Sinclair. The vessel is operated by Tote Services for Pasha Hawaii. ABOARD PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS – From left to right: AB Michael Brisco, Steward/Baker Emmanuel Zephyr, QMED Phillip Niles and Chief Cook Pedro Vega Caraballo. Houston Patrolman Joe Zavala submitted the photo taken aboard the Marine Personnel & Provisioning vessel. November 2014 ‘A’ IS FOR A-BOOK (AND ALASKA) – QMED Montree Nakwichet (left) receives his A-seniority book at the union hall in Anchorage, Alaska. Congratulating him on the milestone is Port Agent Tracey Mayhew. Seafarers LOG 11 �Philip W.J. Fisher, president, Chas. Kurz & Co.; SIU VP Contracts George Tricker; SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez; SIU President Michael Sacco; SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi; Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel; Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato Members begin to gather for the ribbon-cutting. Spirits High at NJ Hall’s Ceremonial Opening SIU members, staff and officials have been settling into the new union hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, for a while, but the facility’s ceremonial opening Oct. 7 offered a chance both to formally christen the building at 104 Broadway and to share in the camaraderie of an upbeat gathering. More than 200 people turned out for the opening, which followed the almost equally packed October membership meeting. Most in the crowd were SIU members, but it also included local and state politicians, officials from the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, and executives from Seafarerscontracted companies. SIU headquarters officials made the trip and participated both in the membership meeting and the ceremony. They included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, and Vice President Contracts George Tricker. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen also took part in the day’s events. NJ AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech, SIU President Michael Sacco, NJ AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Laurel Brennan, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Pictured at immediate right is NJ State Sen. Sandra Cunningham (D). 12 Seafarers LOG The SIU relocated from Brooklyn to Jersey City in mid-June, marking the first time in the union’s 76-year history it doesn’t have a formal presence in New York City. While no move of this magnitude goes off without a hitch, membership feedback concerning the new hall has been overwhelmingly positive – and that pattern continued at last month’s ceremony. “It’s better than what I expected and the neighborhood is better than I thought it would be,” said AB Bill Rackley. “The hall is clean and roomy. The Wi-Fi is the best part…. This is a better area. You get so attached for years in Brooklyn, but times change.” Chief Steward Glenn Bamman stated, “It’s a nice hall and it’s good that there are two floors for the members (including a lounge on the bottom level). I don’t have anything negative to say. Everything is okay.” AB Thommie Hampton added, “It’s very nice, roomy and well put together. The setting is good and it’s easier to get to. I think it’s good for all the members.” Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, retired NY Patrolman Jack Sheehan, Philly Port Agent Joe Baselice The new hall is located at 104 Broadway in Jersey City. Seafarers pack the hall for the October membership meeting, which preceded the ceremonial opening. November 2014 Members enjoy the lounge, which features comfortable seating, television, coffee machines and great internet connectivity. NJ Patrolman Mark von Siegel November 2014 NJ Port Agent Bob Selzer The hall’s décor includes old and modern photos, plus The shipping board from the Brooklyn hall made the trek and is on the wall of a some World War II-era U.S. third-floor conference room. Merchant Marine posters. Seafarers LOG 13 �11/14 14 Seafarers LOG November 2014 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November & December 2014 Membership Meetings Piney Point............................Monday: November 3, December 8 Algonac.....................................Friday: November 7, December 12 Baltimore.............................Thursday: November 6, December 11 Guam...................Thursday: November 20, * Friday: December 26 Honolulu................................Friday: November 14, December 19 Houston.................................Monday: November 10, December 15 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: November 6 , December 11 Joliet................................Thursday: November 13, December 18 Mobile..........................Wednesday: November 12, December 17 New Orleans...**Wednesday: November 12, Tuesday: December 16 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: November 4, December 9 Norfolk.................................Thursday: November 6, December11 Oakland..........................Thursday: November 13, December 18 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: November 5, December 10 Port Everglades................Thursday: November 13, December 18 San Juan............................Thursday: November 6, December 11 St. Louis...............................Friday: November 14, December 19 Tacoma.................................Friday: November 21, December 26 Wilmington.......................Monday: November 17, December 22 * Guam change created by Christmas Day holiday ** New Orleans change created by Veterans’ Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2014 September 16, 2014 - October 15, 2014 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups A B 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 10 0 3 17 4 8 12 39 28 53 1 13 20 13 3 3 9 39 4 29 308 9 1 4 11 5 1 3 17 20 14 3 0 19 13 3 1 2 13 3 12 154 2 0 2 3 0 2 2 2 5 5 2 2 2 2 1 0 1 2 0 1 36 Deck Department 13 10 1 0 3 2 10 6 3 4 5 0 8 2 34 8 32 7 32 8 3 3 3 3 5 10 12 2 7 1 0 0 4 2 23 8 2 1 23 6 223 83 2 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 1 15 5 0 3 6 0 1 0 14 17 12 0 0 4 7 2 0 2 6 0 9 88 14 3 6 27 7 19 25 87 75 87 3 19 35 27 6 3 12 81 5 67 608 18 4 5 22 4 4 6 31 50 27 2 4 40 16 7 1 5 26 5 29 306 6 0 2 7 0 2 3 2 10 6 3 2 5 1 1 1 2 9 0 11 73 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 4 2 4 15 1 3 5 10 20 14 1 4 14 13 4 1 0 13 2 13 143 5 0 6 8 0 1 2 5 23 13 1 2 15 5 3 3 2 8 2 8 112 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 0 13 Engine Department 7 3 1 0 4 4 4 3 0 0 1 2 4 3 11 3 13 9 13 5 3 3 3 3 6 4 3 5 4 0 0 0 2 3 11 2 1 0 7 7 98 59 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 5 0 0 2 0 0 1 2 5 8 3 0 1 1 3 1 0 6 3 0 4 40 2 1 4 20 0 4 14 24 47 29 4 10 26 24 2 0 3 31 2 27 274 5 0 6 9 0 5 10 15 43 27 2 5 30 20 4 4 8 18 2 24 237 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 4 2 0 3 1 4 2 0 8 3 0 2 34 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 4 0 3 7 0 6 16 16 13 24 1 2 12 16 6 3 1 10 4 27 171 0 0 3 0 0 4 1 5 7 5 4 2 8 4 1 1 1 0 0 6 52 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 1 2 1 0 1 2 0 1 15 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 1 3 3 0 0 0 6 1 11 2 12 2 16 3 10 2 1 1 4 1 7 5 13 2 4 0 2 2 1 2 6 0 1 0 23 1 124 28 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 9 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 5 6 3 1 0 4 4 1 0 0 1 1 8 41 2 1 5 11 0 7 29 34 38 32 1 4 23 30 2 4 2 27 6 48 306 1 1 2 2 2 3 5 9 14 7 3 2 16 8 1 1 2 3 1 15 98 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 5 1 1 1 4 5 1 0 2 3 0 6 33 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 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 4 4 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 10 0 3 33 13 1 3 6 1 4 6 11 9 14 1 3 17 14 1 1 1 10 1 18 135 12 0 2 2 0 1 9 3 8 6 1 4 8 10 4 1 0 8 0 10 89 Entry Department 2 6 0 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 0 1 1 1 3 10 0 12 4 6 0 0 0 0 1 10 1 10 0 2 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 1 3 6 17 77 6 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 1 1 5 2 1 0 0 3 0 10 35 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 12 4 0 0 1 0 2 2 5 6 3 0 1 4 4 0 1 0 9 0 11 53 16 2 1 6 2 4 13 18 27 41 4 5 39 17 4 0 1 14 0 30 244 13 0 2 3 1 2 11 9 16 14 2 2 28 12 3 1 0 16 0 31 166 GRAND TOTAL: 655 453 153 64 181 1,241 885 306 462 247 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 �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 This month’s question was answered by Seafarers enrolled in upgrade training classes at the Paul Hall Center. Question: What do you like most about being a Seafarer? all around the world and meeting new people. Ricardo Ducay Kasim Ahmed QMED Oiler I have been sailing for almost eight years as a member of the SIU, but before that I sailed on foreign-flag vessels. Altogether I’ve been sailing for almost 20 years. I’m a licensed engineer but I don’t have the Seafarers’ certifications that I need so that’s why I’m here upgrading. I think the thing I like most about being a Seafarer is the training opportunities that the union offers. I also enjoy traveling Brandon Thornton Oiler I’m from California and have been sailing for almost a year now. Being a seafarer is a very unique career and I enjoy it because you get to do a diverse number of things. I also like it because you get to travel all over the world and experience different cultures all while having the opportunity to upgrade your skills. I’m from Tacoma, Washington, and have been sailing for about three years. The thing I like most about being a Seafarer is the adventure. You get to go overseas, visit different countries and interact with people from many different cultures. I also like the money part – you make good money and you can also get your vacation check … . You can also upgrade so that you can make more money … so it’s money, money and more money. Justin Johnson QMED James St. Amand I come from Houston and have been going to sea for about 14 years. The thing I love most about this profession is the schedule. I love not having to work every day of the year if I choose not to. I love to travel and being a Seafarer enables me to take four months off if I want to and actually go where I want to go and enjoy myself. Steward Assistant I’ve been sailing for about seven years and am a proud product of New Orleans. The things I like most about being a Seafarer are traveling the world, seeing exciting places overseas and meeting new people. More importantly though, I like the money … you really make good money sailing. Elizabeth Byrd Chief Cook I’m from the Philippines and have been sailing for about four years. I like the people here who are my brothers and sisters in the union. They all are very nice and have been very helpful to me. I have learned a lot and I like the fact that I can come back here, upgrade my skills, make more money and become a more valuable employee. Pic From The Past 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, 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 * In mid-November, the hall will move operations to the Communications Workers of America Local 6222 building at 1730 Jefferson Street. The hall’s contact numbers will remain unchanged. 16 Seafarers LOG During Great Lakes fit out in 1979, Oilers Frank McGuire (left) and Dick Hogut work on the service generator aboard the McKee Sons. 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 November 2014 �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 MANUEL BASAS Brother Manuel Basas, 66, joined the SIU in 1981 in Seattle. His first trip was aboard the Santa Maria. Brother Basas upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He was born in the Philippines and sailed in the steward department. Brother Basas last worked on the Cape Intrepid. He calls Tacoma, Washington, home. ALFONSA ELIGIO Brother Alfonsa Eligio, 65, became a union member in 2003. He initially worked aboard the Maersk Maine. Brother Eligio attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. The steward department member is a native of Honduras. Brother Eligio’s most recent voyage was on the Cyprine. He makes his home in Bronx, New York. KELVIN CHERINGTON Brother Kelvin Cherington, 66, signed on with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Cherington frequently took advantage of educational opportunities available at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed on the Chemical Pioneer. Brother Cherington settled in Hollywood, Florida. GERALD MAKAREWICZ Brother Gerald Makarewicz, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1969. He originally sailed aboard an Isco Inc. vessel. Brother Makarewicz shipped in the engine department. In 1974, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Makarewicz’s last trip was on the Overseas Harriette. He resides in Harleigh, Pennsylvania. TERRY MCKEE Brother Terry McKee, 58, started sailing with the union in 1987 in Wilmington, California. His earliest trip was aboard the USNS Hess. Brother McKee attended classes in 2010 at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. The deck department member’s most recent vessel was the Horizon Producer. Brother McKee makes his home in Silver Springs, Florida. ANDRES PARAM Brother Andres Param, 66, became an SIU member in 2002 in the port November 2014 of Jacksonville, Florida. His first trip was aboard the Cape Edmont. Brother Param worked in the engine department and upgraded in 2009 at the SIU-affiliated school. He most recently worked with Marine Personnel & Provisioning. Brother Param lives in Goose Creek, South Carolina. MARK PESOLA Brother Mark Pesola, 65, signed on with the union in 1978. His first ship was the Santa Mercedes; his most recent was the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Pesola was born in Washington State. He often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Pesola sailed in both the engine and deck departments. He now calls Port Angeles, Washington, home. CONRAD RIVERA Brother Conrad Rivera, 66, began shipping with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Rivera sailed in the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Overseas Long Beach. Brother Rivera enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Houston. MEL SISON Brother Mel Sison, 70, joined the SIU ranks in 1985. He initially sailed on the Moku Pahu. Brother Sison attended classes frequently at the Piney Point school. His last ship was the Horizon Spirit, where he sailed in the engine department. Brother Sison resides in Honolulu. RIMVYDAS URBONAS Brother Rimvydas Urbonas, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 1997. He originally worked aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Urbonas sailed in the deck department. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Urbonas most recently sailed on the Sugar Island. He settled in South Pasadena, Florida. DON WHITE Brother Don White, 63, became a union member in 1968. The New Orleans native enhanced his skills in 1968 and 2002 at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the Lightning. Brother White worked in both the deck and steward departments. He is a resident of Sacramento, California. MARTIN ZEIDENBERG Brother Martin Zeidenberg, 65, joined the SIU in 2001. The deck department member’s first trip was aboard the Patriot. Brother Zeidenberg upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school. He last worked on the Horizon Reliance. Brother Zeidenberg was born in New York but now calls Honolulu home. INLAND ERNEST COSTA Brother Ernest Costa, 65, signed on with the union in 1997. A Massachusetts native, he was employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville for the duration of his career. Brother Costa shipped in the deck department and attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center. He lives in St. Petersburg, Florida. DAVID MASSEY Brother David Massey, 62, joined the union in 1995 in the port of Jacksonville, Florida. He primarily sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. In 2001 and 2003, Brother Massey took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIU-affiliated school. He is a resident of Sidney, Montana. MELVIN OTT Brother Melvin Ott, 59, started sailing with the SIU in 1974. He initially worked with Magco Towing Company. Brother Ott was a member of the deck department. He upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1982. Brother Ott most recently sailed aboard a Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessel. He resides in Long Beach, Mississippi. RONALD ROMAN Brother Ronald Roman, 65, became a union member in 1966 in Baltimore. He was mainly employed with Moran Towing of Maryland. Brother Roman en- hanced his skills on two occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. He makes his home in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. CHARLES SCHENHER Brother Charles Schenher, 62, began his seafaring career in 1991. He initially worked aboard the USNS Bellatrix. Brother Schenher is a native of Mobile, Alabama. He last shipped on the Delta Mariner. He was a member of both the steward and deck departments. Brother Schenher now calls Loxley, Alabama, home. KEITH WOODY Brother Keith Woody, 60, first donned the SIU colors in 1975. He mostly sailed with G&H Towing as a member of the engine department. Brother Woody upgraded twice at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. He lives in Rockport, Texas. This Month in SIU History Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1947 After five weeks of operation, a first-time demonstration of the use of short-range, shipboard radar was made in New York Harbor when the New Haven Railroad tug Transfer 21 hauled two loaded car floats from the Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, yards across to the Greenville, Jersey City, terminal with her pilot house completely blacked out. So successful were this and previous trips that both the New Haven and the Pennsylvania railroads were reported planning to install radar in other tugboats in their fleets to increase the safety of harbor operation in fog and heavy weather. At no time during the 55-minute trip through three-andthree-quarter of miles of water was the tug’s skipper in any doubt as to his exact position or to what was in his path. The “pips” of buoys, ferries, oceangoing ships and other tugs on the radar screen kept him constantly informed of what was going on. 1957 Offshore unloading of supertankers became a reality last week when the 26,500-ton Esso Havana discharged more than eight million gallons of oil while moored a mile and a half at sea. The Havana pulled into the offshore “station” unassisted to discharge her cargo through steel-reinforced pipes. The oil was then pumped into a terminal in Northville, Long Island. The Northville anchorage is located a mile and a half out in Long Island Sound. The vessel is securely moored to buoys attached to 25-ton concrete blocks embedded in the bottom of the sea. The 12-inch reinforced pipes are hauled from the sound’s floor and attached to the ship’s pumps. The oil is pumped into twin pipe lines buried in the bottom. The Long Island terminal is the only one on the Atlantic and Gulf coast capable of handling fully loaded vessels of unlimited draft and tonnage. Up to this time vessels carrying only four to five million gallons of oil could use the terminal. 1967 President Johnson has signed into law the Congressapproved bill which includes funds for the financing of the Maritime Administration and the Federal Maritime Commission for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1968. The appropriations bill, H.R. 10345, was cited as the Departments of State, Justice and Commerce, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriation Act and has been designated Public Law 90-133. Included in the bill was a stipulation that none of the funds would be used for the construction of U.S. ships in foreign shipyards and a provision of $1,950,000 for the continued operation of the nuclear ship Savannah. An earlier Administration plan to put the vessel in mothballs was successfully discouraged by industry and congressional leaders who felt its operation served a worthwhile purpose. Funds allocated for maritime are generally higher than in 1967. Money for ship construction subsidies is up $36,315,000 to $143 million; operating subsidies are up $25 million to $200 million; there is $9,575,000 for research and development (up $2,075,000); $6,395,000 for maritime training (up $202,000); and $3.6 million for the Federal Maritime Commission (up $181,000). 1977 Thanks to the AFL-CIO’s vigorous efforts, 4.5 million low-paid workers will benefit from a new minimum wage bill signed by President Carter on Nov 2. This legislation raises the wage floor by more than 45 percent over the next four years. The first increase next Jan. 1 will hike wages from the present $2.30 an hour to $2.65. Subsequent increases promise $2.90 an hour in 1979, $3.10 in 1980, and $3.35 in 1981. At the signing ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, President Carter termed the bill “a step in the right direction.” He added, “The overall impact of this bill is good” because it will put millions of dollars into the pay envelopes of America’s lowest-paid workers. This, he predicts, will have a “very beneficial” impact on the nation’s economy. Carter said the new minimum wage would help provide the unskilled with the necessities of life; further the cause of more equitable income distribution; strengthen democracy; and pump the economy. AFL-CIO President George Meany was asked to conclude the signing ceremony. He spoke of the need for mass purchasing power to sustain America’s economy. “It is not enough for the people in the upper brackets to be prosperous,” he stressed. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA DANIEL BACKRAK Pensioner Daniel Backrak, 89, died April 24. He joined the Seafarers in 1951. Brother Backrak initially sailed on a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel. He was born in South Dakota and shipped in the deck department. Brother Backrak was last employed aboard the Long Lines. He retired in 1980 and called Elko, Nevada, home. JORGE GIRAUD Pensioner Jorge Giraud, 88, passed away April 24. He began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Giraud first sailed on the Manhattan. The Honduras native was a member of the engine department. Brother Giraud’s final trip was aboard the Oversea Arctic. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1990. Brother Giraud was a resident of Austin, Texas. WARREN KAWECK Pensioner Warren Kaweck, 91, died April 27. Brother Kaweck was born in Midland, Michigan. He originally shipped with ISCO Inc. in 1966. He worked in the engine department. Brother Kaweck last sailed aboard the Long Lines. He went on pension in 1987 and made his home in Hampton Township, Michigan. JOHN NEFF Brother John Neff, 59, passed away April 7. He joined the SIU in 1971. Brother Neff first shipped on the Spitfire. He was a deck department member. Brother Neff’s final ship was the Liberty Sea. He was a resident of Beaumont, Texas. FRANCISCO ORTA Pensioner Francisco Orta, 81, died April 10. He was born in Mexico. Brother Orta started shipping with the Seafarers in 1969. His first vessel was the Avenger; his last, the Cape Farewell. Brother Orta sailed in both the engine and steward departments. He retired in 1998 and settled in Houston. 18 Seafarers LOG JOE ORTEGA Pensioner Joe Ortega, 82, passed away April 10. He began sailing with the union in 1956. Brother Ortega was first employed with Martis Steamship Corporation. The steward department member last shipped on the Cornhusker State. Brother Ortega was a native of Colorado. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1998. Brother Ortega lived in Mexico. RUBEN PADILLA Brother Ruben Padilla, 74, died April 25. He joined the union in 1969. Brother Padilla initially sailed aboard the Overseas Edger. He worked in the steward department. Brother Padilla’s final trip was on the Voyager. He lived in Orlando, Florida. TONY RADICH Pensioner Tony Radich, 87, passed away April 9. Brother Radich started sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first ship was operated by Pan Shipping Corporation. Brother Radich was a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Del Sud. Brother Radich went on pension in 1979 and continued to reside in his native state, Mississippi. PEDRO SEPULVEDA Pensioner Pedro Sepulveda, 89, died April 1. Brother Sepulveda began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966. He initially shipped aboard the Sea Georgia. Brother Sepulveda sailed in the steward department. His final voyage was on the Mayaguez. Brother Sepulveda became a pensioner in 1993 and called Puerto Rico home. THOMAS TREHERN Pensioner Thomas Trehern, 79, passed away April 11. Brother Trehern joined the union in 1999. His first trip was aboard the USNS De Steiguer. Brother Trehern was born in Alabama. The deck department member most recently worked on the Explorer. Brother Trehern was a resident of Mobile, Alabama. INLAND JOHN CUDWORTH Pensioner John Cudworth, 81, died April 3. Brother Cudworth first donned the SIU colors in 1962. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Cudworth’s first trip was on a Gulf Atlantic Transport Corporation vessel. He last sailed aboard a Maritrans vessel. He went on pension in 1994 and lived in North Carolina. BRUCE KNIGHT Pensioner Bruce Knight, 86, passed away April 14. He signed on with the union in 1955. Brother Knight sailed in the deck department and was originally employed aboard the Santa Venetia. Brother Knight’s final trip was with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He retired in 1987 and made his home in Chesapeake, Virginia. STEAVEN MORTON Pensioner Steaven Morton, 69, died April 7. Brother Morton joined the SIU in 1974. One of his first trips was with Whiteman Towing. Brother Morton was born in Vallejo, California. The engine department member’s final vessel was operated by Crescent Towing of New Orleans. Brother Morton started collecting his retirement pay in 2002. He was a resident of Franklinton, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES ROBERT BIRD Pensioner Robert Bird, 81, died April 3. Brother Bird was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He started sailing with the union in 1961. Brother Bird’s first ship was the Merritt Chapman. Prior to his retirement in 1994, he worked with Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother Bird settled in Chicago. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. MARIO AGOSTINI Pensioner Mario Agostini, 91, died March 26. Brother Agostini was born in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1969 and called Bronx, New York, home. RICARDO CERVANTES Pensioner Ricardo Cervantes, 79, passed away April 20. Brother Cervantes, a native of Honduras, began collecting his pension in 1996. He continued to reside in Honduras. VICTOR CRUZ Pensioner Victor Cruz, 94, died March 5. Brother Cruz was born Santurce, Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1983. Brother Cruz lived in Miami Gardens, Florida. PETE DORROUGH Pensioner Pete Dorrough, 85, passed away April 7. Born in Mississippi, Brother Dorrough retired in 1989. He resided in Memphis, Tennessee. RODERICK FRANCIS Pensioner Roderick Francis, 73, died March 15. The Honduras native became a pensioner in 2006. Brother Francis settled in Brooklyn, New York. HENRIQUE GIBAU Pensioner Henrique Gibau, 93, passed away March 9. Born in Brava, Cape Verde, Brother Gibau started receiving his retirement compensation in 1965. He lived in Boston. PHILIP HARRIS Pensioner Philip Harris, 84, died April 1. Brother Harris was born in Beaumont, Texas. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1987 and made his home in Dequincy, Louisiana. ABEL LOPES Pensioner Abel Lopes, 90, passed away April 4. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Brother Lopes started receiving his pension in 1989. He lived in Beaumont, Texas. CHARLES MANDLEY Pensioner Charles Mandley, 87, died April 13. Brother Mandley was a native of Lincolnville, South Carolina. He began collecting his pension in 1971. He was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. WILMER McCONNELL Pensioner Wilmer McConnell, 88, passed away April 10. Brother McConnell was born in Honey Grove, Texas. He went on pension in 1967. Brother McConnell made his home in San Antonio, Texas. BILL PORTER Pensioner Bill Porter, 85, died April 28. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Brother Porter retired in 1996. He continued to reside in Charleston. JOHN REED Pensioner John Reed, 98, passed away April 26. Brother Reed, a native of Sabine Pass, Texas, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1967. He lived in Port Arthur, Texas. ALFREDO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Alfredo Rodriguez, 88, died March 24. Brother Rodriguez was born in Utuado, Puerto Rico. He began receiving his pension in 1970. Brother Rodriguez settled in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. PEDRO SEDA Pensioner Pedro Seda, 85, passed away March 10. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1980. Brother Seda called Bayamon, Puerto Rico, home. MANSON VALLE Pensioner Manson Valle, 82, died April 14. Brother Valle was a native of Hondu ras. He went on pension in 1997 and continued to reside in Honduras. GENARO VILLAR Pensioner Genaro Villar, 83, passed away April 1. Born in Cuba, Brother Villar became a pensioner in 2002. He made his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Editor’s note: The following individuals, also former members of the NMU, have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop accounts of their respective work histories while at sea. Name Duba, Walter Gonzalez, Jose Hadwari, Saeed Joyce, Jospeh Mendez, Norberto Mojica, Rafael Pile, Dorothy Stoltz, Irwin Turner, Ernest Washington, Raymond Wilson, Charles Age 86 91 84 90 86 89 91 90 84 96 88 DOD April 14 May 6 Feb. 19 May 7 April 3 April 17 April 12 Feb. 21 April 25 March 30 March 7 November 2014 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 6 – Chairman Abdul A. Hassan, Secretary Juan Vallejo, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar. Chairman reported smooth sailing with no accidents. He reminded crew of need to go through proper chain of command. Secretary reminded fellow members to keep documents current and stay informed on issues affecting the maritime industry. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, to stay competitive when applying for jobs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for doing a great job. Recommendations were made regarding pension and vacation benefits. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (OSG Ship Management), August 10 – Chairman Donald E. Clotter, Secretary Jack A. Hart, Educational Director Mark E. Sawin, Deck Delegate Paul Brown, Engine Delegate Jethro Powers, Steward Delegate Terry Fowler. Chairman advised members to renew credentials in timely manner and keep up with new STCW requirements. Secretary thanked crew for keeping rooms clean and recommended they contribute to Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD). Educational director advised crew members to enhance skills at Piney Point school. Ship’s fund contains $744. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members thanked SIU officials for their hard work. Suggestion was made to lower sea time requirements for pension benefits. Next port: Houston. EL FARO (TOTE Services), August 24 – Chairman James K. Walker, Secretary Robert 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 on the West Coast Pictured aboard OSG’s Overseas Boston last month in Martinez, California, are (from left) Recertified Steward Carl Poggioli, QEP Patrick Coppola, Recertified Bosun Christopher Kicey and Patrolman Nick Marrone II. E. Wilcox, Educational Director Olive A. Stewart, Deck Delegate Don Simmons, Engine Delegate Sandra Baker, Steward Delegate Anthony Harrell. Bosun reminded Seafarers of upcoming sanitary inspection. Secretary thanked crew members for helping keep common areas clean. Educational director encouraged crew members to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated school. Seafarers were given instructions on accessing the member portal on SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for a job well done. Mariners looking forward to Labor Day cookout. Next ports: Jacksonville, Florida, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), August 15 – Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Jonathan Tucker, Deck Delegate Timothy J. Brock, Engine Delegate Jeff Roddy, Steward Delegate Medardo Thomas. Chairman discussed ship’s itinerary and urged crew to wear hearing protection. Treasurer reported $2,762 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to rename vacation pay, “supplemental earnings for off watch emergency standby.” Steward department was thanked for fine cuisine. Next ports: Elizabeth, New Jersey; Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and Norfolk, Virginia. MAERSK MICHIGAN (Maersk Line, Limited), August 17 – Chairman Jay C. Dillon, Secretary Sally Santiago, Educational Director Christopher Kirchhofer, Deck Delegate Osei Baffoe, Engine Delegate Lon T. Maduro, Steward Delegate Tammy M. Bingisser. Bosun advised fellow mariners to work safe. House was secured in Sea of Japan as antipiracy precautionary measure. Request was made for a new dryer. Educational director recommended training at the Practicing Safety aboard APL Philippines Recertified Steward Emmanuel Laureta (left) and ACU Jennie Recaido begin a safety drill aboard the APL Philippines. The SIU represents steward department mariners aboard APL ships. November 2014 Piney Point school and stressed the need to keep documents upto-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made pertaining to pension benefits. Discussion took place regarding food supply during trips. Next ports: Singapore and Diego Garcia. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), August 8 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Glenn C. Bamman, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Emilio Abreu, Engine Delegate Jason Billingsley, Steward Delegate Asril Syarbaini. Chairman reported a safe voyage and thanked crew for their hard work. Secretary asked mariners to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director urged crew to enhance skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He 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. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next ports: Elizabeth, New Jersey; Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and Houston. PACIFIC TRACKER (TOTE Services), August 26 – Chairman John T. Mossbarger, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Zachary J. Ross, Deck Delegate Warner James, Steward Delegate Julito Crodua. Chairman provided information about next voyage and urged fellow mariners to allow plenty of time for document renewals. Secretary thanked crew for help keeping messroom and other rooms clean. Educational director discussed Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and encouraged Seafarers to use the member portal on the SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate thanked galley gang for good food and also thanked GVA Michael Souza for fixing email connection. Crew discussed need to expand lounge. Next port: Portland, Ore. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), September 8 – Chairman Darryl G. Smith, Secretary Dennis D. Skretta, Educational Director William C. Mogg. Crew discussed time frame for filing for vacation benefits. They also talked about how the Manila Amendments to the STCW convention will affect safety training. They expressed preference for the old formula for medical benefit eligibility as opposed to the new requirement of 60 days in six months. Chairman reminded everyone to keep documents current. He reported vessel won second-quarter safety award. Educational director mentioned fitness is a “growing concern for employment” and encouraged everyone to stay fit. He also advised members to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland: “The more endorsements you have, the more jobs you are qualified to work.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew is considering purchasing satellite radio from ship’s fund. Crew discussed various safety procedures to follow both at sea and when in port. They thanked steward department for job well done. Next ports: Tacoma, Washington; Anchorage, Alaska; and Kodiak, Alaska. INTREPID (Maersk Line, Limited), September 14 – Chairman Frank P. Sena, Secretary Cleto S. Lindong, Educational Director Ralph B. Garner. Crew suggested modification to sea-time requirement for pension benefits. Chairman emphasized importance of safety and thanked crew for hard work and professionalism. Secretary urged members to take every opportunity to upgrade skills at Piney Point. He thanked fellow mariners for keeping ship clean and being good shipmates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested direct deposit option for vacation benefits. They talked about benefits of being in the SIU, including opportunities to see the world, make good money and enjoy good benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 �Former Seafarer Publishes Book Former AB Jay Jacobs spent a relatively short time sailing, compared to his many years working in maritime law, but he still considers his voyages with the SIU “as some of the happiest times in my life. Over a three-year period, I had the pleasure of sailing all over the world,” Jacobs said. In September, Jacobs published a nonfiction book – The Widow Wave – that he said “centers on the passion-driven trial that resulted from the worst recreational fishing boat accident ever to happen in San Francisco’s long maritime history…. My experiences at sea were a great help in unexpected ways in this trial.” A member of the California bar for 35 years, Jacobs has retired from the practice of law to write full time. He said the book is available through his website (www. jaywjacobs.com) and through Amazon and other online sellers. Jacobs also provided this synopsis of “The Widow Wave:” “Francis Dowd, his son, and three other men left San Francisco Bay on Dowd’s 34-foot boat for a day of salmon fishing out on the Pacific Ocean. The boat vanished under mysterious circumstances. There were no survivors or witnesses to whatever happened. Much speculation ensued in the San Francisco newspapers and the evening broadcast news about what may have occurred. Was the boat sunk by a rogue wave? Or run down by one of the large ships in the area? “Ultimately, a lawsuit was filed by the widow of one of the men on board against Francis Dowd’s widow. I, a relatively inexperienced lawyer at the time, was asked to defend Mrs. Dowd. She maintained that although her husband was many things, he was not a negligent or careless man. On this slim statement, I built my case. My opponent was a highly experienced lawyer, a Goliath known for always prevailing – in fact, crushing his opponents in the courtroom. “Under the special circumstances of no physical evidence and no eyewitnesses, the three-week jury trial hinged on the testimony of both sides’ expert witnesses who intertwined the physics of rogue wave formation, navigation and meteorology, with the all-too-human story of the fragility of life. The dramatic nature of each day’s testimony overwhelmed the courtroom. Which side was ahead seemed to change hands day by day, almost witness by witness. “The old legal bromide, ‘You never try the case you prepare,’ was never more apropos than in this trial. Discovering ‘what’ happened in a trial is not the difficult part. ‘Why’ something happened is far more complicated, probing the deepest recesses of the human mind to learn why the people involved took the actions they did. The intricate piecing together of that puzzle was what this case was all about. “The three weeks in court was an extreme emotional burden for my client. If it had been only her husband who died, in time she would probably have come to accept that. Her husband was a grown man, doing something he loved. But her son was also on board. It is hard to imagine a greater grief for a mother to bear than the death of a child. If the jury found her husband was responsible for Jacobs still has this photo from his first vessel, the SS Cathy. He is in the back row, second from left. The other mariners are (back, from left) Whitey Statham, Tony Anthony, Tom Whelan, George Padon, John Coyle, (front) Fred Findahl and Mick Fitzgerald. the loss of her son, it would have been the death of her soul. “Compounding this pressure was the fact that the widow suing Mrs. Dowd was seeking sums that could potentially wipe her out financially. The two factors prompting most people into settling – the fear of going to court and the possibility of financial devastation – had no effect on her. She regarded the allegations of negligence as a cloud over her husband’s good name, and she wanted that cloud removed. For her, honor was more important than money.” First Trip Provided Lasting Memories His first voyage as an SIU member happened many year ago, but the memories still seem fresh to Jay Jacobs. “The ship was the SS Cathy and the year was 1963,” he recalled. “The captain was Daniel J. Richards. What a ship. It was an old Matson victory, operated by Marine Managers Inc. out of New York. We had wooden bunks and a wooden locker. It was a good ship and a good crew.” He said the vessel loaded grain and lumber in Portland and then sailed to India. “From there, we went in ballast to Lisbon for a cargo of fertilizer for two ports in Vietnam. We returned to the U.S. Gulf via Japan with general cargo. All told, we steamed 35,000 miles going through Suez once and Panama once.” Jacobs said he also was grateful for the guidance he received from his watch partners. They pulled him aside when they found out he was a college student. “They told me they knew I was having fun, but not to stay too long. Go to school and get your education was their message,” Jacobs said. “They also said the first time we went shore, don’t make a drunken fool of yourself. They kept a good watch on me and I appreciated that.” 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 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 November 2014 �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 Course Start Date Maritime Training School Campus Date of Completion Deck Department Able Seafarer (Deck) November 8 December 5 ECDIS November 15 November 29 November 21 December 5 GMDSS November 29 December 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival November 8 December 6 November 21 December 19 Engine Department Welding November 29 December 19 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 8 November 14 Basic Firefighting/STCW December 6 December 12 Government Vessels November 29 December 5 Medical Care Provider November 15 November 21 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Galley Operations November 8 December 6 December 5 January 2 Certified Chief Cook These modules begin every other week. The most recent class started Oct. 25. The next class will commence Nov. 8. Advanced Galley Operations November 22 December 20 December 19 January 16 ServeSafe December 6 December 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? 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. November 2014 The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. Founded in 1967, the school’s campus is situated on 67 waterfront acres in Piney Point, Maryland and is a hub of safety and security training. Among the school’s most beneficial training tools are the bridge and engine simulators, the Joseph Sacco Firefighting and Safety School (located on a nearby satellite campus) and the culinary lab. 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. Important Notice for Paul Hall Center 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. 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. 11/14 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival Class # 790 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 26: Ryan Aaron, Danny Challenger, Bailey Chandler, Tyler Cook, Michael Cross, Joseph Dickinson, Erin Evangelista, Zachary Felton, Jonathon Foulks, Joseph Gil, Trent Jacobsen, Ryan Melvin, Justin Nicholson, Mitchell Rylander, Ethan Schoenbucher, William Sharp, Ursuela Simmons–Johnson, Miguel White and Rae Williams. Water Survival – Two individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course September 26. Completing their requirements (above) were Joey Benosa (left) and Victor Brabble. RPFNW – Two upgraders graduated from this course September 11. Completing their requirements (above) were Jonamie Encarnacion (left) and Segundo Soriano. Pictured with them is their instructor, Tom Truitt (far right). Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 26: Vladimir Baez, Sellers Brooks, Russell Macomber, Getolio Medallo, Michael Murphy, Mario Torrey and Slavi Zahariev. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Fourteen individuals finished this course Sept. 26. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Andrew Bennett, Gabriel Dadzie, Edgar Dionio, Garrett Fox, Rudy Harjanto, Gregory Howard, Marcus Hugee, Roberto Morante, Gjay Narvasa, James Parker, Johnny Rodriguez, Allen Ward, Tyree Watkins Jr., and Jason Young. Tank Barge DL – Eleven Seafarers finished their requirements in this course Sept. 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Emmanuel Adeoti, Vladimir Baez, Kenneth Benton, Jeremie Coates, James Dillon, Michael Edwards, Gerald Foster II, Alton Glapion Jr., Jason Meyers, William Smith and Diomedes Vigo. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at the far right. FOWT – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course Sept. 12: Donte Harris, Christina Price, Scott Reynolds, Jeffery Watts, Hakeem Woods Shoatz, and Joel Boyd. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Welding – Three upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 5. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Deren, Edgar Dionio and Antonio Watson. Class instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Nine Seafarers finished this course Sept. 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William August, Sellers Brooks, Gerald Freeman, Jeff Johnson, Antonio Jones, Russell Macomber, Getolio Medallo, Mario Torrey and Slavi Zahariev. Wayne Johnson Jr., their instructor, is at the far right. November 2014 �Paul Hall Center Classes BST – Two classes of upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 12. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Richard Abshire, Joey Benosa, Kenneth Benton, Jeremie Coates, Michael Deren, Edgar Dionio, Michael Edwards, Lamont Faulks, Douglas Flynn, Gerald Freeman, Alton Glapion Jr., Christopher Goddard, Lorenzo Hall Jr., Rudy Harjanto, Marcus Hugee, Jerald Isenbarger, Denis Kay, John Maxey III, Donald Nutt, Edgardo Ong, James Pitts,Tirso Sarmiento, Kendra Savage, Richard Toth, Paul Wade, Mony Williams, Gerald Toledo, Dimedes Vigo and Tyree Watkins. Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 19: Matthew Bryant, Douglas McLaughlin, Montree Nakwichet and Daniel Tapley. Class instructor Jay Henderson is at the far left. ARPA – Six Seafarers graduated from this course Sept. 26. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Oleg Derun, Arthur Doherty, Roberto Flores, Ryan McElroy, Brendan O’Brien and Keith Reeder. ECDIS – Eight upgraders finished their requirements in this course Sept. 12. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Allen Cole, Terrance Franklin, Brent Hensley, Felix Somorostro, Thomas Stralka, Jerry Wilder, Gregg Wolffis and Alvin York. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Electronic Navigation – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 5: Omar Aswad, Michael Harris Jr., Jesse James, Eric Kjellberg, Timothy Van Weezel and Jerry Wilder. Class Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. Radar Observer – Six individuals completed their requirements in this course Sept. 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Oleg Derun, Arthur Doherty, Roberto Flores, Ryan McElroy, Brendan O’Brien and William Soileau. Cetrified Chief Cook - Five upgraders who work in the steward department recently finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, from left to right) were Robinson Eromosele, Ronald Byrd, Troy Smith, Larry Jolla and Leslie Davis. November 2014 Advanced Galley Operations – Three steward department Seafarers recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this course. Graduating (above, from left to right) were: Deborah Hutchins, Mike Ingram and Gizelle Jones. Seafarers LOG 23 �F E B R U A R Y2014 2014 NOVEMBER V OVOLUME L U M E 7 76 6 o NO. N O11 . 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23 � 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 November 2014 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES FORUM SPEAKERS SAY AMERICA MUST MAINTAIN THE JONES ACT KEY MARITIME LAW BENEFITS U.S. MANY WAYS UNION’S HOUSTON RELOCATION POSTPONED TO MID-NOVEMBER CEREMONIES MARK CROWLEY FLEET EXPANSION JONES ACT TANKERS, TUGBOAT SIGNAL SIU JOB OPPORTUNITIES TITLE XI LOAN FUNDS TOTE’S LNG-POWERED CONTAINERSHIPS IMO, WHO OFFER EBOLA GUIDELINES FEDERAL EMPLOYEES PAY MORE FOR 2015 HEALTH CARE PREMIUMS SHBP LETTER PROVIDES COBRA RATE UPDATE FOR CERTAIN PARTICIPANTS CANADIAN COALITION MARCHES TO DENOUNCE CETA VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN, OTHERS CAMPION MARITIME IN NORFOLK ASHORE INCIDENT REINFORCES NEED FOR SAFETY, PRECAUTIONS NMC OFFERS POINTERS TO INDIVIDUALS WHO APPLY FOR MARITIME CREDENTIAL MIDNIGHT SUN MARINERS ENJOY LABOR DAY BBQ CHIEF COOK REPORTS SMOOTH SAILING ON TOTE VESSEL FEDERAL REPORT SHOWS MANY AMERICANS STILL FEELING RECESSION, NOT SAVING FOR RETIREMENT SIU-CREWED CAPE RAY ACCOMPLISHES CRITICAL MISSION SPIRITS HIGH AT NJ HALL’S CEREMONIAL OPENING FORMER SEAFARER PUBLISHES BOOK FIRST TRIP PROVIDED LASTING MEMORIES 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 11/01/2014 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/2254095c1d7ac7de67510065b75f9251.pdf bd0947d514d9ff758ffb1226dfe9e3d6 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER N O V E M2015 BER 2015 o NO. V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 77 N O11 . 2 EL FARO Tragedy At Sea Hurricane Joaquin Sinks El Faro, Claims Lives of 17 SIU Crew Members Pages 2-8, 24 Roan Lightfoot Bosun Brookie Davis Able Seaman Joe Hargrove OMU German Solar-Cortes OMU Roosevelt Clark GUDE James Porter GUDE Frank Hamm Able Seaman Jack Jackson Able Seaman Carey Hatch Able Seaman Mariette Wright GUDE Theodore Quammie Steward Baker New Union Tonnage Pages 9, 10 Jackie Jones Jr. Able Seaman Sylvester Crawford Jr. QMED Anthony Thomas OMU Louis Champa Reefer Engineer Lashawn Rivera Chief Cook Lonnie Jordan Steward Assistant SS John Brown Feature Pages 12-13 Scholarship Info Page 14 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew President’s Report Remembering the El Faro Crew There is nothing easy about this month’s message, but right off the bat, I want everyone to know that it’s much, much more than simply a traditional phrase when I state that the SIU will never forget the men and women who were lost on the El Faro’s final voyage. We are building a memorial honoring all 33 of our brothers and sisters, and we will conduct a ceremony every year. It’s a tragic part of our union’s history, but it is a chapter that must be remembered. I know that in modern times, news cycles tend to “move on” quickly. Attention spans are short, too, in this age of smart phones, constant connectivity and what has been described as overstimulation. For us, none of that matters when it comes to the mariners on the El Faro. They will remain in our hearts and on our minds. As the tragedy unfolded, I knew my place was to be Michael Sacco in Jacksonville with the families and our members. At our union hall, we also welcomed brothers and sisters from our affiliated American Maritime Officers, families of the Polish nationals who’d been aboard the El Faro, and executives from the company that owned and operated the vessel. I think we all needed to be together, grieving with one another and supporting each other. It goes without saying, but the loss of 33 lives is devastating for all of us. In our line of work, this is our worst nightmare. To the families, I want you to know that I personally understand the pain of losing a child, a sibling, a parent. I’ve lived through all of those terrible moments over the years. My hope is that the support of loved ones and friends, along with your faith, will help ease your burden enough to get through the months ahead. Obviously, financial support won’t ease the emotional pain, but I also hope that our Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund – quickly established last month to help the families – will at least eliminate some of the monetary worries We all know that the maritime industry can be dangerous. It goes with the territory. And unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time SIU members have lost their lives in the line of duty. Going all the way back to World War II, the hazards of the job have caught up with us at different times and in different ways, whether through enemy attack or severe weather or equipment malfunctions or some other mishap. Sometimes we don’t ever find out what went wrong. That was the case the last time an SIU-crewed ship was lost with all hands: the SS Poet back in 1980. But again, that doesn’t make losing the El Faro’s crew any easier. We’re all grieving together and we’re all hurting. Something else we have in common is that we all want answers, but that’s going to require patience. And the truth is there are parts of this equation we may never know. Lastly, I debated whether to even bring this up, but there are some vultures who have tried to turn this tragedy into a referendum on the Jones Act. In my opinion they are dishonoring those who lost their lives on the El Faro. Actually, that’s the polite version. What I really think of those cold, calculating opportunists isn’t suitable for print. I’m not going to let them politicize the passing of our members. They think we’re weak right now and they don’t care about their timing. But it is precisely in the names of the El Faro crew that I’m doubling down on my efforts and our union’s efforts to preserve the Jones Act, maintain American-flag shipping and boost the U.S. Merchant Marine. We will fight on in their honor. We will remember them in other ways, too, but we owe it to those brothers and sisters to do everything possible to make sure their chosen industry remains intact. Within our industry we have plenty of disagreements, but ultimately we are all part of the U.S. Merchant Marine. In a very real sense, we are one family, one crew. May God bless all those who perished on the El Faro. FNEOBVREUMABREYR2 20 01 14 5 VOLUME 76 o o NO. 2 EL FARO Volume 77 Number 11 These mariners from the SIU-crewed USNS Stockham were among the first to donate to the Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund. Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund Launched SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel on Oct. 9 announced the launch of a voluntary fund constructed to help dependents of the Seafarers who perished in the tragic sinking of the vessel El Faro. Contributions to the Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund may be made by visiting the home page of the SIU website – www.seafarers.org – and clicking on the “Donate” button. The union has applied for tax-exempt status (meaning contributions would be tax-deductible) and will confirm that status once it’s official. If donating by check, please make it out to Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund and mail to: Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund C/o SIU Secretary-Treasurer 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 The fund’s purpose is to help meet some of the unanticipated financial hardships faced by the families. Virtually any individual or organization may donate. One-hundred percent of the donations will go towards grants for the families. In order to be a beneficiary of the fund, an individual must have been a dependent of a crew member. Applications will be available at SIU headquarters and the union hall in Jacksonville, Florida. The union also plans to place a memorial lighthouse at or near the hall that will include the names of all who perished. Most of the Seafarers on the El Faro’s last voyage were from the Jacksonville area; the name El Faro means lighthouse. This screen grab (above) shows the area on the SIU website’s home page where electronic donations may be made. A banner in front of SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Maryland, (photo at left) pays tribute to the last crew of the El Faro. In the photo below, family members, old shipmates and other supporters gather at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, for a memorial service on Oct. 8. November 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. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG November 2015 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew All Hands Perish During El Faro Tragedy The last communication from the SIUcrewed El Faro was calm. En route from Jacksonville, Florida, to Puerto Rico, the ship had lost power near the Bahamas, had taken on water and was listing 15 degrees. But the situation was described from the vessel as manageable. At least some of the water reportedly had been pumped out. That transmission around 7:30 a.m. on Oct. 1, along with subsequent initial updates from the U.S. Coast Guard and ves- sel owner/operator Tote Maritime Puerto Rico led to nervous hopefulness that the El Faro was riding out what had started as a tropical storm. Despite heroic search efforts from the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and others – at one point, U.S. airplanes were losing parts while braving horrendous weather – good news never arrived. The storm that became Hurricane Joaquin lingered longer than forecast, which delayed and complicated the search mission. The first substantial update happened on Oct. 4: A debris field had been found near the El Faro’s last known position. The next morning, a Coast Guard news conference all but confirmed everyone’s worst fears. The ship most likely had gone down in a category four hurricane; even if crew members had managed to launch lifeboats, they would have been doing so amidst 50-foot waves, 140-mph winds and in zero visibility. The search continued until sunset on October 7, and one body was located along with more debris from the ship (which had been carrying hundreds of containers along with roll-on/roll-off cargo), but by then the tragic reality seemed inescapable. Members of the El Faro’s final crew included 17 Seafarers, 11 members of the SIUNA-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO), and five Polish nationals. (Continued on Page 8) Michael Davidson Master Steven Shultz Chief Mate Danielle Randolph Second Mate Jeremie Riehm Third Mate Jeffrey Mathias Chief Engineer Richard Pusatere Chief Engineer Keith Griffin 1st Asst. Engineer Howard Schoenly 2nd Asst. Engineer Michael Holland 3rd Asst. Engineer Mitchell Kuflik 3rd Asst. Engineer Dylan Meklin 3rd Asst. Engineer Roan Lightfoot Bosun Brookie Davis Able Seaman Frank Hamm Able Seaman Carey Hatch Able Seaman Jack Jackson Able Seaman Jackie Jones Jr. Able Seaman Sylvester Crawford Jr. QMED Joe Hargrove OMU German Solar-Cortes OMU Anthony Thomas OMU Louis Champa Refrigeration Engineer Roosevelt Clark GUDE James Porter GUDE Mariette Wright GUDE Theodore Quammie Steward Baker Lashawn Rivera Chief Cook Lonnie Jordan Steward Assistant Piotr Marek Krause Marcin Nita Jan Podgorski Andrzej Roman Truszkowski Rafal Andrzej Zdobych November 2015 Seafarers LOG 3 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew Condolences Editor’s note: The outpouring of sympathy in the immediate aftermath of the El Faro tragedy gave a lift to family members and many others who share in the grief. These are some of the messages received by the SIU and posted online. They are meant as a representative sample, as space limitations don’t allow for reproduction of all of them. Every single message sent to the union was read, however. The captain and crew of the El Faro were Americans and Poles, men and women, experienced mariners and young seamen. They were beloved sons and daughters and loving husbands and fathers. They were dedicated engineers, technicians and a cook. And these 33 sailors were united by a bond that has linked our merchant mariners for more than two centuries – a love of the sea. As their ship battled the storm, they were no doubt working as they lived – together, as one crew. This tragedy also reminds us that most of the goods and products we rely on every day still move by sea. As Americans, our economic prosperity and quality of life depend upon men and women who serve aboard ships like the El Faro. I thank everyone across our government and in the private sector who worked so tirelessly, on the sea and in the air, day after day, in the massive search for survivors. The investigation now underway will have the full support of the U.S. government, because the grieving families of the El Faro deserve answers and because we have to do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our people, including those who work at sea. Today, 28 American families – from Florida to Maine – and five Polish families are heartbroken. May they be comforted, in some small way, in knowing that they have the love and support of their neighbors, the merchant mariner community and the American people. May God bless the men and women of the El Faro. May He comfort their families. And may He watch over and protect all those who serve at sea on behalf of us all. - Statement from the White House On behalf of the men and women of the United States Transportation Command, I would like to express our deep and sincere condolences to the families and friends of the El Faro crew. The maritime community has suffered a terrible loss, and the memories of the courage, professionalism, and dedication of the crew will not soon be forgotten. We wish you and the entire SIU family strength going forward, as you continue to support the domestic and national security needs of this Nation with the highest level of professionalism in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. Please accept our deepest regards. - Darren W. McDew, Commander, USTRANSCOM General, USAF Please accept my sincerest condolences following the loss of your mariners who perished at sea aboard the El Faro. My heart breaks for you, your brothers and sisters of the SIU, and the mariners’ families who must go on without their husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters. This tragic loss sheds greater light on the difficult and dangerous jobs our mariners take on each and every day to transport our goods and products and support our economic well-being at home. I join you and all of the SIU in honoring their sacrifice, mourning their loss, and paying tribute to their lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Hillary Rodham Clinton This shocking sinking draws (attention to) the great demands on seafarers to face the dangers of their profession with courage and determination. The families of the missing seafarers and the communities they come from are in the forefront of our thoughts and prayers and it would be deeply appreciated if this could be passed on to them… We wish to assure you that we watch and wait with you around the world with all of our thoughts, hopes and deep concern and sincere appreciation for you at this terrible time. - Paddy Crumlin, ITF President We learned with shock and profound sorrow of the unfortunate and severe incident of El Faro, carrying 33 people on board. I wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the victims, the missing, their families and the unions who represented the seafarers, who have perished in the severe conditions generated by Hurricane Joaquin. - Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary Last Thursday was a tragic day for the American maritime community and America. El Faro, an American-flag ship en route to Puerto Rico, was lost in Hurricane Joaquin, and with it, its 33 crew, including 28 Americans. In the hours after we learned that the El Faro was in trouble, the Coast Guard, DOD and other government and private sector partners mobilized assets with search crews battling treacherous weather conditions in an attempt to find survivors, and we appreciate their efforts. Mr. Speaker, today our thoughts and prayers are with the crew members’ families and loved ones, and I ask that the House observe a moment of silence to honor the brave men and women who served on the El Faro. - Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), on the floor of the House of Representatives. My heart and prayers go out to the families of those 4 Seafarers LOG Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-California) led a moment of silence on the House floor (photos above and at right) honoring the mariners from the El Faro. aboard the cargo ship El Faro. - Rep. Corrine Brown (D-Florida) We are deeply saddened by the loss of 28 of our brothers and sisters aboard the cargo ship El Faro. These brave men and women left an incredible mark on their communities, both on land and at sea via their hard work and steadfast commitment to the maritime trade. On behalf of SecretaryTreasurer Elizabeth Shuler, Executive Vice President Tefere Gebre and the twelve and a half million working men and women of the AFL-CIO, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of the lost mariners, their colleagues and their communities. - Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO President Words cannot express our deep sorrow on the loss of the El Faro crew. At times like this, we feel just how close a family we all truly are. - Jim Given, SIU of Canada President There is no more devoted community of professionals than those who serve in the Nation’s Merchant Marine. We share a brotherhood of the sea – a livelihood of inherent danger and rewards. The El Faro tragedy is weighing heavily on MEBA members past and present, and we are sharing the grief of our fellow mariners and their families. The chilling fate of the El Faro and her crew has hit home in the heart of every mariner who understands the unforgiving nature of the sea coupled with merciless weather. We stand shoulder to shoulder with you and all your members during this terrible, trying time. - Marshall Ainley, President, and Bill Van Loo, Secretary-Treasurer, MEBA with our union families during this difficult time. - J. David Cox Sr., American Federation of Government Employees National President Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the crew as well as their colleagues, many of whom reside within our own Port Everglades community. Please continue to keep all of those directly affected by the El Faro tragedy as well as their families in your hearts. - Lesley Warrick, Seafarers’ House Ministry I want to express my deepest condolences to the SIU at the loss of your members on board the El Faro. I have been so sad and upset about this disaster, so I can only imagine what you are feeling at this time. Please know my thoughts are with the union members and their families at this time of great sadness and confusion. - Terri Mast, National Secretary Treasurer, Inland Boatmen’s Union I convey condolences to you from the Chilean Merchant Mariners. Please pass these thoughts to the families of the crew of the El Faro, and to members of the SIU. - Hernan Winter Levicoy, President, Federación de Tripulantes de Chile On behalf of the Estonian Seamen’s Independent Union let me pass on our message of support and solidarity on the recent sinking of the United States flagged vessel El Faro. Our thoughts are with you. - Kaia Vask, General Secretary, Estonian Seamen’s Independent Union We offer our deepest condolences to the families of El Faro’s 33 crew members, and to all those who called these experienced, dedicated mariners friends and co-workers. These were skilled mariners – and union brothers and sisters – who dedicated their careers to moving critical cargo inside our complex system of global commerce. - Edward Wytkind, President, Transportation Trades Department With our deepest sympathy from Iceland’s seafarers. - Jonas Gardarsson, Executive Director, Iceland Seaman’s Union On behalf of the membership of the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the seafarers who perished aboard the El Faro. My sympathies also go out to the members of the SIU-AGLIW who were friends and shipmates of those lost at sea. The tragedy of El Faro haunts all those who go down to the sea in ships. - Gunnar Lundeberg, President/Secretary-Treasurer, Sailors’ Union of the Pacific Chilean seafarers are completely shocked by the tragedy of the M/V El Faro, which happened near the Bahamas. Please accept our deepest condolences for such a sad event; we would much like to convey to the families of the deceased seafarers our sincerest condolences. - Hector Azua, President, Sindicato de Oficiales de Marina Mercante Southship - Paul Cajales, President, Sindicato De Trabajadores Interempresas De Compañias Navieras - Juan Luis Villalon, ITF Inspector Let us continue to use our collective voice to share with others the importance of the maritime industry and to honor the hard work, skill and sacrifice that mariners offer to all of us. And let us continue to be in prayer for these 33 seafarers and their families left behind. - Rick Schiappacasse, International President, and R. Andrew Riester, Executive Vice President, International Propeller Club of the United States I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the employees, contractors, families and friends of TOTE Maritime, including my brothers and sisters of the Seafarers International Union and the American Maritime Officers Union, on the recent disappearance at sea of the vessel El Faro…. It is with a heavy heart that my deepest sympathies are extended. - William P. Doyle, Federal Maritime Commissioner Pease find space in our remembrances for those union member sisters and brothers and their families, who are experiencing a different reality. - Fred Mason, Jr., President, Maryland/DC AFL-CIO Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the 33 crewmen aboard the El Faro cargo ship that appears to have fallen victim to Hurricane Joaquin… We stand in solidarity Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and to the SIU. - Parker Kamara, Chairman, Sierra Leone Labour Congress The news of the ship’s sinking reminds us all of the fortitude of all seafarers who face some of the world’s harshest and most dangerous working conditions. We hold great respect for the men and women who brave the sea. In this difficult time, we want the family, friends and community of the El Faro seafarers to know that our thoughts are with them as we all wait in hope. - Jerry Dias, National President, and Peter Kennedy, National Secretary-Treasurer, Unifor Canada Accept our condolence on the 33 seafarers that lost their lives in an unfortunate hurricane incident during the course of duty/voyage. May the Lord Almighty grant their loved ones fortitude to bear the loss. - Matthew Alalade, President, Nigeria Merchant Navy Officers Water Transport Senior Staff Association In this sorrowful occasion I present on my name firstly, on the name of the National Federation of Transport Workers secondly and on the name of Algerian seafarers our sincere condolences to the families, friends, the (Continued on next page) November 2015 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew SIU and relatives of the victims of this tragedy. - Seddik Berrama, Algerian National Federation of Transport Workers On behalf of all your colleagues at Nautilus International, may I express our deepest shock at the news of the sinking of the El Faro with the loss of 33 seafarers. Please pass on to the next of kin our profound sadness and sincere condolences: blessed are those who go down to the sea in ships. - Mark Dickinson, General Secretary, Nautilus International On behalf of the Seafarers’ Union of Russia, I wish to express our sympathies to the victims of the incident and our sympathies and condolences to their families, their communities and unions. All seafarers know that their profession is dangerous and they face the dangers every day at sea, but still it is always a shock when such woeful accidents happen. We wish you all courage and pray for those taken by the calamity. - Yury Sukhorukov, President, Seafarers’ Union of Russia On the face of the tragedy of the crew of El Faro vessel please accept our Polish Seafarers’ Union condolence and solidarity in this terrible time. This tragedy also touched us here in Poland. Five of the crew were Polish. We know and fully understand the feelings of the families of the victims. We join with all of them in pain over the loss of loved ones. It would be very appreciated if these words could be passed on to the families of the crew members from the El Faro. The sea collects their tribute. Honour the memory of our Brothers who have gone on eternal watch. May God bless them. - Henryk Piatkowski, Vice President, Polish Seafarers’ Union Seko has with concern followed the developments regarding the U.S.-flagged vessel El Faro, and with deep sorrow noted the tragic total loss of the vessel and its crew. We ask you to convey our condolences to the families of the crew. They are in our thoughts. - Jan Ruden, President, and Tomas Abrahamsson, Vice President, Seko (Swedish State Employees Union) On behalf of the AUSHK, we wish to express our deepest condolences for the loss of the seafarers on board. Our sympathies go out to the families and the unions who represented the seafarers, as well as solidarity to them all in this difficult time. - Au Yeung Kam Lung, Chairman, Amalgamated Unions of Seafarers, Hong Kong Please receive our deepest condolences to the victims, their families and the SIU from the ITF FOC (Hong Kong) Campaign Office. - Doris Sin, ITF FOC (Hong Kong) Campaign Office It was with shock and profound sorrow that we learned of this tragedy which reminds us of the great dangers mariners face. The 33 men and women, Americans and Poles, were a crew of experienced seafarers and young seamen – executing their profession with courage and determination. We are deeply saddened by their loss. Our thoughts and heartfelt compassion are with their families, their friends and colleagues, and the unions who represented the missing seafarers. - Christine Behle, Head of Transport Section (United Services Union – Germany) On behalf of SMOU, we join Paddy and Steve Cotton to convey our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of all 33 crew members onboard El Faro. We are saddened and shocked to hear that this had happened. It is unfortunate and deeply regrettable that nature and the harsh sea triumphed over our brothers in this incident. It is also a grim reminder that our seafarers, so often forgotten as the people who move our necessities every single day, are forgotten as mere specks in the vast oceans where they face huge risks in their lives every single day. We pray that God grant all families of the crew members of El Faro strength to bear this grief in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. - Mary Liew, General Secretary, and Thomas Tay, Emeritus General Secretary, Singapore Maritime Officers Union Words cannot express the sadness that is felt by maritime workers around the globe at the loss of the 33 workers aboard this ship. A short note to pass along the thoughts, prayers and condolences of the 2,300 members of the MUA Sydney Branch. Our deepest sympathies to the families of the crew as well as their extended family, the brothers and sisters of the SIU. - Paul Garrett, Assistant Branch Secretary, Maritime Union of Australia Sydney Branch We have been informed of the tragic incident of the El Faro, which resulted in the death of the 33 Seafarers on board. Such tragic events impose to all of us the importance of increasing our efforts to provide more safety and security for the thousands of our seafarers on board vessels around the globe. Once again please forward to the families of the seafarers our condolences. - Pantelis Stavrou, General Secretary, Seafarers Union of Cyprus On behalf of the Egyptian Seafarer’s Union, please accept our deepest sentiments and support, as well as solidarity for the crew and families of the M/V El Faro. We wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the victims, the missing and their families, as well as the unions who represented the seafarers. - Kamal Fathi, Executive Manager, Egyptian General Seafarer’s Union The El Faro tragedy has made us all pause to reflect on the dangers seafarers face on a daily basis. - Allister Paterson, President, Canada Steamship Lines On behalf of the 70,000 MTWTU members, we convey our support, share the sorrow and grieve with you. Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to you all. - Oleg Grygoriuk, First Vice Chairman, Marine Transport Workers’ Trade Union of Ukraine On behalf of the Maritime Union of New Zealand, please accept our solidarity and sympathy at the loss of the vessel El Faro and its crew. The international family of seafarers and maritime workers stand with the Seafarers International Union, its officials and members, at this difficult and sad time. Please pass on our deepest condolences to the families of these brave seafarers. - Joe Fleetwood, National Secretary, Maritime Union of New Zealand Please accept our deepest sentiments of concern in these troubled times of yours. We reach out to you in solidarity and offer prayers for the family members to have strength and courage to face this painful challenge in their lives. - Sirinal De Mel, General Secretary, Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya On behalf of the KPI let me pass our message of support and solidarity on the recent sinking of the U.S.-flagged ship, El Faro. I wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the victims, the missing and their families, and the unions who represented the seafarers. - Hanafi Rustandi, Executive President, Kesatuan Pelaut Indonesia (The Indonesian Seafarers’ Union) I join our brothers expressing our deepest sympathy for the loss of our brothers and sisters on board the M/V El Faro. - Antonio Rodriguez Fritz, Regional Secretary, ITF Americas Our thoughts are with the families of the seafarers who were lost in exercising the duties of the profession which underlines, yet again, the dangers of seafaring. - John Chalas, General Secretary, Pan-Hellenic Seamen’s Federation When 33 perfectly healthy people are taken all at once, while they are just doing their jobs, it stands out and shakes us to the core. Indeed, people throughout the industry, from the most experienced maritime officer, to the first year cadet in training have been shaken to their core. We are angry, we are scared, we are numb. - Doreen M. Badeaux, Apostleship of the Sea On behalf of the officers and crew of the Maersk Chicago, please pass on our condolences to the families, loved ones and friends of our Brothers and Sisters in the crew of El Faro. Most of us had friends or former shipmates aboard. Several had sailed recently on the Maersk Chicago. They will stay in our memories. - Shaun B. Hughes, Master, Maersk Chicago Overwhelming support for the families and mariners was expressed through the union’s social media sites. This image of students from the University of Southern Maine proved very popular on the SIU and Seafarers LOG Facebook pages. November 2015 We are grieving with you for the shocking loss of your beloved men. We wish you courage in this tragic time. Our deepest sympathies to you all. - Anatoliy Tchidjavadze, President, Georgian Seafarers’ Union It is with great sadness that we learned of the tragic incident which involved the lives of our seafaring brothers and Flags fly at half-mast outside AFL-CIO headquarters early last month in honor of the El Faro crew. sisters... We extend our deepest sympathies to all the families of the seafarers who lost their lives. May our condolences bring you comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families at this time. - Warick Nokise, General Secretary, Tuvalu Overseas Seamen’s Union As a seafarer, I feel a sense of loss that probably only other seafarers would understand when a tragedy of this magnitude occurs, but this feeling will not even begin to compare with what the families will be going through. It is a brutal reminder of the dangers and perils of our occupation and when something like this occurs; it brings home the very real sense of suffering and loss that families have to endure. My heart, thoughts and sympathies go out to the families, loved ones and members of your union on this tragic occasion. - Ian Bray, Assistant National Secretary, Maritime Union of Australia The officers, members and staff of ILWU Canada would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the crew of the El Faro. - Mark Gordienko, President, and Bob Dhaliwal, Secretary-Treasurer, ILWU Canada We express our deepest condolences for the incident regarding the El Faro, in which 33 gallant and patriotic seafarers lost their lives at sea during the deadly Hurricane Joaquin. To the families, our union urges them to take console in the Lord during this time of bereavement. - Ernest L. Gargar, President – Seafarers Section, United Seamen Ports and General Workers Union of Liberia We wish to express our deepest sympathies and offer support to all of the seafarers, their families and unions representing them. We hold in high esteem the courage and efforts of the rescue crews in facing such extreme conditions. - Ho Kai Hung, President, Merchant Navy Officers’ Guild – Hong Kong The general membership of AMOSUP-PTGWO-ITF expresses its deep concern over the incident and sympathizes with the families of the 33 hard-working mariners on board the vessel. We are one with everyone in prayer. - Conrado Oca, President, Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines The tragic incident of the U.S.-flag vessel El Faro and its 33 crew members that were lost at sea is terrible tragedy. It is a huge blow for their families and the SIU. Please pass along our sincere condolences, support and solidarity in these difficult moments and empathy for their great grief and pain. - Captain Tomislav Markolovic, OUWMST Montenegro We now have angels in heaven sailing with Jesus at the helm into paradise. May God bless their souls. - Captain Roberto Candelario, San Juan Bay Pilots Corp. Seafarers LOG 5 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew SIU President Michael Sacco (far right in photo at immediate right) and Executive VP Augie Tellez (second from left in photo directly above) spent several days in Jacksonville, Florida, lending support to the families and to Seafarers. These photos were taken during a memorial service at the hall. Moments of Silence, Other Remembrances At SIU halls, union headquarters and aboard ships, moments of silence were observed Oct. 6-7 in honor of everyone aboard the El Faro. The SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida – home area for most of the crew – also hosted a memorial service Oct. 8 that was attended by family members, other loved ones and old shipmates. These two pages feature a sampling of photos from those remembrances and others, including submissions from the SIU of Canada. We shared additional photos on our social media sites and may include more in upcoming issues of the LOG. Though the moments were solemn, there were some smiles, too, as people fondly remembered happier times involving their fallen SIU brothers and sister. New Orleans Oakland, California (photo at immediate left) and crew aboard the R.J. Pfeiffer (above) The Baltimore hall featured a makeshift memorial for the crew. Tacoma, Washington Union and company officials meet with mariners aboard the El Yunque, sister ship of the El Faro. 6 Seafarers LOG Norfolk, Virginia Jersey City, New Jersey November 2015 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew Houston San Juan, Puerto Rico Aboard MV Umiak/SIU of Canada November 2015 Wilmington, California Fort Lauderdale, Florida Montreal/SIU of Canada Piney Point, Maryland SIU Headquarters Honolulu Mobile, Alabama Seafarers LOG 7 �In Memory of the El Faro Crew Hurricane Joaquin Claims Lives of 33 Mariners (Continued from Page 3) The SIU members were Bosun Roan Lightfoot, ABs Carey Hatch, Jackie Jones, Jack Jackson, Brookie Davis and Frank Hamm, QEE Sylvester Crawford, RE1 Louis Champa, OMUs Anthony Thomas, German Solar-Cortes and Joe Hargrove, GUDEs Mariette Wright, James Porter and Roosevelt Clark, Steward/Baker Theodore Quammie, Chief Cook Lashawn Rivera and SA Lonnie Jordan. The AMO members were Capt. Michael Davidson, Chief Mate Steven Shultz, Second Mate Danielle Randolph, Third Mate Jeremie Riehm, Chief Engineer Jeffrey Mathias, Chief Engineer Richard Pusatere, First Assistant Engineer Keith Griffin, Second Assistant Engineer Howard Schoenly, Third Assistant Engineer Michael Holland, Third Assistant Engineer Mitchell Kuflik and Third Assistant Engineer Dylan Meklin. The Polish riding gang consisted of Piotr Krause, Marcin Nita, Jan Podgorski, Andrzej Truszkowski and Rafal Zdobych. When the Coast Guard announced the search was ending, SIU President Michael Sacco stated, “Although we tried to maintain hope, we were afraid this moment would come. It is difficult to describe the profound grief we are sharing throughout our organization and with the crew members’ families. “Words also cannot adequately express our gratitude for everyone involved in the search efforts,” he continued. “To the men and women of the Coast Guard, Navy and Air Force, we thank you and we salute you. We also deeply appreciate the efforts of Crowley Maritime and everyone else who pitched in. We know the effort was extraordinary and not without risk. “We will never forget the men and women from the El Faro’s final voyage.” AMO National President Paul Doell stated, “There are no words for our sadness and grief as we make the agonizing transition from hope and anticipation to sorrow and loss and all that comes with them. Our deepest sympathy and our prayers are with the families and loved ones of our brothers and sisters as we muster our resources to support them in whatever ways we can.” The last time all hands were lost on an SIU-crewed ship was Oct. 24, 1980, when the SS Poet went down without a trace in the Atlantic. There were 34 mariners aboard: 24 Seafarers and 10 officers. The El Faro tragedy also evoked memories of the 1983 sinking of the National Maritime Union vessel Marine Electric, which claimed the lives of 31 of its 34 mariners. It sank in frigid waters off the coast of Virginia on Feb. 12. Union Hall Became Beacon Most of the SIU crew from the El Faro lived in the Jacksonville area, and the SIU hall there immediately became the gathering place for family members, concerned fellow Seafarers, company officials, Coast Guard officers and others. Regularly scheduled informational meetings took place each day (including by phone for those family members who weren’t at the hall), as did a prayer vigil and, eventually, a memorial service. As soon as the Coast Guard announced the grim outlook on October 5, SIU President Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez arranged to be in Jacksonville the following morning. They spent the week there, grieving with and supporting loved ones. They also met with mariners and company officials aboard the El Faro’s sister ship, the El Yunque. Meanwhile, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel spearheaded the formation of the Seafarers El Faro Assistance Fund, created to assist family members of the crew (see page 2). Tellez noted the bitter irony that an 8 Seafarers LOG industry so often overlooked suddenly found itself in the headlines day after day as the saga unfolded. “Unfortunately, it takes a tragedy like this one to focus America’s attention on what our people do, day in and day out, to keep the commerce of our country going and to help maintain national security,” Tellez stated. “Occasionally we are reminded of the dangers they face, whether they involve pirate attacks, enemy missiles or the mighty forces of nature. Mariners provide a critical service for everyone ashore, and they continue returning to sea even after tragic losses. God bless all our Seafarers wherever they may be.” Heindel stated, “The loss of our brothers and sisters is a grim reminder of what life at sea can bring. It may include many mistresses, but the one uncertain, unpredictable and unforgiving mistress is the sea herself. While we respect her power, she is slow at recognizing our efforts and aptitudes, because no matter how welltrained we may be, the sea and her power are incomprehensible and unmatched. “We have received many letters and messages of support from unions and friends from around the world,” Heindel continued. “I would like to express our sincere thanks on behalf of the families and our organization. We are touched and thankful knowing we are not alone in the loss of our colleagues.” Indeed, the outpouring of sympathies was perhaps unprecedented for the union, which reflected both the sincerity of the messages and the prevalence and ease of electronic communications. The SIU’s social media sites were particular hotbeds of activity; most of the messages were in unity and sympathy, while others were personal remembrances of the individual crew members. Still others were packed with understandable frustration and heartbreak as the maritime community tried to make sense of the tragedy. QMED Samir Tarsha was one of hundreds if not thousands of members who weighed in. “As a member of the same union, who ships out of the same union hall where the El Faro is crewed, I easily could’ve been on there,” he noted. “I’m on a ship now and during a drill yesterday we had a moment of silence for the crew and all of the families involved in the El Faro tragedy. It was hard holding tears back. To the crew of the El Faro, you will never be forgotten. Your memory lives on through us, your seafaring brothers and sisters. And to the families involved, I send my deepest condolences and prayers. Fair winds and following seas my fellow Seafarers.” Recertified Steward Steve Dickson, also posting from aboard a ship, expressed his sympathy and called for unity. “The eyes of America are upon the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he observed. “We must stand strong and not let feuding and bitterness rear their ugly heads in this time of sorrow. No American-flagged ship has been taken down by the sea in many years. On average, 127 vessels are lost each year worldwide. This has gone on for centuries, since travel and commerce upon the water began. The sea is a harsh Family members, Seafarers, union and company officials and others gather for a memorial service at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on Oct. 8. mistress and mariners must never take her for granted. We must pull together to lift each other, not tear each other and our industry down. May those who were lost aboard El Faro rest in peace. You will not be forgotten, and we should pray for the safe return from every voyage of all those who go to sea.” Retired Recertified Bosun Al Caulder, who sailed from 1967 to 2010 and who served as a patrolman in Jacksonville in the late 1980s, similarly conveyed his sadness while also offering broader perspective. “So many of us old-timers grew up in SIU,” Caulder said. “We have all made sacrifices and found ourselves in dangerous situations on one vessel or another. Many of us have lost shipmates or seen our brothers’ ashes spread upon the ships’ wake over the waters that they loved and respected…. Appreciate and respect the joys and dangers of our way of life. Thank you my God for every SIU brother that I have ever sailed with and forgive me for the times that I did not appreciate them enough…. My wife and I will now bend our heads in prayer for those brothers and sisters who gave their all for the career they loved.” Investigation Begins The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) quickly began its investigation of the sinking, and said the research probably would take one year to 18 months. The report itself will be written afterward. The Coast Guard also will investigate. At press time, a U.S. Military Sealift Command vessel was mobilizing to serve as a base for a U.S. salvage company. It is estimated that the El Faro sank in 15,000 feet of water, but government officials seemed optimistic about recovering a data recorder from the ship. Predictably, the sinking isn’t without controversy. Critics said the 790-foot ship was too old (it was built in 1975) and that the vessel master should have chosen a different route. Some stooped so low as to attempt to turn the tragedy into a referendum on the Jones Act, sparking incredulity in the domestic maritime industry. But Tote and many others pointed out the El Faro had passed all of its inspections, and that Davidson was the most ex- This LOG file photo from a few years ago shows the El Faro docked in Baltimore. perienced captain in the company’s fleet. Tote executives said he had a “sound plan” to skirt the storm, and according to at least one published report, the vessel had diverted by 100 miles from its usual course. Not all of the facts are known – some may never come to light – but as one editorial put it, the storm strengthened sooner than expected, and the ship lost power at the absolute worst possible time. Tote President and CEO Anthony Chiarello said, “We appreciate there are many rumors and speculations surrounding this tragic event, as there are with any accident. For the sake of the families and loved ones, we ask that you continue to respect their privacy and wait for the investigation results. We at Tote can never truly know the pain the families and loved ones have gone through, but we do know how deeply this event has affected every employee of Tote. A company is made up of people, and this tragedy has touched every individual across our organization.” Search Mission The breadth of the seven-day search mission was tremendous. Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Air National Guard and ship and tugboat crews searched more than 183,000 square nautical miles off the Bahamian coast in a joint effort to locate the El Faro crew. The total area searched is the equivalent of several states. Rear Adm. Scott Buschman, commander, Coast Guard 7th District, said. “U.S. Coast Guard, U.S Navy, U.S. Air Force, and the Tote Maritime tug crews searched day and night, sometimes in perilous conditions with the hope of finding survivors in this tragic loss.” SIU members from Crowley and Tote assisted in the search. The Coast Guard also furnished this list of resources that were deployed: n Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Florida HC-130 Hercules airplane crews n Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Florida MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crews n Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, North Carolina HC-130 Hercules airplane crews n Coast Guard Cutter Northland, a 270-foot medium endurance cutter homeported in Portsmouth, Virginia n Coast Guard Cutter Resolute a 210foot medium endurance cutter, homeported in St. Petersburg, Florida n Coast Guard Cutter Charles Sexton, homeported in Key West, Florida n Air Force Rescue Coordination Center n Air National Guard HC-130 airplane crews from the 106th Rescue Wing, Westhampton Beach, New York n Air Force WC-130 Super Hercules crews from the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, 403rd Wing, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi n Navy P-8 Poseidon airplane crews from Naval Air Station Jacksonville n Air Force E-8C Joint Stars crews from the 116th Air Control Wing, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. November 2015 �The SIU-crewed Ohio will sail in the Jones Act trade. Aker Delivers New SIU-Crewed Tanker Keel Laid for Fourth Jones Act Vessel Being Built for Crowley New jobs for Seafarers have been delivered and more are on the way, thanks to a four-ship program involving Aker Philadelphia Shipyard and Crowley Maritime Corp. The Seafarers-contracted tanker Ohio – the first vessel in the new-build program – was delivered to Crowley in late September. Earlier in the month, the keel was laid for the fourth tanker. In a news release, Crowley described the Ohio’s delivery as “momentous not only for Crowley, but also for the industry because it signifies the first time a product tanker has been constructed with consideration for the future use of LNG for propulsion. The remaining three product tankers being built by [Aker Philadelphia] for Crowley are currently under construction and have planned deliveries through 2016.” “We are excited to offer our customers cutting-edge technology available in these new tankers, which not only embraces operational excellence and top safety, but also offers the potential to be powered by environmentally friendly LNG in the future,” said Crowley’s Rob Grune, senior vice president and general manager, petroleum and chemical transportation. “Adding these new Jones Act tankers to our fleet allows us to continue providing our customers with diverse and modern equipment to transport their petroleum and chemical products in a safe and reliable manner.” The new 50,000 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 Ohio is 600 feet long and is capable of carrying crude oil or refined petroleum products; the same will be true of its sister ship. Meanwhile, the shipyard (a union facility) hosted the keel-laying ceremony a week and half before the Ohio’s SIU Jobs Secure; Crowley To Operate 5 MSC Ships The SIU retained all of the unlicensed jobs aboard five U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels that recently were awarded to Seafarerscontracted Crowley Maritime Corp. Those vessels – which began crew turnover Oct. 1 – are the USNS 1st LT Harry L. Martin, USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat, USNS SGT Matej Kocak, USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS MAJ Stephen W. Pless. The operating agreement for the five ships (each of which can carry containers as well as roll-on/roll-off cargo) is for one year and includes four additional, one-year options. Seafarers already had been working aboard those vessels, which previously had been operated by other SIU-contracted companies. “We never take it for granted when operating agreements from the military go to SIU-contracted companies,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “SIU members have always done top-notch work aboard these vessels, and I’m confident they’ll uphold that tradition in the years ahead.” According to Crowley, two of the ships will remain berthed in Jacksonville, Florida, and three will be homeported in Norfolk, Virginia – all within the service area of Crowley’s local offices. The vessels will be used to transport cargo throughout the world in support of the U.S. military. “Crowley is proud to have been selected to provide technical management for this government fleet,” said Crowley’s Paul Varghese, general manager, government services. “This contract is a perfect fit for us, and would not be possible without the hard work and determination of our remarkable government team and the tremendous The SIU-crewed USNS Kocak takes on cargo in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, early this year. (U.S. Army photo by support we received from MSC.” Donna Klapakis) November 2015 delivery. Keeping with long-held shipbuilding tradition, coins were placed on one of the keel blocks before the unit was lowered into place in the dry dock. Representatives from the yard and Crowley were in attendance to place the coins and sign the keel block as a gesture of good fortune and safe travels. On behalf of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, upcoming graduates of the shipyard’s apprenticeship program placed the ceremonial coins. Initiated in 2004, the three-year apprenticeship program develops the next generation of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard employees. The upcoming graduation class will add 24 skilled shipbuilders to the workforce, bringing the shipyard’s apprentices to about 10 percent of its current workforce. Since the program’s inception, 17 apprentices have moved into management positions and many have obtained additional manufacturing qualifications. The shipyard plans to hire 50 additional apprentices in 2016. Aker Philadelphia has delivered 20 ships (most of them SIU-crewed) in its 15-year history. Administration Reiterates Its Support for Jones Act During a recent conference in New York, U.S. Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen reaffirmed the overwhelming support for the Jones Act in Congress and the Obama Administration. In his address at the event in early October, Jaenichen pointed out that for almost a century, presidents from both parties have supported the Jones Act including Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan. “We have four presidents from both political parties over a three-decade span backing and reinforcing their support of the Jones Act. I ask you, what other kind of issues would trigger that level of political census?” said Jaenichen. He added that the nation’s freight cabotage law is subject to many “tall tales, embellishments and outright falsehoods or misrepresentations,” such as Puerto Rico’s attempt to blame the Jones Act for its financial woes. “The unvarnished truth is that Puerto Rico has built a mutually beneficial relationship with Jones Act carriers,” he said. “The Jones Act [provides] just one quarter of maritime service to the island (based on both tonnage and the number of annual vessel calls) and is in no way, shape or form responsible for Puerto Rico’s economic difficulties.” He concluded that while these falsehoods “may weaken the popularity of the Jones Act, it will never diminish our federal government’s overall support for the Act.” Echoing support for the law was Tom Allegretti, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership (AMP). He stated that the strong backing of the Jones Act trade is due to the industry’s longstanding positive impact on national, economic and homeland security. He said any attempt to include an amendment of the Jones Act in pending legislation is a “vote subtractor” that can hurt Congressional progress. “Some in Puerto Rico have suggested that a Jones Act exemption be included in the legislative package under the erroneous theory that the Jones Act is bad for Puerto Rico,” Allegretti stated. “But here’s the kicker: If Congress did that – include an anti-Jones Act amendment in the package – the chances of the overall package getting enacted into law would diminish. That’s because the presence of an anti-Jones Act amendment would reduce or subtract the number of Members of Congress who would vote for the overall bill. So Puerto Ricans would be undermining – and maybe even sabotaging – their own assistance package by including an anti-Jones Act amendment in it.” The Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on ships that are crewed, owned, built and flagged American. It helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy each year. Seafarers LOG 9 �AMP Honors U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter With ‘Champion of Maritime’ Award The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) on Sept. 30 recognized U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) with the coalition’s 2015 Champion of Maritime Award, which honored Hunter “for his extraordinary support and dedication to the American maritime industry.” AMP is a highly regarded coalition with affiliates from all segments of the domestic maritime industry, including the SIU. In announcing the award, the coalition noted, “Rep. Hunter’s longstanding support for U.S. maritime is demonstrated through his work as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation and as a member of the Seapower Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee. As the first Marine combat veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan elected to U.S. Congress, Rep. Hunter understands the importance that the maritime industry serves in the everyday lives of our civilians and our service men and women.” “The true champions of maritime are the hundreds of thousands of highly skilled service men and women in the American maritime industry who tirelessly work to protect our waterways – such a strength in defense wouldn’t be possible without the Jones Act,” said Rep. Hunter. “I will continue to vocalize my support for the American maritime industry; one that creates good-paying, family-wage jobs, secures our borders, and fuels our economy.” This past June, Rep. Hunter demonstrated his commitment to the industry when he joined hundreds of veterans and active military personnel at the American Maritime Partnership’s Military to Maritime career fair in San Diego, where he met with men and women looking to transfer their specialized skills earned from the military into careers in U.S. maritime. The SIU participated in that event. “Chairman Hunter has been a tremendously valued champion for the domestic American maritime industry, serving as a leader who truly understands our industry’s critical role to the vitality and security of our nation,” AMP Chairman Tom Allegretti said. “From his time in the service to his seat as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, Congressman Hunter has witnessed firsthand what it takes to sustain a strong maritime industry and because of his dedication, we are honored to provide him with our highest honor: the Champion of Maritime Award.” The U.S. domestic maritime industry is a pillar of our nation’s economic, national, and homeland security. More than 40,000 American vessels built in American shipyards, crewed by American mariners, and owned by American companies, operate in our waters every day, and this commerce sustains nearly 500,000 American jobs, $28.95 billion wages and more than $92.5 billion in annual economic output. Construction Gets Underway on Two New Aloha Class Containerships for Matson Seafarers-contracted Matson recently announced the start of production on two new Aloha Class containerships designed specifically for Hawaii service, with greater capacity and state-of-the-art “green ship technology” features. After a small ceremony at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard on Oct. 1, the cutting of steel plates began, initiating the construction work to build both ships. The SIU represents steward department mariners aboard Matson vessels. In 2013, Matson signed a contract with Aker Philadelphia to build the two new ships for an aggregate price of $418 million. The vessels are expected to be delivered in the third and fourth quarters of 2018 and will sail in the Jones Act trade. Matson also announced that the first of the two new ships will be named after the late Senator Daniel K. Inouye, who was a lifelong supporter of the U.S. maritime industry and its role in supporting Hawaii’s economy. Senator Inouye also was a cherished friend of the SIU. The 850-foot long, 3,600 TEU vessels will be Matson’s largest ships and the largest Jones Act containerships ever con- structed, according to the company. They are designed to operate at speeds greater than 23 knots, helping ensure timely delivery of goods in Hawaii. Though bigger, the ships are also designed to accommodate future needs by being able to navigate safely into some of Hawaii’s smaller ports, Matson noted. The new vessels will incorporate a number of features aimed at protecting the environment, including a more fuelefficient hull design, dual-fuel engines that can be adapted to use liquefied natural gas (LNG), environmentally safe double-hull fuel tanks and freshwater ballast systems. “These new ships are the future for Hawaii shipping and will bring a new level of efficiency and effectiveness to our service,” said Matt Cox, president and CEO, Matson. “The substantial investment in new technology underscores Matson’s long-term commitment to Hawaii and our desire to serve the islands in the best, most environmentally friendly way into the future.” Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is a union facility. AMP Chairman Tom Allegretti, Rep. Duncan Hunter Progress in Bid for New Union Hall in Puerto Rico During the Oct. 5 membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, SIU officials announced that a new building has been located for purchase in Puerto Rico. Should the acquisition effort prove successful, the new property will be future site of the SIU’s union hall in the commonwealth. On hand to hear the good news and roar their approval were Seafarers and Puerto Rico native sons (photo above, starting in front) Oiler Oscar Cordero, AB Julio Alvarez, FOWT Kenneth Cabrera, (back row) Engineer Armando Garayua, Oiler Carlos Arzuafa Flores, and Oiler Lazaro Rivera. Honoring MTD Service SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper (center) recently was recognized for 15 years of dedicated service to the Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Council, part of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department. She is stepping down from her post as the port council’s secretary-treasurer. Pictured from left are SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell, Port Council VP John Stiffler, Port Council President Jack Martorelli, Sleeper, incoming Secretary-Treasurer/SIU Joliet Port Agent Chad Partridge, VP Great Lakes/Inland Waters Tommy Orzechowski and MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan. 10 Seafarers LOG November 2015 �USNS Comfort Successfully Concludes Mission Members of the SIU Government Services Division recently helped successfully wrap up a months-long, multinational mission aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort. The Military Sealift Command vessel arrived at its home port of Norfolk, Virginia, in late September after making other domestic port calls to disembark members of the civilian and military crews. More than 1,000 medical professionals, military members and mariners were deployed aboard the Comfort as part of Operation Continuing Promise 2015 (CP-15). The humanitarian effort, which began in April, offered top-level health care to more than 122,000 patients living in impoverished areas of Barbados, Belize, Colombia, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, and Panama. In addition, veterinarians on board treated more 7,000 animals, and engineers completed more than 90 community and building site projects. “This is a pretty amazing mission,” said Capt. Ryan Tillotson, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command. “It gets a lot of local interest. The president of Honduras and the first lady showed up for this, we get ambassadors that show up for this, so I think it points to the importance they place on it as well. Everywhere we go the final thing they say when we leave is when are you coming back.” He added, “We had some Cuban medical doctors that joined us on the mission in Haiti when we were actually out assessing patients as part of this medical stop. That’s another thing that this mission does; it doesn’t look at borders, it looks at people (and) what do people need.” “The opportunity we shared with the U.S. Embassy, to collaborate and engage with the Cuban medical delegation, allowed us to optimize the care each of us provides to the people of Haiti,” said Capt. Christine Sears, commanding officer of the medical treatment facility aboard the Comfort. “In each of our mission stops, it has been our Civilian mariners conduct sea and anchor detail aboard the MSC hospital ship USNS Comfort as the ship departs Naval Station Mayport, Florida, during Continuing Promise 2015. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Schneider) goal to provide the best patient care possible. By participating in these engagements, we are able to further that goal by exchanging best practices and observations.” The final mission stop in Haiti began on Sept. 11, after which the Seafarers-crewed ship made a two-day port visit at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, before heading to Naval Station Mayport, Florida. From there, Navy families were allowed to board the ship and sail with their loved ones to Norfolk, in what’s referred to as a “tiger cruise.” “CP-15 has been an incredible journey in which the entire team put forth a tremendous amount of hard work, coordination and perseverance to provide quality care and services to the people within the region,” said Capt. Sam Hancock, CP-15 Mission commander. “We have strengthened partnerships with each of the host nations as well as our colleagues, friends and citizens of Central America, South America and the Caribbean.” SIU-Crewed Philadelphia Express Assists In Rescue of Nine Near Key West, Florida A Coast Guard vessel approaches the makeshift raft near Key West, Florida. Seafarers recently helped ensure the safety of nine Cubans who were drifting on a makeshift raft near Key West, Florida. The SIU-crewed Philadelphia Express was in transit between Houston and Savannah, Georgia, in late September when mariners aboard the Crowley-operated ship spotted a floating object in the distance. The containership moved to intercept the object, which was discovered to be a homemade raft with nine Cubans aboard waving in distress. The eight-foot-long by five-foot-wide raft was constructed from large blocks of plastic foam and was floating very low in the water. Upon a request from the U.S. Coast Guard, the Philadelphia Express began to circle the craft, both to ascertain the nature of the situation and to protect the raft from other potential vessel traffic. The crew boosted the morale of the Cubans until a Coast Guard response vessel arrived on the scene. The SIU crew on board the Philadelphia Express included Bosun Jose Jimenea, ABs Michael Brisco, Jorge Gamboa, Rolando Salamat and Washington Williams, QE4 Phillip Niles, QEE David Carter, OS Abedon Lujan, Wiper Gary Timmons, Steward/ Baker Kenneth Long, Chief Cook Eduardo Elemento and Steward Israel Coronel. After the Coast Guard vessel had taken control of the situation, the Philadelphia Express was released from the scene and headed towards its original destination of Savannah. “The crew members participating in this event acted in a very professional manner and are all pleased to have contributed to this rescue effort,” said Captain D.A. Sulin, master of the Philadelphia Express. “The Coast Guard vessel was on scene in a short amount of time and clearly had established procedures in place to affect the rescue.” Safety Directors Converge in Maryland SIU safety directors from across the country met at the union’s headquarters and at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in late September. They are pictured at the school along with SIU headquarters officials, Paul Hall Center instructors, and executives from SIU-contracted companies. The safety directors tackled numerous topics during a one-week curriculum including the Manila amendments to the STCW convention, new simulators at the school, various aspects of safety training and more. November 2015 Seafarers LOG 11 �These photos (above, below and at right) show some of the dislays that pay respect to World War II mariners aboard the John W. Brown. The Brown’s pin-up mascot - “Brownie the Riveter” (above) - is a relatively new addition to the ship. Her moniker is appropriate to a ship named John W. Brown. The artwork adorns the aft deck house. Pictured at right is John W. Brown Capt. Richard Bauman Jr. Immediately below the captain is vessel mascot Jack the Wonder Dog, a full-fledged crew member. A Floating Tribute to U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans John W. Brown Provides Living History of WWII W hile the World War II contributions of the U.S. Merchant Marine over the years have been largely unheralded or forgotten, one group of devoted volunteers is doing its utmost to positively alter this landscape and, in the process, afford American Merchant Marine Veterans some measure of the recognition they deserve. These volunteers, including retired Seafarers, came together in 1978 to form a non-profit organization known as Project Liberty Ship. Collectively, they dedicated themselves to the preservation of the Liberty ship SS John W. Brown as a memorial to the men and women of American industry who built the great Liberty Fleet and to the merchant seamen and Naval Armed Guards who sailed the ships across all the oceans of the world. The John W. Brown is one of two still-operational Liberty ships and one of three preserved as museums ships. (The SS Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco is the other surviving operational Liberty ship. The third Liberty ship, the SS Hellas Victory – formerly the SS Arthur M. Huddell – is preserved as a static museum ship in Piraeus, Greece). As a Liberty ship, she operated as part of the United States Merchant Marine fleet during World War II. Later, the vessel served as a vocational high school training ship in New York. Now fully preserved, the Brown is both a museum ship and a cruise ship. She is berthed at Clinton Street Pier 1 in Baltimore Harbor in Baltimore, Maryland. The platform was named after the Canadian-born American labor union leader John W. Brown. In her role as a cruise vessel, the Brown gets underway several times a year for six-hour “Living History Cruises” which are open to the public. These voyages take the ship through Baltimore Harbor, down the Patapsco River, and into the Chesapeake Bay. Designed to educate the public on the pivotal role merchant mariners played in the allied victory during World War II, each cruise includes tours of the ship, discussions of the role of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Liberty ships, and American women in World War II. Also included are reenactments of the activities of the 2nd Mate George Nason 12 Seafarers LOG ship’s World War II U.S. Navy Armed Guard, flybys and simulated attacks on the vessel by World War II aircraft, and entertainment by a barbershop quartet, individual singers and comedians. Finally, actors make the rounds imitating such World War II-era figures as President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Andrews Sisters, and Abbott and Costello. At of the end of the 2015 cruising season, the John W. Brown had completed her101st Living History Cruise and had visited more than 29 ports along the United States East Coast , the Atlantic coast of Canada and in the Great Lakes. She is the largest cruise ship operating under the American flag on the United States East Coast. Designed as cheaply and quickly built cargo steamers, Liberty ships formed the backbone of a massive sealift of troops, arms, materiel and ordnance to every theater during World War II. Twothirds of all the cargo that left the United States during the war was shipped aboard Liberty ships. Two hundred of them (some of them SIU-crewed) were lost during the war, either to enemy action or to a range of maritime mishaps including collisions, groundings and fires. There were so many of them, however, that the enemy could never hope to sink enough Liberty ships to close the sea lanes. Consequently, American supplies still managed to get through. A Liberty ship could carry almost 9,000 tons of cargo, about the same as 300 railroad boxcars. During World War II, they carried every conceivable cargo – from beans to bullets. Some of the vessels, like the John W. Brown, were also fitted out to carry troops as well as cargo. Around 500 soldiers at a time could be carried aboard this vessel. She saw duty in many Mediterranean ports during invasions and steamed in convoys that were attacked by enemy aircraft and submarines, but she was never seriously damaged by the enemy. The John W. Brown was launched at the Bethlehem-Fairfield Shipyard in Baltimore on September 7, 1942, Labor Day. Altogether, six Liberty ships were launched that day from various Sean Aling shipyards; each of them named after a labor leader. The Brown is powered by a reciprocating, triple-expansion steam engine, a relic from an earlier day in maritime history. The engine is fed with steam from two oil-fired boilers and drives a single, four-bladed propeller, 18 feet in diameter. Like many U.S. merchant ships during World War II, the John W. Brown carried defensive weapons. Her armament included a 3-inch/50 caliber gun in the bow; one 5-inch/38 caliber gun and two 3-inch/50 caliber guns in the stern. Additionally, she boasted eight 20mm anti-aircraft guns. Two of these flanked the 3-inch/50 bow gun. Four more 20mm guns were at the corners of the flying bridge, and two 20mm guns were in elevated gun platforms on the port and starboard after deck. Since she carried troops as well as cargo, the Brown had a greater number of guns than her merchant sister ships that carried cargo only. A cargo-carrying Liberty ship would typically have had one 5-inch/38 caliber gun, one 3-inch/50 caliber gun and eight 20mm guns. As with U.S. and other Allied merchant ships, the guns on John W. Brown were manned by the U.S. Navy Armed Guard, a detachment of U.S. Navy personnel assigned to the ship. The Brown was crewed by about 45 civilian merchant seamen. This number varied slightly from voyage to voyage, depending on the number of troops she carried. The vessel made 13 voyages during World War II. Her maiden voyage was to the Persian Gulf, carrying military equipment for Russia, which could only be supplied from the Persian Gulf or via convoys to Murmansk, the infamous “Murmansk run.” Most of the Brown’s remaining wartime voyages were to the Mediterranean Sea, including duty during the Anzio landings. She was also a part of the invasion force of southern France during Operation Dragoon in August 1944. Immediately following the war, the Brown carried government cargoes to help rebuild war-torn Europe. More information about the John W. Brown is available at www.ssjohnwbrown.org/project-liberty/, www.ssjohnwbrown.org and www.ssjohnwbrown.org/living-history-cruise/. Mike Schneider November 2015 Crew members busy themselves on deck handling line. November 2015 Bob Clancy Larry Freeman Seafarers LOG 13 �2016 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Wilson Hall James Madison University Scholarships totalling $132,000 are avaiable to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: ■ One $20,000 offering for a four year course of study ■ A total of five scholarships, each totalling $20,000, are at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two year courses of study at a community college or vocational school being offered to dependents (spouses incuded) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet 2016 (PDF). Please send me the 2016 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.................................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address................................................................................................................................................................... City, State, Zip Code........................................................................................................................................................ Telephone Number ( This application is for: ) ............................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 11/15 14 Seafarers LOG November 2015 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea November & December 2015 Membership Meetings September 16, 2015 - October 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 13 2 4 11 3 4 10 37 30 40 3 11 15 13 5 3 4 35 1 33 277 8 1 6 11 1 1 9 14 15 16 1 2 24 9 2 3 3 8 2 19 155 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 4 1 2 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 14 Deck Department 7 13 1 0 2 3 12 10 2 2 10 0 5 3 51 10 22 10 34 7 1 1 6 0 14 12 16 6 5 4 2 1 7 1 21 4 1 0 21 16 240 103 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 0 0 6 0 4 1 19 7 15 0 1 7 2 1 0 1 8 0 5 81 21 2 7 27 4 14 20 127 79 74 10 21 35 37 8 3 10 75 3 56 633 17 4 8 20 2 3 10 22 26 22 3 4 35 9 6 2 9 19 5 19 245 1 0 3 3 0 0 4 7 3 2 1 2 1 1 4 1 1 1 0 3 38 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 2 0 4 3 1 4 8 22 17 17 3 6 15 15 3 0 3 18 2 15 158 4 0 3 0 1 1 3 8 13 8 1 4 10 5 3 3 0 4 2 7 80 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 13 Engine Department 5 4 0 0 2 6 5 3 0 0 2 1 5 5 16 6 13 10 16 6 3 1 3 2 9 10 7 3 2 3 0 0 2 0 12 1 1 1 10 5 113 67 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 7 0 0 0 4 1 1 3 8 4 5 1 1 3 3 0 0 0 5 0 3 42 3 0 6 11 1 4 12 40 52 25 4 11 24 25 5 1 2 34 2 23 285 7 0 4 6 1 4 9 14 26 17 2 8 21 11 3 5 4 9 2 16 169 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 3 6 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 22 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 2 0 3 13 0 4 8 21 13 11 0 4 9 12 0 1 0 7 1 15 124 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 6 7 2 3 4 0 1 4 4 2 0 5 45 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 9 Steward Department 2 1 0 0 0 0 6 3 0 0 4 1 4 0 22 5 14 5 11 5 1 1 1 0 8 3 14 1 2 0 3 2 0 3 8 2 1 0 14 3 115 35 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 9 5 5 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 3 0 3 35 3 1 6 19 1 8 19 38 32 24 2 8 19 28 1 2 1 21 2 44 279 1 0 1 5 2 4 0 20 15 5 2 3 13 6 2 2 7 4 2 13 107 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 1 2 2 0 2 4 4 1 1 0 2 0 2 25 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 3 0 0 1 0 1 2 3 3 3 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 11 0 4 34 8 1 0 5 1 2 8 10 6 19 1 2 15 7 1 2 1 6 0 14 109 6 0 0 0 0 3 4 4 6 0 0 3 10 3 0 0 0 5 0 8 52 Entry Department 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 2 0 5 7 4 1 7 2 10 0 2 0 0 1 7 0 6 0 2 0 2 0 0 5 7 0 0 3 9 19 72 3 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 2 1 1 0 2 3 1 0 0 2 0 8 27 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 4 0 4 19 8 0 0 2 0 1 2 6 6 3 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 12 0 15 59 7 1 1 9 4 3 9 26 12 34 1 4 38 13 2 1 1 15 1 22 204 5 1 1 1 0 4 8 4 14 4 0 2 17 10 0 0 0 17 0 23 111 GRAND TOTAL: 593 389 88 41 177 1,256 725 196 Piney Point..............................Monday: November 2, December 7 Algonac..................................Friday: November 6, December11 Baltimore.............................Thursday: November 5, December 10 Guam..........................Thursday: November 19, December 24 Honolulu.................................Friday: November 13, December 18 Houston.................................Monday: November 9, December 14 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: November 5, December 10 Joliet.................................Thursday: November 12, December 17 Mobile..........*Thursday: November 12, Wednesday: December 16 New Orleans..........................Tuesday: November 10, December 15 Jersey City..............................Tuesday: November 3, December 8 Norfolk.................................Thursday: November 5, December 10 Oakland.............................Thursday: November 12, December 17 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: November 4, December 9 Port Everglades.................Thursday: November 12, December 17 San Juan................................Thursday: November 5, December 10 St. Louis..................................Friday: November 13, December 18 Tacoma..............Friday: November 20, **Monday: December 28 Wilmington.............................Monday: November 16, December 21 *Mobile change due to Veterans Day holiday **Tacoma change due to Christmas Day Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. November 2015 Total Shipped All Groups A B 487 277 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A 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 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 members attending upgrading courses at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Ouestion: Should merchant mariners, especially those who serve aboard military support vessels, be given veterans’ status when they retire? Alvin Alcasid Oiler I definitely think they should be given veteran status because they do the same things military people do. They work closely with military members, do the same types of jobs, and are under the same type of rules as military members are when they are aboard those types of vessels. I sail out of the port of Wilmington, California, and have been sailing since 2005. Oscar Cordero Oiler Retired mariners who work aboard government support vessels definitely should be given veteran status when they retire. They do the same types of things for the country as people in uniform so they should be recognized for it. I sail from port of Jersey City, New Jersey, and have been sailing since 2011. 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 Derek Minnix AB I sail from the port of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and I think only those mariners who have sailed with the naval reserve or aboard Military Sealift Command vessels should be given veteran status when they retire. I’ve been sailing since 2011. Sheryl Farmer Chief Steward I would say yes. Merchant mariners do an awful lot when it comes to moving military cargo all over the United States as well as globally during times of war. As a result they contribute greatly to all war efforts. I hail from the port of Norfolk, Virginia, and have been going to sea for six years. Kyle Silva AB Tankerman I have been a union member for five years and sail out of the port of Houston, Texas. I think retiring merchant mariners absolutely should be given veterans status when they retire because they do the same type of work as military members do, especially when a war is on. We go into hot zones just as people in military uniforms do. Julio Alvarez AB I say yes because throughout history, merchant mariners have been involved in every war this country has had. It’s mariners who take them (members of the military) most of the supplies they need including weapons and ammunition. We take these things to them when the fighting starts and then we bring it back when the fighting ends. So even though we may not actually fire shots, we provide the materials that are vital to them to achieve their mission. Pics 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 Former Seafarer John Ulstrom submitted these photos along with the following message: November 10, 2015 will be the 40th anniversary of the sinking of the mighty lake boat Edmund Fitzgerald. Having served, briefly, on the vessel I thought it might be appropriate to publish a picture or two…. The deckhand is Leon Weber from Superior, Wisconsin. I took the photo in March 1971, shortly after the shipping season had begun. The ship photo is one I purchased on my first hitch in 1965. The Fitzgerald was my first vessel ever, in August of 1965. When I returned to civilian life after four years in the Navy and a year on the beach, I was sent back to the Fitz. I sailed with the SIU from early 2001 until August 2009, as an AB. 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 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 November 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 ELSAYED AYED Brother Elsayed Ayed, 68, joined the SIU in 1987. His first trip was aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Ayed sailed in the engine department. He last worked on the Horizon Trader. Brother Ayed calls Brooklyn, New York, home. LUIS CABALLERO Brother Luis Caballero, 67, became a union member in 1990. He initially worked on the Independence. Brother Caballero attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. He was born in Honduras and sailed in the steward department. Brother Caballero’s most recent voyage was aboard the Advantage. He makes his home in Houston. STRODE CALL Brother Strode Call, 58, donned the SIU colors in 1981. He originally sailed on the Defender. Brother Call upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. The steward department member’s last trip was on the Horizon Kodiak. He lives in Spanaway, Washington. ALFREDO CUEVAS Brother Alfredo Cuevas, 68, started sailing with the union in 1987. His first trip was aboard the USNS Wyman. In 2001, Brother Cuevas attended classes at the SIUaffiliated school in Maryland. The engine department member’s most recent vessel was the Maersk Missouri. Brother Cuevas is a resident of the Philippines. ABRAHAM DAIF Brother Abraham Daif, 65, became an SIU member in 1986. He initially worked aboard the USNS Denebola. Brother Daif sailed in all three departments and most recently shipped on the Horizon Hawaii. November 2015 He upgraded twice at the Piney Point school. Brother Daif resides in Egypt. RUTLAND GALE Brother Rutland Gale, 71, joined the SIU ranks in 2004 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He initially sailed on the Green Dale. Brother Gale sailed in the engine department. His most recent ship was the Endurance. Brother Gale calls Miami home. DOMINIC GALLUCCI Brother Dominic Gallucci, 71, started shipping with the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. The steward department member enhanced his skills frequently at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last sailed on the Cape Ducato. Brother Gallucci lives in Atlantic Beach, Florida. EDWIN HERBSMAN Brother Edwin Herbsman, 71, began sailing with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He sailed in the engine department and most recently worked aboard the Alaskan Navigator. Brother Herbsman is a New York native. He lives in Boca Raton, Florida. SHENG JEN HSIEH Brother Sheng Jen Hsieh, 71, joined the union in 1979. He upgraded numerous times at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hsieh’s first ship was the Manukai; his most recent, the Empire State. He was born in China and worked in the steward department. Brother Hsieh is a resident of Honolulu. LEWIS MADARA Brother Lewis Madara, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1975. His first trip was on the Overseas Alaska as a member of the deck department. Brother Madara most recently sailed aboard the Ambassador. He makes his home in Dorothy, New Jersey. WILLIE MADISON Brother Willie Madison, 69, joined the union in 1967. He first shipped on the Mayaguez. Brother Madison worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Lightning. Brother Madison calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. DOMICIANO NONATO Brother Domiciano Nonato, 71, became a Seafarer in 1991. He was originally employed on the Independence. In 2001 and 2004, Brother Nonato attended classes at the Piney Point school. The steward department member’s most recent vessel was the APL Belgium. Brother Nonato is a resident of Long Beach, California. DASRIL PANKO Brother Dasril Panko, 65, signed on with the union in 1979. His first ship was the Banner; his most recent was the USNS Sgt. Matej. Kocak. Brother Panko often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Panko lives in Largo, Florida. LUIS RAMIREZ Brother Luis Ramirez, 65, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1977. His first trip was on the Achilles. Brother Ramirez, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills on three occasions at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the El Yunque. Brother Ramirez resides in Palm Bay, Florida. RONALD SHAW Brother Ronald Shaw, 65, became a union member in 1970. He initially sailed on the Steel Artisan. Brother Shaw shipped in the engine department. He upgraded frequently at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Shaw last sailed aboard the USNS 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. He makes his home in North Hampton, Pennsylvania. NICHOLAS VIEIRA Brother Nicholas Vieira, 71, started sailing with the SIU in 1997. He originally worked on the Wilson. A member of the engine department, Brother Vieira upgraded his skills twice at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Wisconsin. Brother Vieira lives in Riviera Beach, Florida. THOMAS WHITE Brother Thomas White, 65, be- came a union member in 1991. Brother White attended classes in 1995 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He worked with Sea-Land for his entire career, mainly as an electrician. Brother White resides in Norfolk, Virginia. JAN WILLIS Brother Jan Willis, 65, began shipping with the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. His most recent vessel was the Resolve. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Willis makes his home in Dewitt, Arkansas. INLAND JOHN BAUCOM Brother John Baucom, 65, started his seafaring career in 1976. He initially worked aboard a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. Brother Baucom sailed in the deck department. His most recent trip was on the USNS Altair. Brother Baucom has retired to Jacksonville, Florida. WARREN BURKE Brother Warren Burke, 68, signed on with the SIU in 1988. He was first employed with Steuart Transportation Company as a member of the engine department. Brother Burke attended classes often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last shipped aboard a Penn Maritime Inc. vessel. Brother Burke is a resident of Ridge, Maryland. RANDAL CUDWORTH Brother Randal Cudworth, 62, joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Virginia. He sailed in the deck department, primarily on vessels operated by Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Cudworth calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. MICHAEL DUER Brother Michael Duer, 65, became an SIU member in 1978. A native of Camden, New Jersey, he enhanced his seafaring abilities in 1981 at the Piney Point school. Brother Duer originally shipped aboard International Bulk Transport vessels. He last sailed with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. He makes his home in Cape May, New Jersey. MARK GARAYOA Brother Mark Garayoa, 62, began shipping with the union in 1973 in Baltimore. He mainly worked with McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Brother Garayoa was born in Maryland and sailed in the deck department. He settled in Towson, Maryland. JOHN HAYNIE Brother John Haynie, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1993. He shipped with McAllister Towing of Virginia for the duration of his career. Brother Haynie upgraded in 2003 at the Paul Hall Center. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Haynie calls Reedville, Virginia, home. DON HUDGINS Brother Don Hudgins, 66, became a union member in 1991. He was primarily employed with Virginia Pilot Corporation, and sailed in the deck department. Brother Hudgins is a resident of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. TRACY REED Brother Tracy Reed, 55, started shipping with the union in 1989. He originally sailed in the deep sea division aboard the USNS 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez. Brother Reed, a deck department member, enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. He last worked with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. Brother Reed makes his home in Charleston, Arkansas. DAVID TROSCLAIR Brother David Trosclair, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1973. He initially sailed with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Trosclair was born in Houma, Louisiana. His most recent trip was with Martin Marietta. Brother Trosclair continues to reside in Louisiana. DONALD WEAVER Brother Donald Weaver, 62, signed on with the union in 1972. His first trip was with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Brother Weaver’s final ship was operated by Martin Marietta. He calls Fairhope, Alabama, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JULIO ALONSO Pensioner Julio Alonso, 98, died April 1. He first shipped on the Suzanne in 1954. Prior to his retirement in 1979, Brother Alonso, a member of the engine department, sailed aboard the Elizabeth. He made his home in Seminole, Florida. RODOLFO CANCELA Pensioner Rodolfo Cancela, 96, passed away May 10. He joined the union in 1944. Some of Brother Cancela’s first voyages were aboard ships operated by Waterman Steamship Corporation. He was born in Tampa, Florida, and shipped in the deck department. He last sailed on the Seattle. Brother Cancela went on pension in 1983 and continued to call Florida home. JOSEPH COMEAUX Pensioner Joseph Comeaux, 66, passed away May 28. Brother Comeaux initially worked on the Innovator; his final ship was the Horizon Spirit. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Comeaux became a pensioner in 2011 and lived in Riverside, California. JOSEPH DEJESUS Pensioner Joseph DeJesus, 79, passed away May 6. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1991 in the port of Wilmington, California. Brother DeJesus first sailed aboard the Overseas Boston. The Massachusetts native was a deck department member. Brother DeJesus’s final ship was the Overseas Joyce. He went on pension in 2001 and settled in La Mesa, California. DAVID GILMORE Pensioner David Gilmore, 89, died May 6. Brother Gilmore joined the SIU in 1944. The North Carolina native originally 18 Seafarers LOG worked with Calmar Steamship Corporation. Brother Gilmore last sailed aboard the Overseas Washington. A member of the deck department, Brother Gilmore started collecting his retirement compensation in 1989. He was a resident of Godwin, North Carolina. Davis became a union member in 1983. His first trip was with Steuart Transportation. Brother Davis sailed in the deck department. He most recently worked on an OSG Ship Management vessel. Brother Davis started receiving his pension in 2007. He settled in North Carolina. JOHN HARPER Brother John Harper, 56, passed away April 2. He began sailing with the union in 2004. Brother Harper first shipped on the Cape May. He was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and worked in the deck department. Brother Harper’s final voyage was on the Horizon Kodiak. He made his home in Wadsworth, Ohio. ANDREW DIX Pensioner Andrew Dix, 83, died May 24. The Virginia native signed on with the SIU in 1970. Brother Dix primarily shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation Company. He was a resident of White Stone, Virginia. RONNIE HADNOTT Pensioner Ronnie Hadnott, 64, died April 26. Born in Houston, he donned the SIU colors in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. Brother Hadnott was a steward department member. Prior to his retirement in 2013, Brother Hadnott worked aboard the Cape Vincent. He called Galveston, Texas, home. MACON WELCH Pensioner Macon Welch, 87, passed away May 17. He signed on with the union in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Alabama. Brother Welch’s first ship was the Beaugard; his last was the Point Julie. A member of the deck department, Brother Welch began collecting his pension in 1982. He continued to live in his native state, Georgia. INLAND JAMES COPELAND Pensioner James Copeland, 81, died May 26. Brother Copeland started sailing with the SIU in 1963. He was originally employed aboard an Eagle Marine Industries vessel. Brother Copeland last shipped with Mt. Pleasant Harbor Services. He retired in 1996 and resided in Missouri. GEORGE DAVIS Pensioner George Davis, 70, passed away May 3. Brother JERRY MCGEE Pensioner Jerry McGee, 76, passed away May 10. He started his seafaring career in 1963 with Coyle Lines Inc. Brother McGee was a native of Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the deck department, most recently on a G&H Towing vessel. Brother McGee retired in 2003 and lived in Pearland, Texas. TEDDY STRICKLAND Pensioner Teddy Strickland, 71, died May 29. Born in Hemphill, Texas, Brother Strickland began sailing with the SIU in 1969. He was initially employed with Southern Towing Inc. Brother Strickland last sailed on a Higman Barge Lines vessel. He became a pensioner in 2002 and continued to live in Texas. DAVID TILLETT Pensioner David Tillett, 85, passed away May 18. He signed on with the union in 1960. Brother Tillett originally shipped aboard the Gulf Atlantic. Before his retirement in 1993, he worked with Mariner Towing. Brother Tillett was a resident of North Carolina. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM GREGEL Pensioner William Gregel, 86, died April 9. He joined the SIU in 1961. Brother Gregel worked with Dunbar & Sullivan and with Great Lakes Towing Company. The steward department member began receiving his pension in 1990 and called Michigan home. EDWARD RINGSRED Pensioner Edward Ringsred, 84, passed away April 4. He started shipping with the union in 1967. Brother Ringsred’s first vessel was the Reiss Brothers; his last was the St. Clair. He worked as a member of the steward department. Brother Ringsred began collecting his pension in 1997 and lived in Duluth, Minnesota. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION died May 7. Brother Marques was born in Roswell, New Mexico. He went on pension in 1995 and was a resident of Galveston, Texas. GILBERTO PEREZ Pensioner Gilberto Perez, 85, passed away May 4. He was a native of Corpus Christi, Texas. Brother Perez retired in 1986 and continued to make his home in Texas. CLIFFORD SCARBOROUGH Pensioner Clifford Scarborough, 87, passed away May 13. Born in Plainfield, California, Brother Scarborough became a pensioner in 1977. He settled in Pasadena, Texas. JOHN CALLAHAN Pensioner John Callahan, 89, passed away February 19. The Massachusetts native retired in 1968. Brother Callahan called Kerrville, Texas, home. CHARLES SIMS Pensioner Charles Sims, 77, died May 25. Brother Sims was born in Nebraska. He started collecting his retirement pay in 2003. Brother Sims lived in Los Angeles. ANDREW EDWARDS Pensioner Andrew Edwards, 85, died April 22. Born in Alabama, Brother Edwards started receiving his pension in 1995. He lived in Hampton, Virginia. JUAN SOLIS Pensioner Juan Solis, 87, passed away May 12. The Puerto Rico native retired in 1987. He called Yonkers, New York, home. LUIS FERNANDEZ Pensioner Luis Fernandez, 96, passed away April 7. He was born in Ecuador, and became a pensioner in 1977. Brother Fernandez settled in Flagler Beach, Florida. HERMAN GAVION Pensioner Herman Gavion, 95, died May 16. Brother Gavion, a native of New Orleans, began collecting his retirement pay in 1979. He resided in El Paso, Texas. JOHN GREGORY Pensioner John Gregory, 90, passed away May 18. Brother Gregory went on pension in 1986. He lived in New Jersey. CLARENCE HOLLOWAY Pensioner Clarence Holloway, 91, died March 13. Brother Holloway was born in Liverpool, Louisiana. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1969 and made his home in Houston. ROBERT JONES Pensioner Robert Jones, 74, passed away April 16. The Texas native became a pensioner in 2006. Brother Jones called Port Arthur, Texas, home. ROSALIO MARQUES Pensioner Rosalio Marques, 74, WILLIAM STILLWELL Pensioner William Stillwell, 101, died May 17. Born in Lott, Texas, Brother Stillwell went on pension in 1979. He was a resident of Seattle. MANUEL TUBENS Pensioner Manuel Tubens, 80, passed away May 14. He was born in Anasco, Puerto Rico. Brother Tubens began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1998. He made his home in Camden City, New Jersey. LOUIS WALTER Pensioners Louis Walter, 87, died April 9. The Honduras native became a pensioner in 1991. Brother Walter settled in Brooklyn, New York. HENRY WILLIAMS Pensioner Henry Williams, 85, passed away March 17. Brother Williams was born in Virginia. He retired in 1997 and resided in Norfolk, Virginia. Name Age Bullock, Harold 84 Hernandez, Edwin 74 Hockins, Leroy 77 Kelley, Joseph 84 Micciolo, Carmen 88 Molina Mario 85 Pattiz, Christopher 65 Powers, Thomas 85 Whitner, Calvin 89 DOD March 26 April 20 April 22 April 20 March 8 May 22 March 23 April 24 May 9 November 2015 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE FAIRFAX (Maersk Line, Limited), August 21 – Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary Martin E. Buck, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Engine Delegate Bernard Smalls, Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman thanked crew for a safe trip and sent well wishes to ABM Rolando Pulido for a speedy recovery. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave a vote of thanks to steward department. Next ports: Brunswick, Georgia, New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. pro-maritime messages to Congress, which is vital in maintaining U.S. maritime jobs. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications from headquarters were read and posted. Members suggested increasing dental coverage. Steward department thanked fellow crew members for helping keep pantry clean. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for great food. Next port: Tacoma. ANCHORAGE (Matson), August 23 – Chairman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Amanda F. Suncin, Educational Director Gary M. Dahl, Engine Delegate Jeffery Murray, Steward Delegate Rupert B. Henry. Bosun announced payoff August 26 in Tacoma, Washington. Secretary talked about importance of contributing to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation); those donations help the union deliver CHARLESTON EXPRESS (Crowley), August 23 – Chairman James E. Bishop, Secretary Lissette B. Ramirez, Educational Director Mike Kifle, Deck Delegate Eugene T. Grantham, Steward Delegate Juan Palacios. Chairman lead discussion about medical benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from Seafarers LOG was read. Next ports: Charleston, South Carolina, Port Everglades, Florida and Houston. Seafarers Support Military Exercise AB Jason Baker submitted these photos of mariners from the USNS 2nd LT John Paul Bobo supporting our troops in the exercise Tempest Wind 2015. The mobilization included participants from the Marine Corps, Navy and Army. Pictured from left to right in the group photo are (standing) AB William Jackson, AB Jose Cereno, QMED Brad Supplee, 3rd Mate Arik Pullem, AB Jason Baker, Chief Mate Michael Hasson, QMED Tom Jones, AB Sean Wilson, AB Anthony Heck, OS Luis Cordero, Bosun Angel Perez, (front) GUDE Dylan Sapp and SA Mayron Santana. November 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. GOLDEN STATE (Crowley), August 30 – Chairman Burkley D. Cooper, Secretary Pedro R. Mena, Educational Director Tyesha N. Boyd, Deck Delegate Stones Cooper, Engine Delegate Kareem Walters, Steward Delegate Cesar Santos. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary. Secretary thanked fellow crew members for helping keep common areas clean. Educational director encouraged everyone to keep all necessary seafaring documents current. He also suggested members upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners requested TVs and refrigerators for all rooms. ST LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), August 18 – Chairman Matthew T. Sagay, Secretary Gerald L. Archie, Deck Delegate Alvin J. Clark, Steward Delegate John A. Stephen. Secretary talked about recent raise. Educational director advised crew members to enhance skills at maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Treasurer stated $209 in ship’s fund. Deck delegate urged Seafarers to keep credentials up- to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to purchase bigger seats for stationary bikes. ALLIANCE ST LOUIS (Maersk Line, Limited), September 2 – Chairman Basil D’souza, Secretary Rudolph Daniels, Educational Director Herbert Hyde, Deck Delegate Armondo Alvarez, Engine Delegate Malachi Tannis, Steward Delegate Gilbert Allende. Chairman talked about newsworthy events on recent trips. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All crew members received Seafarers LOG to read. Vote of thanks was given to steward and deck departments. Next port: Norfolk, Virginia. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), September 9 – Chairman Robert Lindsay, Secretary Steven M. Dickson. Chairman stated payoff to talk place in Newark, New Jersey on September 14. Crew members were advised to keep all necessary seafaring paperwork current and remember all Seafarers have to complete BST by 2017. Secretary encouraged mariners to contribute to SPAD to help SIU officials battle those fighting against the Jones Act. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $800 in ship’s fund. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck and engine departments. Request was made to upgrade to commercial heavy duty washer and dryer to avoid problems. Suggestions were made regarding pension and vacation benefits. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk Line, Limited), September 17 – Chairman Konstantino Prokovas, Secretary Darryl K. Goggins, Educational Director Jan Morawski, Deck Delegate John Mensah, Engine Delegate Roger Nesbeth, Steward Delegate Alba Ayala. Bosun thanked crew for safe voyage. Secretary reminded those departing vessel to make sure rooms are clean and supplied with fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director urged members to enhance skills at union-affiliated school and went over how to utilize SIU website. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension benefits. Next port: Norfolk, Virginia. OVERSEAS MYKONOS (OSG Ship Management), September 7 – Chairman Albert E. Mensah, Secretary Michael A. Correa, Educational Director Damien D. Bautista, Deck Delegate Cody Kingsford, Engine Delegate Wayne Watts, Steward Delegate Penny Taylor. Crew discussed feedback concerning time required for physical exams. Chairman thanked galley gang for good job congratulated crew on injury-free voyage. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to upgrade at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, and also reminded everyone to stay on top of new requirements on horizon for STCW training. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew suggested change in vacation benefits. The asked for an improved ship phone, internet service, TV antenna and new mattresses. USNS SBX-1 (TOTE Services Inc.), September 3 – Chairman Wesley E. Slattery, Secretary Annie T. Nodd, Educational Director Michael S. Rueter, Deck Delgate Omar Omar, Engine Delegate Jeff Stuart, Steward Delegate Benny A. Samosan. Crew discussed physical exam schedules. Chairman advised mariners of upcoming crew change and touched on travel expenses and reimbursements. Secretary noted vessel’s 10th anniversary occurs later in the month. Related events scheduled pier-side and aboard USS Missouri. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Decks will be re-tiled in November. Gym equipment also will be repaired and/or replaced. Ship needs new sofas in crew lounge. Seafarers LOG 19 �NMC Issues Notices on Mariner Forms, Sea Service Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following two notices on August 3. For more information, visit the NMC website: www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Crediting Sea Service for Engine Ratings Serving On Vessels Authorized a Two-Watch System The Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014, Section 316, amended 46 U.S.C. 8104(g)(1) to allow coal passers, firemen, oilers, and water tenders serving on certain offshore supply vessels (OSVs), towing vessels, and barges engaged on voyages of less than 600 miles to be divided into at least two watches. Before this amendment, only officers and deck crew members were permitted to be divided into two watches. Engine ratings (QMED, wipers, and oilers) serving on vessels authorized and practicing a two- watch, 12-hour working day, in accordance with the amended statute, may be given 1-1/2 days of service credit for each day a total of 12 hours is worked. For mariners who applied for an endorsement on or after the effective date of the change to 46 U.S.C. 8104 (December 18, 2014), this credit will be applied retroactively for service obtained after that date. It will also be applied for service prior to December 18, 2014, if the vessel’s certificate of inspection permitted a two-watch system and the mariner worked two-watch, 12hour days. The National Maritime Center (NMC) will begin apply- SHBP Offers COBRA Continuation Coverage To Union Members The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) is notifying you of the right to elect to purchase continuation of health coverage if you lose coverage, or experience a reduction in coverage due to certain qualifying events. This continuation of coverage is known as COBRA. Generally, if you are the employee, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA ing this sea service credit immediately in accordance with the amended statute. Mariners who applied for an endorsement on or after December 18, 2014, the effective date of the statute, and were not given the credit for the 12- hour day may contact the NMC and request a reconsideration of the computation of sea service credit. Mariners who applied before December 18, 2014, and would like to be re-evaluated for 1-1/2 days of service credit will have to reapply for the endorsement sought. Implementation of Updated Mariner Credentialing Program Forms The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the CG-719 series of forms (B, K, K/E, P, S, and C) that will replace the forms displaying a June 30, 2012, expiration date. These forms are used within the Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) during the application process. The data collected on the updated forms is nearly identical to data collected on the previous forms, with some notable exceptions. The K and K/E forms reflect the introduction of the Medical Certificate. The K also has a significant reduction in the number of conditions to be checked by the medical provider. The C is a new nonmandatory form that standardizes the disclosure of conviction information. Users will note formatting changes that are designed to streamline the burden on the mariner and improve data entry. Updated instructions are provided coverage for a certain period of time if you lost coverage because you did not have enough days of covered employment (unless the job was lost due to gross misconduct). If you are the family member of a covered employee, you may also elect COBRA for a certain period of time when the employee loses coverage; or if you are going to lose coverage because of a divorce or the death of the employee; or in the case of a child of an employee, the child reaches an age at which the Plan no longer considers him or her to be a “dependent child.” In the case of a divorce or the death of an employee, you must notify the Plan within 60 days of the divorce or with each form as well. The Coast Guard will not stock the CG-719 series of forms in paper format. Beginning October 1, 2015, these forms may be obtained electronically in a fillable PDF format by selecting the forms link on the National Maritime Center (NMC) website. Additional updates to the NMC website will occur as quickly as possible to reflect the new forms. The Coast Guard encourages providers and applicants to purge the old forms from inventory and to begin using the new forms as soon as possible after October 1, 2015. In order to avoid penalizing mariners who have already completed their forms, the NMC will continue to accept the old forms for a period of time. Implementation of the new forms will commence on October 1, 2015. With the exception of the K and K/E, the Coast Guard will no longer accept outdated forms after April 1, 2016. For the K and K/E, forms signed by a physician after December 31, 2015, must be the new form version. In accordance with 46CFR10.304(d) the K or K/E must be submitted within 12 months of the date signed by the licensed medical professional, therefore, the Coast Guard will no longer accept outdated K or K/E forms after December 31, 2016. Mariners and other providers should contact the NMC Contact Center using our chat function, e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or calling 1-888-IASKNMC (888427-5662) with any questions regarding these forms. death in order to be eligible to purchase continuation coverage. If you do not notify the Plan in a timely manner, you may not be eligible to receive further coverage. If you are the spouse or dependent child of an employee, you may also elect COBRA if you experience a reduction in coverage when the employee retires. When you retire, if you were eligible for benefits from the SHBP at the time of your retirement, you will be eligible to purchase COBRA continuation coverage for yourself and/or your family members, even if you are eligible for retiree health benefits. This will enable you and/or your family to continue to receive the same level of benefits that you had prior to your retirement for a certain period of time. If you meet the eligibility requirements for retiree health benefits, you will begin to receive those benefits when the COBRA period ends. For more information about continuation coverage rights under COBRA, please refer to the Plan’s “Guide to Your Benefits.” The guide is also available in PDF format on the SIU website, www. seafarers.org, under “Member BenefitsSeafarers Benefit Plans-Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan.” If you have questions regarding this notice or COBRA, contact the Plan at (800) 252-4674. 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. 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 November 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 Course Start Date Title of Course Start Date Safety Upgrading Courses Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 15 March 14 February 19 March 18 Basic Firefighting/STCW December 5 December 11 Basic Training w/16hr FF November 16 December 5 January 4 January 25 November 20 December 11 January 8 January 29 February 8 March 21 February 12 March 25 Government Vessels #1 November 28 February 1 December 4 February 5 Medical Care Provider November 14 February 22 March 21 November 20 February 26 March 25 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG December 12 December 18 Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seaman (Deck) February 22 March 18 ARPA December 12 December 18 ECDIS November 14 November 20 Lifeboat November 21 December 19 January 18 February 15 March 14 December 4 January 1 January 29 February 26 March 25 Radar Observer November 28 December 11 RFPNW January 4 January 29 Tanker Familiarization LG /DL February 1 February 12 Tanker Familiarization LG December 12 February 15 December 18 February 19 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops November 21 December 18 Chief Steward December 5 January 18 February 29 January 15 February 26 April 8 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. First class of new year starts January 1. Galley Ops November 7 December 5 January 4 February 1 February 29 March 28 December 4 January 1 January 29 March 26 March 25 April 22 Advanced Galley Ops January 18 February 15 March 14 February 12 March 11 April 8 ServSafe March 14 March 18 Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO February 1 March 28 February 26 April 22 FOWT January 4 February 29 January 29 March 25 Junior Engineer April 25 June 17 Marine Electrician April 25 June 17 Marine Refer Tech April 4 May 13 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting November 7 November 13 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this 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. November 2015 Date of Completion Important 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. 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. 11/15 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #803 – Fifteen Phase 1 apprentices completed their requirements in this course September 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Saleh Ali Almatari, Michael Caquias-Garcia, Ace Cassidy, Antony Chapman, Christian Fredrick, Greggory Gifford, Abdulsalam Ahmed Issa, Christile Lejunie, Joseph Nicodemus, James Rightnour, Samuel Sanders Jr., Michael Smith, Richard Stone, Nicholas Tejada and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Tank Ship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order and each of whom plans to work in the deck department aboard American-flagged vessels once they complete their training) finished this course September 4: Tanisha Edwards, Harriet Groenleer, Matthew Hargrove, Francisco Javier Hernandez Davila, Jack Hufford, Christian Montanez Cruz, Dymond Roberts and Jordan Walton. Tank Ship Familiarization – Nine Phase III apprentices graduated from this course September 4. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ryan Cameron, Michael Flynn, Michael Gessford, Noah Hughes, David Kessler, Mark Menton, Russell Pilchard IV, Marijan Strk and Daqwan Wallace. Upon graduation from the Paul Hall Center, each plans to work in the engine department aboard American-flagged vessels. Basic Firefighting – Sixteen upgraders improved their skills by completing this course October 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mohamed Ibrahem Ahmed, Munasser Abdulaziz Ahmed, Julio Alvarez, Matthew Botterbusch, Jessie Espiritu, Janice Gabbert, Barney George, Phillip Harmon, Leslie Jacobs, David Keefe, Caroline Lawrence, Tyrone Leonard, Adry Libra, Rondell Richardson, Barbara Smith and Beverly Williams. Government Vessels – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 18: Mario Borgonia, Matthew Botterbusch, Rodolfo Dela Cruz, Anthony Green Jr., Paulette Hillard, Gary Hirsch, James Kayser, George Lavender, Caroline Lawrence, Adry Libra, Digna Martinez, Carnell Middleton, William Pollard, Debbie Randall, Rondell Richardson, Rodolfo Vecino and Noel Veloso. Class instructor Mark Cates is in the front row at the far right. 22 Seafarers LOG Water Survival (Upgraders) – Three Seafarers enhanced their skills by completing their requirements in this course September 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Munasser Abdulaziz Ahmed, Jessie Espiritu and Jonathan Tucker Jr. ECDIS – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course October 4: Angel Ayala, Kelly Doyle, Anthony Fisher, Mark Hallahan and Robert Lapointe. Class instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far right. UA to AS (D) – Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course September 11. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dylan Casuga, Edward Copeland, Brian Dillon, Chad Fiore, Jiwoong Park, John Paul, Andrew Petrilli and Francis Williams. Tank Ship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course September 4: Masha Blas, Brandon Hamilton, Brandon Harvell, Deandre Speight and Bret Wheatley. Once their training is completed, each of these individuals plans to work aboard American-flagged vessels in the steward department. Medical Care Provider – Five upgraders graduated from this course September 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Joseph Bowen, Michael Kelly, Brendan O’Brien, Brandon Simken and Antonio Watson. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far left. SIUC Helmsman – The following individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course September 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Eric Camilotes, Alex Guard, Jonathan Juan, Rolando Magpuyo, Justin Mueller-Sasson and Carlos Villamor. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at the far right. November 2015 �Paul Hall Center Classes Notice To Students First Aid & CPR – Fourteen individuals improved their skills September 11 when they successfully completed this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Michael Alghafeili, Fermin Baltazar, Kerry Bodden, Andrzej Bronkowski, Carlos Cayetano-Mena, Julian Dingzon Jr., Yvonne Feltham, Anthony Green Jr., Dawn Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Danielle Smith, Eddie Thomas Sr., Antonio Watson and Arnold Williams. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG – Eleven Seafarers finished this course September 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Fermin Baltazar, Kerry Bodden, Victor Brabble, Sellers Brooks, Carlos CayetanoMena, Brian Jackson, Dawn Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Jesus Martinez Ortiz, Danielle Smith and Antonio Watson. (Note: Not all are pictured) Engine Room Resource Management – Three upgraders completed this course September 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Barry Austin, Arsen Perhat and Roger Rainey. Leadership – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 4: Jerron Broussard, Jimmy Broussard, John Christian, Alfred Drake III, Patrick Farrell, Joshua Ferguson, Lawrence Frisbie, Patricia Hershock, Matthew Holleb, Richard Lewis Sr., Caleb Long, Do Quoc Luong, Clifton Noe, Ruben Ortiz, William Racette, Shelby Rankin, Joseph Spicciani, Jerry Stillman, Raphael Wakefield and Bruce Walsh. Class instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right in the back row. Engine Room Resource Management – Three individuals finished this course September 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were Christopher Carlson, Norman Dauphin and Joseph Weller. Freddie Toedtemeier, their instructor is at the far left. MEECE – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 25: Keithley Andrew, Daniel Cronan, Charles Donley, Juan Lima, Edward Mancke, Jason Mixson, Ruben Ortiz, Oscar Palacios, Richard Saunders and Jacob Zeiters. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Engine Room Resource Management – Five upgraders completed this course September 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Andre Carriere Sr., Alexander Grant, Goran Milisic, Thomas Murphy and Douglas Quill. Class instructor Freddie Toedtemeier is at the far right. MEECE – Eight individuals finished this course October 2. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Barry Austin, Harry Booth, Armando Garayua-Gonzalez, Mark Laskowski, Robert Malouin, James Meyers, Jacek Sawicki and Paul Stanculescu. MEECE – Ten individuals finished this course September 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jimmy Broussard, Alvin Hansley, Piotr Kwiatkowski, Marijan Masnov, John McCranie lll, Mark Miles, Vincent Mull, John Nordberg Jr., Michael Stephens and Robert Thorne. November 2015 UA to FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 11: Aaron Baker, Robert Brady, Jonathan Collier, Terrell Cuffee, Cortney Gantt, John Jaremchuk, Teresa Rowland and David Sanchez-Flores. Class instructor John Wiegman III is at the far right. 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. Steward Department Courses – Three steward department members recently completed courses. Frederick Conroy (above left) finished the certified chief cook course while Noel Veloso (center) and Jessie Espiritu both fulfilled their requirements in the galley ops course. MEECE – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 4: Giacomo Albanese, Douglas Crockett Jr., Robert Kieffer, Pablo Nobregas and Elmer Prestidge. Certified Chief Cook – Two steward department members completed their requirements in this course September 25. They are Ma Marilynda Miro Nance (above, left) and Evan Sawyer. Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2015 F 22001145 NEOBVREUMABREYR o NO. 11 o VO OLLVOLUME UM MEE 776677 NO. 2 V U EL FARO Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 May They Find Eternal Rest And Peace El Faro Crew Lost To Hurricane Joaquin October 1, 2015 Atlantic Ocean � 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 November 2015 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS EL FARO ASSISTANCE FUND LAUNCHED ALL HANDS PERISH DURING EL FARO TRAGEDY IN MEMORY OF THE EL FARO CREW MOMENTS OF SILENCE, OTHER REMEMBRANCES HURRICANE JOAQUIN CLAIMS LIVES OF 33 MARINERS AKER DELIVERS NEW SIU-CREWED TANKER SIU JOBS SECURE; CROWLEY TO OPERATE 5 MSC SHIPS ADMINISTRATION REITERATES ITS SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT AMP HONORS U.S. REP. DUNCAN HUNTER WITH ‘CHAMPION OF MARITIME’ AWARD CONSTRUCTION GETS UNDERWAY ON TWO NEW ALOHA CLASS CONTAINERSHIPS FOR MATSON USNS COMFORT SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES MISSION SIU-CREWED PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS ASSISTS IN RESCUE OF NINE NEAR KEY WEST, FLORIDA JOHN W. BROWN PROVIDES LIVING HISTORY OF WWII NMC ISSUES NOTICES ON MARINER FORMS, SEA SERVICE 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 11/01/2015 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1185f53420c5f677e63037a686ce7fbf.pdf 30893d362e827df9adc5c9cf8446a998 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U A2016 RY 2014 NO. V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 78 NO . 11 2 Union Dedicates El Faro Memorial SIU Solemnly Observes Anniversary of Tragedy At sea and ashore, the union on Oct. 1 honored the memory of the El Faro’s final crew, one year after the ship sank near the Bahamas, claiming the lives of all 33 people aboard (including 17 SIU members). Of particular note, the SIU dedicated a memorial lighthouse (photo at right) at the hall in Jacksonville, Florida (home port for many of the crew and also the last point of departure for the ship). Some of the attendees are pictured below. Moments of silence were observed at all SIU halls and aboard many vessels, and a brief ceremony also happened at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Vessel owner Tote Services also dedicated a memorial in Jacksonville. Pages 4-6, 24. MV Patriot Naming Ceremony Underscores Vital, Ongoing Need For Strong U.S. Merchant Marine Seafarers and SIU officials helped celebrate the addition of the MV Patriot during a renaming ceremony in Baltimore. The RO/RO reflagged under the Stars and Stripes earlier this year, and it is now part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Speakers at the Oct. 7 ceremony, including SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, cited both the Patriot and the MSP as good examples of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s critical importance to national and economic security. Pages 3, 10. New Tonnage Updates Page 2 SIU Election Info Page 7 SHBP Scholarships Available Page 11 �Keels Laid, Tanker Delivered President’s Report Remembering Friends and Looking Ahead There is good news to report this month, but first I want to begin this column by acknowledging the recent passing of two longtime friends of the SIU: Mike DiPrisco and Tom Mackell. I don’t know how many of our younger members recognize those names, but Mike was a terrific labor relations professional and chairman of the trustees for the Seafarers Plans. He’s been retired for several years but remained a respected figure. Tom wore many hats in our industry, and his work with the SIU went all the way back to the heyday of our union’s late President Paul Hall. Tom was sharp on any subject you could think of, especially politics, and much of his career involved the administration and investment management of employee benefit funds. He, too, was someone we could always count on. It has been a rough year when it comes to friends and family crossing the final bar. Nevertheless, as I mentioned last month both at the SIU’s El Faro dedication in Jacksonville and again less than two weeks later at a seamen’s center ceremony for my late son, we can choose to remember people for how they lived – doing the things they enjoyed. That’s the approach I’m taking with Mike DiPrisco and Tommy Mackell, two individuals who worked hard for the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Without question, both of them were happy to see so much new tonnage entering the American-flag fleet. And that’s where we pick up with some of the positive developments happening in our union. Most months, we are able to report on new ships being built for our contracted operators, or flagging in. None of these gains happens by accident. Our formula for success starts with providing qualified, reliable shipboard manpower, but it also features constant political outreach. Without support for the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference laws, our industry wouldn’t survive. That’s why we’re on Capitol Hill just about every day, and it’s why we’re active at other levels of government, too. Whether we’re on our own or, more commonly, working with industry partners, we never stop promoting you and your work. Unfortunately, our industry also is losing tonnage even while new tankers, RO/ROs, containerships, passenger ferries and other vessels are being built. A weakening of cargo preference laws, drastic reduction of military cargoes, and a political ploy that’s hampering the U.S. Export-Import Bank are key factors here. I’m cautiously optimistic, however, that in the next Congress, we’ll truly start to revitalize the American-flag fleet. We have strong bipartisan support and very solid backing from military leaders. They understand that America’s safety and wellbeing depend in part on maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine in times of peace so that we’re able to deliver the goods in times of war. I like our chances of gaining ground in the New Year. Again, nothing will be achieved automatically or by accident. But we’ve never been afraid of hard work in the SIU, whether aboard ship or ashore. We’ll keep swinging, together, no matter what obstacles are in front of us. Both General Dynamics NASSCO and Philly Shipyard recently laid the keels of future SIUcrewed Jones Act vessels, with NASSCO delivering a new product tanker that same week. Both shipyards are union facilities. On Sept. 23, representatives from Philly Shipyard and Kinder Morgan, Inc. were in attendance to place the coins as a sign of good fortune and safe travels on one of the keel blocks of the third product tanker in a fourvessel order for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), a Kinder Morgan subsidiary. The most recent class of graduates from Philly Shipyard’s apprentice program were also in attendance, which added 15 skilled shipbuilders to the workforce. The shipyard expanded the program this year and has hired 50 apprentices, with intent to hire another 50 apprentices in 2017. Philly Shipyard’s President and CEO Steinar Nerbovik remarked, “Today we celebrate our 15 new shipbuilders and the twenty-seventh keel laid in our 17-year history. Both will set the standard for shipbuilding activities well into our future. Congratulations to our graduates and to the men and women of Philly Shipyard for another milestone progressing toward our ongoing goal of being the premier U.S. commercial shipyard.” 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. 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, Philly Shipyard reported. The vessels will be constructed with The Jones Act tanker Bay State is a new addition to the SIU-contracted fleet. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) consideration for the use of LNG for propulsion in the future. In San Diego, NASSCO held a keel laying for the Palmetto State, the final ECO Class tanker to begin construction for American Petroleum Tankers (it’s scheduled to be delivered in 2017). The keel was laid by Master Shipbuilder and NASSCO General Supervisor Bill Johnson, who welded his initials onto a steel plate in the vessel’s inner structure, in a ceremony conducted Sept. 26. NASSCO Vice President and General Manager Kevin Graney said: “Bill Johnson has served NASSCO and our nation by dedicating his career to building ships that are critical to our economy and our defense. He is an expert at the craft of shipbuilding and serves as a leader and mentor for his fellow shipbuilders so that their careers can continue to build upon this legacy. Today’s keel laying is a celebration to give thanks to the many thousands of hardworking NASSCO men and women who have chosen shipbuilding as their profession – past and present.” Additionally, on Sept. 27 NASSCO delivered a sister ship of the Palmetto State, the Bay State. That ship had been christened 10 days earlier. “The Bay State is the product of world-leading design, engineering and construction,” said Graney. “We take pride in knowing we are delivering another high-quality vessel to our partner, American Petroleum Tankers.” Each vessel in the ECO Class program is 610 feet long, 50,000 dwt, has a 330,000-barrel cargo capacity and is LNG-conversion-ready. Boasting outstanding fuel efficiency, the first five ships have already been delivered, while the remaining three are under construction. According to NASSCO, the ships were designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. Center Dedicated in Memory of ITF Inspector Happy Thanksgiving Can you believe the winter holidays are almost here? We’re having an unusually warm day as I write this column (mid-80s in Camp Springs), so it doesn’t quite seem possible. But that’s where we are on the calendar, so I don’t want to miss a chance to say Happy Thanksgiving to all of our SIU members, retirees and family members. Whether you’re working this holiday or enjoying time on the beach, be safe. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 78 Number 11 o NO. 2 November 2016 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 © 2016 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The Charleston Port and Seafarers’ Society on Oct. 5 dedicated the seamen’s center at the North Charleston Terminal of the South Carolina State Ports Authority in memory of Tony Sacco, who passed away earlier this year at age 55. A longtime inspector for the International Transport Workers’ Federation, Sacco previously served as an SIU official and also sailed with the union for many years. The seamen’s center typically is very active – more than 65,000 mariners arrive in Charleston each year, on average, and more than 50 volunteers work at the facility. SIU President Michael Sacco spoke at the dedication, which was also attended by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, local dignitaries and port officials. Fr. Len Williams is pictured at the podium in the photo above, while the snapshot at right shows a few of the guests arriving before the gathering. The facility is now named the Tony Sacco Seafarers’ Center. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG November 2016 �Chip Jaenichen U.S. Maritime Administrator Alan Estevez Keynote speaker Eric Ebeling ARC CEO New MSP Ship Shows ‘Commitment’ MV Patriot Reflects Program Strength, Sealift’s Importance The naming ceremony for the SIUcrewed MV Patriot proved suitably celebratory, but the featured speakers also cautioned that much work lies ahead in revitalizing the U.S. Merchant Marine. The gathering took place Oct. 7 at the cruise terminal in Baltimore, very close to the roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ship that entered the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) fleet earlier this year. Operated by Tote Services for vessel owner American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), the Patriot was preparing to shove off for Bremerhaven the following day. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (one of the speakers) and Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi were among those in attendance, as was a group of apprentices from the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Alan Estevez delivered the keynote address. He’s the Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. The other speakers were ARC CEO Eric Ebeling and Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen. Vessel tours preceded the naming cere- mony – and visitors came away impressed with the state-of-the-art, 653-foot-long vessel. Built in 2006, the Patriot features 13 decks plus crew accommodations including a sauna, pool and gym. Tellez set the tone for many of the other remarks when he said that while Patriot is an appropriate name, the ship might just as easily have been called the Commitment “because that’s what she truly represents.” Tossing aside his prepared speech, he said the RO/RO signifies commitment on the part of ARC to its commercial partners for reliable, on-time delivery, and it also reflects assurance to the Department of Defense that modern ships and reliable crews are available to help meet tactical and strategic military goals. “It’s a commitment by this company and by this program to the fighting men and women of this country,” Tellez said, “that they’ll have the materiel and supplies when needed to get their jobs done and come back home safely. It’s a commitment to the men and women who are going to work on this vessel and to the khaki-clad apprentices of the Paul Hall Center that they will be offered an oppor- The ceremony took place at the cruise terminal in Baltimore. November 2016 tunity to attain their piece of the American dream. “Our commitment is going to be that when the balloon goes up and when we’re needed, the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine are going to be there to answer the call,” he added. He was lighthearted at times but turned serious in describing the teamwork needed to promote the U.S. Merchant Marine wherever needed, whether in the White House or Congress or any of the numerous agencies that affect the industry. Estevez, whose wife sponsored the vessel, immediately picked up on that unofficial theme, addressing Tellez directly on the stage when he said, “You have my commitment to fight for mariners, to fight for sealift, to fight for this infrastructure like this port facility, because we in the United States cannot defend ourselves if we do not have that capability. We live in a dangerous world and it’s getting more dangerous.” Estevez said the Defense Department “cannot do what we do on our own. We need commercial vessels; we need merchant mariners; and we need the infrastructure to go along with that, or we will not have the strategic capability that we need to support our forces.” Like the other speakers, he credited civilian crews and commercial ships for sustaining U.S. forces in Operation En- during Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and he also described the MSP as a huge bargain to the American taxpayer. “We would break the bank if we had to go out and buy vessels to replace the capacity that we are fortunate to have (through MSP),” he said. Jaenichen said the ship “is representative of what the MSP is all about. The MSP is a cost-effective tool. It provides that guaranteed access to commercial sealift and the intermodal capabilities that come with it, necessary to meet both U.S. wartime and also contingency requirements.” He declared that American-flag capacity “is absolutely vital to our national security. It enables the nation to project and to sustain our armed forces. More importantly, they get there on U.S.-flag vessels, crewed by U.S. mariners.” Jaenichen also pointed out that a benefit of the MSP is it encourages the replacement of older vessels with more modern, capable ships. There have been 62 such replacements in the program’s 20-year history, meaning the entire fleet Continued on Page 10 Susan Pearson Vessel sponsor Seafarers LOG 3 �President Sacco speaks to the families of those lost on the El Faro. AMO President Paul Doell addresses the crowd. El Faro Memorial Dedicated in Jacksonville SIU Members at Sea and Ashore Observe Anniversary of Tragic Loss Editor’s note: During SIU election years, the Seafarers LOG normally refrains from publishing photos of anyone who is on the ballot. An exception is being made this month for the El Faro anniversary coverage, due to the important nature of the content and our desire to help ensure its historical accuracy. SIU President Michael Sacco opened his speech at the at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on Oct. 1 with a reminder: “One year ago, I promised that we will never forget the men and women of the El Faro’s final crew. Today, both here and in Piney Point, Maryland, the SIU is living up to that solemn pledge.” In early October 2015, the maritime community was rocked with the loss of the 33 crew members of the roll-on/roll-off containership El Faro, operated by Tote Maritime. The vessel, crewed in all unlicensed positions by SIU members, sank near the Bahamas during Hurricane Joaquin. (At that time, the exact date of the sinking wasn’t known, but it eventually was determined that the ship went down on Oct. 1.) One year later, many of the families and friends of those lost gathered at the Jacksonville hall for a time of remembrance, as well as the dedication of a memorial lighthouse built on the property. The lighthouse, adorned with 33 stars and paid for with a donation made by the union, serves as a daily reminder of the 17 SIU members, 11 members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) and five Polish nationals who perished on that fateful voyage. The ceremony began with an emotional address from Capt. Jeffrey Dixon, commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville, who offered his heartfelt condolences as well as advice on coping with the loss. Dixon told the crowd of roughly 300 attendees, “It does get better.… You just have to take one step. And then another. Take one day at a time, and it gets a little easier.” He made it clear that his speech was not being made on behalf of the Coast Guard, but that his remarks were meant as a personal conveyance of sympathy to the families gathered outside the hall. He described having to relay the news that the Coast Guard was suspending their search as one of the hardest things he’s ever had to do. He was followed by speakers who offered sentiments of support and perseverance, including President Sacco, Assistant Vice President Archie Ware, AMO President Paul Doell, and a representative from the Office of Senator Bill Nelson (D-Florida.) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey were also in attendance. Sacco said, “This monument here in Jacksonville is a fitting tribute to the 33 individuals who were lost in the hurricane one year ago. It’s a reminder of the bravery it takes to go to sea under any circumstances. And it’s a permanent fixture that honors the SIU members, AMO members and Polish riding-gang members who last set sail from this port and left us last year.” In addition to the lighthouse, several other memorials have been added to the union hall, including a brick display that includes the names of all 17 SIU members who served aboard the El Faro, as well as many gifts donated by members. During his remarks, Ware informed all those in attendance that, in the face of such personal tragedy, relatives of El Faro crew members James Porter and Frank Hamm will soon depart Florida and attend the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as part of the apprentice program. Additionally, members of Jackie Jones, Jr.’s family are currently sailing as C-book SIU mariners, continuing a legacy of service under the U.S flag. Following the remarks, President Sacco was presented with a memorial plaque created by Bob Hunt, a retired Jacksonville local who followed the story and became deeply involved. Hunt attended every National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) hearing on the sinking, and decided to donate the plaque a token of his empathy for the families. Members of each family in attendance also received mementos of the anniversary, in both a public presentation and a private affair inside the union hall. After the event at the union hall, invited SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey 4 Seafarers LOG guests attended a separate memorial dedication hosted by Tote at nearby Dames Point. The waterfront park located there was renamed the El Faro Memorial Park, marked by another lighthouse statue, the beam of which points southeast toward Puerto Rico. Eventually, a similar lighthouse will be installed in Puerto Rico, with its beam pointed toward Jacksonville. Sacco, Heindel and Ware were in attendance. The park includes a memorial walk, which will be decorated with personalized nameplates from each of the families. The path itself is aligned with the nautical route between Jacksonville and San Juan, the intended destination of the El Faro. The SIU also conducted a brief ceremony in Piney Point, where a formal dedication had taken place earlier in the year. (The preContinued on next page The El Faro memorial lighthouse, adorned with 33 stars, is a symbol of remembrance for the lives lost. USCG Capt. Jeffery Dixon speaks to the assembled crowd in front of the Jacksonville hall. Memorial bricks are among the items in place at the Jacksonville hall. November 2016 �SA Tamara Russ rings the memorial bell. Continued from Page 4 vious ceremony involved memorial bricks, a plaque and a bell inscribed with the ship’s name that is affixed to a miniature lighthouse.) During the recent ceremony at the school, remarks were offered by SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi read the “Seamen’s Prayer,” and Port Agent Pat Vandegrift read the 33 names as Apprentice William Cannon rang the bell. A lifelong Seafarer who grew up in an SIU family, Tellez noted that the El Faro was the fourth Seafarers-crewed vessel lost that he has personally been involved with, one way or another. “These are things that happen,” he said. “These are the perils of the sea…. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen. We should be aware of it but we shouldn’t be afraid of it.” He described the El Faro’s sinking as “one of those situations when everything converged to make a bad thing happen to good people.” In addition to remembering the El Faro crew, he asked that everyone at the gathering also keep in mind all Seafarers whose lives have been lost at sea dating back to the union’s earliest years. Meanwhile, many SIU members at sea on Oct. 1 also conducted memorial ceremonies, Seafarers, retirees, friends and other guests gather at the hall. while moments of silence were observed at all SIU halls at 11 a.m. local time. The NTSB’s investigation into the contributing factors of the loss is ongoing. The vessel’s voyage data recorder (VDR) was recovered, and the data is in the process of being analyzed. Once the final audio transcript has been prepared, the NTSB will schedule a final Marine Board of Investigation hearing. It is unknown whether the families will get to hear any of the audio recovered from the VDR. According to at least one published report, after the agency has concluded its investigation, the VDR itself will be returned to Tote, who can decide whether or not to release the audio to the families. The SIU members aboard the ship were Bosun Roan Lightfoot, ABs Carey Hatch, Jackie Jones, Jack Jackson, Brookie Davis and Frank Hamm, QEE Sylvester Crawford, RE1 Louis Champa, OMUs Anthony Thomas, German Solar-Cortes and Joe Hargrove, GUDEs Mariette Wright, James Porter and Roosevelt Clark, Steward/Baker Theodore Quammie, Chief Cook Lashawn Rivera and SA Lonnie Jordan. The American Maritime Officers (AMO) members were Capt. Michael Davidson, Chief Mate Steven Shultz, Second Mate Danielle Randolph, Third Mate Jeremie Riehm, Chief Engineer Jeffrey Mathias, Chief Engineer Richard Pusatere, First As- sistant Engineer Keith Griffin, Second Assistant Engineer Howard Schoenly, Third Assistant Engineer Michael Holland, Third Assistant Engineer Mitchell Kuflik and Third Assistant Engineer Dylan Meklin. The Polish riding gang consisted of Piotr Krause, Marcin Nita, Jan Podgorski, Andrzej Truszkowski and Rafal Zdobych. From left to right: SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and President Michael Sacco greet USCG Capt. Jeffery Dixon. Mariners and their families (photo at left) enjoy a luncheon following the dedication. In the photo below at left, Chief Steward Adam Bucalo poses for a picture with Administrative Assistant Karen Shuford inside the Jacksonville hall. Jacksonville local Bob Hunt (photo immediately below) displays a commemorative plaque he made, which was presented to President Sacco. See Pages 6 and 24 For Additional El Faro Memorial Coverage November 2016 Seafarers LOG 5 �El Faro Remembrances . . . Aboard the SIU-Crewed Perla Del Caribe The ceremony on the Perla Del Caribe included readings of the Seamen’s Prayer and the poem “Down to the Sea in Ships.” Crew members committed a wreath to the sea while underway from San Juan to Jacksonville, and Recertified Bosun James Walker (speaking in group photo at the far right) explained that the monkey fist he created (bottom photo at far right) features 33 wraps (11 in each direction) and 17 red stiches for the SIU members of the El Faro. Walker is also pictured at left in photo below, with Oiler Fernandez Wilcox (right) and Jamie Torres sending off the wreath. The photo at the immediate right shows Recertified Bosun Noel Otero. SIU hall in Oakland, California SIU hall in Philadelphia SIU hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico SIU hall in Norfolk, Virginia SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey 6 Seafarers LOG November 2016 �Union Election Voting Began Nov. 1 Voting started Nov. 1 for the election of officers for the Seafarers International Union Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. SIU members will be able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Dec. 31, 2016. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election to determine union officials for the 2017-2020 term are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. The ballot will list the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this district-wide election. A sample of this ballot was published in last month’s LOG.The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 16, and submitted to the membership at the September monthly meetings, indicated 26 candidates had qualified to run for 25 positions. (The committee’s report was published in the September 2016 Seafarers LOG.) Subsequently, the union determined that 27 candidates were qualified. This finding was approved by rank-and-file voting at the September membership meetings. The 25 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 20 Polling Places The election will be conducted by mail ballot as provided by the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots and envelopes marked “Ballot” and mailing envelopes at these halls between 9 a.m. and 12:00 noon, Monday through Saturday, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be marked with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenged.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. For members who believe they will be at sea during this time, the SIU constitution provides for absentee voting procedures. Full-book members in good Notice of 2016 Election For Election of 2017-2020 Officers - Seafarers International Union of North America Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9 a.m. to noon (local time), Mondays through Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2016 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2016. Voting Locations Algonac 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 Anchorage 721 Sesame Street, Suite 1C Anchorage, AK 99503 Baltimore 2315 Essex St. Baltimore, MD 21224 Ft. Lauderdale 1221 South Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 Guam Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 103B, 422 West O’Brien Dr. Hagatna, Guam 96910 Honolulu 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 Houston 1730 Jefferson St. Houston, TX 77003 Jacksonville 5100 Belfort Road Jacksonville, FL 32256 Joliet 10 East Clinton Joliet, IL 60432 Mobile 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 New Orleans 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey, LA 70058 Jersey City 104 Broadway Jersey City, NJ 07306 Norfolk 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 Oakland 1121 7th St. Oakland, CA 94607 Philadelphia 2604 South Fourth St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 Piney Point Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship Piney Point, MD 20674 Puerto Rico 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 St. Louis 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 Tacoma 3411 South Union St. Tacoma, WA 98409 Wilmington 510 North Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 Absentee Ballots Are Available for Members at Sea Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are scheduled for this year. 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. Proce- November 2016 dures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Following is the procedure which members should utalize when requesting absentee ballots: 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. standing who need to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters - 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Secret Ballots Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and then dispatched in the mail. These steps ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rank-and-file committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene in early January 2017. Spotlight on Mariner Health Alternative Treatments for High Blood Pressure There are numerous alternative treatments believed to help in the management of high blood pressure. Evidence is strong that a diet low in saturated fats and salts, along with exercise, will help to reduce hypertension. Eating complex carbohydrates such as vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fruits and low-fat dairy foods will help to keep the patient’s blood pressure down. Maintaining a healthy weight is also very important, as is cutting back on foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol. It is also recommended to: eat more whole grains, fish, poultry and nuts; eat less red meat and fewer sweets; limit palm and coconut oil in the diet; eat foods that are rich in magnesium, potassium, and calcium. All of this will help you in the fight to keep your blood pressure at a healthful level. There’s a lot of evidence that shows men and women of all age groups who are physically active, have a decreased risk of developing high blood pressure. Exercise such as walking, jogging, cycling or in combination will help to keep your pres- sure down. Relaxation methods that included controlled breathing and gentle physical activity, such as yoga and Tai Chi, are also very helpful with regard to hypertension. Listening to music can also be a calming and relaxing experience for many people. Limiting your alcohol intake to (at most) one or two drinks a day is important in trying to keep your blood pressure down. This will decrease the intake of sodium/salt in your diet, and keep the triglyceride/fat levels lower. It will also limit the calories that you ingest with each drink. The bottom line is that lower weight means decreased blood pressure, for the most part. The most important step for preventing hypertension is to limit or stop smoking. Each time you smoke, your blood pressure goes up, your arteries constrict, and the risk of clot formation increases. Blood pressure is highest right after you smoke, and stays that way for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember, never smoke before your doctor’s visit. You want to have an accurate blood pressure reading when it is taken Healthful Recipe Rigatoni with Hearty Lamb Sauce Ragu Servings: 25 4-1/4 pounds rigatoni, medium shells, or other medium pasta shape, uncooked 3-1/4 pounds lamb leg, ground 4-1/4 cups canned Italian plum tomatoes, crushed 4-1/4 tablespoons olive oil 8-1/3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped 4-1/4 medium onion, finely chopped 2 teaspoons dried rosemary* 1 teaspoon dried thyme 6-1/4 cups dry red wine 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Salt and pepper, to taste 1-3/8 cups grated parmesan cheese Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and garlic and cook until the meat begins to brown, about three minutes. Add the onion, rosemary and thyme; cook one minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, win, nutmeg, cloves and salt and pepper to taste. Heat to a boil and reduce the heat to simmering. Cook, uncovered, until the lamb is very tender, about 45 minutes. Check the lamb occasionally. There should always be enough liquid to cover the meat. If not, add a small amount of water. Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain. Return the pasta to the pot. Add the lamb sauce to the pot and cook over low heat until heated through, stirring constantly. Stir in half the parmesan cheese. Place in 2” hotel pans equally. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and serve. *If using dried rosemary, soften it as follows: Place the rosemary in a heatproof bowl and pour about 1 cup boiling water over it. Let it stand five minutes. Drain before using. Per serving (excluding unknown items): 501 calories; 15g fat (29.4 percent calories from fat); 20g protein; 61g carbohydrate; 2g dietary fiber; 37mg cholesterol; 155mg sodium. Exchanges: 4 grain (starch); 1-1/2 lean meat; 1/2 vegetable; 2 fat. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Seafarers LOG 7 �At Sea and Ashore With the SIU ABOARD ISLA BELLA – The large group photo at left above was taken after a recent shipboard union meeting. The snapshot at right shows (from left) Chief Cook Bryan Alvarez, SA Sheila Daguio and Steward/Baker Bob Wilcox. The vessel is operated by Tote Services. AT THE HALL IN PUERTO RICO – Port Agent Amancio Crespo is pictured with Seafarers at the union hall. With him in photo at left is Chief Cook Jesus Pacheco, preparing to ship out aboard the Green Lake. In the photo second from left AB Luis Ramos Rosa proudly displays a recently earned certificate from the Paul Hall Center. The remaining photos show AB Kemer Rojas (photo third from left) and Jr. Engineer Richard Vega receiving their respective A-seniority books. CROWLEY CREWS VOTE – Port Agent Jeff Turkus submitted this photo of SIU members who work aboard Crowley tugs in the Los Angeles/Long Beach area. The Seafarers voted on a new contract, details of which will be featured in an upcoming edition of the LOG. AT THE HOUSTON HALL – These snapshots (both including Patrolman J.B. Niday) show Chief Engineer Bruce Williams (photo at left above) picking up his first retirement check following a 23-year career at G&H Towing, and SA Delmis David (photo at right above) receiving her full book and B seniority. 8 Seafarers LOG ABOARD MAERSK WISCONSIN – Pictured from left are Steward/Baker Norman Bush, QEE Hector Solis, Patrolman J.B. Niday and Chief Cook Chris Coston. NEW FERRY – NY Waterway recently added its newest boat, the Betsy Ross. Pictured aboard the luxury commuter ferry in mid-October are (from left) Deckhand Peter Capo, Capt. Thomas Jansen, Deckhand Vijay Jainauth and Deckhand Daniel Colon. Thanks to Patrolman Ray Henderson for the photo. November 2016 �KUDOS FOR INDEPENDENCE II GALLEY GANG – During a recent servicing of the car carrier Independence II, vessel master Capt. Ken DeGroff (left in photo at left above, with Chief Steward Raul Napoles) raved about the performance of the entire steward department, which also includes SA Kipp Worthy (right) and Chief Cook Robert Maschmeier. Per the captain, not only is the food far beyond expectations, but also the morale in every department is boosted by the galley gang. The ship is operated by Tote Services. SAFETY AWARD – AB Kosar Iqbal recently earned a safety award for his consistently outstanding work aboard the Crowley-operated USNS Victorious. Vessel master Capt. Peter A. Jorgensen nominated Iqbal for the recognition, citing (among other positives) the Seafarer’s “punctuality, hard work, conscientiousness, reliability and professionalism.” At Sea and Ashore With the SIU PREVENTIVE STEPS – Members recently prepped the Fort Lauderdale hall for severe weather. Pictured are Seafarers Emanuel Paul, Ryan Boltz, Michael Bowen, Cielo Ojano and Vasil Cholakovski. B-BOOK IN BALTIMORE – OMU Buzz Engelke (right) takes the union oath in Charm City as he picks up his full B-book from Port Agent Elizabeth Brown. November 2016 ABOARD MAERSK CHICAGO – Thanks to AMO Second Mate Michael Thomas for this photo of two longtime SIU members and the following note: “LAST TRIPS – AB James Coleman (left) and Rubin Mitchell are pictured Sept. 28 aboard the Maersk Chicago in Salalah, Oman. James started his sailing career in 1968, and Rubin acquired his sea legs in 1973. You can bet these two have some colorful sea stories! Catch them at their halls (Jersey City and Jacksonville, respectively).” ABOARD RED CLOUD – Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan sent this pic of the SIU steward department on the Patriot-operated USNS Red Cloud, which he described as a good feeder. From left: SA Emily Lepley, SA Howard Brooks, Chief Steward Rudy Lopez and Chief Cook Dennis Dizon. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – Mario Morante (right) picks up his first pension check from Patrolman Joseph Koncul at the union hall. Morante sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation for 21 years. Seafarers LOG 9 �Paul Hall Center apprentices tour the vessel. The ship reflagged earlier this year under the Stars and Stripes SIU-Crewed MSP RO/RO Vessel Renamed in Port of Baltimore Continued from Page 3 has been turned over. The administrator also discussed the overall decline in U.S.-flag tonnage in recent years and echoed Tellez’s point about “having to do this together” when it comes to advancing the industry. Ebeling pointed out the Patriot will support U.S. sealift requirements around the globe, and added the ceremony occurred 15 years to the day “that Operation Enduring Freedom commenced in Afghanistan. We are still fighting there today, and the U.S. military is currently engaged in numerous other operations and exercises to protect human rights and to promote free- dom and democracy around the world. This great ship will assist in that mission.” He continued, “The U.S.-flag commercial fleet has long been and remains the most cost-effective means of sealift available, saving the nation billions in capital and operating costs. Most critically, the American mariners that sail aboard these ships are the most reliable and dedicated in the business.” Several of the SIU and AMO mariners aboard the ship described the vessel appreciatively. Chief Steward Jayne Peterson, for instance, who has been a Seafarer since 1988, said, “This is one of the nicest galleys I’ve had. I’m not used to having such a big galley.” Oiler Mohamad Kammoun, OS Abdulsalam Issa MSC Official Praises Crew Of Ocean Glory The SIU-crewed MV Ocean Glory, operated by Crowley, recently completed the final mission stop of Pacific Pathways 16-2, offloading military cargo in Pearl Harbor. An official from the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) commended the crew’s performance, as did the vessel master. During the last stop, the U.S. Army’s 599th Transportation Brigade partnered with Fleet 10 Seafarers LOG Bosun Ion Irimia Chief Steward Jayne Peterson Logistics Center Pearl Harbor to discharge 25th Infantry Division cargo and equipment off the Ocean Glory from September 7-9. “This is our eighth of nine ports for Pacific Pathways 16-2,” said Christopher Hill, captain of the Ocean Glory since 2011. “It has been one of the best voyages of my entire career. The professionalism on display by the U.S. Army and how they helped our crew has been amazing. “As Americans we are proud to do our part anyway, but this has been a pure pleasure,” Hill added. “I wish I could do this every day for the rest of my career. Working with the military hand in hand was a positive and unique experience.” The captain and crew of the Ocean Glory received praise from Chris Thayer, Director of Contractor Operated Ships for MSC, in an official Bravo Zulu transmitted on Sept. 27. In the letter addressed to the captain AB Scott Wilson SA Eric Mose Chief Cook Richard Torres and the owners of the vessel (Intermarine), Thayer said, “I wanted to take a moment to personally thank you and the crew of M/V Ocean Glory for your role in the delivery of critical PACIFIC PATHWAYS 16 exercise equipment while under charter to MSC. You delivered critical military exercise enablers to build and maintain relationships with our nation’s Pacific regional partners. During the performance of the mission, I often heard of the reliability of your ship and the professionalism of your crew. The superb level of service illustrates your company’s focus on customer fulfillment and your efforts did not go unnoticed.” He concluded, “The performance of Captain Hill and the crew of M/V Ocean Glory was exemplary and fortifies the strong and honorable traditions of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the Military Sealift Command. The dedication, teamwork, and professionalism of all involved was extraordinary.” The Ocean Glory is part of the Maritime Security Program (MSP), which features American-flag ships that are assets which the U.S. military can draw upon during contingencies. The vessel is a multi-purpose dry cargo ship equipped for carriage containers and strengthened for heavy cargo. She is equipped with three shipboard cranes Pacific Pathways 16-2 was a U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) mobility operation that supports three USARPAC exercises and links them into a single operation by using one commercial vessel to carry a designated task force and their force package equipment for the duration. PP16-2 was a combined operation between the U.S. Army and each of the armed forces of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia – where the last of the U.S. Army’s equipment was back-loaded for return to Pearl Harbor and Tacoma, Washington. November 2016 �2017 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program University Hall, University of Toledo Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships Dependents Scholarships Three scholarships designated for active Seafarers: Five scholarships designated for dependents: n One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university n Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school n A total of five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Please send me the 2017 SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code................................................................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( ) ........................................................................................................................................................................................... This application is for: o Self o Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 November 2016 11/16 Seafarers LOG 11 �Rescue at Sea CS Dependable Crew Saves Indian Fishermen The Indian Coast Guard vessel CG 201 is visible in the background, with another rescue boat in the foreground. A makeshift sick bay is set up aboard the ship. In the inset photo, GVA Peter Mensah, MDR Jack Ford and ROV Carl Stones help the fishermen recovering on the cable highway. Crew members share a meal with the rescued fishermen. Editor’s note: Special thanks to the Dependable’s master, Capt. Yann Durieux, who provided the photos and details of the rescue. T he Brotherhood of the Sea came through again on Sept. 17 when the crew of the SIU-contracted CS Dependable saved the lives of 14 fishermen while travelling between two work sites off the Maharashtra Coast near Mumbai, India. The fishermen were clinging to floating debris – all that was left of their sunken vessel – when the Tyco-owned-and-operated cable ship arrived on the scene. The crew sprang into action, spread out on every deck to keep watch on the distressed fishermen as the deck department and security team worked to bring the imperiled men aboard. All hands were busy, tossing life rings to survivors in the water or manning radios to communicate the positions of the fishermen. Visibility was low due to rain, but a group effort resulted in the rescue of 14 men, with another man being rescued by the Indian Coast Guard. The SIU crew included Bosun Jerry Dingal, MDR Jack Ford, ABs Alejandro Cusi, Joel Saul, Ronnie Rodriguez, Mohamed Saleh, Arsenio Brecio and Michael Pockat, GVA Peter Mensah, Chief Steward Robert Haggerty, Chief Cook Joel Ramos, SA Joselito Vincente, OMU Nasser Ahmed, Kasim Ahmed and Leonardo Cortez, and Wiper Saleh Ahmed. The licensed crew is represented by the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers: Captain Yann Durieux, Chief Mate Tristan Schulz, First Officer Erick Amicosa, Third Mates Allison Lashmet, Michael Squillacote and John Locks, Chief Engineer Curtis King, First Engineer Robert Carlstad, Second Engineers Isabelo Fernandez and John Crawford, and Third Engineers Ryan Mulligan, Matthew Pastuszak and Gregory Thomas. The rescued crew was attended to by the medical team on the cable highway, as mattresses were placed there to allow the fishermen to stay together. The men were given food and dry clothes, before getting some much-needed rest. As the weather continued to prove challenging, the men were transferred to the Indian Coast Guard seven at a time. Despite the rough seas, all 14 men were safely transferred, and the CS Dependable was released by the Coast Guard. Capt. Durieux, praised the efforts of his crew: “The value of this crew was in its attitude and commitment to this rescue. Some in very visible ways like fishing men out of the water or throwing life rings to men in the water and others in subtle ways, like bringing food to the victims, helping them up the gangway, tending to their needs, etc. I truly am proud to have worked with all persons aboard. They should all be commended for their efforts.” The Indian Coast Guard also commended the work of the crew of the CS De- AB Mohammed Saleh and a security team member keep an eye on those still in the water from the gangway, while others also continue assisting with the rescue. Pictured from left to right are AB Mohamed Saleh, GVA Peter Mensah, AB Michael Pockat, AB Arsenio Brecio, AB Ronnie Rodriguez, AB Joel Saul, MDR Jack Ford, Bosun Jerry Dingal and AB Alejandro Cusi. From left to right: Chief Cook Joel Ramos, Chief Steward Robert Haggerty and SA Joselito Vicente pendable, in a letter to the captain. “With deep appreciation, I am writing this missive to bring to the notice of all concerned regarding the role played by your esteemed crew, with you at the helm, in saving 14 precious lives at sea,” the letter read. “The proactive and timely response of Dependable, which aided in the rescue operation of the crew of distressed Fishing boat Om Sai Datta, is in accordance with the best traditions of mariners and well appreciated.” The CS Dependable was built in 2002. It has a length of 459 feet and a cable capacity of 6,025 tons. It can carry a crew of 80 at a speed of 13 knots, and is part of the Tyco Telecommunications cable-laying fleet. Tyco augments its fleet with a large collection of technologically advanced submersible vehicles. A father and son swim towards safety. In photo below, a survivor clings to a life ring as it is hauled in by the crew of the CS Dependable. Second Engineer Crawford and Wiper Ahmed throw life rings to the imperiled fishermen. 12 Seafarers LOG The entire crew of the CS Dependable gathers for a post-rescue photo. November 2016 November 2016 Seafarers LOG 13 �s w e e p s ta k e s AMERICAN DREAM Unions are the cornerstone of the American dream. And at Union Plus, we’re proud to provide programs designed specifically for hardworking union families. So for our 30th anniversary, we want to celebrate union members by giving away more than $100,000 in prizes for our American Dream Sweepstakes. REGISTER 9/29/16 – 12/31/16 TO WIN: $ 500 gift cards $ to 12 winners every week 30,000 Grand Prize to 1 winner HERE’S HOW IT WORKS: 1 Visit UnionPlusSweeps.com and provide a valid email address. 2 Complete the entry form. 3 Enter the sweepstakes up to 30 times per week. Sponsored by the Union Plus Credit Card Program. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes starts 10/10/16 at 12:00 AM ET and ends 12/31/16 at 11:59:59 PM ET. Open only to eligible legal residents of the United States, D.C., U.S. territories and military bases, who are Union Plus Credit Cardholders or current/retired eligible union members as of 9/28/16 and 18 years and older. Subject to Official Rules available at UnionPlusSweeps.com. See Official Rules for complete details, including entry instructions, entry periods, odds of winning, prize information, eligible unions, restrictions, etc. Void where prohibited. Message & data rates may apply. Sponsored by Capital One, N.A., 1680 Capital One Drive, McLean, VA 22102. 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Union Privilege, 1100 1st St NE, Suite 850, Washington, D.C. 20002. © 2016 Capital One. 11/16 14 Seafarers LOG November 2016 �November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point........................Monday: November 7, December 5 Algonac............*Monday: November 14, Friday: December 9 Baltimore........................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Guam............................Thursday: November 24, December 22 Honolulu...........................Friday: November 18, December 16 Houston..........................Monday: November 14, December 12 Jacksonville...................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Joliet.............................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Mobile.....................Wednesday: November 16, December 14 New Orleans...................Tuesday: November 15, December 13 Jersey City.........................Tuesday: November 8, December 6 Norfolk...........................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Oakland........................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: November 9, December 7 Port Everglades.............Thursday: November 17, December 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2016 - October 15, 2016 Port Tacoma............................Friday: November 25, December 23 Wilmington.......................Monday: November 21, December 19 *Algonac Change created by Veterans Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Total Shipped All Groups A 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 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 6 0 3 5 0 0 6 4 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 7 3 0 7 1 1 7 5 2 10 5 1 3 2 0 1 16 9 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 1 0 0 8 4 0 3 5 0 5 0 0 1 15 5 0 16 8 2 15 6 0 8 26 12 3 15 14 1 13 10 0 4 34 20 2 14 8 1 7 4 0 5 24 14 3 1 3 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 0 3 4 0 2 0 0 1 11 8 3 12 11 2 12 6 0 1 19 14 3 12 5 2 6 6 1 4 22 7 1 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 1 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 3 4 0 1 2 0 1 3 0 0 5 5 0 14 12 2 14 7 0 6 19 15 5 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 2 0 16 13 0 8 7 0 6 30 14 6 129 114 15 92 67 3 38 255 149 33 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 3 1 0 2 1 0 1 5 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 5 1 0 8 3 0 3 15 2 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 1 0 1 0 0 2 10 1 0 16 0 1 6 0 0 1 24 2 1 14 4 0 11 2 0 4 28 9 0 22 6 2 19 4 1 8 32 13 3 11 3 0 12 1 0 6 14 5 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 3 5 0 3 2 0 2 6 4 0 10 11 2 11 2 0 5 31 19 5 19 5 1 16 3 0 5 37 9 1 3 0 0 4 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 2 2 1 0 1 0 3 3 1 1 2 2 3 2 1 1 1 6 2 9 2 0 2 2 0 1 24 3 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 22 8 1 11 4 0 4 32 16 3 150 55 12 113 28 3 43 274 97 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 GRAND TOTAL: November 2016 All Groups A B C Deck Department 11 12 0 15 5 0 3 21 21 1 0 3 1 0 3 0 1 3 1 0 5 2 0 1 1 0 0 5 7 0 13 7 3 17 9 2 7 28 16 4 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 4 0 10 2 2 10 0 2 2 24 3 2 9 3 0 3 1 0 0 17 10 0 44 10 5 34 5 5 19 103 21 19 42 15 8 29 10 5 8 73 28 13 36 10 2 34 7 0 11 67 25 7 3 2 1 3 1 0 0 7 5 1 11 3 1 9 4 1 4 16 5 2 20 11 5 12 9 2 3 35 31 4 13 1 2 6 4 0 2 36 8 2 4 4 0 2 3 0 0 8 5 0 1 2 0 2 1 0 0 0 4 0 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 9 7 0 32 9 3 22 4 2 6 71 13 7 3 1 2 1 0 1 0 5 1 2 16 12 4 14 7 3 6 36 20 14 276 114 39 216 77 23 75 568 235 78 San Juan.......................Thursday: November 10, December 8 St. Louis.........................Friday: November 18, December 16 Total Registered Entry Department 3 11 3 1 7 3 1 1 14 7 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 4 0 0 3 1 1 6 5 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 7 8 0 0 4 0 2 16 10 2 8 5 3 4 2 2 10 20 15 4 9 23 2 8 14 0 3 19 54 1 18 2 1 5 0 1 7 25 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 0 1 0 2 2 3 0 14 6 0 5 7 2 0 31 14 0 10 3 1 6 2 1 5 14 16 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 2 7 0 0 2 0 0 2 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 5 5 2 2 9 4 2 9 18 13 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 10 16 1 9 10 6 6 29 39 16 105 87 11 55 55 17 55 208 204 571 388 153 432 227 84 173 1,152 689 334 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 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by Seafarers at the Jacksonville hall on Oct. 1, the day the union christened the El Faro memorial there. Question: Where were you when you heard about the loss of the El Faro? Carlos Olascoaga Chief Steward I was on the Green Bay in the Virgin Islands when I heard the news. The El Faro was headed to San Juan, while we were headed around the world, through the Strait of Gibraltar. I knew every person on the El Faro, so the loss really hit home for me. Breon Lucas Chief Steward I was on the Maersk Pittsburgh in Spain. Initially, there was a slow reaction, and then I started getting phone calls, checking to see if I was okay. I didn’t know for sure what had happened until Karen Shuford from the hall told me. I knew all those guys on the El Faro. Brian Guiry Bosun I was on the USNS Williams in Saipan. I used to be a patrolman, and before then I shipped out of Jacksonville, so I knew all those guys. I shipped with some of those guys. It was devastating to me, and it’s still devastating. Allen Van Buren Chief Cook I was in Singapore, on the APL Cyprine. My chief cook at the time found out through Facebook, and then he told me. Then I started getting calls from home, checking on me, because I had just gotten off the El Faro on June 30. Adam Bucalo Chief Steward I was in Japan, on the USNS Victorious. I ship out of Jacksonville, and I sailed with the Chief Cook (Lashawn Rivera) and the Chief Steward (Theodore Quammie) before – they’re great guys. The new lighthouse at the Jacksonville union hall serves as a reminder to carry the torch, and always keep the light on. Jose R. Morales Chief Steward I was talking with OMU German Solar on the phone on the Thursday before they sailed, and he assured me that they were monitoring the storm. When I heard what had happened to my friend, I started coming to the hall regularly and getting more information. I knew all those guys. 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 Recently, the SIU turned out for a rally in the nation’s capital in support of our brothers and sisters from the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA). Solidarity between the SIU and UMWA is nothing new, as reflected by this 1993 snapshot of another Mine Workers rally in Washington, D.C. Front and center is then-UMWA President Rich Trumka, currently the president of the AFLCIO. Trainees from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (left) were part of a sizable SIU contingent. 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 November 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 BONNIE AGNO Brother Bonnie Agno, 71, first donned the SIU colors in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was a steward department member. Brother Agno upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last worked on the Green Ridge. Brother Agno lives in San Pablo, California. LLOYD BETHEA originally sailed on the Constitution. Brother DiBiase shipped in the engine department. He upgraded twice at the Seafarersaffiliated school in southern Maryland. Brother DiBiase’s most recent ship was the Green Point. He is a resident of Portland, Maine. Brother Hindson upgraded frequently at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. He last shipped aboard the Yorktown Express. Brother Hindson is a resident of South Padre Island, Texas. FRANCISCO DIEGO Brother Christopher Hyatte, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1989. His first trip was on the Independence. Brother Hyatte attended classes on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the steward department, most recently aboard the Liberty Promise. Brother Hyatte resides in Honolulu. Brother Lloyd Bethea, 71, became an SIU member in 2001. He sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the Benavidez. Brother Bethea attended classes in 2001 and 2007 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, and now calls Houston home. Brother Francisco Diego, 65, began sailing with the union in 1997. He was first employed on the Cleveland. Brother Diego was born in Honduras. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Maersk Georgia. Brother Diego makes his home in Bronx, New York. PAULA BROOKSHIRE WILLIAM DRUMMOND Sister Paula Brookshire, 68, joined the SIU in 2000. Her first trip was aboard the Patriot. Sister Brookshire sailed in the steward department. She upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Sister Brookshire last worked on the USNS Invincible. She was born in Santa Monica, California, and now resides in Clyde, North Carolina. Brother William Drummond, 60, joined the union in 1978. His first ship was the Santa Magdalena; his most recent, the Philadelphia Express. Brother Drummond worked mainly in the engine department. He upgraded in 2002 at the Piney Point school. Brother Drummond resides in Jacksonville, Florida. GENE BUTSON Brother Gene Butson, 65, started sailing with the union in 1996. He originally worked aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Butson enhanced his skills on two occasions at the Piney Point school. The deck department member last shipped on the Alaskan Legend. Brother Butson lives in Twentynine Palms, California. RAMON CASTRO Brother Ramon Castro, 63, became a union member in 1977. He initially worked on the Point Julie. Brother Castro sailed in the deck department. In 1996 and 1998, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Castro’s most recent voyage was aboard the Evergreen State. He is a native of Honduras and now makes his home in New Orleans. PASQUALE DIBIASE Brother Pasquale DiBiase, 61, joined the SIU ranks in 1982. He November 2016 MOSTAFA FAHMY Brother Mostafa Fahmy, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1980. His first trip was on the Brooks Range. In 1991 and 2001, Brother Fahmy took advantage of educational opportunities available at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He was born in Egypt and sailed in the engine department. Brother Fahmy last sailed aboard the Liberty Star. He lives in Brooklyn, New York. SCOTT HEGINBOTHAM Brother Scott Heginbotham, 55, began shipping with the SIU in 1991. He initially worked on the Pfc William Baugh. Brother Heginbotham, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. The New York native most recently shipped aboard the Maersk Hartford. Brother Heginbotham now calls League City, Texas, home. RICHARD HINDSON Brother Richard Hindson, 71, joined the Seafarers in 1993. He first sailed on the Atlantic, as a member of the deck department. CHRISTOPHER HYATTE ANTENOR LINARES at the Piney Point school. He was a member of the steward department and last shipped aboard the Korea. Brother Williams is a resident of Jacksonville, Texas. DAVID ZUREK Brother David Zurek, 65, signed on with SIU in 1989. He was initially employed on the Julius Hammer. Brother Zurek was a member of the deck department. He often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarersaffiliated school in southern Maryland. Brother Zurek’s most recent voyage was aboard the Courage. He resides in Orland, Maine. INLAND ANTONIO AMALFITANO Brother Antenor Linares, 72, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1981. He originally sailed aboard the Sugar Islander. Brother Linares worked in all three shipboard departments. He last shipped on the Elizabeth and now makes his home in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Brother Antonio Amalfitano, 65, started shipping with the union in 1984. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Amalfitano was born in Italy. The deck department member makes his home in San Pedro, California. JAMES OTANI JOHN ASHLEY Brother James Otani, 77, joined the union in 1982. He initially worked aboard the Constitution. A member of the steward department, Brother Otani’s most recent ship was the Independence. He calls Hilo, Hawaii, home. Brother John Ashley, 62, joined the SIU in 2003. He originally shipped aboard the Green Mountain State. Brother Ashley was a member of the engine department. He upgraded in 2014 at the Piney Point school. Brother Ashley most recently worked aboard the Vision. He lives in Adna, Washington. RICHARD SZABO Brother Magdaleno Castillo, 64, started his SIU career in 2002. He primarily worked aboard American Marine Corporation vessels. Brother Castillo sailed in the engine department. He is a resident of Las Vegas. Brother Richard Szabo, 71, became a Seafarer in 2001. His first trip was on the Samuel L. Cobb. Brother Szabo upgraded twice at the Paul Hall Center and worked in the deck department. His last vessel was the Overseas Boston. Brother Szabo lives in Port Angeles, Washington. JIMMY WILLIAMS Brother Jimmy Williams, 66, first donned the SIU colors in 1983. He originally sailed on the Santa Maria. Brother Williams enhanced his skills frequently MAGDALENO CASTILLO ELIOT DALTON Brother Eliot Dalton, 64, first donned the SIU colors in 1973. He worked with Interstate Oil Transportation for the duration of his career. The deck department member upgraded twice at the unionaffiliated school. Brother Dalton calls Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, home. CHARLES FOX Brother Charles Fox, 65, joined the union in 1989. He originally shipped with Moran Towing of Philadelphia. Brother Fox worked in the deck department. He was last employed with Crowley Liner Service. Brother Fox makes his home in Mount Royal, New Jersey. LARRY PIERCE Brother Larry Pierce, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 1977. He first worked with Dixie Carriers. Brother Pierce sailed in the deck department. His final trip was with G&H Towing. Brother Pierce retired to San Leon, Texas. LAWRENCE ROTH Brother Lawrence Roth, 58, began his seafaring career in 1978. He initially shipped with Northern Towing Company. Brother Roth sailed as a member of the deck department. In 1993, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the unionaffiliated school in Maryland. Brother Roth’s most recent trip was with G&H Towing. He settled in Houston. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION STERLING ADAMS Brother Sterling Adams, 61, signed on with the NMU in 1977, prior to the 2001 merger with the SIU. He resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota. WILLIAM SHANNON Brother William Shannon, 65, began his SIU career in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was a steward department member. Brother Shannon lives in Rocky Face, Georgia. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA STEPHEN AKENS Brother Stephen Akens, 89, died June 22. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1978 in the port of San Francisco, the same year that union merged into the SIU. Brother Akens was born in Tennessee and shipped as a member of the steward department. He made his home in California. JOSE DECASTRO Brother Jose DeCastro, 68, passed away February 27. He became a union member in 2005. Brother DeCastro was born in the Philippines. The steward department member called Guam home. ROBERT GUERRERO Pensioner Robert Guerrero, 90, died July 4. Born in Colorado, he started shipping with the Seafarers in 1946. Brother Guerrero initially worked on a Delta Steamship Lines Inc. vessel. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Guerrero last shipped aboard the Bay Ridge. He became a pensioner in 1986 and lived in California. MARIO LOPEZ Pensioner Mario Lopez, 71, died July 6. He joined the SIU in 1966. Brother Lopez was born in Guatemala. He originally sailed on the Maiden Creek. Brother Lopez concluded his seafaring career aboard the Astrachem. A member of the engine department, he started collecting his retirement compensation in 2010. Brother Lopez continued to call Guatemala home. HARRY PETERSEN Pensioner Harry Petersen, 70, passed away July 6. Brother Petersen started sailing with the Seafarers in 1967. He was originally employed with Pringle Barge Lines. A member of the steward department, Brother Petersen last shipped on the Sgt. Matej Kocak. He went on pension in 2011 and was a resident of Milwaukee. JUNIOR HUGHES Brother Junior Hughes, 90, passed away August 2. He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1971. Brother Hughes was a native of South Carolina. He worked in the steward department and lived in Mullins, South Carolina. JAMES RICHARDSON Brother James Richardson, 76, died July 8. He became a union member in 1968 in San Francisco. Brother Richardson sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Cape Mohican in 1998. He was born in Mississippi and called Henderson, Nevada, home. GEORGE KOULOURIS Pensioner George Koulouris, 81, died July 7. He began his seafaring career in 1990. Brother Koulouris’ first ship was the Cape Carthage; his last was the Producer. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Koulouris began collecting his pension in 2001. He was born in Greece, and most recently resided in Florida. MARILYN SANTOS Pensioner Marilyn Santos, 76, passed away June 29. She began her SIU career in 1989. Sister Santos was a steward department member. She primarily worked aboard the Indepen­ dence. Sister Santos starting collecting her pension in 2004 and made her home in Kaneohe, Hawaii. EDRICK LOPEZ Brother Edrick Lopez, 27, passed away June 4. He began sailing with the SIU in 2014. Brother Lopez initially sailed aboard the Sgt. William R. Button. He worked in the steward department. Brother Lopez’s final vessel was the Perla Del Caribe. He was a native of Puerto Rico. 18 Seafarers LOG THOMAS SWANSON Pensioner Thomas Swanson, 74, died July 26. He signed on with the Seafarers in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. Brother Swanson was born in New York and shipped as a deck department member. He was last employed on the Saf­ marine Ngami. Brother Swanson lived in Florida. GEORGE TELEGADAS Pensioner George Telegadas, 83, passed away July 2. He became a union member in 1961. Brother Telegadas initially sailed in the deep sea division aboard the St. Titan. Prior to his retirement in 1978, he worked with JW Wescott. Brother Telegadas was a resident of Huntington Beach, California. INLAND FRANCIS O’BRIEN Brother Francis O’Brien, 89, died June 14. He joined the SIU in 1947. Brother O’Brien was born in New York. Among other vessels, he sailed aboard the Suzanne. Brother O’Brien settled in Spring Hill, Florida. JOHN RICHARD Pensioner John Richard, 80, passed away July 8. Brother Richard signed on with the union in 1963. He was employed with HVIDE Marine for the duration of his career. Brother Richard was a deck department member. He began receiving his pension in 1994 and lived in Orange, Texas. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION RICARDO AQUINO Pensioner Ricardo Aquino, 90, passed away July 17. Brother Aquino was born in Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1982 and called Bronx, New York, home. WILLIE BELL Pensioner Willie Bell, 87, died July 17. Born in Maryland, Brother Bell started receiving his pension in 1984. He resided in Pikesville, Maryland. BRIGIDO COFRESI Pensioner Brigido Cofresi, 96, passed away June 2. He was a native of Puerto Rico. Brother Cofresi began collecting his pension in 1968. He lived in Palm City, Florida. JACK DELANO Pensioner Jack Delano, 91, died June 3. Brother Delano was born in California. He went on pension in 1987 and made his home in Santa Barbara, California. CLINE GLIDDEN Pensioner Cline Glidden, 91, passed away June 27. Born in the West Bay, Cayman Islands, Brother Glidden started receiving his pension in 1982. He was a resident of Grand Cayman. PABLO GONZALEZ Pensioner Pablo Gonzalez, 87, died June 1. Brother Gonzalez was born in Lares, Puerto Rico. He retired in 1986 and continued to reside in Puerto Rico. BERNARD GRAZIANO Pensioner Bernard Graziano, 91, passed away July 4. The Hoboken, New Jersey, native became a pensioner in 1987. Brother Graziano called Pompano Beach, Florida, home. DARDEN HUDGINS Pensioner Darden Hudgins, 78, died June 11. Brother Hudgins was born in Virginia. He started collecting his pension in 2003 and was a resident of Mathews, Virginia. GEORGE HYNES Pensioner George Hynes, 92, passed away June 16. A native of Canada, he became a pensioner in 1986. Brother Hynes made his home in Texas. LEE KONG Pensioner Lee Kong, 95, died June 12. He was born in China. Brother Kong started collecting his retirement pay in 1970 and lived in New York. ROBERT MAUGER Pensioner Robert Mauger, 87, passed away June 13. The Indiana native retired in 1992. Brother Mauger called Leesburg, Florida, home. 87, passed away June 20. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Molina went on pension in 1988. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida. ANTONIO RADILLO Pensioner Antonio Radillo, 88, died June 18. The Honduras-born mariner began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1994. Brother Radillo made his home in St. James, New York. HERMAN SCYPION Pensioner Herman Scypion, 82, passed away June 14. He was born in Port Arthur, Texas, and became a pensioner in 1991. Brother Scypion continued to live in Texas. KARL STOCK Pensioner Karl Stock, 90, died June 2. Brother Stock was a native of Home, Kansas. He went on pension in 1976 and settled in Pasadena, Texas. JOSEPHINE VENTURA Pensioner Josephine Ventura, 92, passed away June 21. Sister Ventura was born in Ravena, New York. She started collecting her retirement pay in 1979 and called Greenacres, Florida, home. WILLIAM WAGNER Pensioner William Wagner, 90, died June 24. The Alabama native became a pensioner in 1995. He was a resident of Mobile. Name Barton, Thomas Cabrera, Miguel Gomez, Joseph Hernandez, Ben Hurd, Harold Kambar, William King, Robert Kramer, Samuel Najar, Paul Petrino, Robert Robles, Alejandro Ryce, Byron Silva, Israel Taylor, Arthur Thomas, Carlos Valente, Santiago Veloso, Antonio Walker, Leon Age 92 94 94 91 79 91 85 78 89 84 98 72 90 93 74 90 92 92 DOD July 18 July 27 July 6 May 3 June 17 May 29 May 15 June 25 June 10 June 7 July 11 July 2 June 4 July 8 July 18 July 27 June 16 July 18 MELVIN MCCRAY Pensioner Melvin McCray, 84, died July 18. He was born in Virginia. Brother McCray began receiving his pension in 1973. He was a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. FRANCISCO MOLINA Pensioner Francisco Molina, November 2016 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), July 23 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Scott A. Opsahl, Educational Director David Vega, Steward Delegate Fernando Lopez. Chairman reported smooth sailing and thanked crew for their hard work. He reminded mariners to ask the captain for a completed tour of duty form. Secretary expressed gratitude for crew members helping keep lounge and mess hall clean. They were urged to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director advised members to check expiration dates on documents and start renewal process early. He also advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Treasurer stated $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to reduce the number of physicals required and increase optical allowance. Requests were made for new chairs, mattresses and refrigerator. All aboard thanked the steward department for a job well done. Next ports: Newark, New Jersey and Baltimore. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), July 16 – Chairman Ferdinand Gongora, Secretary Juan Vallejo, Educational Director Tijani Rashid, Deck Delegate Peter Wojcikowski, Engine Delegate Reynaldo Lacayo, Steward Delegate Stanford Drakes. Bosun talked about importance of safety aboard vessel and urged mariners to keep documents up-to-date. Secretary expressed gratitude to SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez for great job defending the Jones Act. Educational director advised mariners to enhance skills at maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to increase pension benefits. Steward department was thanked for excellent food. USNS FRED STOCKHAM (Crowley), July 17 – Chairman Munasser H. Ahmed, Secretary Harlan G. Alonzo, Educational Director Randy Slue, Deck Delegate George Phillips, Steward Delegate Shanita Flachbart. Chairman advised all aboard to secure personal property. Secretary gave kudos to fellow crew members for successful exercise in San Diego. Educational director urged mariners to keep documents up-to-date and reviewed requirements for STCW Basic Training when renewing merchant mariner credential after January 1, 2017. Seafarers were also advised to upgrade skills at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that new TV had been purchased for crew members. Next port: Jacksonville, Florida. JEAN ANNE (TOTE), August 21 – Chairman Noel R. Camacho, Secretary Ingra L. Maddox, Educational Director Grayson W. Ross, Deck Delegate Dennis Bracamonte, Engine Delegate Samir Tarsha, Steward Delegate Adele Williams. Chairman reported smooth voyage with no injuries. Secretary discussed new BT requirements and clarified that as long as your MMC is good past January 1, 2017 you can continue to sail without getting a new BT before your current MMC expires – but you must have a new BT to renew it. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills at the Paul Hall Center to excel in their positions. He also mentioned there has been an issue with lashing gear in holds being a potential trip hazard. He advised November 2016 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 in Hawaii Seafarers aboard the Marjorie C Chief Cook Frank Ramones, Recertified Steward Gerald Figg, ACU David Hilario Manoa ACU Ruben Siclot, Chief Cook Marcelo Rodriguez Manulani members to report loose lashings to bosun or chief mate. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion was held regarding importance of registering to vote and signing up for absentee ballot. Recommendation was made to increase vacation benefits. It was noted that money from recycling was used to purchase movies for crew use. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), August 21 – Chairman Koksal Demir, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Engine Delegate James Sieger. Under old business, it was mentioned that there’s still some unresolved disputed OT involving deck and steward departments. Chairman reported safe trip and announced upcoming payoff in Norfolk, Virginia. Secretary reminded everyone to vote in general election and also contribute to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, because it works. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. No new beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted current issue of Seafarers LOG is available online (as are back issues). They discussed efforts to recruit new mariners and offered candid assessments of some of the challenges, including requirements for documentation and numerous physical exams. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. They listed many suggestions for the next contract and (separately) proposed changes to the medical, pension, and vacation plans. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), August 28 – Chairman Albert C. Williams, Secretary Chief Cook Benjamin Feria Jr., OBS Rene Caballero, Chief Steward Raul Napoles Maui OS Mark Baclayon picks up his full B book at the union hall. Emmanuel F. Laureta, Educational Director Kareim T. Wright, Deck Delegate Aretta Jones, Engine Delegate Arnold Williams, Steward Delegate Teresito Reyes. Chairman thanked all departments for working safely. Secretary encouraged fellow members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reminded everyone to keep documents and physicals current. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates; steward delegate reported disputed OT. Crew asked for increase in vacation benefits. They thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Houston. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG), August 8 – Chairman Aristeo M. Padua, Secretary Richard B. Sanderson, Educational Director Benjamin E. Matthews, Deck Delegate Obaid Ali, Steward Delegate Jason Beckford. Chairman reported every- thing running smoothly. Secretary discussed improved dental benefits, news of which was well-received by crew. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade and reminded them to keep all documents and paperwork up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chief Cook Beckford was thanked for outstanding food. YORKTOWN EXPRESS (Crowley), August 29 – Chairman Michael D. Ratigan, Secretary Jeffrey J. Badua, Educational Director James W. Demouy. Chairman encouraged crew to read the LOG, upgrade, and keep all documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was encouraged to ask questions if they have any issues. They made suggestions pertaining to shuttles, retirement benefits and STCW Basic Training. Steward department was thanked for excellent trip. Seafarers LOG 19 �Letter to the Editor Important Notice For Mariners MARAD Authorizes Awarding of the Marine Expeditionary Medal for Somalia Operations Editor’s note: The following news release was issued by the Mar­ itime Administration. In keeping with its tradition of honoring the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) has authorized award of the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal (MMEM) for service aboard U.S.-flag vessels in support of Operations Restore Hope and United Shield and related operations in Somalia from December 5, 1992 to March 31, 1995. Under the authority of 46 U.S.C. 51901, the Secretary of Transportation has the authority to establish and award “... a decoration or medal to an individual for service ... during operations by the Armed Forces of the United States outside the continental United States under conditions of danger to life and property.” The MMEM was created under this authority as a multi-purpose award to recognize the contributions of U.S. Merchant Mariners under conditions, and in times of, national conflict or emergency. The medal has been previously awarded for merchant marine service in Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, as well as service in support of Operations Enduring Freedom/ Iraqi Freedom. To be eligible for award of the MMEM for Somalia service, civilian U.S. Merchant Mariners would have to have been employed on U.S.-flag vessels actually engaged in direct support of Operations Restore Hope and United Shield and related operations. “Direct support” The Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal includes, but is not limited to, delivery of cargo and supplies for use by deployed United States military, Allied and United Nations (UN) forces during the above operations in Somalia, as well as support for any associated humanitarian cargo and personnel movements, to and from the Port of Mogadishu and/ or other Somalia port facilities utilized for support of operations during the period cited. It also includes any re-supply of U.S. Navy and Allied ships in Somalia’s national and proximate waters engaged in direct support of the above operations during the stated period. For purposes of awarding the MMEM to mariners, MARAD designated the Area of Operations cited for award to U.S. military personnel of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for direct support of UN operations during Operations Restore Hope and United Shield. This area, to be used as a point of reference in awarding the MMEM, extends from approximately 02 degrees Latitude North, to 3-30 degrees Latitude North, and from approximately 45 degrees Longitude East to 63 degrees Longitude East. However, this definition is intended to cover some, but not all of the instances of, direct support to United States and United Nations operations in Somalia. Civilian U. S. Merchant Marine applicants who seek the medal but have not performed the work described above must explain in their applications the merchant mariner work they performed and why it constituted “direct support.” Such applications will be evaluated as to whether the work described provides an alternate basis for direct support. Personnel aboard U.S.-flag commercial vessels sailing in the designated area of hostilities but not rendering “direct support” would not be eligible for this award. In order to validate their service, mariners seeking award of the MMEM for Somalia must submit a copy of their Certificate of Discharge in foreign ocean going waters to MARAD. The Certificate of Discharge time period must be between December 5, 1992 and March 31, 1995. The application form for a Certificate of Discharge (Form CG-718A), may be downloaded from the US Coast Guard website at https://www.uscg.mil/forms. 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. Retiree Has Fond Memories, Still Sports Strong SIU Pride Dear Union Brothers: I am retired Seafarer Matthew (Matt) Carroll, C1054. My last ship was the Sea-Land Defender in 1984. I have been enjoying my SIU pension since 2009. On the beach I have been a shopkeeper and zookeeper, plant operator and politico, to name just a few. I am proud of my service on ships contracted with the SIU, one of the few unions that still believes in the brotherhood of workers everywhere, and backs this belief with actions. When participating in my city’s Cesar Chavez Day activities, I remind everyone of the SIU’s role in supporting his mission. I have run for mayor of El Paso and served on many city boards and commissions. I currently work with Congressman Beto O’Rourke (D-Texas), a champion of veterans’ issues, promoting the creation of a monument which would preserve a key section of the mountain overlooking El Paso. Former shipmates probably remember me for my frugality and skill at picking up languages to quickly blend into local life in every port of call. I would welcome correspondence from both former shipmates and currently active Seafarers. I appreciate getting the Seafarers LOG in the mail. It keeps me in touch with an industry that has changed so much since my seagoing days. I am even more impressed by the evolution of our membership into the highly skilled and dedicated professionals of today. Even as a retiree living in a remote corner of a blood-red state, I can be an advocate of the SIU and the principles of organized labor. Fraternally yours, Matt Carroll 1011 N. Saint Vrain St. El Paso, TX 79902-4510 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 November 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 Engineroom Resource Management November 26 December 2 December 3 December 9 December 10 December 16 Leadership and Managerial Skills November 26 December 2 February 25 March 3 Able Seafarer Deck February 4 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. March 3 ARPA December 3 December 9 February 25 March 3 ECDIS December 3 December 9 January 7 January 13 GMDSS January 28 February 10 Lifeboat November 19 December 2 January 14 January 27 February 11 February 24 Radar Observer November 19 December 2 February 11 February 24 RFPNW January 7 February 3 Engine Department Upgrading Courses January 14 February 10 BAPO January 7 February 3 FOWT February 25 March 24 Junior Engineer January 7 March 3 Machinist November 12 December 2 Marine Electrician January 21 March 17 Marine Refer Tech March 18 Welding November 26 December 16 February 25 March 17 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops December 3 December 30 December 31 January 27 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The most recent class started November 7. Chief Steward November 5 December 16 February 11 March 24 ServSafe November 19 November 25 February 11 February 17 Safety Upgrading Courses Deck Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion April 7 Basic Training w/16hr FF November 12 November 18 November 26 December 2 December 10 December 16 January 7 January 13 January 14 January 20 January 28 February 3 Basic Training Revalidation December 9 December 9 February 17 February 17 February 24 February 24 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation November 12 November 18 December 10 December 16 February 4 February 10 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting November 26 December 2 January 14 January 20 Government Vessels November 12 November 18 December 3 December 9 January 21 January 27 February 25 March 3 Medical Care Provider December 3 December 9 January 21 January 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL/LG November 19 December 2 January 14 January 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG December 3 December 9 February 25 March 3 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. Pumpman December 3 December 16 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. November 2016 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. 11/16 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #815 –The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Adam Brundage, William Cannon, Dion Cheeseborough, Neil Donegan, Kevin Franklin, Will Jordan, Robert Lanier and Kyle Williamson. Tank Ship Familiarization – Nine Phase III apprentices graduated from this course Sept. 2. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Saleh Ali Almatari, Alexander Ayers, Toby Blunt, Todd Colabella, Andrew King, Joshua Lux, Mark Smith II, Matthew Szczepaniak and Brandon Yednoroz. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to sail in the deck departments aboard SIU-contracted vessels. Tank Ship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices, (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 2: Marquez Fields, Gabriel Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Ryan Howard, Paul Ianni, Marcus Jimenez, Mason McGowan, Daniel Joshua Ramos Resultan, Dequan Jamal Rivera, Jesse Sigurdson and Daniel Lowie Rivera Surell. Each plans to sail in the engine department on union-contracted vessels once they complete their training. UA to AS-D – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Deontre Blount, Tyler Cook, Dominick Corbitt, Hunter Cox, Thyron Simbajon Dy, Joseph Evans, Charlie English III, Joseph Gil, Melvin Hunter Jr., Tasha Pauley, Cameron Peake, Joshua Saldana, Jeffrey Thomas and Joshua Welcome. Instructor Welton Grooms is second from left in the front row. Welding – Upgrader Arthur Bailey, above left, completed his requirements and graduated from this course Sept. 9. Helping him celebrate his achievement is his instructor, Chris Raley. 22 Seafarers LOG Tank Ship Familiarization – Four Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 2: Dorothea Fabrizius, Antonio Holmes, John Jewell and Todd Pryor. Once their apprentice training is completed, each plans to work in the steward department on SIU-contracted vessels. UA to FOWT – Thirteen upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Jarion Andrews, Clayton Black, Francois Bonilla, Cameron Cobb, Monica Coffelt, Mark Feldhaus, Tre Hill, David Kessler, Asadullah Khan, Yves Mbuiti Nsuami, Tyler Perry, Gerardo William Rosaly Martinez and Daquan Wallace. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. ECDIS – Three upgraders completed this course Sept. 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Efren Lambinicio Pahinag, Keith Reeder and Mykola Smirnov. Class instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. Basic Firefighting – Seafarer Nilsa Manazia, above center, completed the enhancement of her skills and graduated from this course Sept. 16. Celebrating the achievement with her are instructors Mike Roberts and Wayne Johnson Jr., who are situated at the far left and far right, respectively November 2016 �Paul Hall Center Classes ECDIS – Eight upgraders completed this course Sept. 30. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Roy Carey, Jonathan Omar Chaparro Lorenzo, John Clare, Adolf Lopez Floresca, Bud Sok Khuth, Clayton Lupton, Jarred Moylan and Julio Enrique Perez. Patrick Schoenberger, their instructor, is at the far left. Medical Care Provider – Seven upgraders enhanced their skills by graduating from this course Sept. 9. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Yosluvy Baro Laza, Alex Canada, Kevin Chenault, James Fells, Valentine Oghenewegba Okei, John Reyes and Jome Gayo Zerna. Their instructor, Wayne Johnsn Jr., is at the far left. OL (Basic Motor Plant) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 9: Antonio Griffin, Letwan Jackson and Joseph Ritchey. Class instructor Keith Adamson is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Fourteen Seafarers improved their skills by finishing this course Sept. 9. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Derrick Alexander, Tyesha Boyd, Jose Amaldo Chumpitaz, James Davis Jr., Archie Eldridge Jr., Juan Ramon Iglesias, Jonas Paul Panghulan Libang, Anecito Taladua Limboy, David Martinez, Patrick Ray Jr., Walenda Reynolds, Anthony Rutland, Anthony Sumlar and Daniel Tennant. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 30: Arthur Bailey, Patrick Brill, Lonnie Carter, Daniel Coffman, Donell Criswell, Kirk Fisher, Barney George, Antonio Griffin, Lawrence Hernandez Jr., Steven Horta Jr., Luis Guillermo Ramos Rosa, Stephen Roell, Tyrell Nasheed Thabit, Hector Ivan Triado-Surillo and Charlie Wescott III. (Note: Not all are pictured) Government Vessels – Nineteen upgraders graduated from this course Sept. 23. Completing all of their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Daniel Coffman, Donell Criswell, Antonio Cummings, Michael Curtis, Belarmino Da Rosa, Asifamaka Egerton Wakama, Lee Eludo Jr., Shanita Flachbart, Barney George, Corey Hill, Christopher Hunnings, Claude Letts, Nilsa Manaiza, Patrick McCarthy, John Mendez, Stephen Roell, Nicholas Sampson, Tirso Diaz Sarmiento and Steven Supplee. Class instructor Stan Beck is at the far right. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course Sept. 23: Carlos Eduardo Amaya-Avila, Alvin Cabahit, Kenneth Cabrera, Rodriques Antwan Carson, Jonatrhan Collier, Adrian Darden, Domingos Dos Anjos Ferreira, Michael Flynn, Cortney Gantt, Noah Hughes, Lucian Lepadatu, Mark Menton, Martin O’Brien, Yuri Adrian Oliveros, Russell Pilchard IV, Luis Alberto Sepulveda, William Sharp, Marijan Strk, Derrick Sullivan and Jeffrey Thrash. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. November 2016 Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER F E B R U A R Y2016 2014 o NO. 11 V O LVOLUME U M E 7 678 NO. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23 El Faro Remembrances . . . At the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland The photos on this page and on Pages 4-6 show some of the many observances conducted Oct. 1 for the final crew of the El Faro. Pictured at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland: Apprentice William Cannon (photo at right) rings the El Faro memorial bell; (in photo below) attendees stand for a moment of silence; and officials (photo above, from left, on stage) VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, VP Great Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski, Executive VP Augie Tellez and Port Agent Pat Vandegrift start the ceremony. Aboard the SIU-Crewed Isla Bella Tote Lighthouse Mariners aboard the Isla Bella gather for remembrance en route to Puerto Rico. SIU hall in Tacoma, Washington Tote dedicated this memorial lighthouse in Jacksonville. � 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 November 2016 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES KEELS LAID, TANKER DELIVERED CENTER DEDICATED IN MEMORY OF ITF INSPECTOR NEW MSP SHIP SHOWS ‘COMMITMENT’ MV PATRIOT REFLECTS PROGRAM STRENGTH, SEALIFT’S IMPORTANCE EL FARO MEMORIAL DEDICATED IN JACKSONVILLE SIU MEMBERS AT SEA AND ASHORE OBSERVE ANNIVERSARY OF TRAGIC LOSS UNION ELECTION VOTING BEGAN NOV. 1 SIU-CREWED MSP RO/RO VESSEL RENAMED IN PORT OF BALTIMORE MSC OFFICIAL PRAISES CREW OF OCEAN GLORY RESCUE AT SEA CS DEPENDABLE CREW SAVES INDIAN FISHERMAN MARAD AUTHORIZES AWARDING OF THE MARINE EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL FOR SOMALIA OPERATIONS EL FARO REMEMBRANCES… AT THE SIU-AFFILIATED PAUL HALL CENTER IN PINEY POINT, MARYLAND 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 11/01/2016 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/6ea71f721e5916b7320cac2dcead5b8c.pdf 87a0348faaa2196a2ed8c0dcbef1e00c PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U A2017 RY 2014 NO.. 11 V O L U M EVOLUME 7 6 o 79 NO 2 Jones Act Ships Aid Puerto Rico Relief Efforts Also Ongoing in Virgin Islands The SIU wasted no time mobilizing for relief efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria devastated the territory Sept. 20. The Category 4 storm caused heavy flooding and knocked out power across the entire island. It also severely impacted the U.S. Virgin Islands and other areas in the Caribbean. In photo at left, the SIU-crewed, Tote-operated Perla Del Caribe loads cargo bound for Puerto Rico on Oct. 2 in Jacksonville, Florida. In photo above, SIU and AMO members in Puerto Rico unload supplies. Jones Act ships have played a crucial role in relief efforts from the start. Pages 2-3. Piney Point Hosts Conventions, School Anniversary Gathering The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education hosted two conventions in late September, along with its own 50th anniversary celebration. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (center) delivered keynote remarks both at the SIUNA convention Sept. 26 and at the anniversary luncheon later the same day. She’s pictured with SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. For coverage of the anniversary see Pages 6-7. SIUNA convention coverage appears on Pages 8-15, while the United Industrial Workers convention is recapped on Page 4. LMSR Contracts Awarded SIU job growth is on the horizon following the recent announcement of two operating contracts covering 11 large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off vessels, abbreviated as LMSRs. One of the Seafarers-crewed ships covered in the new contracts, the USNS Bob Hope, is pictured Aug. 24 in San Diego in support of Exercise Turbo Activation. Page 2. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kristen Heller) Industry Stands Up for Jones Act Page 2 El Faro Report Issued Page 5 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 18 �President’s Report Jones Act Truth on Our Side As if the recent, devastating series of hurricanes wasn’t bad enough, enemies of the U.S. Merchant Marine tried to pile on by erroneously blaming the Jones Act for somehow slowing recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.  For those of us who’ve spent a long time in the maritime industry, there’s nothing new about swatting down lies about America’s freight cabotage law. But I must say, the media really dropped the ball this time, by parroting outright falsehoods concerning the Jones Act. In late September, it felt as if American-flag shipping was being blamed for everything from locusts to the plague. Fortunately, and like always, our industry and our supporters pushed back and set the record straight, not only in the press but also in Congress. We go into detail elsewhere in this edition of the LOG and on our website, but the bottom line is the Jones Act is good for our country – most definitely Michael Sacco including Puerto Rico. It never hampered relief efforts, and in fact, Jones Act ships (most if not all of them proudly crewed by Seafarers) led those efforts from the very beginning, not only in Puerto Rico but also in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where thousands of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers reside. Nevertheless, a threat remained in Congress at press time, in the form of legislation that would weaken this time-tested law. We were engaged in a grassroots campaign to stop that proposal, because the Jones Act remains vital for America’s national, economic and homeland security. It’s also a key source of jobs for our members, and I thank every Seafarer who reached out to their representatives in the House and Senate to urge their support. It’s frustrating when people lie about our industry, whether in the press or on social media or on Capitol Hill – or anywhere, for that matter. We always have to rise above it and stand up for ourselves, and that’s not hard when the truth is on our side.   Anniversary Notes It was surreal at times as we conducted recent conventions and an anniversary event at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Those gatherings are normally very uplifting, but in addition to conducting the business of the conventions, we were working every day to continue with hurricane relief efforts (and stand up for the Jones Act). Our bodies were in Piney Point, but I know our hearts were in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands – and yes, in Houston and Florida. We haven’t forgotten about you. Nevertheless, I do want to offer a tip of the hat to everyone at the Paul Hall Center who helped ensure the success of the UIW and SIUNA conventions. And I especially enjoyed the school’s 50th anniversary luncheon, where we debuted a video and appreciated heartfelt, in-person speeches. Piney Point has been a second home of sorts for me, but, far more importantly, it remains a gateway to maritime careers for our members, whether they’re just getting started or they’re upgrading their skills. As I said in the video (you can find it on our Facebook page), it’s one of the keys to our future.   House Hearing Reflects Strong Jones Act Support Industry Combats Lies Concerning U.S. Cabotage Law While the U.S.-flag maritime industry immediately mobilized for disaster relief operations in Puerto Rico, opponents of the Jones Act brazenly tried to politicize the situation. Both in the halls of Congress and in erroneous media reports, legislators and reporters made one false accusation after another concerning America’s freight cabotage law, starting in late September. The SIU, other unions, U.S.-flag vessel operators, rank-and-file members, supportive legislators and others pushed back quickly and effectively. From Capitol Hill to social media, from television to the printed page, the domestic maritime industry rallied and set the record straight. One of the more noteworthy moments took place Oct. 2, when the SIU testified at a hearing conducted by the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman spoke on behalf of the SIU; American Maritime Officers; Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; and International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots. The hearing followed an announcement late the prior week that the Jones Act temporarily had been waived in Puerto Rico. Subcommittee Chairman U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California) said in his opening statement, “Critics continue to assail the U.S.-flag fleet and the Jones Act as an antiquated industry and law, unnecessary in today’s world. These critics promoted claims the law prohibited supplies from getting to Puerto Rico. However, as we know, that was false. Supplies have been getting to the island and have been backlogged at the ports, due to the devastation of logistics on the island. Foreign vessels are also bringing fuel and supplies to the island from foreign ports; the Jones Act does not prohibit that from happening.” Schoeneman said in part: “To be clear – the Jones Act is not impeding relief efforts in Puerto Rico right now. It never did. It is not forcing aid to be turned away, nor is it slowing down efforts to get relief supplies to the people who need them. Foreign-flag ships with cargo from ports outside the United States are, and always have been, allowed entry to Puerto Rico. Continued on Page 4 Contract Awards Mean Additional SIU Jobs The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) recently announced two separate operating contracts covering a total of 11 ships – and the upshot for the SIU is additional jobs. On Sept. 18, the DOD reported that Seafarerscontracted U.S. Marine Management will operate seven Bob Hope-class ships. Those vessels are the USNS Bob Hope, USNS Fisher, USNS Seay, USNS Mendonca, USNS Pililaau, USNS Brittin and USNS Benavidez. Categorized as large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ships, they’re currently operated by AMSEA, with SIU crews in all three departments. The contract includes a one-year “base period,” plus four 12-month options and then a sixmonth option. On Sept. 19, the DOD announced that Seafarerscontracted Ocean Ships has been selected to operate four other LMSRs: the USNS Gordon, USNS Gilliland, USNS Shughart and USNS Yano. Those vessels currently are operated by Patriot and carry SIU crews only in the steward department. Like the agreement for the Bob Hope ships, this one consists of a one-year base followed by four 12-month options and then a six-month option. Holiday Wishes As we head toward the winter holidays, I normally use this space to offer a heartfelt but routine greeting for a safe and happy experience. But, the times are anything but routine. Between the hurricanes and the horrific, tragic mass murder in Las Vegas, I think we’re all wondering how these things could happen and what’s next. The calendar keeps advancing, though. With Thanksgiving on the horizon, my hopes for all are for healing, recovery, and peaceful times with family. Give your loved ones an extra hug, and may we all count our blessings and lift up those in need. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 11 o NO. 2 November 2017 The SIU-crewed USNS Mendonca (above and below), pictured earlier this year in Kuwait, helps support American troops and U.S. military operations, as do the other vessels in its class. (Photos by Lt. Col. Cinnie Mullins) 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, 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, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 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 November 2017 �Unions Step Up for Hurricane Recovery Jones Act at Center of Political Storm Following Maria The SIU, numerous other unions and American-flag vessel operators are helping lead the initial stages of relief efforts in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. It is sure to be a years-long endeavor, as the Category 4 storm devastated the territory on Sept. 20. The SIU’s outreach isn’t confined to Puerto Rico, however. The union also is sending supplies and other help to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) (home to more than 2,000 members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers) in addition to continuing with assistance in Texas and Florida. During a three-week stretch from late August to mid-September, those states and territories were struck by one or more of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria. Puerto Rico may have taken the worst of it. Maria left the entire island without power, caused heavy flooding and destroyed hundreds of homes. It’s the strongest hurricane to strike Puerto Rico in more than 80 years, and the island was still reeling three weeks later (at press time). While SIU-crewed Jones Act ships wasted no time delivering relief cargo to Puerto Rico, it quickly became apparent that moving the supplies from port facilities inland was in many cases impossible, due to the wrecked infrastructure. A week into October, there were 4,000 containers awaiting distribution in Puerto Rico terminals, with thousands more on the way. More than 30 U.S.-flag ships, many of them SIU-crewed, carried cargo to the island. Those vessels included ones operated by Crowley and Tote, respectively, among others. Despite the severe infrastructure problems, foes of the Jones Act tried to politicize the tragedy by pushing legislation to weaken or eliminate America’s freight cabotage law. At press time, related bills had been introduced in both houses of Congress (see coverage beginning on page 2). Undeterred, the domestic maritime industry delivered for Puerto Rico. Within the first 12 days of the hurricane, U.S.-flag ships had carried approximately 11,300 containers with millions of pounds of relief and other supplies to the territory. Accord- Some of Maria’s destruction is seen in Aguadialla, Puerto Rico, on Sept. 24. (Photo by Kris Grogan, U.S. Customs and Border Protection) ing to the coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP), Jones Act carriers also anticipated delivering 9,000 more containers in the weeks ahead, including at least 3,300 for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with food, clothing, medicines and more. Other unions in addition to maritime labor stepped up. As San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz put it, “I put out a call for help, and who listened? The unions.” Among the AFL-CIO affiliates transporting union workers to Puerto Rico, or volunteering to stay there and help rebuild the island, were AFA-CWA, AFT, ALPA, AFSCME, Boilermakers, Cement Masons, CWA, IBEW, IBT, Ironworkers, IUPAT, Machinists, NNU, OPEIU, Operating Engineers, Plumbers/Pipefitters, SEIU, UAW, USW and Utility Workers. Moreover, the SIU and AFL-CIO started working together in late September to facilitate collection of relief supplies on the mainland at SIU halls – and to ensure those cargoes will be delivered to union families in Puerto Rico. Speaking of the overall relief effort made by the labor movement, AFL-CIO SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left) is pictured with Seafarers aboard the Tote ship Perla Del Caribe, which served as temporary office space for union personnel in Puerto Rico. November 2017 President Richard Trumka stated, “The working families of Puerto Rico are our brothers and sisters. And this incredible partnership will bring skilled workers to the front lines to deliver supplies, care for victims and rebuild Puerto Rico. Our movement is at its best when we work together during times of great need. But Continued on Page 17 Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund Launched The SIU has established a new fund to assist our members and retirees living in areas affected by the recent hurricanes (this includes SIU affiliates). The fund’s name is Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund. Click on the PayPal link on the SIU home page (www.seafarers.org) in order to donate. Contributions may be made using PayPal accounts, MasterCard, Visa, Maestro, Amex, Discover or any corresponding debit card. Please note that contributions cannot be accepted from contracted employers. If donating by check, please make it out to Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund and mail to: Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund c/o SIU Secretary-Treasurer 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 The fund will pay out a maximum of $500 per person. We’ll post and print information soon about how to apply. Unlike prior relief funds set up by the union, the plan is to make the Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund a permanent entity. This should help expedite donations and payments in the future. Seafarers LOG 3 �UIW Convention Focuses on Solidarity, Growth An impressive cadre of industry leaders, labor officials and union delegates recently converged on the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers’ (UIW) 2017 quadrennial convention. Conducted Sept. 19-20 under the theme “The Union Edge,” the conference saw UIW officials, delegates and trade union supporters outline strategies to strengthen the labor movement and generate more good–paying union jobs. Besides witnessing the re-election of UIW President Michael Sacco and other union officials to office, convention attendees also heard from guest speakers who voiced their views on the current state of the labor movement, national politics and what the UIW and its membership can expect in the future. Along with Sacco, four guest speakers addressed the convention. These included Brian Schoeneman, political and legislative director of the UIW’s parent union, the SIU; Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritimes Trades Department; Steve Loeffler, Kroger Company senior director of labor relations; and Valerie Cole, Union Plus union services coordinator. While each spoke at length on the intricacies of the labor movement, they shared a common message: The success of the UIW lies in the solidarity of its membership, the guidance of the union’s executive board and organized labor’s strength in numbers. As Duncan noted, “When [President Sacco] goes in to speak to a member of Congress or a person in the administration, or a person in the White House, he’s not speaking just for the couple thousands of people from the UIW, he’s not speaking for the 82,000 in the SIUNA, he’s speaking on behalf of the 5 million members of the MTD. That gets you clout; that gets the doors open. “And if that’s not enough, he (Sacco) is also the senior vice president of the AFL-CIO, which has 12 million members,” he continued. “So, when President Sacco goes in and says, ‘I’m here to talk on behalf of my members,’ he talking for 12 million members. And that how we have clout, how we have influence and that’s how we get things done.” Each speaker also stressed the importance of grassroots politics, in every form. Schoeneman talked about those political efforts, say- ing, “Where it starts is you guys, out in the field working with these folks before they are elected to office. That’s where this stuff starts, that’s where it matters the most... You may not think so, but a $25 check in a local race could mean as much as a $10,000 check does in a national level race,” Schoeneman continued. “Spending 15 minutes on the phone talking to your neighbor saying get out and vote, and vote for these union-friendly candidates matters more than a lot of the stuff folks will be spending a lot of money doing over the course of a single campaign.” In addition to the guest speakers, each of the UIW’s regional vice presidents addressed the convention: Kermett Mangram, Atlantic Region; Eugene Irish, Caribbean Region; Monte Burgett, Great Lakes Region; Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast Region; Tom Orzechowski, Midwest Region; and Herb Perez, West Coast Region. Each briefed the body on their regions’ respective accomplishments over the past four years. They also outlined goals the would facilitate continued progress and prosperity for the union membership. In his opening remarks, Sacco commented on hurricanes that had struck the U.S. Virgin Islands (where thousands of UIW members live) and the mainland. (A day later, a third hurricane – Maria – would hammer St. Croix.) “We’ve already sent generators to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, along with other supplies and equipment,” the UIW president stated. “We’re working on setting up our own relief funds. We’re also working with the state AFL-CIO in Texas for Harvey relief, and we’re reaching out to our brothers and sisters in Florida, too. “But this operation goes way beyond the UIW and the SIU,” he continued. “Recovery is going to take years, and it’s going to cost tens of billions of dollars. Nevertheless, brothers and sisters, we’ve been through these situations before, and we’ve always bounced back. I know we need a lot more than a pep talk at a time like this, but please be assured that we’re not just sending thoughts and prayers to our members who are hurting. We’re active every day with gathering information and planning the most efficient ways to continue sending relief supplies and donations and whatever else might help.” Domestic Maritime Industry Rallies to Protect Jones Act Continued from Page 2 The claim that the Jones Act is impeding relief efforts is a lie – and no matter how many times those bought-and-paid-for academics and their cronies in the media repeat that lie, it remains a lie. The amount of fake news around the Jones Act has been staggering.” He added, “Despite the misinformation that has spread like a disease throughout both the mainstream media and through social media, maritime labor knows – from firsthand experience – the critical role that the Jones Act plays in keeping America safe, ensuring our economic, homeland and national security…. Make no mistake: Maritime labor has never, not once, opposed a waiver of the Jones Act in an emergency when there were not enough ships or mariners to handle the job. We have never let a ship sail shorthanded. At the same time, we have never been willing to support waivers of the Jones Act that were unnecessary.” Turning his attention to newly introduced legislation aimed and permanently exempting Puerto Rico from the Jones Act, Schoeneman said, “It is critical that Congress not act rashly in response to this disaster. Some of the proposals being made, whether for long-term waivers of the Jones Act or for a permanent exception for Puerto Rico, are foolhardy and misguided at best and blatantly anti-American opportunism at worst. These legislative proposals would have severe and drastic consequences not only for Puerto Rico, but for the entire United States. Both would be unprecedented, and neither should be considered seriously without significant Congressional review and a better understanding of the potential impacts of such a drastic change to centuries of American law. We urge Congress to exercise due diligence in fact finding, and beware of misinformation and false claims being propagated by anti-Jones Act agitators who are attempting to hijack this crisis to further their agendas.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California), ranking member of the subcommittee, stated, “Shipping carriers that comply with the Jones Act have more than enough capacity for a robust relief effort for Puerto Rico. Getting relief to the island isn’t the problem. The challenge is in getting relief off the docks. Right now, 6,000 containers full of everything the island needs are languishing on the docks in Puerto Rico because there are no trucks available to distribute them. The entire American maritime industry has done outstanding work to coordinate with local governments to provide relief. The Jones Act is essential to maintain a robust shipbuilding industry and sealift capacity, and waiving it will not help solve Puerto Rico’s problems.” In the midst of all this, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-Louisiana) told the New Orleans Times-Picayune, “The problem isn’t the Jones Act. The problem is that there was a hurricane. Logistical systems are destroyed. Trucks, highways and other transportation systems are gone…. Anyone [who] thinks this waiver just solved the problem is confused. We have a huge shipping industry MSC Commander Tours Paul Hall Center These photos were taken Sept. 29 when Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne, commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, visited the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. Mewbourne was given a guided tour of the school’s state-of-the-art training facilities by SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski and members of the school’s faculty and staff. In photo at left, Mewbourne (left) pilots a simulated vessel as PHC Simulator Coordinator Susan Fagan provides instructions. In the other snapshot, Mewbourne (left) inspects part of the engine simulator with Instructor John Wiegman. 4 Seafarers LOG on the Gulf Coast that needs the jobs and economic activity now to help economies recover from their disasters. You just took American jobs and sent them overseas.” Additionally, the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) – a major coalition representing all components of the domestic maritime industry – posted numerous facts about the Jones Act as the relief efforts (and the legislative attacks) continued. Among other points, AMP noted the following as of Oct. 2: Changing the Jones Act in the Middle of the Recovery Effort Would Disrupt a Stable, Reliable Element of Ocean Transportation in Puerto Rico at the Worst Possible Time. The American maritime industry is working closely with stakeholders in Puerto Rico as part of hurricane recovery efforts, and, by all accounts, the ocean shipping efforts have been highly successful. Homeland Security Advisor Tom Bossert has publicly said that American shipping capacity is a key part of the recovery effort and that there are no Jones Act capacity issues. Domestic American companies have deployed 23 Jones Act vessels with multiple sailings each week to Puerto Rico. At least 11,300 containers with millions of pounds of relief supplies have already been delivered to Puerto Rico on American vessels. GAO Has Found that the Jones Act Provides Important Benefits to Puerto Rico and Changing the Jones Act There Could Be Harmful to the Local Economy and National Security Readiness. The definitive study of the Jones Act in Puerto Rico was prepared in 2013 by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), a rare unbiased, non-partisan analysis of this subject. GAO’s study found that “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.” A Long-Term Waiver of the Jones Act Would Outsource American Shipping Companies and American Jobs - Including Puerto Rican Jobs - to Foreign Interests. A long-term Jones Act waiver is nothing more than a scheme to replace American companies and workers with foreign companies and workers in the Puerto Rican shipping trades. It seems particularly harsh to propose replacing the Puerto Rican workers, who have dedicated themselves to keeping cargo moving during the crisis, and American shipping companies that have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Puerto Rico. In addition, a change in the law in one major Jones Act trade could have widespread ripple effects in shipbuilding and other domestic shipping trades throughout the United States, making America more vulnerable without a compensating benefit. The Supposed ‘Cost’ of SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman testifies on behalf of U.S. maritime labor. Jones Act Shipping in Puerto Has Been Wildly Exaggerated. It appears that the primary argument against the Jones Act in Puerto Rico is that it adds to transportation costs by requiring American companies and workers. Some have gone so far as to say that the Jones Act doubles the cost of consumer goods in Puerto Rico, a preposterous statistic with no basis whatsoever. The “cost” argument ignores the basic fact that Jones Act vessels must compete every day against foreign ships for customers in the Puerto Rican marketplace; in fact, two-thirds of the vessels serving Puerto Rico are foreign. Even GAO has rejected the so-called “cost” findings. America Has the Jones Act for a Reason. The Jones Act and the American domestic fleet provide economic, national, and homeland security benefits across the United States. The domestic maritime industry contributes to approximately 500,000 American jobs, including jobs in Puerto Rico, and nearly $100 billion in economic impact annually, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. U.S. military leaders and homeland security officials are among the strongest supporters of the Jones Act because it makes our nation more secure. In addition, the Jones Act reduces massive federal costs that would be necessary if there was no strong American fleet to help monitor the U.S. maritime border, support the domestic commercial shipbuilding industry, and provide a pool of trained mariners that is called on to support America’s sealift capacity requirements. November 2017 �Families meet at the hall on Sept. 30 for an advance briefing on the report. Friends, shipmates and family members of the El Faro crew join together at the hall Oct. 1 for a memorial event. U.S. Coast Guard Releases El Faro Report Two years after the tragic sinking of the SIU-crewed El Faro, the United States Coast Guard released its Report of Investigation into the loss of the vessel and all 33 people aboard. The SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on Sept. 30 hosted a meeting of Coast Guard officials and El Faro family members – a day ahead of the report’s official release. Agency representatives explained the findings of the two-year investigation, as well as the recommendations made by the report. More than 200 people returned to the hall the next day, Oct. 1, for a memorial event on the two-year anniversary of the El Faro’s loss. Elsewhere in Jacksonville that day, the Coast Guard’s Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) issued its report to the public, along with safety recommendations for the industry based on the findings of the investigation. (The full report is linked in an Oct. 3 post in the News section of the SIU website. It is a 199-page, PDF document.) Capt. Jason Neubauer, chairman of the MBI, stated, “The publication of our report is the culmination of an extensive effort to determine the cause and identify actions to prevent future casualties. Our thoughts today are about the 33 mariners lost during the casualty and their loved ones. The personal impact of this tragedy was the driving force in our work.” The MBI collected and analyzed data from the wreck of the El Faro, working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board to ensure they had done an exhaustive discovery of every piece of information. After the salvage of the vessel’s voyage data recorder, the MBI was able to analyze the data and develop a list of recommendations for further actions to improve safety and accountability. The MBI concluded that the primary cause of the casualty was the decision to navigate the El Faro too close to the path of Hurricane Joaquin. The MBI also uncovered evidence of an ineffective safety management system within the operating company, and failures by both the Coast Guard-delegated representative and the Coast Guard itself to provide effective oversight of the vessel’s compliance with safety regulations. The report contains 31 safety recommendations to address issues determined to be contributing factors to the incident, including: Pictured at the Sunday gathering are (from left) SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Pastor Robert Green, whose son (Chief Cook LaShawn Rivera) perished in the El Faro sinking. November 2017 n 17 recommendations to strengthen regulations; n Three recommendations to improve competencies for delegated surveyors and Coast Guard marine inspectors; n Three recommendations to improve the efficacy of stability reviews and major modification determinations; n Four recommendations to improve Coast Guard oversight of functions delegated to third party certification organizations; n Three recommendations to improve search and rescue capabilities; and n One recommendation to improve the processing and delivery of weather forecasts. After reviewing the report, along with additional comments that may be provided by the “Parties in Interest,” the Commandant of the Coast Guard will publish a decision outlining the final agency actions that will be taken in response to the recommendations. Rear Adm. John Nadeau, the assistant commandant for prevention policy, will lead the commandant’s efforts in response to the recommendations. “I want to express my deepest condolences to the families of the mariners who were lost in this tragedy,” said Nadeau. “I would like to thank the Marine Board for their exhaustive efforts over the past two years. This has likely been the most transparent Board in Coast Guard history and the evidence uncovered during the investigation has spurred change within the Coast Guard and maritime industry. Going forward, we are committed to ensuring that the Coast Guard learns all we can from this casualty and takes action to improve our marine safety program. Further, I hope that all vessel owners and operators, classification societies, mariners, and other organizations and individuals who have responsibility for maritime safety will review the report and implement changes to improve maritime safety.” The operator, Tote, issued a statement on the release of the findings, stating in part, “The El Faro and its crew were lost on our watch and for this we will be eternally sorry. Nothing we can do will bring back the remarkable crew, but everything we do can work to ensure that those who go to sea, serving us all, are in ever safer environments. The report, which we and so many others, whom we would like to thank, worked relentlessly on, is another piece of this sacred obligation that everyone who works upon the sea must study and embrace. The report details industry practices which need change. We are committed to working with every stakeholder on these comments and recommendations. We remain focused as we have from the start, on caring for the families of those we lost and working daily ashore and at sea to safeguard the lives of all mariners.” Coast Guard personnel review parts of the report with families at the hall on Sept. 30. Seafarers LOG 5 �U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (photo at left) praises the school as SIU President Michael Sacco looks on. In photo above, Crowley Maritime President/CEO Tom Crowley Jr. says the school needs continued investment to build upon its foundation. School Hosts Energetic Anniversary Event Speakers Cite Paul Hall Center for Half-Century of Excellence The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) formally celebrated its 50th anniversary with a rousing luncheon featuring a new video along with appreciative comments from a powerful array of speakers. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao delivered keynote remarks at the Sept. 26 gathering in Piney Point, Maryland. SIU President Michael Sacco and Crowley Maritime President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. also were featured speakers, while Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen emceed the event, which took place in the school’s main dining room. Named in memory of the late SIU President Paul Hall (the school’s founder), the PHC is widely hailed as a successful product of strong labor-management cooperation. The state-of-the-art facility has trained tens of thou- SIU President Michael Sacco recalls the school’s modest beginnings and thanks those who also helped guide it through the early days. 6 Seafarers LOG sands of mariners, both through its renowned apprentice program and via vocational upgrading courses. Chao is no stranger to the school known to most as Piney Point: She made prior appearances while serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush. Speaking to an audience that included past and present school officials and staff, attendees to the Seafarers International Union of North America convention, ship operators and other guests, Chao stated, “Paul Hall fought for a better life for Seafarers, a strengthened merchant marine, a stronger labor movement, and better opportunities for young people and minorities. His own experience taught him that better opportunities depend on education and training. This facility continues Paul Hall’s work by providing entry-level and advanced training for Seafarers.” She pointed out that Hall was inducted into the Department of Labor Hall of Fame while she was secretary. Speaking about the U.S. maritime industry as a whole, Chao said it’s important to strengthen it “because of its contributions to America’s prosperity and national security. Merchant mariners ensure the safe and efficient waterborne delivery of commercial cargoes here at home and across the globe. “U.S. mariners are a key factor in our country’s military readiness,” she added. “For the past 240 years, they have transported supplies and equipment during times of conflict to our military forces abroad. They stand ready to fulfill that mission today, and they will be ready to do it tomorrow and always. The Department of Defense still relies on U.S.-flag ships, crewed by American civilian mariners, to move our warfighters, equipment and supplies, whenever and wherever they need to go.” Chao described the school as “a fantastic educational facility. As the daughter of a merchant mariner, I fully appreciate the contributions that merchant mariners make to our country.” She also credited Sacco (a past vice president of the school). “President Sacco has taught me about leadership by his dedication and his devotion to his members – to his rank-and-file,” she said. Crowley, the head of one of the nation’s leading maritime companies and a major employer of SIU members, described the PHC as “a maritime training institution that has had such an impact on the American maritime industry.” He stated, “Our company has made it a priority to work together with labor – to build our business and to treat our people right. We have learned that working together, we can ensure our mutual success. What was built here at the Paul Hall Center is a symbol of that cooperation: mutual investment in our future.” He applauded union and company officials for their foresight and efforts to build school, and marveled that an old torpedo-testing facility “could be transformed into such a resource for our industry.” Crowley continued, “I would like to extend my thanks and that of our industry that’s represented here today to the entire SIU executive board, especially Mike Sacco, (Executive Vice President) Augie Tellez and (SecretaryTreasurer) David Heindel, for the special relationship we’ve enjoyed for the past 50 years of this marvelous school. The entire board of trustees, both union and management, realize that continued investment is needed here in order to build upon the foundation that we have. The school must continue to evolve, offering new and innovative state-of-the-art training, and an atmosphere of excellence and professionalism.” He added, “We appreciate and congratulate the men and women who sail on our ships, with courage and professionalism. They are the backbone of the industry, and to them I say thank you for your dedicated service, and keep safe as you bravely deliver supplies to our sons and daughters who are fighting gallantly to preserve our freedom.” Sacco pointed out that he didn’t have to learn about Continued on next page Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen starts the ceremony. November 2017 �Attendees view the debut of the school’s anniversary video. PHC Celebrates 50th Continued from Page 6 the school’s development from old articles or other secondhand sources, because he was there practically from the beginning, arriving at the then-barren campus in 1968. He joked that he initially wondered if the assignment from Hall was a punishment. Sacco thanked everyone who helped form the school and who pushed it through the initial growing pains. “I’m not going to name names, because I know I’ll miss people, but thank you Paul Hall Center personnel unveiled an ice sculpture (above) saluting the anniversary. As evidenced by the photo below, no Piney Point anniversary is complete without a cake. November 2017 for being there from the beginning, when things were tough,” he said. “What a challenge it was to put this thing together. “I also want to thank the operators,” he said. “Thank you for the support you’ve given us and the confidence you have in us. We’re going to deliver you the best product that’s out there. People going through the school are learning the trade and learning the economics of the business.” He recalled a conversation with Hall many years ago: “Paul said, ‘If we don’t upgrade the quality of our people, if we don’t start training them for the needs of the industry and the challenges we’re going to be facing, we’re out of business.’ I never forgot that.” Sacco underscored the importance of the school’s advisory committee, which includes representatives from labor and management and which also typically features guests from various maritime-related agencies. He pledged to continue working together for the school’s advancement. Sacco concluded, “The school is the future of the SIU and the future of the maritime industry.” Editor’s note: The 13-minute video, produced by Kramer Caswell, is available in the Gallery section of the SIU website and also is posted on the SIU and Seafarers LOG Facebook pages. A commemorative Piney Point edition of the LOG was mailed to SIU halls and ships, and it, too, is posted on the SIU website, both in the News section and in the Paul Hall Center section. Congressman Hoyer Honors Paul Hall Center The Office of Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-Maryland) issued the following news release on September 14. Hoyer’s district includes Piney Point, Maryland. Hoyer Honors 50th Anniversary of the Paul Hall Center For Maritime Training And Education Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) submitted a statement into the Congressional Record honoring the 50th anniversary of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. “I’m proud to congratulate the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on their 50th anniversary,” said Congressman Hoyer. “As one of the top schools for merchant mariners in the United States, the Center has provided cutting-edge training to tens of thousands of mariners since 1967. The Fifth District is lucky to be home to such an esteemed institution, which has contributed greatly to our local economy and national defense. I join in congratulating the Center on their work over the past fifty years, and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for this fine institution.” Founded in 1967 by the late Seafarers International Union President Paul Hall, the Center offers more U.S. Coast Guard-approved training courses than any other school in the nation. Below are Congressman Hoyer’s full remarks in the Congressional Record: “Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute on this Floor to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which is located in Maryland’s Fifth Congressional District. It is one of the leading schools for merchant mariners in the United States and a major contributor to the development and maintenance of our nation’s proud maritime traditions. “The Paul Hall Center, which was founded in 1967 by late Seafarers International Union President Paul Hall, runs the leading training program for unlicensed U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer merchant mariners in the United (D-Maryland) States today. It offers more U.S. Coast Guard-approved training courses than any other school in the nation and has trained tens of thousands of mariners since its founding. The Paul Hall Center’s apprenticeship program, which is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, has been praised as one of the most effective apprenticeship programs in the country and was honored as an ‘Innovator and Trailblazer’ by the Labor Department in 2012. Today, the Paul Hall Center provides students a worldclass education, preparing new merchant mariners to take their places on vessels sailing in both foreign and U.S.-flag fleets. “It is critical that our country maintain a merchant marine capable of transporting a large share of the seagoing commerce of the United States. The Paul Hall Center’s programs help ensure a sufficient number of well-trained, highly skilled merchant mariners to crew U.S.-flag vessels both for the privately owned merchant marine and for U.S. government-operated fleets. “To that end, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing the significant contributions that the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has made to our economy, our homeland security, and our national defense through its support of the U.S. Merchant Marine. I hope they will also join me in congratulating the Paul Hall Center on reaching this fiftieth anniversary milestone. I’m proud to represent this wonderful institution in the United States Congress.” Seafarers LOG 7 �t n e v E s t h g i l h g i H 2017 SIUNA Convention ‘Leading the Way’ The Seafarers International Union of North America’s 2017 Quinquennial Convention was an immense success. Held September 26-27 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland, the conference featured a multitude of memorable moments, some of which were captured in the photos on this page and the next six that follow. In the photo at the top, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left), SIU President Michael Sacco (center) and Apprentice Lucas Vasiliades of PHC Class 828 recite the Pledge of Allegiance during the event’s opening ceremony. In photo above at left, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (right) and Acting PHC VP Tommy Orzechowski (left) chat with James Wilkinson of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Posing in the photo at center, above are members of the SIU of Canada Delegation. Pictured (from left) are VP Mike Given, President Jim Given and Diane Given. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (photo above, at right) makes his way into the PHC Training Recreation Center Hotel for lodging. SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell (right in photo at left) is checked into the hotel by hotel Manager Howard Thompson. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) Color Guard present the colors during the Pledge of Allegiance portion of opening ceremonies during the 2017 Seafarers International Union of North America Convention. Honoring the flag on the dais (from left) are SIU Legal Counsel Leslie Tarantola, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, SIU President Michael Sacco, Apprentice Lucas Vasiliades of PHC Class 828, Father Paul Nguyen of St. Georges Catholic Church and Paul Hall Center Acting VP Tommy Orzechowski. In photo below, the newly elected SIUNA Officers are sworn in by Legal Counsel Tarantola. November 2017 Seafarers LOG 9 �SIUNA President Michael Sacco (left) and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao share a laugh at the convention. DOT Secretary Chao, Maritime Administrator Buzby Strongly Reiterate Support for U.S. Merchant Marine U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao and U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby unequivocally voiced the administration’s backing of American mariners and the U.S.-flag fleet when they addressed the Seafarers International Union of North America convention. Chao delivered the keynote speech Sept. 26 in Piney Point, Maryland, while Buzby was the final speaker the following day. The convention, conducted every five years, took place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which also hosted an anniversary event (see coverage on pages 6-7). Chao is familiar with the school, having appeared there in the early 2000s while serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor under President George W. Bush. She has worked with the SIUNA and with union President Michael Sacco even longer, dating back to her days with the Federal Maritime Commission and a previous stint at the DOT. Buzby, too, is no stranger to the union and the school. He served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command from 20092013 and previously visited the Paul Hall Center (in addition to speaking at the 2012 SIUNA convention). Chao opened her remarks by crediting Sacco for his effectiveness. “You are lucky to have him,” she told the delegates and guests. “I’ve always admired him, because from the very start, I saw a true leader who always puts the interest of his membership as the first priority in his life.” She then discussed U.S. relief efforts in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (in addition to ongoing work in Texas and Florida), and commended the Seafarers and other American mariners who immediately answered the call to assist in the operations. “The department’s goal, even during this emergency, will be to maximize employment of American seafarers and American-flagged vessels in the recovery effort,” Chao said. “So, we will be vigilant about requests for waivers to the Jones Act that are unnecessary to deal with the emergency.” Chao then detailed some of the administration’s efforts to finalize a proposal “to rebuild and revitalize our country’s infrastructure, including ports and waterways. This will be impacting every sector, and including maritime.” In the works is a 10-year program, she explained, that would be expected to generate a trillion dollars in spending. “A key part of the plan is eliminating the unnecessary bureaucratic roadblocks and delays that are holding up the delivery of new infrastructure for years, even decades,” she added. Specifically focusing on the U.S. maritime industry, she cited the importance of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Chao also said, “We want to maximize access to U.S. government-impelled preference cargos. We want to maintain support of the Jones Act, and we want to engage, train and support American mariners…. Strengthening America’s maritime industry is not an afterthought. This industry is vital to America’s wellbeing, security, and prosperity.” She continued, “It’s a matter of jobs, and that matters very much to this president and this administration. This sector provides so much employment that supports hundreds of thousands of families. The maritime industry supports a strong, independent way of life that’s been a vital part of America since its beginning. As a daughter of a merchant mariner, this industry has deep and lasting roots in my career and also in my heart. I know this industry well. I have tremendous respect for the men and women in this industry, and for the leadership that makes sure that this sector remains vibrant and strong.” Buzby described the SIUNA as “a great maritime federation, and I know it pretty well. I have worked closely alongside Mike and (SIU Executive Vice President) Augie (Tellez), not so long ago when I was commander of Military Sealift Command. I respect both of these gentlemen and I respect this organization, and I always look forward to coming back and spending time with you.” He recalled the massive but cooperative undertaking of updating the Civilian Mariner Continued on next page “Strengthening America’s maritime industry is not an afterthought. This industry is vital to America’s wellbeing, security, and prosperity.” – Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao voices her backing of the U.S. Merchant Marine. 10 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �AFL-CIO Official: Labor Movement Up to the Challenge A top official from the AFL-CIO delivered an impassioned speech at the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) convention, during which she urged those in attendance to continue fighting for workers’ rights. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler also pledged the federation’s ongoing support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. She spoke at the convention Sept. 27 in Piney Point, Maryland. Shuler began her speech by praising the host facility: the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which she described as “a crown jewel. You should be very, very proud of it.” She then noted, “I don’t think most people know the depth and breadth of the work that we do in the labor movement, as far as training goes. I heard this statistic a while ago, that the labor movement is the second largest provider of training in the country, behind the U.S. military.” Shuler credited union workers for their ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. She had recently visited the Houston area, parts of which were devastated by Harvey in late August, and saw rank-and-file members as well as officials and staff out in force, helping the community with little fanfare. “I saw our members were the ones evacuating people to safety, and they were the ones tending to the injured,” she said. “They were restoring power, and providing critical public services right alongside your members in the wake of this disaster.” After mentioning the recent attempts to weaken the Jones Act in the wake of the hurricanes, she said, “We have an eagle eye on the Jones Act at this moment, and the labor movement stands strong in protecting the Jones Act.” Speaking about the tough road for working families, Shuler said, “America is at its best when working people are strong and thriving. And as a labor movement, we Liz Shuler AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer are facing enormous challenges. Employers and politicians are conspiring to hold down wages. Outdated labor laws are making it harder and harder to form a union. Young people are graduating college with mountains of debt....” She said it’s never been easy to fight for workers’ rights, but also asked everyone present to remember why they are a part of the labor movement. “Everyone has a different reason, but here’s what I think,” Shuler said. “I think we do this work because we care about what happens to people – people we love, and people we will never meet. And that is what drives us: the simple idea that every person deserves a fair shot and a fair shake in America. And unions are the single greatest force to make that happen.” After talking about growing up in a union family, Shuler also discussed her long career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), which included time as an organizer and a rankand-file member. She then spoke about the inequality caused by the labor laws in America. “Inequality is not inevitable,” Shuler declared. “It’s based on the policy choices we make, and the people we elect. So, we can choose to do better in this country. We know that our enemies have made legislation like so-called right-to-work their number one priority, and we know why,” she said, continuing to describe the labor movement as the last remaining source of informing, enabling and mobilizing American workers to vote and stay politically active. Turning to the future, Shuler described the recent internal changes made by the AFL-CIO, in order to better support and provide resources to affiliates. According to Shuler, “We are focusing on three main bodies of work. Mobilizing people, for elections and on issues, and building political independence. The second thing is around legislation, and on advocacy and policy work, so that we can actually rewrite the rules of the economy. And the third area of work that we’re really focusing on is organizing and growth, and being strategic in working with our affiliates who do the organizing.” This focus on growth and the future of the labor movement continued as she spoke about the technologies looming on the horizon that threaten to take away jobs and infringe on workers’ rights. To this end, the federation is launching a new commission on the future of work at their October convention, as well as making recommendations to affiliates on some best practices for using emerging technologies in support of working families. In closing, Shuler offered some statistics: “Polls show ... that the labor movement’s popularity is growing. We’ve had a number of years where it was in decline, but it’s finally starting to move up again – especially among young people. Seventy percent of people under the age of 35 have favorable opinions of unions. Even among conservatives, we are finally starting to trend back up.” She concluded, “Our founders built something incredible. It’s now our job to take the labor movement forward.” Top Transportation Officials Voice Staunch Backing for America’s Mariners Continued from Page 10 Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610 during his time at MSC. That project not only benefits mariners, he noted, but also reflects how different segments of the industry can and do work well together. “I’m used to working with unions,” Buzby said. “That’s how I worked with them. I’m used to sitting down, rolling up our sleeves and getting things done, and that’s how I intend to go forward and operate as the maritime administrator. I want that same attitude of cooperation and openness in this job as I did at Military Sealift Command.” He applauded U.S. mariners for their response to the recent hurricanes, and then recalled some of his statements from earlier this year when he was being confirmed for the MARAD job. During that process, he made it clear to Congress that the nation relies on the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), among other components of the U.S. Merchant Marine, to “execute its wartime missions, deploying and sustaining our forces overseas.” Pointing out the strong backing he has received from Gen. Darren McDew, the commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command, Buzby added, “Mariners of the U.S. Merchant Marine and those RRF ships are really essential assets in our ability to project our forces. I am committed to make sure that both ship-wide and crew-wise, we’re ready to go when needed. “The final priority that I discussed with Congress during my pre-meetings and hearings was strengthening those three pillars of the U.S. flag … to make sure that we keep our U.S. Merchant Marine strong,” he continued. “The Jones Act, Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference are needed to keep our ships under the flag and to keep our mariners working. They are all critical elements that I am going to be defending with my full energy and I know that Secretary Chao feels the same way.” November 2017 He also provided some background information on recent, temporary Jones Act waivers and vowed to stand up for America’s freight cabotage law. Buzby mentioned that the motto on the U.S. Merchant Marine flag reads, “In Peace and War.” He emphasized the critical need to back the industry at all times, and stated that when he talks about maritime, “I’m really talking about the people. We need people to crew these ships and the fact is we don’t presently have enough mariners to sustain our extended military mission overseas. We must take care of our merchant mariners in peacetime, ensuring they’re fully employed, trained and qualified, or we won’t have them in wartime. And that would be a tragedy, because our nation would be stuck.” Buzby wrapped up his speech by sharing his command philosophy, which centers on putting people first, being professional, and being “a good shipmate. When I think of the maritime community, whether it’s the Navy or the merchant marine, I consider us all shipmates,” he said. “That means we take care of each other and we have each other’s backs.” “The Jones Act, Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference are needed to keep our ships under the flag and to keep our mariners working.” – Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) welcomes Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby to the stage. Seafarers LOG 11 �ITF General Secretary Vows Cabotage Support Cotton Credits SIUNA for Leadership Role in International Efforts The first guest speaker at the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIUNA) convention saluted the union for its effective international leadership and pledged his organization’s continued backing of U.S. and Canadian cabotage laws. International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary Steve Cotton delivered an enthusiastic and wide-ranging address to the delegates and guests Sept. 26 at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. “The ITF isn’t a one-way street, and we’ve been investing in and protecting cabotage,” he stated. “We’ve been supporting [Canadian cabotage] and supporting the Jones Act.” The federation in 2015 formed a cabotage task force consisting of eight affiliates along with key ITF maritime representatives. Included on the task force are unions representing the USA, Norway, Nigeria, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Greece and the Philippines. Cotton also saluted the SIU’s current and past leadership, including President Michael Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, and the late Secretary-Treasurer John Fay. Heindel chairs the ITF’s Seafarers’ Section – a position Fay also held. “The ITF is a global federation, but your union has been leading, first with John and now with Dave,” Cotton said. “You believe in fighting beyond these shores to protect workers’ rights.” Additionally, he commended the SIUNA’s work at home. “This union has been fighting to defend the maritime history of this tremendous country,” Cotton stated. “You’ve been working to defend your rights politically, industrially and persuasively – with common sense and dedication to protect what is a truly maritime nation.” He also pointed to the host facility as symbolizing the foresight and determination of the union’s officials. “When you look at this tremendous establishment, the Paul Hall Center, you recognize the vision of people – and dare I say, people that fought for this union. They fought on the waterfront to carve out a space for this union. “And this union is continuing that mantra of setting an agenda, engaging with the employers, looking after the interests of members,” he continued. “If you look back to the 1930s, when this union rose up at a difficult time for this country, you know that the leaders then and the leaders in between, and the leadership now, and the leadership going into the future have one thing in their hearts and their minds, and that’s defending the rights of workers and primarily Seafarers.” The recent hurricanes were a prevalent topic throughout the convention, and Cotton mentioned that the ITF made a financial contribution specifically for SIUNA relief efforts. He then explained efforts within the federation to facilitate growth and effectiveness among its non-maritime affiliates, with the maritime unions serving as a positive example. “With the affiliates, it’s about building your power and building your influence,” he said. “And I’m very proud that you have supported us all the way through that process. We are looking at the changing face of the global economy and we are developing new strategies….” He said ITF affiliates represent approximately 20 million members across the globe. That number “is important to recognize, because when we talk to governments and when we talk to international organizations, and when we talk to employers, that loud voice of 20 million transport workers is crucial,” he said. Reflecting on the five years since the prior SIUNA convention (Cotton also was a guest speaker in 2012), he mentioned ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton (center) is pictured with SIUNA President Michael Sacco (right) and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel in Piney Point, Maryland. that the ITF has been effective in helping combat maritime piracy, partly by working with the International Maritime Organization and with individual governments. Moreover, he said the SIUNA has been at “the heart of all of our maritime work fighting to stop deregulation, and ensuring that all workers – regardless of their nationality – have sustainable jobs and dignity in their lives. This union reaches across the sectors.” He concluded by encouraging attendees to learn from history. “As I stand here and recognize your 50 years, there’s something about being a unionist that we have to know who went before us, and (know) their struggles, and their fight and belief in protecting the men and women of the transport sectors,” Cotton declared. “It is really a privilege to have your support, but we have to recognize from history the world is changing; we have to respond to the changes in the world; we have to bring all of those determinations of the past with us to the table; we have to engage with the employers; we have to engage with governments; but we have to engage with a thoughtful, longterm strategy. “We must always remember the next day is a challenge, and we must be ready for that challenge.” Guest Speakers Tackle Key Issues Among the guest speakers addressing the SIUNA convention on Sept. 27 were Maritime Trades Dept. Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (above, left), Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner (above, center), and Union Plus Representative Valerie Cole (above, right). Duncan inspired attendees with recent examples of grassroots wins for working families. Turner provided insights into how maritime labor carries its message to Capitol Hill. Cole reviewed some of the benefits available through Union Plus, a non-profit entity founded by the AFL-CIO. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �Convention Committees Auditing Committee – (Seated from left) Mario Higa, Andrea Gianni, Berit Eriksson, Dawn Taliford, (standing) David Heindel, Chairman Dean Corgey, and Joe Musher. Convention Arrangements & Public Relations Committee – (Seated from left) David Connolly, Chairman Patrice Caron, Anthony Poplawski, (standing) Monte Burgett, Joseph Soresi and Dave Weathers. Credentials Committee – (Seated from left) Mike Given, Chairman Augie Tellez, Archie Ware, (standing) Joe Baselice and Paul Doell. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Michael Murphy. Officers & Affiliates Reports Committee – Ambrose Cucinotta, Nick Celona, Catina Sicoli, Chairman George Tricker and Herb Perez. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Joshua Sanders. International Affairs Committee – (seated from left) Diane Given, Chairwoman Kate Hunt, Gunnar Lundeberg, (standing) Pat Vandegrift and Eugene Irish. Also on the committee, but not pictured was John Clemons. Legislative & Government Agencies Committee – (Seated from left) Michael Lucranz, Chairman Nick Marrone, Karen Horton-Gennette, (standing) Tom Orzechowski, Jim Given and Charles Murdock. Also on the committee, but not pictured was Joseph Gremelsbacker. November 2017 Resolutions Committee – (Seated from left) Bryan Powell, Chairman Kermett Mangram, (standing) Chad Partridge and Christopher Given. Also on the committee, but not pictured were Charles Aubry and Daniel Shea. Seafarers LOG 13 �Convention Speakers “When workers have a union contract, they have a voice. They have security. They have their wages and benefits and working conditions in writing.” - Terry Turner Senior Political Consultant 14 Seafarers LOG Augie Tellez SIU Executive VP Jim Given President, SIU of Canada Paul Doell President, AMO David Heindel SIUNA Sec. - Treasurer Dean Corgey SIUNA VP Michael Sacco, SIUNA President The Honorable Elaine L. Chao U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mark Buzby U.S. Maritime Administrator Delegates & Guests Liz Shuler Secretary-Treasurer AFL-CIO Daniel Duncan Executive Secretary-Treasurer Maritime Trades Department Steve Cotton General Secretary International Transport Workers’ Federation Valarie Cole Union Plus Representative Thomas Orzechowski SIUNA VP Nick Marrone SIUNA VP Kermett Mangram SIUNA VP Joseph Soresi SIUNA VP George Tricker SIUNA VP Gunnar Lundeberg President Sailors’ Union of the Pacific Anthony Poplawski President, MFOW Patrice Caron Executive VP SIU of Canada Dave Connolly SUP VP Kate Hunt UIW National Director Catani Sicoli Secretary-Treasurer SIU of Canada Roman Gralewicz President Emeritus SIU of Canada Mike Given VP, SIU of Canada Maggie Bowen SIU Plans Administrator Eugene Irish UIW VP Herb Perez UIW VP Monte Burgett UIW VP Chad Partridge UIW VP Karen Horton-Gennette SEATU Asst. VP Nick Celona SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware SIU Asst. VP Ambrose Cucinotta SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell SIU Asst. VP John Hoskins SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift SIU Port Agent Joe Baselice SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew PHC Training/Regulatory Affairs Liaison Ben Anderson SIU Safety Director Andre MacCray SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes SIU Safety Director Kevin Marchand SIU Safety Director James Brown SIU Safety Director Amber Akana SIU Safety Director November 2017 November 2017 Kathy Chester SIU Safety Director Seafarers LOG 15 �Current Seafarer, Former Member Publish Books A current SIU member and one former Seafarer recently announced the respective availability of new books they’ve published. SIU Storekeeper/Supply Officer Chris Maye says it took him more than 25 years to write his first book – but he wrapped it up near the end of this summer. Titled “Forced Existence,” Maye’s missive is “a fiction, action adventure,” he notes. It’s available in electronic format via the website barnesandnoble.com. (The site Rafael Alvarez includes a search feature; entering the words “Christopher Maye” or “Forced Existence” will call up the book.) It’s also available online via Nook Books (for which there is a free app). Maye started sailing with the SIU in 1987. At press time for this edition of the LOG, he was working as a storekeeper aboard the USNS Montford Point. Rafael Alvarez, meanwhile, has been a writer for most of his life, including 20 years as a city desk reporter for the Baltimore Sun. The son of a longtime member of the SIU’s inland division, he has published numerous books (in addition to briefly sailing with the union). Alvarez’s most recent manuscript is a fiction collection titled “Basilio Boullosa Stars in the Fountain of Highlandtown,” and it’s available on Amazon. Signed copies may be ordered directly from the author; email him at orlo.leini@gmail.com. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Classes Start October 16, 2017 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: February 26 – March 16, 2018 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies For More Information Contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session Cover of Chris Maye’s book Spotlight on Mariner Health Guard Against Aneurysms Remember that an aneurysm is an enlarged part of the blood vessel. These areas are important to discover quickly because they may become larger and weaker over time. If the area gets very large, it can rupture. This is a serious health event that will affect many individuals in many different ways. Aneurysms may range from lifethreatening to just being found on a routine X- ray. Your doctor may want it treated quickly or he/she may just watch the aneurysm and see what happens over time. Symptoms differ depending on where they are in the body. If an individual has a cerebral aneurysm, that person may experience fatigue, loss of balance, speech problems, double vision, severe headaches, loss of vision, neck and jaw pain Another person may experience abdominal pain or tenderness, hypertension, and signs of shock if it is found to be an abdominal aneurysm. Diagnosis Important, Must be Done Quickly Risk factors for an aneurysm include diabetes, obesity, hypertension, smoking, alcohol abuse, high cholesterol, and increasing age. Atherosclerosis can be the cause of many aneurysms. As we all age, there may come a time when the wall of the artery becomes harmed by plaque. Plaque can cause the arteries to narrow and even cause blockages. The blood 16 Seafarers LOG flow will slow and an aneurysm may occur. Doctors may order an Ultrasound, CT Scan, MRI, lab work, or an Angiogram if they are concerned about any abnormal findings. Some individuals are born with a weakness in the blood vessel that may not show up until later in life-Congenital malformations. Unfortunately, many have had this happen over time due to age, diet, injury, lack of exercise, certain diseases, infections, and basic life style choices. Aneurysms are handled by a team approach. You may need to see a neuro-surgeon, a cardiac doctor, a chest­surgeon, a renal-surgeon, and many others doctors depending on where the aneurysm is located in the body. All treatments are individualized and specific to the type of aneurysm that a person has. If an aneurysm is diagnosed quickly and treated rapidly, that person has a good chance of survival. Again, this depends on the type of aneurysm that person has! The most important things people can do to help prevent aneurysms are to control their blood pressure, sugar levels and weight. Keep active with regular exercise, watch what you eat, and do not smoke! Keep doctor appointments and take medications as prescribed. Stay healthy and happy! Healthy Recipe Stuffed Peppers w/ Ground Turkey 25 Servings 12 1/2 whole bell pepper, cut in half & seeded 1 quart brown rice, cooked 3 1/3 pound ground turkey 1 1/16 cups onion, chopped fine 1 1/16 cups celery, chopped fine 2 teaspoons granulated garlic 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 2/3 tablespoons parsley, chopped fine 2 whole egg 1 quart tomato sauce n Sauté the onions and celery together for about 7-10 min over medium heat. n Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. (Not tomato sauce) n Stuff the bell pepper halves with the ground turkey mixture. Place the stuffed pepper in 2” hotel pans equally. Top the peppers with tomato sauce. Bake covered in a 350 degree F oven until 165 degree F internal temp. n Cover with plastic wrap & foil. n Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 239 Calories; 6g Fat (24.1 percent calories from fat); 15g Protein; 31g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 65mg Cholesterol; 478mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain (starch); 1 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable; 0 Fat. (Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) November 2017 �Flooding remains in Carolina, Puerto Rico, Sept. 22, two days after Hurricane Maria struck the territory. (Photo by Sgt. Jose Ahiram Diaz-Ramos, Puerto Rico National Guard) Bosun Abel Vazquez and Chief Cook Joaquim Gonzalez help repair the SIU hall in San Juan. Labor Assists Hurricane Victims Continued from Page 3 we are even better when we find common ground and partner with business and industry on solutions to lift up our communities. This endeavor is entirely about working people helping working people in every way possible. In times of great tragedy, our country comes together, and we are committed to doing our part to assist the people of Puerto Rico.” In what may be considered a bittersweet irony, the SIU temporarily moved into its new hall in Puerto Rico on Oct. 11. It was hardly the debut anyone expected or hoped for – but personnel at the hall also said they realized it was fortunate the building 457 Hillside Street wasn’t severely damaged. SIU headquarters officials said the hall eventually will need more sprucing up, so the initial occupancy is supposed to be short-term. In addition to the Jones Act ships servicing Puerto Rico, SIU members sailed aboard numerous others in anticipation of, and in the aftermath of the three hurricanes. Dating to mid-August, Seafarers crewed up the training ships Kennedy and Empire State, and also mobilized the Harry Martin, Roy Wheat, Obregon, Matej Kocak, Brittin, Cape Diamond, Cape Douglas, Cape Domingo, Cape Edmont, Wright, and Cape Decision. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sailed the hospital ship USNS Comfort to Puerto Rico; it remained stationed there along with the Kennedy and Wright. Previously, the Wright delivered generators and other cargoes to St. Thomas in the USVI. “We’re doing everything we can to make the best of it and take care of the membership and help rebuild,” said SIU Puerto Rico Port Agent Amancio Crespo. “We also need to get the word out that the Jones Act has to be maintained here in Puerto Rico. I can’t believe how many lies have been told against the Jones Act.” Containers for relief donations are moved into place outside the SIU hall in Houston on Oct. 10. The Seafarers-crewed SS Wright delivers generators and other relief supplies to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in late September. The SIU hall in Jacksonville, Florida, collects donations for Puerto Rico. This screen grab from CNN shows some of the relief supplies delivered to Puerto Rico by SIUcontracted Crowley Maritime. November 2017 SIU members helped crew up and mobilize the training ship Empire State. Pictured on deck in Florida, preparing to sail to Puerto Rico, are (from left) AB Saleh Mothana, Bosun Magdy Balat, OS Luis Lopez and AB Yancy Cabarrubias. Seafarers LOG 17 �2017 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2017 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address.............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( This application is for: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 11/17 18 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point.............................Monday: November 6, December 4 Algonac...................................Friday: November 10, December 8 Baltimore..............................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Guam.................*Friday: November 24, Thursday: December 21 Honolulu...............................Friday: November 17, December 15 Houston................................Monday, November 13, December 11 Jacksonville..........................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Joliet.................................Thursday: November 16, December 14 Mobile...........................Wednesday: November 15, December 13 New Orleans.......................Tuesday: November 14, December 12 Jersey City.............................Tuesday: November 7, December 5 Norfolk.................................Thursday: November 9, December 7 Oakland............................Thursday: November 16, December 14 Philadelphia......................Wednesday: November 8, December 6 Port Everglades................Thursday: November 16, December 14 San Juan..............................Thursday: November 9, December 7 St. Louis................................Friday: November 17, December 15 Tacoma..................................Friday: November 24, December 22 Wilmington............................Monday: November 20, December 18 *Guam change created by Thanksgiving Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m Attention: Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You, Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD November 2017 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 13, 2017 - October 11, 2017 Total Registered All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B Port A 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 22 9 0 18 7 2 1 18 18 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 2 1 3 4 2 6 2 2 2 8 7 1 19 10 5 13 5 1 8 30 19 8 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 5 1 0 10 1 8 7 1 3 4 17 3 10 5 7 1 4 2 0 0 20 13 1 49 10 12 31 6 6 16 100 19 41 35 23 13 23 12 3 10 57 38 22 36 14 3 22 15 2 18 56 14 4 4 0 1 7 0 0 0 4 1 2 6 5 0 10 2 4 1 18 7 2 29 13 4 10 10 6 11 33 32 10 24 5 3 16 3 3 8 24 9 3 4 5 1 2 1 0 1 4 7 1 7 2 0 5 2 0 1 4 2 1 3 0 1 5 4 0 1 11 8 1 36 6 4 29 6 1 8 80 19 12 5 1 0 6 1 0 0 5 1 2 17 10 12 20 9 4 10 50 29 12 319 125 71 236 89 37 100 549 249 139 C Engine Department Algonac 4 5 0 2 1 0 0 4 6 0 Anchorage 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Baltimore 4 1 0 0 4 2 2 5 2 1 Fort Lauderdale 7 6 2 9 4 1 2 15 6 3 Guam 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 Harvey 2 2 0 2 1 0 0 5 5 0 Honolulu 9 6 0 5 3 0 3 25 8 0 Houston 18 9 4 15 5 2 11 32 14 9 Jacksonville 17 15 2 14 7 3 2 34 32 3 Jersey City 10 9 2 12 5 0 8 18 9 3 Joliet 1 1 0 1 3 0 0 4 1 0 Mobile 5 3 0 2 1 1 2 9 5 2 Norfolk 15 13 6 10 7 4 7 24 19 12 Oakland 5 2 1 2 4 1 6 9 7 3 Philadelphia 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 3 0 Piney Point 1 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 2 0 Puerto Rico 3 1 0 4 2 0 0 5 6 1 Tacoma 10 6 2 7 4 0 3 34 9 6 St. Louis 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 1 Wilmington 5 8 2 3 4 3 0 19 16 7 TOTALS 121 87 21 90 60 17 47 253 151 51 Steward Department Algonac 7 4 0 6 2 0 1 5 5 1 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Baltimore 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 7 0 1 Fort Lauderdale 17 4 1 6 2 1 3 25 5 2 Guam 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 Harvey 5 0 0 2 1 0 2 10 0 1 Honolulu 5 0 0 8 1 0 1 19 1 0 Houston 21 6 1 10 5 0 4 43 9 2 Jacksonville 20 12 2 16 6 2 14 31 15 3 Jersey City 4 2 1 6 2 0 4 14 7 1 Joliet 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 Mobile 5 4 1 4 2 0 3 5 7 1 Norfolk 13 4 1 10 4 2 8 18 12 0 Oakland 14 1 0 8 2 0 7 26 5 1 Philadelphia 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 3 0 1 Piney Point 1 4 0 2 2 0 0 6 3 0 Puerto Rico 0 3 0 1 4 0 1 2 4 0 Tacoma 10 3 0 6 2 1 3 27 4 0 St. Louis 5 0 0 3 0 0 2 3 1 0 Wilmington 17 5 1 14 5 0 9 39 8 0 TOTALS 149 54 8 109 41 6 66 285 89 14 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 0 9 7 3 4 5 0 3 13 10 1 1 3 0 2 2 0 1 1 3 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 2 7 0 2 1 0 0 10 13 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 1 1 3 4 0 2 1 0 1 3 6 0 2 4 0 2 2 0 1 8 6 5 11 9 2 7 3 2 9 21 15 0 14 31 3 7 14 1 2 23 63 2 15 10 1 4 3 0 3 29 13 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 18 30 1 11 16 6 1 26 44 0 5 10 0 4 2 3 1 19 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 8 3 6 7 3 2 17 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 13 22 3 5 17 5 2 26 43 16 98 150 16 61 77 20 28 202 268 GRAND TOTAL: 605 364 250 451 251 137 233 1,115 691 472 Seafarers LOG 19 �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 Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen the Paul Hall Center undergo over the years? Ernie Frank Bosun/3rd Mate First of all, the place has never looked better. Our new training ship, the Freedom Star, is an upgrade over previous training vessels, and really gives the students an accurate learning environment. The effort that Chef John (Hetmanksi) and (TRC Director) Howard Thompson have put into the kitchens and hotel is really amazing. I’ve never been prouder to be a member Reginald Walker AB That new statue out front is really something. The quality of the instructors has never been better. The gym is modern and high-quality, as well as the modern classrooms. In general, the school is much more visually appealing now than ever before. Jose Bonita QMED The new Crowley building is hard to miss, as well as all of the improvements done to the hotel facilities. I like the new classrooms as well, and all of the improvements in the hotel rooms themselves are really great. John Jewell Chief Cook Physically, there have been a lot of changes to the facility, and all of the improvements are really great. In addition, it feels like the hotel staff and school instructors have really stepped up their game since I started here, and it really shows in the quality of the trainees’ work and the state of the hotel. 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 Ali Matari Recertified Steward I like the school very much. The dining areas are much improved, the new front desk looks very nice. I think the school in general looks very new and very clean. Robert Bryson AB Honestly, the whole campus has changed. The El Faro memorial is really nice, and the new modern classrooms are great. They’ve also done a lot of work to the hotel, even since I got here and started upgrading. 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 SIU members are pictured aboard the GATCO tug Florida at San Juan Harbor in 1977. Standing from left are John Kale, cook; Edward Schaffhauser, AB; and SlU Port Agent Juan Reinosa. Seated from left Pete Popour, AB; Erik H. Eriksen, relief captain; Charles Flowers, chief engineer; and William Brinkley, captain. 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 20 Seafarers LOG November 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 DENNIS BAKER Brother Dennis Baker, 59, donned the union colors in 1970, working for Michigan Tankers Inc. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Baker most recently shipped on the Maersk Detroit and resides in Roseville, California. shipped on the CL Austin. Brother Conzo upgraded on multiple occasions at the school in Piney Point, Maryland. He last worked on the Maersk Memphis and resides in Andover, Ohio. JOSEPH CORR Brother Joseph Corr, 57, donned the union colors in 1979, initially working aboard the Cove Leader. A member of the engine department, he upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Corr last shipped on the Elizabeth and now calls Brick Township, New Jersey, home. JOHN BUKOWSKY ROBIN COTTON Brother John Bukowsky, 62, joined the SIU in 1980. He originally sailed with Cove Shipping. The steward department member upgraded on multiple occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bukowsky’s last vessel was the Integrity. He lives in Stevensville, Maryland. Brother Robin Cotton, 62, began his seafaring career in 1978 aboard the El Paso Southern. He worked as a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Cotton last worked for Crowley Towing, and has settled in Springtown, Texas. BARRY CARRANO Brother Barry Carrano, 66, began his seafaring career in 1982, working aboard the Constitution. A member of the deck department, he upgraded multiple times at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Carrano most recently shipped aboard the Alliance Norfolk before settling in Ocala, Florida. DOMINADOR DALMACIO Brother Dominador Dalmacio, 65, joined the union in 2005. A member of the steward department, he initially sailed on the Abby G. Brother Dalmacio’s final vessel was the Dewayne Williams. He resides in Guam. MICHAEL HAMMOCK his seafaring career in 1988, aboard the American Cormorant. A member of the steward department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in Maryland on several occasions. Brother Jones last shipped on the Pennsylvania. He makes his home in Columbus, Ohio. MARY JONES Sister Mary Jones, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1995. She originally worked on the USNS Pollux. Sister Jones sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Paul Buck. She resides in Mobile, Alabama. JACK LAMOTTA Brother Jack Lamotta, 65, started sailing with the union in 1988. He first shipped aboard the USNS Lynch. Brother Lamotta upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1990. A member of the deck department, he most recently worked aboard the Liberty Wave. He calls Euless, Texas, home. GEORGE LEE Brother George Lee, 67, joined the union in 1980. Working in the steward department, he first sailed on a Bay Tankers vessel. Brother Lee upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school before sailing on his final vessel, the Cape Inscription. He makes his home in Los Angeles. ROBERT LERMA Brother Ismael Castillo, 67, joined the SIU in 1983, sailing with Delta Lines. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded in 1996 at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. Brother Castillo most recently shipped on the Philadelphia Express. He resides in Houston. Brother Michael Hammock, 60, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1974. He was initially employed on the Del Oro. Brother Hammock worked in the steward department. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hammock’s most recent trip was aboard the APL Coral. He is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. GORDON CHERUP PHILLIP HARMON TIMOTHY MCHALE Brother Gordon Cherup, 66, joined the union in 1970. The deck department member’s first vessel was the Schoellkoff. Brother Cherub upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. He last sailed on the Dewayne Williams, and lives in White Lake, Michigan. Brother Phillip Harmon, 62, donned the union colors in 1979. He first sailed on the LNG Capricorn, and most recently shipped aboard the Flickertail State. Brother Harmon worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He resides in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Brother Timothy McHale, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2001, as a deck department member. He first vessel was the USNS Dahl; his last, the USNS Montford Point. Brother McHale settled in Troy, North Carolina. ISMAEL CASTILLO DANIEL CONZO Brother Daniel Conzo, 65, first sailed with the SIU in 1977. A member of the deck department, he initially November 2017 LONNIE JONES Brother Lonnie Jones, 70, began Brother Robert Lerma, 65, began his seafaring career in 2005. Working in the deck department, his first vessel was the Maersk Alabama. Brother Lerma upgraded multiple times at the maritime training center in Piney Point Maryland. He last shipped aboard the Intrepid and lives in East Glacier, Montana. JACK MOHAMAD Brother Jack Mohamad, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 1990. He first shipped on the Independence, working in the steward depart- ment. Brother Mohamad took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point School and upgraded on multiple occasions. Prior to his retirement, he shipped on the John Paul Bobo. Brother Mohamad resides in Penacook, New Hampshire. MOHAMED YAHIA ABDUL MOHAMED Brother Donald Bishop, 62, started his seafaring career in 1977, initially working for Interstate Oil Transport Company. A member of the deck department; he upgraded on two occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bishop was last employed by OSG Ship Management and calls Virginia Beach, Virginia, home. Brother Abdul Mohamed, 65, joined the union in 1979. A deck department member, he first sailed on the Overseas Vivian. Brother Mohamed upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1987. He last worked on the Sea-Land Independence and lives in Melvindale, Michigan. LORENZO NUNEZ CACHO Brother Lorenzo Nunez Cacho, 74, started sailing with the SIU in 1994, working on the Independence. Brother Nunez Cacho upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the Liberty Sea. He resides in Bronx, New York. TEREZA PADELOPOULOU Sister Tereza Padelopoulou, 72, became a union member in 2007, working aboard the Richard G Matthiesen. She sailed in the steward department and upgraded several times at the Piney Point school. Sister Padelopoulou last shipped on the Liberty, and lives in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. ANTON POPESCU Brother Anton Popescu, 67, became a union member in 1997. He began his career working aboard the USNS Yano, sailing in the engine department. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall center. Brother Popescu’s most recent trip was on the USNS Seay. He lives in Honolulu. KENNETH SMITH Brother Kenneth Smith, 73, initially sailed with the SIU in 1986. He worked in the deck department, first sailing aboard the USNS Assurance. Brother Smith’s final vessel was the USNS Heezen. He makes his home in Honolulu. PAUL TITUS Brother Paul Titus, 59, became a union member in 1981. He first worked on the Cove Engineer, as an engine department member. Brother Titus upgraded several times at the Piney Point school before sailing on his last vessel, the Maersk Chicago. He calls Delmar, Maryland, home. Brother Mohamed Yahia, 68, started sailing with the union in 1993. He first shipped on the Independence. Brother Yahia was a deck department member and most recently worked on the North Star. He lives in Tacoma, Washington. INLAND DONALD BISHOP PAUL DIMAURO Brother Paul DiMauro, 66, began his SIU career in 2008. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation throughout his career and was a deck department member. Brother DiMauro resides in Orange Park, Florida. CLIFFORD JAMES Brother Clifford James, 63, became a Seafarer in 1973. The engine department member sailed with Dravo Gulf for his entire career. Brother James lives in Jackson, Alabama. JAMES PALMQUIST Brother James Palmquist, 67, began shipping with the union in 2000, initially working on the USNS Effective. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Pont, Maryland. Brother Palmquist sailed in the deck department. He most recently shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation, and resides in San Diego. RUFUS PITTMAN Brother Rufus Pittman, 94, signed on with the SIU in 1963. He began his career working for Graham Transportation. Brother Pittman most recently sailed with McAllister Towing of Virginia. He calls Chesapeake, Virginia, home. NMU EMILIO REYES BATISTA Brother Emilio Reyes Batista, 61, initially sailed with NMU before the merger with SIU in 2001. He upgraded in 2001 at the Piney Point school. Brother Batista calls Catano, Puerto Rico, home. STELLA CALVARY Sister Stella Calvary, 68, began her career with NMU before the 2001 SIU merger. She sailed in the steward department; her most recent trip was aboard the Cape Decision. Sister Calvary lives in North Charleston, South Carolina. Seafarers LOG 21 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CRAIG AMISON Pensioner Craig Amison, 69, passed away August 27. He joined the SIU in 1967. Brother Amison shipped as a member of the deck department. He first sailed on the Petrochem. Brother Amison last worked on the Prestige New York and became a pensioner in 2012. He resided in Harrisburg, Virginia. PATRICIA BALLANCE Pensioner Patricia Ballance, 78, died August 7. A member of the steward department, she first sailed on the Independence. Sister Ballance’s last vessel was the LNG Aries. She became a pensioner in 2004 and lived in Covington, Louisiana. JOHN BURNETT Pensioner John Burnett, 84, passed away July 3. Born in Alabama, he began sailing with Pan Shipping in 1952. Brother Burnett was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Buyer in 1991. He became a pensioner later that year and settled in his home state, in the city of Summerdale. MARGARITO DEGOLLADO Pensioner Margarito Degollado, 89, died August 16. Brother Degollado’s first trip to sea was with Delta Lines as a deck department member, in 1951. He most recently sailed on the Inspiration and began collecting his pension in 1994. Brother Degollado was a resident of Houston. DAVID FARRIS Pensioner David Farris, 66, passed away June 12. Brother Farris joined the SIU in 1971 and worked as a member of the deck department. He first sailed with G&H Towing and last worked aboard the SL Pride before retiring in 2015. He resided in Santa Fe, Texas. GREGORY HOWARD Brother Gregory Howard, 46, passed away June 21. The California native signed on with the SIU in 1992, when he sailed on the Cape Nome. He last sailed on the Matej Kocak. Brother Howard primarily sailed in the engine department. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida. CHARLES JOHNSON Pensioner Charles Johnson, 90, died August 12. Born in North Carolina, he began his seafaring career in 1951, working aboard the Robin Mowbray. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on the Oakland before going on pension in 1988. Brother Johnson was a resident of San Jose, California. 22 Seafarers LOG NICK KRATSAS Pensioner Nick Kratsas, 71, passed away August 25. He began sailing in 1964, working as a deck department member for Isco Inc. Brother Kratsas last sailed aboard the Mayaguez. He became a pensioner in 1993 and made his home in Baltimore. ROBERT LEWIS Pensioner Robert Lewis, 74, died August 26. He joined the union in 1966, and initially worked aboard the Saphire Sandy. Brother Lewis was a member of the deck department and last sailed on the SL Florida. He retired in 2001 and lived in Lakeland, Florida. CANDIDO LIAL Pensioner Candido Lial, 92, died August 20. Brother Lial embarked on his SIU career in 1953 as an engine department member for Eagle Carriers Inc. He last sailed aboard the Del Oro before collecting his pension in 1989. Brother Lial called Marble Falls, Texas, home. ARMANDO MEDINA Pensioner Armando Medina, 71, passed away July 12. Born in New York, Brother Medina became an SIU member in 1988. He first sailed on the Star of Texas as a deck department member. Brother Medina last worked aboard the Liberty Grace before going on pension in 2010. He resided in Metairie, Louisiana. GEORGE MOXLEY Pensioner George Moxley, 72, died September 4. He joined the union in 1976, working for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. A member of the deck department, Brother Moxley last sailed aboard the Liberty Star. He retired in 2010 and settled in Lihue, Hawaii. FEDERICO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Federico Rodriguez, 72, died August 8. Brother Rodriguez’s first trip to sea was on the Steel Design in 1973. The Puerto Rico native most recently sailed on the San Juan as a deck department member and began collecting his pension in 2002. Brother Rodriguez continued to live in Puerto Rico, in the city of Caguas. RAY STRENGTH Pensioner Ray Strength, 81, passed away August 20. He signed on with the SIU in 1960, when he sailed on the Fort Hoskins. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Senator. Brother Strength settled in his home state of Alabama in the city of Flomaton. EDDY STWAEARD Pensioner Eddy Stwaeard, 71, died August 5. He began his seafaring career in 1979, working aboard the Long Lines. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Elizabeth before going on pension in 2016. Brother Stwaeard was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. RAYMOND TORRES Pensioner Raymond Torres, 94, passed away August 6. The New Jersey native’s first trip to sea was aboard the Evelyn, in 1952. As a member of the engine department, Brother Torres last shipped on the Elizabeth. He became a pensioner in 1984 and made his home in Miami. INLAND CHARLES BAKER Pensioner Charles Baker, 75, died September 22. He became a member of the union in 1972, working for Steuart Transportation. Brother Baker was a member of the deck department and last sailed on a Mariner Towing vessel. He retired in 2004 and settled in Ocala, Florida. WALTER BAUER Pensioner Walter Bauer, 90, passed away September 12. He joned the union in 1962 and first sailed with Crescent Towing & Salvage. Working as a deck department member, Brother Bauer remained with the same company until his retirement in 1989. He resided in Waggaman, Louisiana. CLIFTON CHAMPAGNE Brother Clifton Champagne, 62, passed away June 22. He signed on with the SIU in 1973, working with Moran Towing of Texas. A member of the engine department, he concluded his career after working for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Champagne called Winnie, Texas, home. CHARLES CHISHOLM Pensioner Charles Chisholm, 89, died July 6. Brother Chisholm became a seafarer in 1963. The deck department member sailed with Hvide Martine throughout his career. Brother Chisholm began collecting his pension in 1992 and resided in Port Arthur, Texas. LUIS GONZALEZ Pensioner Luis Gonzalez, 86, passed away August 15. Brother Gonzalez signed on with the SIU in 1976 and sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services until his retirement. An engine department member, he began collecting his pension in 1993 and settled in San Juan, Puerto Rico. WILLIAM GUERRIN Pensioner William Guerrin, 86, died August 12. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Guerrin joined the union in 1973. The deck department member first sailed with Gulf Atlantic Transport Company. Before collecting his pension in 1996, he concluded his seafaring career working with Crowing Towing and Transportation. Brother Guerrin resided in Fernandina Beach, Florida. MICHAEL KOSCAK Pensioner Michael Koscak, 72, passed away August 11. Brother Koscak signed on with the SIU in 2006, working as a steward department member for Allied Transportation. He remained with the same company for the duration of his career before going on pension in 2013. The Connecticut native settled in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. HOWARD MCMAHON Pensioner Howard McMahon, 68, died July 5. He joined the union in 1994, working for Westbank Riverboat Services. Brother McMahon was a member of the deck department and sailed with the same company until his retirement in 2010. He resided in Gretna, Louisiana. DAVID TURINSKI Pensioner David Turinski, 63, passed away August 26. He joined the SIU in 2002 and first sailed on the Ameristar East Chicago. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Vision. Brother Turinski went on pension in 2015 and called Holmen, Wisconsin, home. died August 29. Brother Wobbleton initially joined the union in 1964, working for Allied Transportation. He sailed as a member of the steward department, most recently for CG Willis Inc. Brother Wobbleton began collecting pension in 1996 and settled in Moyock, North Carolina. GREAT LAKES STANLEY WASLOWSKI Pensioner Stanley Waslowski, 88, died July 25. Brother Waslowski was born in Pennsylvania and began his seafaring career in 1963, working for American Steamship Company. A deck department member, he last sailed on the St Clair. Brother Waslowski retired in 1993 and settled in Green Bay, Wisconsin. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION SAVINO AVILA Pensioner Savino Avila, 93, passed away July 26. Brother Avila started receiving his pension in 1989. He resided in his home state of California, in the city of San Pablo. EUGENE AYLER Pensioner Eugene Ayler, 77, died September 1. Brother Ayler became a pensioner in 1996. Native to Alabama, he made his home in the city of Mobile. LEWIS BOWEN Pensioner Lewis Bowen, 90, died September 13. Brother Bowen was born in Eastport, Maine. He went on pension in 1968 and called Tampa, Florida, home. FRANCISCO GARCIA Pensioner Francisco Garcia, 94, passed away September 10. Brother Garcia began collecting his pension in 1969. He resided in his native Puerto Rico. Name Age DOD Baldwin, Isaiah Castillo, Rosalio Colon, Eddie Garcia, Angel Corrales, Thomas Lewis, James Martin, Joe Muentes, Ceferino Oxford, Egbert Pagliarini, Francis Radosti, Carlo Rossel, Augusto Tullock, Leo 78 89 90 91 79 71 66 96 86 91 92 97 91 July 31 August 2 July 25 July 21 August 21 August 20 July 25 August 31 July 14 June 29 August 15 August 20 July 18 JOSEPH WOBBLETON Pensioner Joseph Wobbleton, 83, November 2017 �SIU Promotes Industry at ‘Fleet Week’ Event The union took part in this year’s San Francisco Fleet Week proceedings – specifically, by helping host guests aboard the SIU-crewed RRF vessel Cape Horn. Fleet Week, established in 1981, features a wide range of activities aimed at honoring the armed forces and “advancing cooperation and knowledge among civilian- and military-based humanitarian assistance personnel,” according to the association that organizes the event. More information is available at https://fleetweeksf.org/ The photos on this page were taken Oct. 7 aboard the Cape Horn, which is operated by Matson Navigation. SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli provided attendees Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli mans the SIU booth. with information about starting a maritime career and also discussed the history and importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Steward/Baker Joseph Hernandez, Port Agent Nick Marrone II Attendees visit the ship Oct. 7 in San Francisco. U.S. Army personnel pose (photo at left) with Port Agent Nick Marrone II (second from left) and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli (far right). In photo above, guests learn about Ready Reserve Force ships and how they are vital to America’s national security. 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: November 2017 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 Seafarers LOG 23 �FELLOWSHIP IN WILMINGTON – Seafarers enjoy the monthly barbeque at the SIU hall in Wilmington, California, in September. HONORING VICTIMS – The American Flag is lowered to half-staff aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Algol in memory of victims of the Las Vegas shooting. From left are Bosun Ritche Acuman and AB Damar Shaw, on the ship in San Francisco. A-BOOK IN JERSEY – AB Sylvan Harris (left) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Mark von Siegel at the SIU hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. ABOARD TUG RANGER – SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware and Patrolman Adam Bucalo recently serviced this Crowley tug in Jacksonville, Florida. Waiting for stores are Seafarers Dominick Corbitt (left) and Terrance Holmes. 24 Seafarers LOG At Sea and Ashore with the SIU A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – ACU Keith Hall picks up his A-seniority book at the union hall in Oakland, California. He’s pictured with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. FULL BOOK IN CHARM CITY – AB Mark Jones (left) receives his full book from Port Agent John Hoskins. Photo was taken Sept. 25 at the SIU hall in Baltimore. ABOARD MAERSK PEARY – Recertified Steward Tony Spain (left) and Chief Cook Carlton McMiller present two mouthwatering pizzas on the Maersk Line, Limited vessel. ABOARD TUG SENTINEL – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley boat in Jacksonville, Florida, are Chief Mate Leslie O’Hair, Chief Engineer Lazaro Dominguez, AB Gabron Turner, Capt. Paul Stanford, AB James Kayser, Second Mate Charles Brown and AB James Turner. November 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 Gap Closing Courses Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Basic Training w/16hr FF December 2 December 8 Basic Training Revalidation November 10 November 10 January 5 January 5 Basic Training/Basic Firefighting January 27 February 2 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 6 January 12 Basic/Advanced Firefighting Revalidation January 6 January 12 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 2 December 8 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting February 24 March 2 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Government Vessels December 9 December 15 January 6 January 12 Able Seafarer Deck January 6 February 2 Medical Care Provider December 2 December 8 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. Tank Ship Familiarization - DL November 18 November 24 ARPA December 9 December 15 Lifeboat November 18 December 1 December 16 December 29 January 13 January 26 Radar Observer November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 11 November 17 December 2 December 8 Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW February 10 March 9 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers December 2 December 15 BAPO February 10 March 9 FOWT January 6 February 2 Junior Engineer February 3 March 30 Marine Electrician January 20 March 16 Machinist November 11 December 1 Pumpman December 2 December 8 Welding November 25 December 15 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops November 18 December 15 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 13. Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF November 25 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. November 2017 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. 11/17 Seafarers LOG 25 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #828 – The following Phase I apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 8: Jamel Anders, Bradley Bagwell, Brandon Caruthers, Eshrak El Sami Dewan, Desmon Graham, Kaden Hardt, Daryl Hicks, Joshua Irvine, Jorge Laboriel Lalin, Tresten Porter, Stephen Efrain Robles-Matos, Jamel Smith, Lucas Vasiliades and Thomas Zamora. BT (UP Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: Robert Brown, Tricia Bush, Tkeyah Elliot, Raymond Forse, Travis Harris, Solymar Herrera Carreras, Joshua Hinton, Christopher Lanier, Jonathan Luna, Claudia Mauricio-Brice, Sylvester Merritt Jr., Evan Nantista, Jay Perry, Husain Salah, Colin Yee and Shana Zeidenberg. Medical Care Provider – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) enhanced their skills by completing this course September 1: Brandon Albro, Robert Sir Walter Bryson III, Justin Buchart, Jerome Luckett, Bryan Page and George Velez. BAPO – Six upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course August 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Maurice Quindel Backey, Luke Leusoga Failauga, Lionel Manuel Felix Lugo, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Leroy Thomas and Roberto Andres Sabio. Celestial Navigation – Four upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: J.K. Mansfield Borden, Jason Hardy, Saleh Mohamed Mothana and Sunnil Motley. Class instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. Fast Rescue Boat – Three upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 25: Mason Cook, Karl Mayhew III and LBJ Bliss Tanoa. Government Vessels – The following upgraders (photo at left, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 18: Nasser Abdulaziz Saed Ahmed, Magdy Hassan Balat, James Dillon, Robert Goldson, Preeyapha Kaisaard, Robert Neff, Darnell O’Hara, Stig Sassie Jr., Jason Springer, LBJ Bliss Tanoa and Abel Vazquez Torres. Class instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. 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. 26 Seafarers LOG November 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Four Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills when they graduated from this course August 11: Larry Jolla, Michael Murner, Steve Parker III and Richard Wythe Jr ECDIS – Two upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course September 1: Ernest Frank III and Frank Kosarick. Joining them to celebrate their achievement is their instructor, Patrick Schoenberger, right. SUA (Government Vessels) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 18: Joseph Barrack, Kenneth Cabrera-Roman, Apalogie CruzLabrador, Cody Herndon, Jaren Daguio Ildefonzo, Partick Medders and Tyesha Monique St. Clair. Mark Cates, their instructor, is at the far right. BT (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 25: Marlon Agulan Battad, Jesus Colomer-Sanchez, Michael Curtis, Joseph Dupre, Jose Antonio Gonzales Del Valle, Hector Arzu Guity, Romalies Jones, Steven Kroner, Antedio Tagnipez Liguid, Anthony McAfee, Benny Antonio Orosco, Juan Francisco Poblete, Pedro Luis Rivera Riestra and Randy Watson. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Matthew Rogers are at the far left and far right, respectively. SUA (Basic Firefighting) – Nine individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements and graduated from this course August 4: Jennifer Bayne, Luis Gabriel Domenech Cordero, Lisa Hatzky, Ameenah Lynch, Shanel Nixon, Gerald Roulhac, Curtis Snow, Christina Stamps and Seandre Stevens. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. BT (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 4: Nestor Espejo Agcaoili, Chelsea Balint, Michael Fitzgibbons, Jape Robin Saturinas Geonzon, Olden Glover, Thomas Morris, Michael Murner and Steve Parker III. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far left. Galley Operations – Five steward department Seafarers graduated from this course August 11. Enhancing their skills (above, in alphabetical order) were: Nasser Abdulaziz Saed Ahmed, Howard Brooks Jr., Preeyapha Kaisaard, Romeo Alambat Molina and Constance Mullings. Becky Piacente, their instructor, is at the far left. SUA (Galley Operations) – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course August 11: Joseph Barrack, Kenneth Cabrera-Roman, Heriberto Cortes-Aviles, Apalogie Cruz-Labrador, Cody Herndon, Jaren Daguio Ildefonzo, Patrick Medders and Tyesha Monique St. Clair. Class instructor Becky Piacente is at the far right. November 2017 Seafarers LOG 27 �NOVEMBER F E B R U A R2017 Y 2014 o VOLUME VOLU M E 7 6 79 NNO. O . 11 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 26-27 With Seafarers Aboard USNS Seay The vessel is part of the Bob Hope class of large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ships in the Military Sealift Command fleet. It’s operated by AMSEA and is scheduled to turn over to U.S. Marine Management in the near future. osun John Wells submitted these snapshots of SIU members Baboard the USNS Seay. Bosun John Wells (center) says first-tripper GUDE Micah Ferreira (left) (Piney Point Class 808) is off to a strong start. They’re pictured with AB Damon Zschoche. OS Curtis Burks ABs Ken Tan and Jerry Estenso QMED Emmanuel Adeoti AB Paublito Ramos-Ortiz Recertified Steward Robert Firth, Chief Cook Meili Seegers AB Damon Zschoche � 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 November 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HOUSE HEARING REFLECTS STRONG JONES ACT SUPPORT INDUSTRY COMBATS LIES CONCERNING U.S. CABOTAGE LAW CONTRACT AWARDS MEAN ADDITIONAL SIU JOBS UNIONS STEP UP FOR HURRICANE RECOVERY JONES ACT AT CENTER OF POLITICAL STORM FOLLOWING MARIA UIW CONVENTION FOCUSES ON SOLIDARITY, GROWTH U.S. COAST GUARD RELEASES EL FARO REPORT SCHOOL HOSTS ENERGETIC ANNIVERSARY EVENT SPEAKERS CITE PAUL HALL CENTER FOR HALF-CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE CONGRESSMAN HOYER HONORS PAUL HALL CENTER AFL-CIO OFFICIAL: LABOR MOVEMENT UP TO THE CHALLENGE ITF GENERAL SECRETARY VOWS CABOTAGE SUPPORT COTTON CREDITS SIUNA FOR LEADERSHIP ROLE IN INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS CURRENT SEAFARER, FORMER MEMBER PUBLISH BOOKS SIU PROMOTES INDUSTRY AT ‘FLEET WEEK’ EVENT WITH SEAFARERS ABOARD USNS SEAY 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 11/01/2017 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/1c6d8640a6e599f04c2b58511c4ae53b.pdf fa7efd93bad7ddf7e244d9e487001908 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER F E B R U A2018 RY 2014 o V O L U MVOLUME E 7 6 80, NNO. O .112 Report: 91 Nations Have Cabotage Laws Page 3 Construction Starts On USNS John Lewis Union shipyard General Dynamics NASSCO recently hosted a steel-cutting ceremony in San Diego for the USNS John Lewis, the first in a new class of six replenishment oilers named after civil rights leaders. The vessels will be crewed by SIU CIVMARS. (Rendering of the USNS John Lewis courtesy of NASSCO) Page 2. Ceremonies Honor El Faro Crew SIU officials and members took part in three gatherings in Florida to honor the memory of those who perished aboard the El Faro three years ago. In the photo below, the SIU-crewed Lawrence Gianella sails past the El Faro memorial in Dames Point Park in Jacksonville, Florida, site of one of the ceremonies. Page 24. A Day Aboard the Seay SIU members have always served reliably as part of America’s fourth arm of defense, and Seafarers sailing aboard the USNS Seay maintain that tradition. The LOG recently caught up with crew members aboard the U.S. Marine Management-operated vessel in Baltimore; check out our coverage on Pages 12-13. Pictured aboard the ship are (from left) Bosun Robert Hayes, Storekeeper Paul Conway, AB Martha Wall, AB Bryan McAllister, QE4 Emmanuel Adeoti and (rear) AB Caliph Johnson. New Pasha Ship Coming Page 2 SIU VP Mangram Retires Page 4 SHBP Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Many Positive Developments Pick up any issue of our union’s newspaper or read it online, and you’ll get a good sampling of what we’re all about. This month is no exception. We’re reporting on new tonnage both for our private- and federal-sector mariners. We’ve got a feature on one of our military support ships, and a rescue story. Other articles reflect our constant political action; our strong international promotion of maritime; and our commitment to helping preserve our history. As usual, there’s also no shortage of coverage on our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Take a look at the class photos – they show Seafarers who are in different stages of their careers, but who are all taking advantage of the tremendous opportunities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Check out this month’s Inquiring Seafarer feature, too. Those are (like always) real, unscripted answers from members, and they all have good things to say about the school. This is also the time of year when we start promoting the annual scholarships offered through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Those scholarships are available to SIU members and your dependents, and they’re Michael Sacco worth looking into for anyone interested in furthering their formal education. Our union is changing along with the industry, as reflected by our announcement of the SIU’s first female vice president. Last but not least, although we reported on it earlier this year, the organization Seafarers’ Rights International has released its full report on cabotage laws around the world. This study took more than two years to compile, and it proves what we’ve said all along: Cabotage laws are vital, valuable, common-sense policy. For us, this primarily relates to the Jones Act, which has protected the United States for nearly a century but which also regularly comes under attack. The new study puts the Jones Act in an even more positive light, and shows that other countries take the same approach with their domestic commerce. There are variables, sure, and the study doesn’t hide them. But the bottom line is that maritime cabotage laws promote and protect national, economic and homeland security. After Election Day Although it’s only mid-October as of this writing, most of our readers won’t see this edition until after Election Day. In many ways, that’s when our grassroots work really begins. Particularly when it comes to the inevitable turnover in Congress, both our union individually and our industry collectively must constantly carry our message to Capitol Hill so that elected representatives understand why our country needs a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, viable shipyards, and American-flag operators with U.S.-flag ships. All of the points are second nature to those of us who’ve spent our lives in this industry, but you’d probably be shocked at how many freshman legislators (and even some who’ve been around a while) don’t know much if anything about maritime. Our survival – your jobs – depend on gathering and maintaining support for the Jones Act, cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program and other statutes that help keep the industry afloat. The first steps toward those goals involve speaking up and educating Congress, which is precisely why we’re so politically active. It’s also important for Seafarers to introduce yourselves to your Congressional representatives when you’re home. Seafarers know that our organization doesn’t care about political party. We support those who support maritime, and that’ll always be the case. Regardless of the outcomes from November 6, we’ll spring into action immediately to introduce ourselves to the newcomers and also reinforce support from old friends. Happy Holidays I wouldn’t blame you for doing a double-take when reading the subhead immediately above, but Thanksgiving really is right around the corner. As we head towards the winter holiday season, I offer my best wishes to all Seafarers, SIU pensioners, your families and all of our officials and staff members for a safe, happy and healthy home stretch to 2018. For those of you at sea during the holidays, I know it’s a sacrifice even though it goes with the territory. I appreciate your dedication. Last but definitely not least, to all of our men and women in uniform, please know that the SIU always stands ready to deliver the goods to you, wherever and whenever needed. Be safe this holiday season, and know that our entire organization genuinely respects your service. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 11 o NO. 2 November 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. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG The new ships will be fueled by LNG and will sail in the Jones Act trade. First Steel Plates Cut in Texas For LNG-Fueled Containership Pasha Hawaii Jones Act Vessel Will Carry SIU Crew A recent ceremony in Texas signaled upcoming new jobs for SIU members. Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii on Sept. 25 announced that the first steel plates had been cut four days earlier for the M/V George III, the first of two containerships being built for the company by Brownsville, Texas-based Keppel AmFELS. Both the George III and sister ship Janet Marie will be fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will sail in the Jones Act trade. According to Pasha, both Ohana Class ships are slated for delivery in 2020. “This is great news for the SIU and great news for the United States,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Whenever new tonnage enters the Jones Act fleet, it’s a boost to America’s national, economic and homeland security.” The 774-foot vessels will carry 2,525 TEUs apiece, with a sailing speed of 23 knots. The design of the ship’s hull “has been fully optimized using computational fluid dynamics, and will be one of the most hydrodynamically efficient hulls in the world,” the company noted. The vessels have been named in honor of the parents of The Pasha Group President and CEO George Pasha IV. “Three generations of our family’s vision exemplify our unwavering commitment to serving our customers and investing in the future of Hawaii,” said George Pasha IV. “We are marking the first production milestone of our new LNG ships, and honor the legacy of the Pasha ohana (family). We also commend the remarkable talents and organization of the highly skilled shipbuilders on the Keppel team who are working hard to transform Shipyard and company personnel celebrate the construction milestone. these steel plates into the most environmentally efficient vessels for the Hawaii trade.” The new vessels are expected to operate fully on LNG from day one in service. According to Pasha, this will benefit the environment, while energy savings “will also be achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller.” The Jones Act has benefited the U.S. since its enactment in 1920. The law requires that cargo moving between domestic ports is carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Jones Act helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs while contributing billions of dollars to the economy each year. Shipyard President Simon Lee (left) and George Pasha IV, president and CEO of The Pasha Group Construction Starts on USNS John Lewis Construction officially is underway on a new class of fleet replenishment oilers. General Dynamics NASSCO on Sept. 20 hosted a steel-cutting ceremony in San Diego for the USNS John Lewis, which will be crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. The Lewis is the lead vessel in a new class of six ships named after civil rights leaders. Each ship will be 741 long and able to carry large volumes of dry cargo plus more than 157,000 barrels of fuel. Their mission is replenishing U.S. Navy ships while underway. The Lewis is named for U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia). “Today marks a great accomplishment by the Navy and NASSCO team on this important program,” said James F. Geurts, assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acqui- sition. “Their tremendous collaboration on this new double-hulled design is a great example setting a positive trajectory leading into production.” The newer vessels (T-AO 205) will replace the current T-AO 187 fleet. According to the Navy, they “will become the backbone of the fuel delivery system.” The Lewis is scheduled for completion in November 2020, while the other new vessels are expected to be finished by 2023. NASSCO President Kevin Graney told the Times of San Diego that the vessels are the first “clean sheet design” by the yard in 17 years. “We want to get to a footing where every six months we’re starting a new hull,” Graney told the publication. “As the first ship of its class, the future USNS John Lewis will play a vital role in the mission of the Navy and Marine Corps, just like its namesake John Lewis’ vital role as a national leader in the movement for civil rights and human dignity,” said Mike Kosar, program manager for the Naval Sea Systems Command’s Program Executive Office Ships (PEO Ships). As one of the Defense Department’s largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, sealift ships, support ships and boats. “This really is a significant and historic event for the Navy,” said John Lighthammer, the Navy’s principal assistant program manager for the oiler fleet. “I congratulate all of NASSCO and its employees.” The John Lewis will be followed by the Harvey Milk, Earl Warren, Robert F. Kennedy, Lucy Stone and Sojourner Truth. November 2018 �Report: 91 Countries Maintain Cabotage Laws Seafarers’ Rights International Releases Full, Comprehensive Study Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI), an independent center for mariner advocacy and research, has released its full report – “Cabotage Laws of the World” – on the findings of their global cabotage study. The study, commissioned by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), provides the first independent analysis of maritime cabotage laws since the early 1990s. Based on extensive research involving 140 countries, the SRI report reveals that 91 countries representing 80 percent of the world’s coastal United Nations Maritime States have cabotage laws restricting foreign maritime activity in their domestic coastal trades. Merriam-Webster defines cabotage as “trade or transport in coastal waters or airspace or between two points within a country.” ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair David Heindel, who also serves as the SIU’s secretarytreasurer, said, “The lack of accurate facts on cabotage laws around the world has been an impediment for policymakers considering implementing cabotage laws. This report represents a circuit breaker, providing policymakers with the relevant facts for proper decision-making. The SRI report debunks the myth that cabotage is an exception, not the rule. Laws governing maritime activity are widespread, currently existing in 91 countries covering 80 percent of the world’s coastlines of U.N. maritime states. We know there are a number of countries considering introducing, strengthening or diminishing cabotage regulation. This report will assure those governments that it makes sense to enforce national cabotage laws.” Some of the key findings of the study include:  Cabotage laws are diverse, with a range of approaches taken by different countries regarding virtually every aspect of them. There is great diversity in the interpretation, administration and enforcement.  Stated objectives of cabotage include: maintain national security; promote fair competition; develop human capacity; create jobs; enhance marine environmental protection; promote ship ownership; increase safety and security of ships in port; and preserve maritime knowledge and technology.  Cabotage laws have endured for centuries, but continue to evolve. Cabotage is not subject to a single definition accepted as binding on all states under international law. Regional and national definitions of cabotage vary widely. Deirdre Fitzpatrick, executive director of SRI, explained, “For many people, maritime cabotage, or coasting, coastwise or coastal trade as it is sometimes referred to, is understood, if at all, only vaguely. This is not surprising, since so little is published on the subject. This was a complex project, given language and cultural barriers and difficulties in statutory interpretations. But the subject is important. It affects a very wide range of trades, services and activities around the world, and with significant social and economic consequences. Policymakers especially need to know more about the subject.” During a presentation given at the Maritime Trades Department’s winter meeting in March 2018, Fitzpatrick praised America’s cabotage law, the Jones Act. “The Jones Act is often referred to as a model cabotage law: protecting jobs, the workforce, and the country,” she said. “But to protect the Jones Act, and to protect other cabotage laws around the world, it can only be helpful to know which countries have cabotage protections so that, in fact, the situation might be that the protection of cabotage laws is the norm, and it’s not the exception.” Jim Given, chair of the ITF Cabotage Task Force and President of the Seafarers Union of Canada, said, “The benefits of cabotage laws are self-evident. For countries that depend on the sea for their trade, cabotage safeguards their own strategic interests as maritime nations, bringing added economic value while also protecting national security and the environment. Cabotage provides jobs for a country’s seafarers and also safeguards foreign seafarers against exploitation posed by the liberalization in the global shipping industry, preventing a race to the bottom. Without strong cabotage rules, local workers often have to compete with cheap, exploited foreign labor on flag-of-convenience vessels, the owners of which usually pay substandard wages and flout safety laws.” “The United States is, and always has been, a maritime nation,” said Matt Woodruff, chairman of the American Maritime Partnership. “From the very founding of our country, the American maritime industry has served a critical role in maintaining our national, homeland and economic security. For policymakers that work to promote SIU President Michael Sacco (left) welcomes SRI Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick to the Maritime Trades Department meeting earlier this year, where she gave a preliminary report on the cabotage study. November 2018 This image is part of a slide describing research methodology used in the global cabotage study. It’s taken from SRI Executive Director Deirdre Fitzpatrick’s presentation to the Maritime Trades Department. a strong and vibrant economy and national security leaders charged with protecting the U.S. security posture, this comprehensive study reinforces the importance of cabotage laws – like the Jones Act – and the historical legislative actions taken to support maritime industries across the globe, including in nations like Russia, China and South Korea.” The full report is available on SRI’s website (https://seafarersrights.org/). SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) applauded the cabotage study. He’s pictured in mid-October at the International Transport Workers’ Federation Congress in Singapore (Heindel chairs the federation’s Seafarers’ Section) Seafarers Union of Canada President Jim Given also chairs the ITF Cabotage Task Force. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU VP Mangram Retires At 40-Year Mark SIU Vice President Government Services Division Kermett Mangram, 64, has called an end to his career with the union. He retired effective Aug. 31 following 40 years of dedicated service. Mangram is only the second person to hold the Vice President Government Services Division post, which was created in 1985 shortly after the old Military Sea Transport Union merged into the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District following a vote by the membership. He succeeded the late Roy “Buck” Mercer, who retired in 1999. He also served as Atlantic Region vice president for the union-affiliated United Industrial Workers union and was a full member on the boards of trustees for the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Seafarers Pension Plan, Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and Seafarers Vacation Plan. Officials at SIU headquarters, as well as several individuals with whom he worked during his career, all recognized Mangram as a valued member of the team and tremendous asset to the union. “Kermett was one of the most detailed union officials whom I have had the pleasure of working with,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a very, very effective leader with a great personality. “He represented the SIU membership with his heart and soul and always did his very best to look out for the little guy,” Sacco continued. “Kermett had a great personality and was a great soldier who was loyal to the labor movement and to working people. He was also extremely detailed in his approach to dealing with all situations; the kind of guy who dotted every I and crossed every T. That’s how good he was … very well-schooled and up to date on everything that was going on. “Kermett was a tremendous asset to this organization and we are really going to miss him,” Sacco concluded. “We’ve known each other since 1980, when we were in Brooklyn,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “He’s been a steadfast union official, a good dispatcher and a good allaround representative for the members. “Kermett is also a lifelong friend,” Tellez continued. “I’ve always introduced him as my brother from another mother.” “Kermett’s presence will be missed,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “His knowledge of contracts and the shipping rules were impeccable. His love of life and learning of new cultures are his passion. He was an allaround great guy and respected by everyone he worked with.” SIU Assistant Vice President Archie Ware described Mangram as a trusted friend and outstanding union official who would stop at nothing to help rank-and-file members. “He was a one of a kind union official,” Ware said. “I met Kermett in Piney Point shortly after he came ashore to become a union official. I was there upgrading in 1980 when our paths crossed. Since then we’ve been very close. “Over the years, his every action has been all about the welfare of the union’s rank-andfile membership,” Ware said. “He always went above and beyond to help them. I know from personal experience because he has been there for me on more than a few occasions. “While he was in Norfolk, I was in Houston and San Francisco,” Ware said. “Kermett used to train me over phone about the behind the scenes operations of the union and how things got done…distance learning if you will. I’ll always be grateful to him for that because it made a tremendous difference in my life. “Kermett did a lot of good things for so many people,” Ware concluded. “He will always be a very dear friend of mine.” Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny’s tenure with Mangram goes back to a time when he himself was going to sea. “I’ve known Kermett for over 30 years,” Kenny said. “It all began when Brooklyn was headquarters. Maureen (his wife) and I were sailing on the black hulls, the M/V Hague to be specific. Kermett always greeted us back at the hall with a big smile. He made us happy to be home, like family. But, that’s the SIU way.” He continued, “Kermett grew up in the SIU with great leaders and mentors–our forefathers Paul Hall, Joe DiGiorgio, Angus “Red” Campbell, Leon Hall and Carolyn Gentile–the people who taught him how to become an educated, effective, just and strong representative of the union. “With Kermett it always was about the members,” Kenny said. “Of all the aforementioned mentors, it was Red who Kermett had the most passion for; it was he who drilled the union constitution and shipping rules into his head. “Kermett often spoke of having spent hours with Red after the hall closed, mesmerized with his knowledge and history, of the union,” Kenny added. “Many a captain rued the day when Kermett walked up the gangway to handle a beef, for he played to win, so they lost after he cited the article and sections of the CBA to support his argument. The members won and loved him, grateful he was their advocate.” Kenny concluded, “Although Kermett and I didn’t always agree (he would say I had issues), it did not matter because he was my brother and that’s how family is. But in tough times, we each had the other’s back. That’s the concept of the Brotherhood of the Sea.” “It was truly a great experience working with Kermett,” said Port of Norfolk Safety Director Sam Spain. “He has always been a man of fairness, integrity, and honesty. Kermett always put the welfare of the members first and worked on whatever issues they brought to him until they were completely resolved. During my 16 years of working with and being trained by Kermett, he took a no non-sense approach to his teaching method: to always follow the contract, treat members with compassion and respect, and put the union first. “His knowledge of the union has been extremely valuable in sharpening my skills as union representative,” Spain concluded. “The staff he put together in the Norfolk hall will miss him greatly. God bless and keep him and we all wish him a wonderful retirement.” “I started working at SIU hall in Norfolk in August 2009 and I have truly enjoyed working with and for Kermett,” said Port of Norfolk Secretary Shelia Burton. “Under his leadership, I’ve learned a lot and felt comfortable in my job here at SIU. “Kermett truly cares about the membership and his employees,” she continued. “He is a detail-oriented person and continually stressed that we as members of his staff must be as knowledgeable as he was regarding union affairs. His goal was always to make life better for us all, especially the membership. He will surely be missed.” Mangram, who hails from Jacksonville, Florida, graduated from Florida A&M University in 1977 with a degree in business administration. He joined the union after being unable to find SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) is pictured during his early years as a Seafarer at the hiring Hall in Brooklyn, New York. Taken in 1984, the photo shows Mangram when he was an SIU Representative. He is issuing an election ballot – 1984 was a union election year – to AB Joseph Petrusewicz. 4 Seafarers LOG suitable employment elsewhere. “I had a number of family members who were in the National Maritime Union,” he recalled. “And before going off to college, I tried to join the NMU but was unsuccessful. This was largely because none of them offered any assistance toward getting me in. “My sister was married to a member of the SIU at the time,” Mangram continued. “I remember him coming home when I was working in a local business as a manager. He came home with a check for about $700 in his pocket. He had left on a Friday and the following Monday was a holiday; so, he came by Monday night with that check. “I remember thinking long and hard about that check because I had worked the whole week and only received about $80 dollars,” he said. “So, I went to work the next day and I quit. I asked him (sister’s husband) to take me to the union hall. I eventually ended up at Piney Point and the rest is history. That was in 1978.” Mangram is a graduate of Class 259 from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Maryland. His first assignment was aboard the Sea-Land Seattle as a steward assistant. “I received the same basic training as most Seafarers still receive today,” recalled Mangram. “That included firefighting, water survival, first aid, CPR, industrial relations and social responsibilities aboard ships. “The training I received at the school thoroughly prepared me for the complexities of my first job aboard ship – that of washing dishes,” Mangram continued with a chuckle. “I really had that part down to a science. I must admit though, that I was not prepared for many of the social tribulations that I experienced aboard ship during my early days of going to sea. “Clashes among crew members were commonplace back in those days and there’s no doubt in my mind that many of them were racially motivated,” Mangram said. “I admit that I had my share of them, but I never blamed the union for that; I still don’t. I blamed the people who caused the incidents in the first place. “Back in those days, the concepts of teamwork and brotherhood across racial lines were in their infancy aboard vessels,” he continued. “But thanks be to God and the union’s modern leadership, it’s not like that anymore. There’s definitely more camaraderie among rank-and-file members aboard ship today, compared to when I joined.” Mangram’s shipboard career included voyages aboard the Sea-Land Seattle, Sea-Land Tampa, Sea-Land Akawai, Delta Uruguay and Point Revere. Although he worked mostly in the steward department, he also sailed in the deck department, where he achieved the rate of ABM. “The Point Revere was my last and perhaps worst ship that I worked on during my career,” Mangram said. “We were not being treated very well as a crew in a number of ways. The thing that really got next to me though was the officers were taking away our overtime despite the fact that we had worked. That happened on a number of occasions, and that for me was the last straw. I knew then that I wanted to do whatever I could to prevent other members from having to endure this type of treatment. “Like I said earlier, I did not blame the union for things that happened to me at sea because the SIU had always been in my corner,” he continued. “As a matter of fact, my oldest daughter was born while I was at sea. At birth, she had respiratory issues and by the time she was four years of age, had been hospitalized 48 times. The union paid all of her bills; I did not have to pay anything.” Eager to help fellow Seafarers, he came ashore in 1980 as a union education instructor at the Paul Hall Center. He became a patrolman in the port of New York in 1981, then port agent there in 1987. Mangram was named assistant vice president for contracts and contract enforcement by the executive board in 1992. He was reelected to the post in 1996. “The guy who really opened the doors for me to get into the union was Frank Mongelli,” Mangram said. “I learned a great deal from him, including his advice that once a member showed you his/her membership book, that was really all you need to know. “One of the smartest people I ever met during my career was Red Campbell and I thank him for everything he taught me,” he continued. “The same goes for Leon Hall who taught me that as a union official, you could either be someone who hurt people or someone who helped them. I always tried to be that person who helped my people.” “There’s one other person I’d like to mention who really made a difference in my life and career,” Mangram said. “His name was Johnny SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram addresses delegates and guests during the 2017 United Industrial Workers Convention in Piney Point, Maryland. Yarmola, an SIU official whom I met about eight weeks after joining the union. “When we met, my spirits were really down because my grandfather had just passed away. I guess it showed in my face because right away, he asked me what was wrong. I told him about my grandfather and the fact that I did not have the money needed to make my way home. Johnny told me that he’d see me the following day. The next day, he gave me a round trip ticket to go home … that was the last time I ever saw him, so I never got the chance properly thank him or let him know the full impact of what he did for me. “That was a long time ago, but I’ve never forgotten Johnny’s goodwill gesture. I thank him for it as well as the influence it has had on my life since.” When asked to appraise his career, Mangram said his greatest accomplishment as an official was the assistance he provided rank-and-file members. “I feel that I helped a lot of people –especially in the Norfolk area – get off to a good start in their lives and position themselves to provide for and help their families. For me, it was always about the rank-and-file members,” he said.” Mangram said his proudest moment as a union official came in 2008 when SIU President Sacco backed Barack Obama in his bid to become president of the United States. “I can’t express my profound gratitude toward Mike for his stance on this,” he said. “I was proud to serve by his side because he was the first SIU president to back an African American for president, to become leader of the free world. It’s something that I never thought I’d witness in my life.” On the opposing side of the spectrum, Mangram shared his most painful experience of his time with the SIU. “Perhaps the saddest thing to happen in my career has to do with the here and now. Due to personal reasons, I was not able to say farewell,” he said. “I had to leave so hastily that I did not get the chance to say goodbye to all the good people that I have met along the way, people of all creeds and social backgrounds whose lives I have impacted and those who have impacted mine. For that, I am truly sorry.” With respect to the union’s future, Mangram said he sees it as bright and promising. “The sky is the limit for the SIU and its membership if we stay true to course,” he said. “The keys to that success will be continued strong leadership, attention to detail and a constant state of preparedness on the part of rank-and-file members, including their continued contributions to SPAD. “I believe that security and automation will be huge players in our industry going forward and that more and more, people will have to educate themselves in order to keep pace and be successful,” he said. “It’s imperative that rankand-file members upgrade frequently, study hard, do their very best work while aboard ships and always strive to be great shipmates by treating others the way they would want to be treated.” Aside from concentrating on an extremely extensive “honey do” list, Mangram said he has no immediate retirement plans. “I’ll stay busy doing projects around the house that I have been putting off,” he said. “In the meantime, I wish all of the brothers, sisters and companies smooth sailing.” November 2018 �SIU’s Heindel Carries Cabotage Message To Norwegian Seafarers’ Union Congress Now that the facts about cabotage laws around the world have been revealed, it’s time to capitalize by growing those regulations and strengthening them. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel delivered that message Sept. 27 in Bergen, Norway, where he was a featured speaker at the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union (NSU) congress. Heindel spoke on behalf of both the SIU and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). He chairs the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF. His speech took place three days after the organization Seafarers’ Rights International (SRI) posted a major report on cabotage laws (see story, page 3). That study, the first of its kind since 1991, found that 91 countries maintain some form of cabotage law. “The SRI report found that cabotage laws promote shipboard and environmental safety, national security and good jobs,” Heindel told the convention attendees. “But they also discovered – or maybe a better word would be verified – that many countries around the world are constantly fighting to defend their cabotage laws.” Heindel said the opposition mostly stems from a misguided belief in total deregulation and a focus on “profits above all, often to the exclusion of even a cursory consideration for seafarers, their families, the environment and local communities to which their vessels operate.” He reminded the audience that the ITF Cabotage Task Force (on which NSU President Johnny Hansen plays a very important role) helped equip SRI to conduct the study. “Now that we have the facts, our next steps involve worldwide publicity and targeted leverage to strengthen and grow cabotage laws,” Heindel said. “Brothers and sisters, that includes right here in Norway, where mariners sailing in your territorial waters absolutely must receive Norwegian terms and conditions. This isn’t optional and it shouldn’t be treated as optional.” He said that even though the freight cabotage law in the United States (the Jones Act) is “considered the gold standard” of such statutes, “we have to fight to defend it practically every day. That’s despite high-level support from our military leaders and government folks, and nearly a century of bipartisan backing from our Congress and from one presidential administration after another, including the current administration. “Our supporters consistently say that the Jones Act benefits national, economic and homeland security,” he continued. “And I Union Appoints Hunt To VP Government Services Position Kathleen “Kate” Hunt last month was appointed by the SIU’s executive board as vice president of the SIU’s Government Services Division. She succeeds former SIU Vice President Kermett Mangram who retired from the post effective August 31. Hunt assumes her new duties after serving as National Director of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW), a position she had held since August 2016. In that capacity, she oversaw the operations of dozens of UIW shops in the continental United States, Alaska and the United States Virgin Islands. Hunt began her maritime career as an AB working on ferries in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in 1976. In 1980, she became the first female patrolman for the National Maritime Union (NMU), and thereafter spent many years as an NMU official. Following the SIU/NMU merger in 2001, Hunt was assigned to be a representative for the SIU’s Government Services Division. Among other duties, she worked with the SIU crews aboard Military Sealift Command ships, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration research vessels and other government-owned ocean-going platforms. During that same period, Hunt also worked as a business representative for the SIUaffiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). Based at the union’s New York-area office, she ad- November 2018 Kathleen “Kate” Hunt VP, SIU Government Services Division dressed and met the needs of SEATU members employed at worksites in the Northeast. The SIU represents thousands of American workers aboard U.S.-flagged vessels in both the private and public sectors. One of its most important membership groups consists of mariners who are employed by the federal government aboard Military Sealift Command, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other government service ships. On a daily basis, SIU Government Services Division representatives advocate for Civilian Mariners in discipline cases, loss of security clearances, workman’s compensation matters, fitness for duty issues, retirement questions and other concerns that have real, tangible effects on the day-to-day lives of federal mariners. don’t think there’s any question that strong cabotage laws would benefit any nation in those same ways. They lead to maintaining a pool of reliable, well-trained mariners; a capable shipbuilding base; and safety and security along the coasts and inland waterways. The bottom line is that cabotage is sound, time-tested policy, and the ITF will continue promoting it day after day, month after month, year after year, all across the globe.” Moreover, Heindel recognized and congratulated Seafarers Union of Canada President Jim Given, who chairs the ITF Cabotage Task Force. “Earlier this month, the SIU of Canada announced that Canadian seafaring unions finalized an agreement with the government securing cabotage rights for Canadian mariners aboard vessels flying any flag traversing that nation’s domestic waterways,” Heindel reported. “This was the culmination of a years-long fight and more lawsuits than I care to count, but it shows that victory is indeed possible. And even though Jim didn’t try to take credit, he absolutely led the way.” He wrapped up his remarks by reiterating the commitment of both the ITF and the SIU in promoting women’s rights in the maritime industry. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel speaks at the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union congress. Lawmakers Unveil Comprehensive Pro-Worker Legislative Package Warning that income inequality combined with a 30-year record of squashing workers’ rights together threaten U.S. democracy, a group of lawmakers unveiled a comprehensive package of pro-worker legislation. The legislators, backed by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka at a Sept. 5 Capitol Hill press conference, admitted their ideas – ranging from stronger anti-trust enforcement to card-check recognition, among other things – will not get anywhere in the current session of Congress. But U.S. Reps. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California), Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) (an Electrical Worker), Bobby Scott D-Virginia), Debbie Dingell (D-Michigan), and Mark Pocan (D-Wisconsin) (a Painter), all looked forward to pushing the measures next year. “Abraham Lincoln said there’s always got to be a balance between capital and labor – and if we lose that balance for labor, we lose democracy,” DeSaulnier said. “Now we have historic income inequality, so this package is to make sure we go to war for American workers.” Additionally, after two-and-a-half years of research, nine public meetings from coast to coast, consultations with more than 100 experts on work and its changing nature and gathering testimony from more than 250 rank-and-file workers, they came up with 30 recommendations in a report The Future Of Work, Wages And Labor. The group will introduce the measures in the closing days of this Congress, and then firmly get to work on them next year. “We want a level playing field. We need policies that keep jobs here and bring jobs back,” said Dingell. “This is a very thoughtful, detailed, needed report to build an economy centered around good jobs, rising wages and more bargaining power for workers,” Trumka commented. “Some of these recommendations we strongly support,” such as the Wage Act, to strengthen U.S. labor law (which congressional Democrats unveiled earlier this year). “Others need serious discussion,” he added. Those include the report’s idea for expanding the labor-pushed Warn Act – the plant-closing notification law – beyond just ordering employers of 50 people or more to tell workers in advance when they’re going to shut down or close production lines. The lawmakers want to order employers to spend money to retrain those workers, too. “But their willingness to think outside the box” to improve U.S. jobs and lift up U.S. workers, is exciting and important, Trumka said. Pocan provided a grim example of job loss in the U.S. Workers in Kenosha, Wisconsin, used to build cars, in a heavily union town. Now they make none; the auto plants closed and moved to Mexico. “Now the biggest employer is the Amazon distribution center, and it advertises wages ‘up to $12.75 an hour.’ That’s less than their parents made,” he said. The center is non-union. Workers want more bargaining power, Trumka added, citing everything from a 262,000-person rise last year in union members – with threefourths of them under 35 years old – to the successful teacher strikes in four right-to-work (for less) states to the latest Gallup Poll, showing 62 percent favorability for unions. Besides the Wage Act, the lawmakers will introduce bills to raise the minimum wage, enact seven days of paid sick leave and 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave, fund registered – union – apprenticeships and overturn the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision which let loose a tsunami of corporate campaign cash. They also want to mandate that workers hold one-third of corporate board seats, as they do in Germany; ease the obstacles to organizing; increase fines and other penalties for labor lawbreaking and for wage theft; write voluntary recognition/card check into labor law; and end the misclassification of some 70 million workers as “independent contractors,” who are unprotected by any labor laws at all. Further, they would restore the Obama-era rule (repealed last year) to require all workers earning $47,476 yearly or less be eligible for overtime pay, and then index that figure to inflation. The maximum now, which hasn’t risen since 2005, is $23,660. If Congress won’t pass the legislation, they’ll lobby the states to do so, DeSaulnier said. Workers and unions can come back, Norcross and the others insisted. The legislation will help them do so, and that will benefit not just the workers, but their communities and the country, he added. Seafarers LOG 5 �Retired NMU Official Stewart Dies at 84 Charlie Stewart, a longtime official with the National Maritime Union (NMU), passed away Aug. 26 at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was 84. Stewart joined the NMU in in 1959, sailing in all three departments aboard tankers, freighters and passenger vessels. He became involved in all phases of union activity. Stewart worked as a patrolman in New York, Miami and Port Arthur, Texas, and was assistant to the vice president of government operations. He was one of the first U.S.-based International Transport Workers’ Federation inspectors. Additionally, he served as branch agent in Houston. He was elected vice president of the NMU and was assigned to contract enforcement. Stewart still served in that post when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001. At that time, he became an SIU vice president at large – a position he maintained until his retirement in early 2009. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel both worked with Stewart during the merger proceedings. “We all worked well together in order to make sure both memberships were protected and no one got hurt as we merged seniority,” Tellez recalled. “Charlie helped make sure the transition was seamless and effective.” Heindel stated, “Charlie and I became pretty close during the merger talks and after. He was a sailors’ sailor. Everyone had deep respect for him, and he was known as a straight shooter.” SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt, who in 1980 became the first female patrolman in NMU history, said, “For all my struggles with the hierarchy of the NMU, Charlie was a good guy with me and a good union official. He was truly well-liked by the NMU membership, and he’ll be missed.” Stewart was a native of Jamaica. Survivors include his wife, Nyoka Gene Ford. Charlie Stewart spent 42 years with the NMU and another eight with the SIU. He’s pictured at the Seafarers International Union of North America convention in 2007. NMC Releases Package Guidelines For MMC Application Submissions Aboard Tyco Decisive The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following news release on September 20. It also is posted in the News section of the SIU website. Pictured aboard the cable ship in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, are (from left, starting in back) AB Mahmood Tahir, SA Jony Morales, Splicer/Joiner Santos Contreras, SA Jamal Kassim, Chief Steward Florencia Farquhar, Electrician Ricardo Ducay and Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez. Thanks to Patrolman Ray Henderson for the photo. Guidance is posted on the National Maritime Center (NMC) website to help mariners submit a complete and accurate Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) application package. These guidance documents are intended to aid mariner applicants in properly completing the CG-719B Application for MMC and the Evidence of Sea Service forms. To ensure mariners receive credentials within the NMC-stated processing goal of 30 days, proper submission of this documentation is essential. EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE THROUGH THE PAUL HALL CENTER ! Workers Alliance Prevails in Lawsuit A judge recently ruled in favor of challenges to three executive orders that weakened federal workers’ rights. The executive orders were issued late on May 25, 2018 and subsequently were implemented by the administration. A lawsuit was filed by the Federal Workers Alliance and its affiliated unions, including the Seafarers. Other unions, including AFGE and NTEU, also filed separate lawsuits protesting these executive orders. The unions’ lawsuit specifically addressed: ■ Several sections of Executive Order 13836 (concerning time spent representing workers by union representatives) which usurped Congress’s legislative authority. The same executive order prohibited representatives from using official time to “prepare or pursue grievances (including arbitration of grievances) brought against an agency,” but allowed it for employees working on their own behalf. The unions argued that treating a union and its representatives differently from individual employees encroaches on a union’s right to take collective action on behalf of all employees. ■ Executive Order 13837 (concerning due process rights) violated rules related to collective bargaining delegated to the Federal Labor Relations Authority, not the president. The order illegally limited how much time employee representatives were able to use to help their fellow unit employees. The order did not allow payment for union representatives who may need to travel to represent employees in their units; would have charged unions to use office space and equipment which the Federal Labor Relations Authority has ruled is negotiable between the union and agency; and would have made union representatives take 6 Seafarers LOG personal leave time to help process grievances, among other newly imposed restrictions. ■ Executive Order 13839 (concerning merit principles) was an attempt to exclude matters from the negotiated grievance procedure, such as removals based on misconduct and incentive awards. Order 13839 also excluded (from the negotiated union and arbitration procedures) disputes about employee performance ratings, incentive pay, cash awards, quality step increases, retention and relocation expenses despite the fact that Congress has allowed these issues to be included for decades. In the lawsuit, the unions argued that President Trump exceeded his authority by interfering with rights granted by Congress to unions and federal agencies to decide which matters are and are not subject to the negotiated grievance procedure. The unions also argued and that the orders violated other fundamental rights provided by the Federal Service LaborManagement Relations Statute (FSLMRS). In a 119-page opinion, Judge Ketanji Brown ruled in favor of the unions in many of the claims they had asserted on behalf of federal employees. At the outset, Judge Brown summarized the important provisions of the FSLMRS. She wrote that “(f)irst and foremost, the FSLMRS firmly establishes the rights of federal employees to join labor unions for purpose of petitioning government officials about labor matters.” The judge also ordered that “the president’s subordinates within the executive branch were enjoined (not permitted) from implementing or giving effect to any of the invalid executive order provisions.” The government has appealed this decision. Two guides are currently available to assist mariner applicants in submitting application packages: ■ How to Fill Out the CG-719B Form, which can be found by clicking on the Forms link, located on the NMC homepage at http://www.uscg.mil/nmc ■ Sea Service Instructions, which can be found by clicking on the MMC Evaluation link, located on the NMC homepage at http://www.uscg.mil/nmc. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by emailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). The Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) has partnered with the College of Southern Resident courses at Piney Point begin January 14, 2019 Maryland (CSM) to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Maritime Operations Technology with a concentration in either • Nautical Science (Deck department) -or- • Marine Engineering (Engine dept.) Students must complete a combination of academic general education courses and technical education courses in order to earn • Associate of Applied Science Degree • UA courses apply toward the degree • Fully accredited • Some courses held at SHLSS the degree. Courses completed during the Unlicensed Apprentice program apply toward the • Online classes degree. Students can complete English, Math and • Scholarships available Physics courses at SHLSS. The remaining general education courses can be completed online. The following classes will convene at SHLSS: January 14, 2019 through February 1, 2019 English 1011 – Composition and Rhetoric Math 1011 – Math for Technologies Enrollment Information Please contact Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch (301) 994-0010 Ext. 5411 -ordrausch@seafarers.org 7 Credit Hours Includes: tuition, textbooks, room and board plus one hour of tutoring following each daily class session November 2018 �Members of the executive working group gather outside the main hotel at the Paul Hall Center. Paul Hall Center Hosts USTRANSCOM Group The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in mid-September hosted a regular meeting of the U.S. Transportation Command’s (USTRANSCOM) executive working group on the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). In addition to conducting their regular meeting, committee members toured the Piney Point, Maryland campus, visiting with students, instructors and staff along the way. Among those taking the tour were USTRANSCOM Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow; Maj. Gen. Stephen Farmen, commanding general of the U.S. Army’s Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command; and Vice Adm. Andy Brown (USN, Ret), president and CEO of the National Defense Transportation Association. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez is a member of the executive working group. The VISA program “is a partnership between the U.S. government and the maritime industry to provide the Department of Defense with assured access to commercial sealift and intermodal capacity to support the emergency deployment and sustainment of U.S. military forces,” notes the U.S. Maritime Administration. “Intermodal capacity includes dry cargo ships, equipment, terminal facilities and intermodal management services.” Vice Adm. Andy Brown (USN, Ret) visits one of the simulators. Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow (standing at right in photo at left) addresses apprentices at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. The tour (photo at right) included a visit to the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Among those pictured are (front, second and third from left, respectively) Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow, Maj. Gen. Stephen Farmen, and (far right) SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. One That Didn’t Get Away According to a reliable source, this 87-pound halibut was on the captain’s line aboard the Crowley tanker Washington, but it took a team effort to get in on board. Pictured from left to right are SA Fawaz Al Osfur, Captain Dan Goodwin, Recertified Bosun Modesto Rabena, AB Robin Robinson, Pumpman Diole Bonifacio, AB Joseph Nicodemus, and Oiler Don Hatch. November 2018 Seafarers LOG 7 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING MARITIME – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and Port Agent Nick Marrone II (left) in late September meet with Tatyana Kalinga, district director for U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-California). They discussed many of the issues that are vital to the U.S. Merchant Marine, including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference, the U.S. Export-Import Bank and more. BACKING PRO-MARITIME CONGRESSMAN – Tacoma-area Seafarers volunteered their time the first Saturday in October to support the campaign of pro-maritime Congressman Adam Smith (front row, between the two middle signs). The SIU team knocked on nearly 600 doors for Rep. Smith (D-Washington), who is a longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Also among those pictured is SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo (holding sign at left). SIU MAGICIAN DELIGHTS CROWD – In late August, Seafarer Orlando Reveron (photo above) donated his time and talents by performing a magic show at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. The part-time magician (stage name Tango Magic) and full-time crane operator/CME even handed out cotton candy after the show. Some of the attendees are pictured in the photo at top right, while the remaining snapshot features (from left) Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos, Patrolman Ray Henderson, Dispatcher Terry Montgomery, Reveron, Port Agent Mark von Siegel, Administrative Assistant Sofya Davydova and Maintenence Man Waldemar Ziablocki. STILL DELIVERING IN PUERTO RICO – More than one year after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, Seafarers continue volunteering to distribute portable water purifiers and other vital supplies. Pictured in photo at left are (from left) Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez and his wife, Odalis; Diego Traverso, director and warehouse manager for Operation Blessing; and SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo and his wife, Maria. They all pitched in to hand out filters and school uniforms for kids. In the other photo (also from left), Traverso, AB Joseph Dupre and QMED Victor Rios keep up the effort. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2018 �MILESTONES IN HOUSTON – In photo at left, AB Rosel Zapata (left) receives his full book Sept. 10 at the hiring hall. He is pictured with his parents: SIU pensioner Natividad Zapata (right) and Anacieta Zapata. In photo at right, QMED Nestor Martinez (right) picks up his first pension check in early October, signaling the conclusion of a sailing career that started in 1989. He’s pictured with Patrolman Joe Zavala. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – Electrician Salah Saleh (right) displays his A-seniority book at the Oakland hall, with Port Agent Nick Marrone II. Saleh most recently sailed aboard the RRF vessel USNS Algol. FULL BOOK IN SAN JUAN – AB Sergio Perez (right) receives his full B-book from Port Agent Amancio Crespo at the hall in Puerto Rico. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD MAERSK MICHIGAN – Thanks to Capt. Thua Pham for these recent snapshots. The photos also are posted on the SIU Facebook page, as are many others that featured in this month’s LOG. The photo at the immediate right captures tank cleaning day aboard the vessel. Pictured from left are CM Karen Laycock, 2M Cullen Bozza, AB Michael Congress, AB Leroyal Hester, AB Willie McCray, AB Dominador Hugo, AB Pedro Ramos, Bosun Gregorio Cudal, Deck Cadet John Gallagher and Capt. Thua Pham. Replacing a ballast vent screen are (from left) 2M Cullen Bozza and Pumpman Lateef Sanusi. AB Leroyal Hester (right) earns the ship’s deck department safety award. Presenting the prize is CM Karen Laycock. QMED John Morrison (left) receives the engine department safety award, presented by CE Raymond Halsted. In photo at left, Capt. Thua Pham (left) and AB Dominador Hugo are pictured next to the vessel in Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates at Pier 4. Chief Steward Gerard Cox and GVA Armon Bailey are pictured above. November 2018 ABOARD OSG Intrepid/254 – AB Jimmy Hargrove displays an SIU sticker on his hardhat while sailing aboard an articulated tug-barge unit operated by OSG Ship Management. Seafarers LOG 9 �CIVMAR-Crewed USNS Wally Schirra Rescues 5 SIU Government Services Division mariners aboard the Military Sealift Command-operated (MSC) USNS Wally Schirra recently put their rescue training to use, as the vessel came across five Filipino fishermen on the remnants of an adrift and damaged boat in the South China Sea. On Oct. 8, the CIVMAR-crewed Schirra was conducting a routine mission when the watch officer and lookout spotted the individuals in apparent distress. The crew sprang into action, working quickly to rescue the stranded men, who had reportedly been floating for five days after their hull was punctured by a blue marlin. “Luckily, we were going at a slow enough speed to have spotted the fisher- men,” said civilian mariner Capt. Keith Sauls, the USNS Wally Schirra’s master. “The individuals were waving their arms and a flag in the air. They were also flashing a white light that was previously thought to be a fishing buoy. The watch officer notified me and then the chief mate of a possible rescue situation.” “The fishermen salvaged what they could from the rapidly sinking boat, removing the outriggers and planks to turn it into a raft with floats and barrels underneath for floatation,” said Chief Mate Leon Hadley. “They took with them some rice, clothes, batteries, an 8-watt bulb, an AM-receive-only radio and a handheld GPS. They had no water.” As the MSC vessel closed the distance, the fishermen entered the water and swam Personnel from the USNS Wally Schirra deploy a rescue boat and begin retrieving the fishermen. toward the Wally Schirra. A rigid-hulled, inflatable boat and search and rescue swimmers were deployed, and the fishermen were pulled to safety. Once the fishermen were aboard the Wally Schirra, qualified personnel conducted an initial medical assessment and security search of the individuals and their possessions. The fishermen thanked the crew of the Schirra for rescuing and housing them, and for their generosity in providing them with spare clothes and cash donations. The men were then transferred to the Philippine Coast Guard while at sea. “On average, death results two to three days after a diet of drinking undiluted salt water or urine in survival-at-sea events as it takes more water than is consumed for the body to process the waste and salt out of the kidneys, leading to a build-up of salt and toxic ammonia in the body which only deepens the cycle and quickly leads to death if not stopped,” said Hadley. “We’re all lucky we found them when we did.” The USNS Wally Schirra, currently operating in the U.S. Navy 7th fleet area of responsibility, is a fleet ordnance and dry cargo ship. The union-built T-AKE ship incorporates international marine technologies and commercial ship-design features, including an integrated electricdrive propulsion system to minimize operating costs over its projected 40-year service life. Each of the 14 T-AKE vessels is 689 feet long, with a 106-foot beam. The ships can sail at 20 knots; they each carry civilian crews of 129. The makeshift boat was created from the wreckage of the fishermen’s vessel and loaded with minimal supplies. (Photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Spotlight on Mariner Health How to Identify, Treat Causes of Back Pain Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The term “back pain” is used to describe a range of discomfort. Depending on the cause, the pain may be dull, burning or sharp, and can cover a large area of the back or a single spot. More than 31 million Americans experience back pain at any given time. Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missing work or not going to school. Back pain can worsen gradually or come on suddenly. A person may have muscular spasms or stiffness along with it. Most people have experienced back pain at some point in their lives. Pain may be caused by something as simple as a pulled muscle from lifting incorrectly, an accident, a sports injury, or it could stem from a more serious degenerative spinal condition. The muscles and the spine are close to several large nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve. Twisting wrong or lifting something that is too heavy can cause different types of pain and possibly nerve involvement. Any inflammation or misalignment of the spine can cause the nerves to be pinched and the pain to travel from the spine through the nerve-conduction 10 Seafarers LOG pathway to the legs. Whether the pain exists in any or all of the lower, middle or upper back, remember that if you need to see a doctor because it’s not going away, tell the physician in detail about the type of pain you’re experiencing. This is crucial for helping devise a helpful treatment plan. For instance, note whether the pain is radiating or dull, and what tends to bring it on. Report whether you have any history of pinched nerves, stenosis or narrowing of the spinal cord, multiple sclerosis, a degenerative spinal condition, stroke or diabetes. There are many possible treatment options for helping someone with back pain. Once the cause has been determined, the most appropriate treatment or treatments can be chosen. These may consist of one or more of the following: pain medications, rest, heating pads, back stimulators, ointments, chiropractic care, massages, implantable devices, weight loss, an exercise program to strengthen muscles, yoga, water aerobics – and lastly, if nothing else works, possibly spinal surgeries with fusions. Remember to be cautious when lifting, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Turn carefully, and bend with your knees when lifting. Healthful Recipe Turkey Tetrazzini Servings: 25 3 ¾ pounds turkey breast, boneless and skinless, ½” cubes 2 ½ ounces pimento, chopped 1 ¼ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 pounds spaghetti 5/8 pound onion, finely chopped 2 ½ ounces green bell peppers, chopped 15 ounces mushrooms, sliced 4 ½ ounces smart balance 5 ½ ounces flour, all-purpose Teaspoon salt 5/8 teaspoon white pepper, ground 2 ½ quarts low sodium chicken broth 1 ¼ cups skim milk 5/8 pound skim milk mozzarella cheese, shredded Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, cool. Dice the turkey. Add pimento and parsley. Cook spaghetti according to directions, drain. Sauté vegetables in smart balance. Blend flour and seasoning into sautéed vegetables. Cook 5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and skim milk, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken, and the sauce. Scale into two greased 12 x 20 x2 inch baking pan. Sprinkle 8 oz cheese over top of each pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes or until temperature reaches 165 degrees F and cheese is bubbly. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 309 Calories; 5g Fat (14.1% calories from fat); 30g Protein; 35g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 53mg Cholesterol; 413mg Sodium. Exchanges: 2 Grain (starch); 3 Lean Meat; ½ Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk, ½ Fat. Provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship November 2018 �2019 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the Member Benefits tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu and select Scholarship Booklet (PDF). Although the booklet says 2016, all information is still current for the 2019 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address.............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( This application is for: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All scholarship application packages must be received by April 15, 2019. 11/18 November 2018 Seafarers LOG 11 �Fourth Arm of Defense Keeps USNS Seay Ready to Support U.S. Military Operations AB Jorge Corrales Barrantes AB Jonathan Bennett The SIU-crewed USNS Seay is operated by U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. T hroughout its entire history, the United States of America has relied on merchant mariners to help ensure national and economic security. That reliance continues today, and one of its embodiments is the SIU-crewed USNS Seay, a 951-foot-long vessel that is part of the U.S. Navy’s maritime prepositioning force. The Seay is a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) ship (part of the Bob Hope class) that supports our troops wherever and whenever needed. A recent visit to the vessel – operated by SIU-contracted U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) – in Baltimore found SIU mariners and AMO officers busily readying for helicopter op- erations scheduled for the following week in Jacksonville, Florida. Bosun Robert Hayes said that in preparation for certifying the ship’s flight deck, the crew had been working diligently and efficiently. According to MSC, the prepositioning program “is 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. MSC’s 27 prepositioning ships support the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency.” The agency further noted, “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. regional combatant commanders the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime. During a contingency, troops are flown into a theater of operations to rapidly employ the cargo from these ships.” Built at Avondale in New Orleans and delivered to the Navy in the year 2000, the Seay supported U.S. mobilizations in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. AB Caliph Johnson OS Shykwon Parker Chief Cook Drushelia Finney QE4 Emmanuel Adeoti SA Darrisha Bryant OS Luis Pareja SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (left) conducts a union meeting aboard the ship. 12 Seafarers LOG SA Darius Williams Bosun Robert Hayes inspects safety gear. November 2018 November 2018 Chief Cook Thomas Humphreys Seafarers LOG 13 �Get Connected Exclusive Savings with AT&T Wireless, Just for Union Members Save 15% on the monthly service charge of qualified wireless plans,* take advantage of additional savings on select accessories, and get the activation fee waived on select devices for new lines of service. Find out more about this and other great Union Plus programs by visiting unionplus.org FREE COLLEGE CREDIT CARDS FLOWERS & GIFTS MORTGAGE PROGRAM Learn more at unionplus.org 3 15% ON THE MONTHLY SERVICE CHARGE of QUALIFIED WIRELESS PLANS: Available only to current members of qualified AFL-CIO member unions, other authorized individuals associated with eligible unions and other sponsoring organizations with a qualifying agreement. Must provide acceptable proof of union membership such as a membership card from your local union, a pay stub showing dues deduction or the Union Plus Member Discount Card and subscribe to service under an individual account for which the member is personally liable. Offer contingent upon in-store verification of union member status. Discount subject to agreement between Union Privilege and AT&T and may be interrupted, changed or discontinued without notice. Discount applies only to recurring monthly service charge of qualified voice and data plans, not overages. Not available with unlimited voice or unlimited data plans. For Family Talk, applies only to primary line. For all Mobile Share plans, applies only to monthly plan charge of plans with 1GB or more, not to additional monthly device access charges. Additional restrictions apply. May take up to 2 bill cycles after eligibility confirmed and will not apply to prior charges. Applied after application of any available credit. May not be combined with other service discounts. Visit unionplus.org/att or contact AT&T at 866-499-8008 for details. 14 Seafarers LOG 11/18 November 2018 �NMC Issues Policy Regarding Credentials Lost, Destroyed During Hurricane Florence The National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following news release on September 27. It’s also posted in the News section of the SIU website. In accordance with Federal Regulations, duplicate Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMCs) may be issued free of charge to mariners whose credentials were lost or destroyed as a result of Hurricane Florence or subsequent flooding. Mariners should follow the steps below to obtain an expedited replacement credential: n Provide a statement of loss to the National Maritime Center (NMC) either by fax to (304) 433-3412 or via e-mail to IASKNMC@uscg.mil. The statement should contain the following: - Mariner’s full name - Mariner’s date of birth - Mariner’s reference number or Social Security number - Current mailing address - Current phone number and/or e-mail address, and - A brief description of the circumstances surrounding the loss/destruction of the credential. Unless otherwise requested, any duplicate MMCs issued per the request process above will include a corresponding Medical Certificate. We will make every effort to have duplicate credentials mailed out the next business day. Alternatively, mariners may submit a CG-719B, Application for MMC, to one of the Regional Examination Centers with the information above. If your credential is unserviceable due to damage or your lost credential is subsequently found, that credential should be mailed to Commanding Officer, United States Coast Guard, National Maritime Center, 100 Forbes Drive, Martinsburg, WV 25427. 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). November & December 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: November 5, December 3 Algonac...................................Friday: November 9, December 7 Baltimore............................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea September 16, 2018 - October 15, 2018 Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C C 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 5 3 5 0 1 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 1 28 Houston...........*Tuesday: November 13, Monday: December 10 Jacksonville........................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Joliet...............................Thursday: November 15, December 13 Mobile.........................Wednesday: November 14, December 12 New Orleans......................Tuesday: November 13, December 11 Jersey City...........................Tuesday: November 6, December 4 Norfolk...............................Thursday: November 8, December 6 Oakland.........................Thursday: November 15, December 13 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: November 7, December 5 Port Everglades..............Thursday: November 15, December 13 San Juan...........................Thursday: November 8, December 6 St. Louis.............................Friday: November 16 , December 14 Tacoma...............................Friday: November 23, December 21 Wilmington..........................Monday: November 19, December 17 * Guam change due to Thanksgiving Day observance * Houston change due to Veterans Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD November 2018 Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C 2 1 3 9 0 2 2 16 12 19 0 1 4 3 0 1 1 9 3 5 93 20 2 5 22 2 19 11 98 59 68 5 20 35 21 5 3 8 52 5 50 510 15 4 3 18 0 4 5 21 43 18 4 8 29 7 5 5 20 20 4 14 247 0 1 0 11 1 10 2 32 16 8 1 5 14 6 2 0 0 23 3 16 151 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 18 2 3 18 0 10 5 46 39 37 2 9 21 12 3 2 5 35 2 28 297 7 4 4 12 0 1 5 15 20 12 3 4 22 6 3 3 5 7 1 7 141 1 0 0 5 1 7 1 17 7 5 1 2 8 4 1 0 1 7 1 10 79 Deck Department 14 9 4 1 3 6 13 7 0 0 8 2 4 4 34 15 25 13 25 9 5 1 4 3 8 7 10 3 4 2 1 1 3 3 28 5 3 0 24 7 220 98 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 2 0 4 8 0 2 2 12 23 6 2 1 19 7 1 0 3 10 3 10 115 1 0 2 6 0 0 5 7 17 6 1 4 16 6 3 7 0 6 1 6 94 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 4 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 1 16 Engine Department 1 1 0 0 1 2 11 4 0 0 4 2 3 3 11 10 18 13 7 11 2 1 3 2 19 9 2 4 0 2 0 3 1 1 6 5 0 0 2 3 91 76 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 1 0 0 4 0 2 1 10 9 6 1 2 6 3 0 0 0 5 0 1 51 3 0 4 11 0 2 14 27 29 21 1 3 28 11 3 2 8 26 6 28 227 0 0 4 10 1 2 5 11 28 14 2 6 19 5 5 10 1 10 2 20 155 1 0 1 0 0 3 1 5 2 1 1 1 13 2 0 1 0 5 2 8 47 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 3 0 4 10 1 5 7 21 18 9 0 6 18 16 1 3 2 13 3 20 160 2 0 0 2 0 0 1 5 6 4 1 2 6 2 0 3 3 2 0 4 44 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 Steward Department 3 1 0 0 3 0 10 4 0 0 3 1 3 1 16 4 18 7 3 1 0 1 4 1 10 6 16 0 1 0 1 0 1 3 10 2 5 0 17 2 124 35 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 2 2 6 12 3 0 2 10 4 0 0 2 4 0 5 56 4 1 2 17 3 9 23 35 23 18 0 9 24 25 4 7 6 20 2 45 277 3 1 0 5 0 1 2 6 18 7 0 3 13 4 0 4 10 3 2 13 95 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 2 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 2 0 2 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 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 6 2 2 0 0 2 3 2 0 1 4 0 3 31 8 1 1 5 1 1 1 15 19 8 1 0 14 9 1 3 1 9 0 22 120 13 0 4 2 0 3 7 8 18 7 4 0 28 9 1 2 0 7 1 20 134 Entry Department 2 6 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 1 0 1 2 1 3 6 1 12 0 11 0 0 0 0 2 11 1 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 7 0 0 3 7 19 72 6 0 1 2 0 0 5 6 17 6 0 1 10 1 1 0 0 1 0 7 64 4 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 21 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 18 8 3 0 1 3 3 1 0 3 7 0 3 56 12 1 1 11 3 2 6 24 30 24 2 0 35 16 2 2 1 14 0 46 232 18 1 3 6 2 3 9 30 72 18 2 0 53 23 0 3 0 22 1 44 310 GRAND TOTAL: 603 399 237 105 221 1,070 729 527 Guam................*Friday: November 23, Thursday: December 20 Honolulu.............................Friday: November 16, December 14 Registered on Beach All Groups A B 454 281 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 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was asked of Seafarers attending upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: How many times have you been to the school, and what do you think of it? Todd Kasler AB/Third Mate This is my fourth time at the school. It’s good for people that want to upgrade. You don’t have to pay out of pocket and it makes us better mariners. It’s a good thing to offer these courses. Sterling McCosh AB I came through the apprentice program, and I like to talk about the educational opportunities here as much as I can. This is a second career for me and it’s a pretty startling experience because of all the union benefits and the ability to walk into a hiring hall at 9 a.m. and walk out with a job by noon. I can’t say enough about the union and the job opportunities. Chantell Dawson AB This is my fifth time, and I’m in the AB to Mate class, so I’ll be back again. I like the school; the education is awesome. It’s a good place to learn different things. I also took advanced fire fighting, medical care provider, BST, RFPNW, and I came here for a Maersk safety meeting. Carlton Banks AB This is my third time. I’ve taken AB, government vessels, lifeboat, fire fighting. It’s a great place for advancement and a great opportunity to take care of your family, that’s for sure. There are a lot of resources here for your education. Jeffrey Thrash QMED I’ve been here about five times. It’s pretty great to come here and further your education. You can always take knowledge about electricity and apply it elsewhere, and the education helps you make great money on the ships. Jaquel Nesmith Electrician I’ve probably been here four or five times. I think it’s definitely worth it to upgrade. I tell people the sky is the limit. You can’t really beat free school, free room and board. You can keep climbing the ranks. 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 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side Street Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (939) 204-0337 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 SIU-crewed freighter Panoceanic Faith, pictured above, sank Oct. 9, 1967 in icy and storm-swept waters 870 miles southwest of Kodiak, Alaska. The tragedy claimed the lives of 17 Seafarers; 5 SIU members survived. There were 36 fatalities in total. According to later documentation from the Coast Guard, the ship sank because of “progressive flooding of the forepeak compartments, then No. 1 hold, and subsequent partial flooding of No. 2 hold. This flooding, combined with loss of freeboard due to a starboard list of 35 degrees, reduced the longitudinal stability below the minimum required for buoyancy, and the ship sank bow first.” The only lifesaving equipment utilized were life preservers. (Editor’s note: Older photos also are posted each Friday on the SIU Facebook page, @SeafarersInternational. More information about the Panoceanic Faith is contained in a Sept. 14 post.) 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 November 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 Chesapeake, Virginia. GREATLAKES BOBBY BRANHAM ABDUL HUSSEIN KENNETH BOOHER Brother Bobby Branham, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1979, initially working on the Massachusetts. A deck department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Branham most recently sailed on the Motivator. He resides in Salisbury, North Carolina. Brother Abdul Hussein, 65, joined the SIU in 1972. He was a member of the deck department and first sailed aboard the Steel Apprentice. Brother Hussein upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 1987. He last sailed on the Gem State before settling in Seattle. Brother Kenneth Booher, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1973 when he worked on the H.N. Snyder. He upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the deck department. Brother Booher last sailed aboard the Buffalo. He calls Perrysburg, Ohio, home. JUAN MARTINEZ TERESA PETERSON Brother Juan Martinez, 66, began his career with the Seafarers in 2002, first sailing aboard the Calvin P. Titus. He was a steward department member and concluded his career aboard the Terrapin Island. He calls Tampa, Florida, home. Sister Teresa Peterson, 65, signed on with the union in 2008 when she worked on the Bernard F. Fisher. She was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Sister Peterson’s last vessel was the American Spirit. She makes her home in Iron Mountain, Michigan. KEVIN CONKLIN Brother Kevin Conklin, 67, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1969, first sailing aboard the Brooklyn. He worked in the engine department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Conklin last sailed on the USNS Seay before settling in Melbourne Beach, Florida. CARL DAVIS Brother Carl Davis, 65, joined the SIU in 1991 when he shipped aboard the Constellation. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Davis most recently sailed on the Maersk Chicago and makes his home in League City, Texas. ANASTACIO DAWA NESTOR MARTINEZ Brother Nestor Martinez, 65, joined the SIU in 1990 when he sailed aboard the USNS Capella. He was an engine department member and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Martinez’s last vessel was the Pennsylvania. He resides in Houston. RONALD MENA Brother Anastacio Dawa, 69, started his SIU career in 2006, initially sailing on the Horizon Navigator. He sailed in all three shipboard departments and upgraded often at Piney Point. Brother Dawa last sailed aboard the USNS Bowditch. He resides in Las Vegas. Brother Ronald Mena, 64, embarked on his SIU career in 1978 when he sailed on the Cove Navigator. A deck department member, he enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Mena most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Idaho before settling in North Port, Florida. SHERMAN HUDSON GREGORY WEBB Brother Sherman Hudson, 59, signed on with the SIU in 1980 when he sailed on the Portland. He was a deck department member and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Hudson last sailed on the Maersk Seletar. He lives in Brother Gregory Webb, 63, began his seafaring career in 1980, first working on the St. Louis. An engine department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Webb most recently sailed on the Sumner. He lives in Tavares, Florida. November 2018 INLAND WALTER BICKEL Brother Walter Bickel, 62, joined the SIU in 1977, first working with G&H Towing. In 1980, he upgraded his skills at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bickel remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Corpus Christi, Texas, home. DENNIS BLACKMAN Brother Dennis Blackman, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 2002. He first worked for Penn Maritime and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. The deck department member last sailed on the Achievement before settling in Thomasville, Georgia. JAMES BOYCE Brother James Boyce, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1984 when he worked for Norfolk Baltimore. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Boyce sailed with Penn Maritime for nearly his entire career. He makes his home in Appomattox, Virginia. KENNETH CLINTON Brother Kenneth Clinton, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1984, first sailing on the USNS Capella. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Clinton most recently worked for Matson Navigation Company of Alaska. He calls Puyallup, Washington, home. EDWARD DANDY Brother Edward Dandy, 63, joined the SIU in 1977 when he sailed aboard a James River Transport vessel. The engine department member upgraded on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Dandy most recently worked for Matson Navigation; he lives in Tacoma, Washington. Lynch last worked for Mariner Towing before settling in Polk City, Florida. CHARLES MASSEY Brother Charles Massey, 62, joined the SIU in 1979. A deck department member, he worked for Dravo Basic Materials for the duration of his career. Brother Massey calls Fresno, Texas, home. CHRISTOPHER NARDONE Brother Christopher Nardone, 59, began his career with the SIU in 1981, initially sailing on an Anchorage Tankships vessel. He enhanced his skills in 2001 when he upgraded at the Piney Point school. Brother Nardone spent most of his career working for Crowley. He resides in Turnersville, New Jersey. DOUGLAS PARKER Brother Douglas Parker, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1974. He was a member of the deck department and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for almost his entire career. Brother Parker makes his home in Pinetta, Florida. GARY HALLENBECK JAMES WALLER Brother Gary Hallenbeck, 56, joined the SIU in 1992 and first sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. A member of the engine department, Brother Hallenbeck remained with the same company for his entire career. He resides in Middleburg, Florida. Brother James Waller, 62, became an SIU member in 1972, initially working for Interstate Oil. He sailed in the deck department and concluded his career working for OSG Ship Management. Brother Waller resides in Princess Anne, Maryland. GREGORY LYNCH Brother Gregory Lynch, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1975. He first worked for American Barge Lines, and was a deck department member. Brother Aboard the Seabulk Arctic Pictured aboard the Seabulk Tankers vessel are (standing, from left) Chief Cook John Jewell, AB Marcos Rivera, AB Christopher Sanchez, OMU Greg Alvarez, Wiper Anthony Williams, Recertified Bosun John Cedeno, Pumpman James Rodweller, AB Richard Benoit, (seated) SA Jose Martinez and Chief Steward Gordon Major. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA FRANZ BROOKS Pensioner Franz Brooks, 74, passed away September 19. Born in Jamaica, he embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991. He first sailed on the Lawrence Gianella, and worked in the deck department. Brother Brooks’ final vessel was the Cape Henry. He became a pensioner in 2009 and was a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. ROBERT COOPER Pensioner Robert Cooper, 87, died September 18. He joined the SIU in 1953, first sailing on the Alcoa Pioneer. Brother Cooper was a deck department member and last sailed on the Pacific. He went on pension in 1993 and made his home in Pasadena, Texas. IRVIN CRUTCHLOW Pensioner Irvin Crutchlow, 64, passed away September 24. He became a member of the SIU in 1971 and first sailed on the Sea San Juan. Brother Crutchlow was a member of the deck department and last shipped aboard the Diligence. He retired in 2009 and settled in Williamsburg, Virginia. CALVIN HAZZARD Pensioner Calvin Hazzard, 79, died October 4. He joined the SIU in 1969, first working on the Allegiance. A steward department member, Brother Hazzard most recently sailed on the USNS Algol. He became a pensioner in 2002 and resided in Mobile, Alabama. MEL SISON Pensioner Mel Sison, 74, passed away August 26. He signed on with the union in 1985 when he sailed on the Moku Pahu. Brother Sison worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the Horizon Spirit. He began collecting his pension in 2014 and lived in the Philippines. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND DELEARY Pensioner Raymond Deleary, 18 Seafarers LOG 87, passed away September 15. He donned the SIU colors in 1961 when he worked for Dunbar & Sullivan. Brother Deleary last worked for Zenith Dredge Company before his retirement in 1993. He resided in Superior, Wisconsin. RICHARD MULLINS Brother Richard Mullins, 62, died September 13. Born in Wisconsin, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1979. Brother Mullins initially sailed aboard the Nicolet and was a deck department member. He last worked on the John Boland and resided in his home state in the city of Peshtigo. INLAND TEDDY ODOM Pensioner Teddy Odom, 66, passed away September 27. He started his SIU career in 1971 when he worked with Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Odom was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 2014 and made his home in Uriah, Alabama. NMU ELIZABETH AMARAL Pensioner Elizabeth Amaral, 99, passed away September 6. Sister Amaral was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts. She retired in 1981 and continued to reside in her hometown. BENITO BONILLA Pensioner Benito Bonilla, 78, died September 4. He worked as a member of the deck department before retiring in 2006. He lived in Fort Mill, South Carolina. ORIVAL DELANEY Pensioner Orival Delaney, 94, passed away July 28. He shipped as a member of the deck department and retired in 1968. Brother Delaney resided in Santa Catrina, Brazil. ANDREW MARTIN Pensioner Andrew Martin, 96, died September 14. He became a pensioner in 1985 and settled in his hometown, New Orleans. LAWRENCE THOMPSON Pensioner Lawrence Thompson, 82, passed away August 28. Brother Thompson was a Virginia native. He retired in 1997 and continued to live in his home state in the city of Portsmouth. 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 Biggins, Ronald 83 Cabero, Francisco 90 Castillo, Ismael 91 Correa, Edmundo 97 Cousins, Gerald 88 Del Rio, Enrico 95 Ferrell, William 87 Forman, William 94 King, Jessie 87 Laureano, Rafael 75 Porter, William 94 Rivera, Jose 94 Rodriguez, Domingo 87 Swasey, Selvin 88 DOD 08/25/2018 08/23/2018 01/11/2018 09/19/2018 08/22/2018 08/27/2018 09/27/2018 08/25/2018 03/18/2018 09/12/2018 09/28/2018 09/30/2018 09/05/2018 09/11/2018 ANDRES TORRES Pensioner Andres Torres, 91, died September 16. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Torres began collecting his pension in 1996. He resided in Houston. CIVMAR-Crewed Comfort Departs for Operation Enduring Promise The hospital ship USNS Comfort – which is partially crewed by SIU CIVMARS – deployed for the annual “Enduring Promise” mission on Oct. 11. The mission was delayed due to the formation of Hurricane Michael in the Gulf of Mexico. Enduring Promise is the U.S. Southern Command’s 11-week medical support mission to Central and South America. As explained by the Navy, “Working with health and government partners in Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and Honduras, the embarked medical team will provide care on board and at land-based medical sites, helping to relieve pressure on national medical systems caused partly by an increase in cross-border migrants. The deployment reflects the United States’ enduring promise of friendship, partnership, and solidarity with the Americas.” One of the first exercises of the mission, a mass casualty triage exercise, took place Oct. 13. The embarked doctors, nurses and other medical professionals participated in the drill, which began on the flight deck and continued down to the Comfort’s casualty receiving area. The exercise included basic medical triage, blood tests and computed tomography (CT) scans. “A mass casualty event, by nature, is chaotic,” said Lt. Jessie Paull, a general surgery resident embarked on the Comfort. “Being able to practice, it gets your nerves under control.... Getting the team squared away is essential to execute this mission during a real event.” During each country visit, the more than 200 medical team members expect to treat approximately 750 patients per day at each medical site, and conduct up to 20 surgeries. This year’s mission is the sixth time the hospital ship has provided medical assistance in the region. Since the first iteration of this mission more than a decade ago, the hospital ship has visited 18 nations in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The Comfort has pro- vided medical treatment to nearly 390,000 people, including more than 6,000 surgeries, as part of the missions. The Navy has stated that the USNS Comfort will visit Esmeraldas, Ecuador; Peru (port to be determined); Riohacha and Turbo in Colombia; and Puerto Castilla, Honduras. Specific dates for each port visit will be announced several days prior to the hospital ship’s arrival. Members of the SIU Government Services Division sail aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) November 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings SLNC YORK (Argent Marine), July 4 – Chairman Basil D’Souza, Secretary Victor Jimenez, Educational Director Derrick Sullivan, Deck Delegate Clifford Carroll. Crew discussed previous requests for water coolers, fans, ice machines and electrical converters. As per contract, members should be compensated at daily rate when ship lacks air conditioning. Crew expressed interest in increasing pension funds while decreasing sea time requirements. Both secretary and educational director encouraged members to upgrade. Educational director advised crew to be self-reliant when making sure papers are in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request bigger refrigerator for mess halls. Steward department thanked for a job well done. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), July 6 – Chairman Videlio Roman, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Francis Brown, Steward Delegate Michelle Woodley. Chairman thanked everyone for having a safe trip and announced upcoming payoff in Newark. Crew discussed importance of contributing to SPAD. Secretary reminded members to put in for a day off or one day’s pay in lieu of time off for pay. He asked members to be sure they leave clean rooms for reliefs. Educational director recommended that members upgrade and have at least six months on documents for relief jobs with MMC and TWIC. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship in need of parts for broken dishwashing machine. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. PATRIOT (TOTE), July 8 – Chairman Vasily Semes. Dryer in changing room not working properly. Members waiting for update on requested TV for unlicensed crew. 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. Chairman reported a good trip, free of injuries. He thanked everyone for their professionalism and working in a timely manner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. CALIFORNIA (Crowley), July 20 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Mark Scardino, Educational Director Joshua Zelinsky. Chairman welcomed new members and explained sections of the contract and SIU constitution. He advised crew to stop at union hall to update their information on file and to keep documents current with Coast Guard requirements. Steward department thanked deck and engine departments for keeping common areas clean. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Educational director instructed members to use Seafarers member portal, where they can find abundant information. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed benefits for eyeglasses and would like an increased allowance for coverage due to increased eyewear costs. Members happy with dental benefit increase. Union to follow up with company regarding refrigerators. Next Port: Richmond, California. MAERSK KENTUCKY (Maersk Line, Limited), July 20 – Chairman Albert Williams, Secretary Wayne Wilson. Crew still waiting on new chairs for mess hall. Deck department members were recognized for safely completing many projects. Food stores to come in at Norfolk and Houston ports. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request satellite phone. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next Port: Norfolk, Virginia. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), July 21 – Chairman Paul Gohs, Secretary Joseph Gallo, Educational Director Michael Kruse, Deck Delegate Jabr Ali, Engine Delegate Yahya Ali. Issues of Seafarers LOG distributed. Crew discussed changes to health benefit qualifications for Great Lakes Division. Members went over new form policies for the National Maritime Center. Educational director reminded crew to utilize the opportunities at the Piney Point school by upgrading. He directed members to the bulletin board to find available upgrading courses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department carefully monitoring OT distribution in galley to correct previous errors within the department. Crew read president’s report. Members were encouraged to vote in upcoming November elections. Crew was reminded to watch for signs of heat exhaustion and to drink plenty of water rather than caffeinated beverages. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for a job well done. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Sunrise Operations), July 21 – Chairman Jeremy Scheil, Secretary Raymond Garcia, Educational Director Jessie Ulibas, Deck Delegate Bobby Belches, Engine Delegate Thomas Swayne, Steward Delegate Fakhruddin Malahi. Members discussed their support for the Jones Act. Chairman read June 2018 president’s report from SIU President Michael Sacco. Secretary advised crew to update documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests extension to drydock be increased to 60 days. Members discussed importance of SPAD support and were encouraged to use Union Plus benefits and enroll in Seafarers 401k plan. Crew requests vacation application be set up for online submission. Food is great and ship is clean. Next Port: Oakland, California. OVERSEAS CHINOOK (Overseas Ship Management), July 22 – Chairman Nagi Obad, Secretary Jack Hart, Educational Director Lamar Parker, Deck Delegate John Mbelwa, Engine Delegate Manuel Lulley, Steward Delegate Terry Fowler. Chairman thanked deck department. He reminded members to work safely and keep rooms clean. Secretary thanked crew for keeping ship clean and announced new salad bar items, including chicken and salmon. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at SIU-affiliated school and to stay current on documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like vacation time increased and decrease in sea time required for retirement. Members were encouraged to stand by each other when a fellow seaman gets injured. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), July 22 – Chairman Cleofe Bernardez Castro, Secretary William Churney, Deck Delegate Ronmel Lopez, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Chairman discussed new health benefits. Educational director suggested new members upgrade at the school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over new password requirement to access member portal. Members discussed budget for food and other consumables on ship. Crew requests possibility of earlier breakfast time, increase in vacation pay and increase for transportation. Members were reminded to leave room clean for oncoming crew. JEAN ANNE (PASHA), July 29 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director David Watkins. Chairman welcomed new members. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point and suggested their physicals be up to date beforehand. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun encouraged members to contribute to SPAD and support politicians that support the Jones Act. Crew requested physicals be required annually rather than semi-annually. PRESQUE ISLE (Key Lakes), July 29 – Chairman Tony Sivola, Secretary Yaser Al Shaghdari, Educational Director Kevin Willis. Members discussed old business including requests for updated cable boxes and exercise equipment. Chairman reminded crew to go out and vote during this election year. He encouraged them to vote for members of Congress who support the Jones Act. Educational director advised crew to go to Paul Hall Center to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members discussed new password requirements for member portal and went over upcoming changes to benefit eligibility. Crew was encouraged to work safely and look out for one another. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), July 30 – Chairman Marco Galliano, Secretary Enrico La Marca, Deck Delegate William Steele, Engine Delegate Francois Doucet. Chairman thanked crew for a problem-free voyage and discussed member portal password changes. He announced Saturday closures of all hiring halls effective September 1. Chairman reminded crew to be mindful of document expiration dates and to find various applications in crew lounge. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed SIU physicals and requested interval requirements be reconsidered. 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 November 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. and into 2019. 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 Course Advanced Refer Containers December 1 May 4 December 14 May 17 Title of Course BAPO November 17 February 2 December 14 March 1 Engineroom Resource Management June 22 June 28 FOWT February 22 May 3 January 5 March 2 February 1 March 29 Junior Engineer March 22 May 31 January 5 April 20 March 1 June 14 Marine Electrician January 12 April 27 March 8 June 21 Marine Refer Tech March 9 June 22 April 19 August 2 MEECE June 3 June 14 Pumpman January 26 February 1 Welding February 16 March 8 Start Date Leadership & Managerial Skills Gap Closing Courses June 29 Storekeeper Courses February 2 April 13 MSC Storekeeper Basic MSC Supply Configuration Management February 23 May 4 Date of Completion July 5 Start Date Engine Department Upgrading Courses Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck AB to Mate Modules January 5 March 2 April 27 February 1 March 29 May 24 Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. Advanced Meteorology May 4 May 10 Advanced Shiphandling May 11 May 24 Advanced Stability April 27 May 3 ARPA March 9 April 27 May 25 Crane Familiarization Date of Completion Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops January 5 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 12. March 15 May 3 May 31 Chief Steward February 2 March 22 Galley Operations February 2 March 1 April 6 April 12 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 December 1 December 7 Fast Rescue Boat June 1 June 7 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 GMDSS February 9 April 27 February 22 May 10 November 24 December 8 November 30 December 14 November 17 December 15 January 12 February 9 November 30 December 28 January 25 February 22 February 23 April 13 May 11 March 8 April 26 May 24 Lifeboat Radar Observer Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 17 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 # 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 February 1 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF January 26 February 1 Basic Training Revalidation November 30 November 30 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation January 12 January 18 Government Vessels December 1 December 7 Medical Care Provider January 26 February 1 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL February 16 February 22 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG December 8 December 14 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. 11/18 November 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class 840 – Graduated August 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Michael Beeson, James Bithos Jr., Anthony Brown Jr., Jessica Clark, Nikita Featherston, Keith Guthrie, Lucas Hayes, Cale Irons, Damon Johnson, Tony King Jr., Mark Malicki, Anthony Maltese, Kion Miller, Joseph Murphy III, Terry Popperwill Jr., Trevor Snider, Scott Waterman and Kelly White. 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. ARPA – Graduated July 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Timothy Hess, Mason Con Melland and Shoal Nervo. Crane Familiarization – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Linnell Coleman Jr., Jerrold Foke, Andres Nunez-Rochez and Andrei Alexander Tretyak. Pumpman – Graduated July 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Rodriques Antwan Carson, Abasiama Bassey Essien-Ete, Andres Nunez-Rochez, Lamar Pinckney, James Rodweller, Ahmed Lotf Sennain, Rahjahn Travail Sorey and Mario Percel Standberry. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Graduated August 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Carlos Avila, Walter Bonifacio, Rena Caraway, James Crate, Luis Armando Fernandez, Eric Gordon, Jermell Hicks, Eric Hondel, Emily De Dios Lepley, Donnell Lewis, Christopher Lyons, Philip Perry, George Bernasco Pobee, Michael Proveaux, Joshua Rawls, James Rodweller, Shirley Rogers, Teresa Rozacka, Brenda Taylor and Quintonio Walden. November 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Machinist – Graduated July 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Rodriques Antwan Carson, Abasiama Bassey Essien-Ete, Andres Nunez-Rochez, Lamar P i n c k n e y, James Rodweller, Ahmed Lotf Sennain, Rahjahn Travail Sorey, Mario Percel Standberry. Government Vessels – Graduated July 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Jerrold Foke, Keyon Gregory, Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds, Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau, Jennifer Ramirez, Leon Smith, Andrei Tretyak, Luis Alonso Valerio and Roman Jan Zarkiewicz. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Ship Construction & Basic Stability – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Glenn Valera Agustin, Robert Bryson III, Johnathon Gager, Kelly Krick Jr., Mason Con Melland, Shoal Nervo, Harry Schrefer III, Gavin Scott and Dexter Madrona Turija. Medical Care Provider – Graduated July 20 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita, Jonas Paul Panghulan Libang, Ali Fadel Mohamed, Lamar Pinckney, Omar Rodgers, Michael Souza and Frederick Nyarko Williams. Class instructor Michael Roberts is at the far right. Junior Engineer (Engineering Plant Maintenance II) – Graduated July 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Clayton Black, Kirk Chambers, Raibonne Charles, Melchor Lagria Lapac Jr., George Marcelo Mardones, Harlan Holger Ouellette, Dean Parks, Ronaldo Jose Quinones Perez, Dhahabi Abdulla Quraish, Mohamed Lamin Sheriff, Louie Smith, Jep Sumpter, Matthew Yowell and John Zimmerman. John Wiegman III, their instructor, is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG November 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated July 13 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Allan Bombita, Allan Coloyan, Michael Diggs, William Gibson, Ali Fadel Mohamed, Omar Rodgers, Michael Souza, Clark Wilhelm Vipond, Frederick Williams and Ameen Abdo Yahya. John Thomas, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) - Graduated August 3 (above, in alphabetical order: Bayardo Calix, Leslie Davis, Ely Matencio Desingano, Marcus Foster, Martin Garcia, Bruce Dale Mesger and Michael Souza. Class instructors Mike Roberts and Joseph Zienda are at the far left and far right, respectively (Note: Not all are pictured). Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated August 3 (above, from left): Robert Wilcox Jr., Maili Wang and Natalie Leinani Nunes (far right). Robert “RJ” Johnson, their instructor is third from left. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated July 13: James Hodges (left) and Darrell Bell (right). John Dobson, their instructor, is in the center. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated July 27 (above, in alphabetical order): Alfrancis Medina Bauzon, Reno Ibanez Duque, Donnell Lewis and Mostafa Loumrhari. November 2018 Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated July 20 (above, in alphabetical order): Reco Lashun Bennefield, Nicholas Carey, Kathy Carter, Leslie Davis, Keyon Gregory, Da’vonte Junies, Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds, Sosiua Faasavaliga Peau and Christina Price. (Note: Not all are pictured). Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated July 27: Bernard Hudson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated July 20 (above, from left to right): John Huyett, Jennifer Ramirez and Ronald Davis. Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2018 VOLUME 80,o NO. 11 FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 NO. 2 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (standing at far left) reads the names of SIU members lost aboard the El Faro while Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue Honor Guard Commander Charles Eckert rings the bell during the dedication conducted by the American Maritime Officers and AMO Plans in Dania Beach, Florida. The AMO memorial includes likenesses of the ship’s final crew. Ceremonies Honor Memory of El Faro Crew Seafarers and SIU officials recently took part in ceremonies to help honor and preserve the memory of the El Faro’s final crew. Three gatherings happened in Florida: The Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) on Sept. 29 dedicated a memorial on the AMO Plans campus in Dania Beach. SIU-contracted TOTE on Oct. 1 hosted a ceremony at the El Faro memorial in Dames Point Park in Jacksonville. The SIU conducted a brief remembrance Oct. 11 at the Jacksonville hiring hall (the day of the monthly membership meeting). SIU personnel attending one or more of the ceremonies included Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Assistant Vice President Archie Ware and Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen attended the dedication in Dania Beach. Others in attendance included El Faro family members, TOTE executives, Coast Guard personnel, Seafarers and AMO members, executives from other ship-operating companies, representatives from Seafarers’ House Port Everglades, local politicians and more. The El Faro sank on Oct. 1, 2015 near the Bahamas, in Hurricane Joaquin. All 33 people aboard the vessel perished – 17 SIU members, 11 AMO members, and five Polish men who comprised the riding gang. AMO National President Paul Doell stated at the Sept. 29 gathering, “We all know that the officers, crew and riding gang aboard El Faro fought heroically for each other – as friends and as family – against nature at her strongest. Our hope this morning is that our El Faro families have found measures of peace and comfort after all this time. “Like others before it, the memorial we dedicate today will help sustain the feelings, the sentiments we all know so well,” he continued. “Everyone who passes through here from this moment, for training or to participate in an industry conference, will pause in this place to reflect. They will share stories about their seagoing experiences with personal friends lost off Crooked Island in the Bahamas. They will tell their children what this memorial represents. And they will ask the difficult questions each of us has asked for three years, questions for which there are no easy answers.” For the TOTE gathering, bad weather stopped just long enough for the outdoor proceedings. Meanwhile, the SIU hall in Jacksonville also features an El Faro memorial (dedicated in 2016). On that site, Corgey read the crew members’ names and added, “I’m sure it’s hard for all of us to believe three years have passed since the tragic sinking of the El Faro. But one thing you (Clockwise starting from above) Family members, friends and other supportive individuals take their seats at the TOTE event. In addition to the shore-side remembrances, Seafarers also remembered their fallen brothers and sisters through at-sea observances. Recertified Bosun James Walker (left) prepares to toss an El Faro memorial wreath into the sea, from aboard the Overseas Anacortes. He’s pictured with Pumpman Cary Pratts. The florist who prepared the wreath used different colors in memory of the SIU and AMO members and Polish riding gang. SIU Asst. VPs Kris Hopkins (left) and Archie Ware are pictured at the AMO ceremony. Pictured from right to left at the TOTE memorial are Seafarer Rosemary Glover, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Seafarer LaShanda Brown-Moody, friend Barbara Dupree-Clemons, Rochelle Hamm (widow of Seafarer Frank Hamm) and friend DeAngelo Lester. definitely can believe is that we’ll never forget the 33 men and women we lost that day. They are memorialized here in Jacksonville, and in Dania, and in (Piney Point) Maryland – and most importantly, they’ll always be in our hearts.” Corgey continued, “Everyone in the maritime industry understands there are certain dangers that cannot be avoided. There’s also a constant need to focus on safety and make improvements so that our seafarers face as little risk as possible. And while we’re never going to be perfect, I do think that our industry has collectively responded to the El Faro tragedy with earnest, detailed efforts to pinpoint the problems and to take steps to help avoid repeating them. “Today, however, our focus is on the memories of the SIU members, AMO officers and Polish riding gang, plus all of their families. They’re a part of this organization’s history that’ll never be forgotten.” � 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 November 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES FIRST STEEL PLATES CUT IN TEXAS FOR LNG-FUELED CONTAINERSHIP PASHA HAWAII JONES ACT VESSEL WILL CARRY SIU CREW CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON USNS JOHN LEWIS REPORT: 91 COUNTRIES MAINTAIN CABOTAGE LAWS SEAFARERS’ RIGHTS INTERNATIONAL RELEASE FULL, COMPREHENSIVE STUDY SIU VP MANGRAM RETIRES AT 40-YEAR MARK SIU’S HEINDEL CARRIES CABOTAGE MESSAGE TO NORWEGIAN SEAFARERS’ UNION CONGRESS UNION APPOINTS HUNT TO VP GOVERNMENT SERVICES POSITION LAWMAKERS UNVEIL COMPREHENSIVE PRO-WORKER LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE RETIRED NMU OFFICIAL STEWARD DIES AT 84 NMC RELEASES PACKAGE GUIDELINES FOR MMC APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS WORKERS ALLIANCE PREVAILS IN LAWSUIT PAUL HALL CENTER HOSTS USTRANCOM GROUP CIVMAR-CREWED USNS WALLY SCHIRRA RESCUES 5 NMC ISSUES POLICY REGARDING CREDENTIALS LOST, DESTROYED DURING HURRICANE FLORENCE CEREMONIES HONOR MEMORY OF EL FARO CREW 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 11/01/2018 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c5dbed1e9f5f9b7f16b2ccf268dad024.pdf e9c6700d80b1247d4e871083b19b6502 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 11 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 ARC Adding Three Ships to Fleet Vessels Enrolling in Maritime Security Program; Net Gain of Two Ships for SIU The SIU helped celebrate new American-flag tonnage as Seafarerscontracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) hosted an uplifting ceremony Sept. 20 in Baltimore. The company is adding three newer ships to its fleet, including the ARC Resolve (pictured above left, at immediate left, and the vessel’s wheelhouse at immediate right). SIU President Michael Sacco (above right) was a featured speaker at the ceremony. Beforehand, visitors toured the ARC Resolve, including (bottom photo, from left) SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Paul Hall Center Apprentices Cody Carroll, Dave Martin, Juan A. Vallejo, Briana Davis, Marta Ruiz, Chris Kluth, Emmanuel Outerial and Nick Chiappini, and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez. Pages 3, 12, 13. Rescues at Sea Pages 4, 24 Scholarship Info Page 11 �President’s Report Job Well Done Seafarers may recall that it was only a few months ago when I began one of these columns by congratulating them for a great, typically professional response to a sudden flurry of vessel activations. Turns out those activations were just a warmup. As reported elsewhere in this edition, our members recently stepped up and helped crew 33 U.S. military support ships for a widespread exercise beginning in mid-September. This was not a small task, but Seafarers came through with flying colors. So did our officials in the hiring halls and at the manpower office. Overall, this is believed to have been the largest activation since the Persian Gulf War. Although in some ways this may be viewed as “just doing our jobs,” the sheer scope of the activations warrants a pat on the back. I’m proud of our members for answering the call so promptly and so thoroughly. Particularly in light of the fact that it really wasn’t 100 percent certain these were exercises (the activations coincided with some interestMichael Sacco ing happenings overseas), you once again proved that you’re America’s fourth arm of defense. I know we’ll remain at the ready, but in the meantime, congratulations to all concerned on a job well done. Honoring WWII Mariners Speaking of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s vital role in national defense, the U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed legislation that would honor the remaining mariners from World War II with a Congressional Gold Medal. The Senate now has an excellent opportunity to recognize these members of the Greatest Generation. For those unfamiliar with the history, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II truly made the difference between victory and defeat. The SIU was there from the beginning – even before the United States officially entered the war, in fact. The SIU-crewed Robin Moor was sunk by a German submarine in May 1941. More than 1,200 of our members lost their lives in the war. They were part of a larger group that suffered a higher casualty rate than any of the armed services. Unfortunately, we’ve always had to scrap for recognition and acknowledgement. But, we’ve proven it can be done. We proved it in 1988 with the long-overdue awarding of veterans’ status for World War II mariners, and we proved it again 10 years later with the proper extension of the cutoff date for that recognition. Now, the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act is a fitting, final chance to collectively tip our nation’s cap to the remaining seamen who helped make victory possible. This simple but powerful gesture would be fitting, satisfying, and deeply appreciated by the mariners and their families. The SIU stands behind them 100 percent. Celebrating New Tonnage Whether you navigated to this column online or in print, you couldn’t have missed our coverage of the recent ceremony in Baltimore where three newly reflagged ships were named (they’re joining the American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier fleet). The day itself was inspirational, and I particularly enjoyed hearing so many compliments about our rank-and-file members. Gaining new tonnage under the American flag is never a given, whether it’s for the Jones Act trade or international voyages. It takes significant investment and commitment – and those steps are based in part on the availability of reliable, well-trained mariners, including SIU members. Our industry faces plenty of challenges, but we’re also making substantial progress. Ceremonies like the ARC event reinforce my confidence that our best days are still ahead. Three Seafarers-crewed vessels are pictured Sept. 24 in the Chesapeake Bay during the most recent Turbo Activation. From left are the USNS Mendonca, USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Gilliland. (U.S. Navy photo by Jennifer Hunt) Seafarers Answer the Call TRANSCOM Conducts Large-Scale Sealift Readiness Exercise When the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) called with an unprecedented assignment, the SIU answered in a big way. TRANSCOM in mid-September launched the largest-ever sealift readiness exercise as part of its “Turbo Activation” series, ordering dozens of ships to sea. The SIU crewed up all 33 vessels, filling every unlicensed job. “On one hand, there is never a doubt that Seafarers will answer the call,” stated Bart Rogers, SIU director of manpower. “But in light of the sheer size of this activation, I think the members deserve recognition for stepping up so quickly, without notice, and getting it done. Credit to the people in the halls, too – this was a very large task, and everyone rose to the occasion.” TRANSCOM oversees 10 other U.S. combatant commands (including the U.S. Military Sealift Command), the military services, defense agencies and other government organizations. In announcing the activations, the agency noted, “These exercises typically involve only a few ships but this event … [will] provide a better assessment of the readiness of U.S. sealift forces than can be accomplished with fewer activations. This scale will also stress the underlying support network involved in maintaining, manning and operating the nation’s ready sealift forces.” The Turbo Activation series has, since 1994, served as a no-notice recurring exercise series, sponsored and monitored by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and TRANSCOM. This was the fourth Turbo Activation exercise this year. The agency further noted, “This TRANSCOM exercise rapidly activates a mix of Military Sealift Command and U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) ships on the East, West, and Gulf Coasts. The exercise validates the readiness of selected ships and tests their ability to meet activation time standards and Department of Defense mission requirements. The activated ships are directed to transition from a reduced operating status to a fully crewed status, with the quarters made habitable and cargo gear ready, within five days. Activations are commonly followed immediately by a sea trial.” MARAD maintains the Ready Reserve Force, which is a fleet of 46 militarily useful, civiliancrewed ships. This fleet, located throughout the country, is maintained in a reserve status in the event that the Department of Defense needs the vessels to support the rapid, massive movement of military supplies and troops for a military exercise or large-scale conflict. The ships are managed by commercial companies and crewed by civilian merchant mariners. MSC, in close coordination with MARAD, operates, supplies, and maintains the ships that provide logistics support, conduct special missions, move military equipment, supply combat forces, provide humanitarian relief, and strategically position combat cargo around the world. During the recent exercise, ships were activated in Baltimore; Norfolk, Virginia; Seattle; Harvey, Louisiana; Oakland, California; Wilmington, California; Houston; Jacksonville, Florida; and Tacoma, Washington. The SIU-crewed Cape Wrath is pictured Sept. 20 in Baltimore. 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 11 November 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 CR Reauthorizes Export-Import Bank As part of a Continuing Resolution to fund the government that was enacted on Oct. 1, the ExportImport Bank (Ex-Im) was reauthorized through Nov. 21, 2019. The Bank’s reauthorization would have lapsed on Sept. 30 had Congress not acted. To help convince Congress of the importance of reauthorizing the program for a longer period of time, associations and business leaders from various industries have united to express their support for a funded and authorized Ex-Im Bank. More than 200 companies and organizations joined a letter sent by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), which called on the U.S. House and Senate to pass a “robust and long-term reauthorization” of the Ex-Im Bank. The SIU supports a fully authorized and funded Ex-Im Bank, as all cargoes impelled with the support of the bank must be carried on U.S.flag ships. As stated by the NAM, “As the U.S.’ official export credit agency, the Ex-Im Bank’s mission is to support American jobs through facilitating U.S. exports. Since 2000, the Ex-Im Bank has supported nearly $450 billion in exports from thousands of mostly small- and medium-sized companies and helped support over 2.5 million American jobs. The Ex-Im Bank has become more important in recent years given the rise of other countries’ export credit agencies, from China’s three agencies to those in Germany, Canada and beyond, making Ex-Im Bank a vital tool to level the playing field internationally for industries in the United States that need to increase foreign export sales to continue creating well-paying American jobs.” The letter concluded, “Without quick action to secure a long-term and robust Ex-Im Bank reauthorization that fixes past quorum issues, thousands of American exporters and tens of thousands of American workers who rely on the Ex-Im Bank will be put at risk.” November 2019 �SIU Celebrates 3 New Vessels ARC Ceremony Also Stresses Vital Importance of Mariners On a morning set aside to welcome new tonnage into the American-flag fleet, U.S. Merchant Mariners also got plenty of recognition. The accolades were delivered Sept. 20 in Baltimore, during a pier-side ceremony hosted by Seafarers-contracted American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC). The company is adding three vessels to its fleet: the ARC Integrity, ARC Independence and ARC Resolve, the latter of which was docked near the celebration. All three will enroll in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker, and the union turned out in force. Also representing the SIU at the gathering were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Port Agents John Hoskins and Victor Nunez. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also were on hand, while SIU crew members aboard the ARC Resolve welcomed guests for pre-ceremony tours. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby delivered keynote remarks. Also formally addressing the crowd of 200 or so were ARC President and CEO Eric Ebeling; Major Gen. Michael Wehr of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM); and Jim White, executive director of the Maryland Port Administration. Capt. Mike Murphy of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers capped the festivities with a toast to the vessels and crews. Sacco explained the importance of not just the MSP but the entire U.S. Merchant Marine in relation to U.S. national, economic and homeland security. He commended ARC, TRANSCOM and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) for their respective commitments to the industry, and then gave a passionate description of the men and women who comprise the U.S. Merchant Marine. “They are patriots,” Sacco stated. “They are damn proud to be America’s fourth arm of de- Continued on Page 12 Port Agent John Hoskins, Capt. Jon Phillips (an SIU hawsepiper), Bosun Yamira Colon, Port Agent Victor Nunez ARC’s New Additions To Fleet Mean More Jobs for SIU Members The newest additions to ARC’s fleet are replacing three older vessels in the U.S. Maritime Security Program, but the company is keeping two of the older ships in its commercial American-flag service AB Steve Thorak November 2019 – meaning it’s a net gain of two vessels for the SIU. Two of the new RO/ROs – the ARC Integrity and ARC Independence – are sister ships classified as large car/truck carriers Oiler Zachary Manzi The ARC Resolve (above) was docked at the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore Sept. 20 when she and two sister ships ceremonially were added to the American Rollon Roll-off Carrier Fleet. OS Jose Rodriguez, SIU Baltimore Port Agent John Hoskins, AB Arles Ballestero, AB Eric Reich or LCTCs. Each is 747 feet long. The other ship, the ARC Resolve, is a pure car/truck carrier or PCTC and is 653 feet long. According to the company, “These three new vessels all have a main deck that can accommodate cargoes up to 6.5 meters in height (21.32 feet), which will make them among the most capable vessels in the U.S.-flag commercial fleet for government and project cargoes.” The ARC Resolve was docked near the recent naming ceremony at the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, and it made a great impression on its first crew. “It’s a beautiful ship and it’s in really good condition,” said Bosun Yamira Chief Steward Tom Hely Colon. “Everything about it is excellent, and we will maintain it.” “It’s a good ship and the rooms are really nice,” said AB Steve Thorak. Chief Steward Tom Hely had a practical outlook after having joined the ship two days earlier. “It’s pretty new and everything worked,” he said with a chuckle. The ARC Resolve’s first SIU crew included Colon, Thorak, Hely, ABs Eric Reich and Arles Ballestero, OSs Jose Rodriguez and Melody White, Oilers Hycienth Asagwara, Zachary Manzi and Antonio De Luna, Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus and SA Mohamed Khodeiri. Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus SA Mohamed Khodeiri Seafarers LOG 3 �CIVMARS and Navy personnel (photo at left) launch an unmanned surface vehicle from the Seafarers-crewed USNS Williams into the Chesapeake Bay. In photo above, the unmanned underwater vehicle Knightfish is recovered by the crew on Sept. 14. (U.S. Navy photos by Bill Mesta) CIVMARS Help Test Mine Counter-Measures CIVMARS from the SIU’s Government Services Division recently helped the U.S. Navy conduct tests that are important to national defense. The crew of Military Sealift Command’s expeditionary sea base (ESB) USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams in midSeptember wrapped up a three-day mission that ended in Norfolk, Virginia. The vessel had tested an anti-mine system in the Chesapeake Bay. Specifically, it launched and recovered an unmanned surface vessel (USV) and an unmanned underwater vessel (UUV), Knightfish. According to the Navy, “The USV and UUVs are mine counter measure capabilities and the ship went to sea to determine the feasibility of operating these vessels from an ESB.” “Considering the contested environ- ments which our ships sail in, counter-mine capabilities are very important because we have to be able to keep the enemy at bay,” said Capt. David Gray, the USNS Williams officer in charge and the ship’s prospective commanding officer. “Mines of today are very inexpensive to make. Our adversaries can produce mines for a few hundred dollars and inflict a tremendous loss of life while causing millions of dollars of damage. So, we need the assets out there to detect and destroy these threats ahead of time, and keep the world’s shipping lanes open.” A team of Navy Sailors, CIVMARs and civilian technical experts carried out the task of launching and recovering the USV and UUV into the Chesapeake Bay on Sept. 14-15. The two-day operation required shipboard personnel to transport each unmanned vessel from its storage Seafarers on Maersk Montana Help Rescue Imperiled Boater SIU mariners aboard the Maersk Montana recently sprang into action to save a boater whose vessel was sinking. While the Montana was en route to Antwerp, the ship diverted to answer a distress call. The doomed sailboat La Belle Vie was taking on water about 200 miles off the coast of Ireland, and the lone sailor, Mikhail “Miki” Chumachenko, was in desperate need of rescue. “On Sept. 20, 2019, aboard the Maersk Montana we received a SOS call pertaining to a sailboat in need of assistance. The boat had a damaged keel and needed help, so the ship headed to assist,” said area inside the mission bay to the designated launching point next to the side of the ship. The ship’s crane was used to lift each unmanned vessel off the deck and into the ocean. Once each vessel was launched, they were recovered from the ocean with the ship’s crane and returned to the mission deck. In total, the USV was successfully launched and recovered twice and the UUV four times over the two-day period. According to Gray, the Sept. 14 evolution was the first time a USV has been successfully launched and recovered from any Naval ship. USVs have been launched from other Navy ships, but not recovered, the Navy reported. After the conclusion of the evolutions, Capt. George McCarthy, master of the USNS Williams, recognized the crew’s efforts. Electrician Eddie Almodovar. The SIU members aboard also included Bosun Sunnil Motley, ABs Thellis Barnes, Fethanegest Demoz, Urgel Peligro, George Phillips and Kevin Salter, QMED Jeffery Bull, GVA Al Greene, Recertified Steward James Cameron, Chief Cook Mark Keller and SA Claribel Cabral. “The pilot ladder was ready, a pair of nets were ready to lower from anywhere on the deck and many lines were made ready,” said Third Mate Stephen Miller. “[The approach] was the tricky part. The ship needed to be at a speed slow enough to where she could run the engine astern and yet fast enough to catch La Belle Vie, which was still under sail, to maintain a stable condition.” The challenge was increased by the rough, force-eight seas, with Miller noting, “A containership is anything but graceful in a windy and rough sea at slow speed.” Almodovar concluded, “Upon arrival to the area where the boat was supposed to be, a watch started to locate the boat and was quickly successful. After a cou- “Thank you to everyone aboard the vessel for conducting a safe, efficient and effective evolution here over the last couple of days,” he said. “Most importantly, we were able to successfully demonstrate the concepts we set out to. “There was a lot of hard work across the spectrum of people aboard the ship: civilians, Sailors and CIVMARs,” he added. “My thanks to everyone for a great job.” The ship is crewed by a hybrid team of civil service mariners and Sailors who operate and maintain a large flight deck, berthing and messing accommodations and provide command and control support for embarked forces. The USNS Williams was built by union members at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. It entered service in early 2018. ple hours to maneuver in place to make the rescue, the single occupant of the boat was successfully rescued and the story ended well. The boat, of course was lost, but he will live to sail another day. He was a very nice gentleman, and it was a pleasure to meet him. The crew on the ship did a very professional job during the rescue.” The rescue was fast and efficient: The Montana began its approach towards the doomed boat at 7:45 p.m., and by 9:30 p.m., the vessel had resumed its course to Antwerp. Pictured aboard the Maersk Montana (photo at left, from left) are the rescued sailor Mikhail Chumachenko, Capt. Richard Hoey, SA Claribel Cabral, Chief Mate Samuel Halley, Chief Engineer Jeremy Travers, Electrician Eddie Almodovar, Engine Cadet Willam Star, 3rd Mate Steven Miller, Deck Cadet Blaine McDonough, AB Fethanegest Demoz, AB George Phillips, Bosun Sunnil Motley and Recertified Steward James Cameron. Pictured above is the doomed sailboat La Belle Vie (Photo courtesy of Eddie Almodovar). 4 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �WWII Merchant Mariners One Step Closer To Receiving Congressional Gold Medal World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners are poised to receive a Congressional Gold Medal after the House recently voted to approve the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California). “The United States Merchant Marine was integral in providing the link between domestic production and the fighting forces overseas, providing combat equipment, fuel, food, commodities and raw materials to troops stationed abroad,” the bill reads. The bill also makes clear that merchant mariners “bore a higher per-capita casualty rate than any other branch of the military.” Garamendi said in his statement: “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country. The Merchant Marine suffered the highest per capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these Mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988. “Last year, I got the chance to meet with three World War II Merchant Mariners: Charles Mills of Texas, age 97; Eugene Barner from Kansas, age 92; and Robert Weagant from Illinois, age 92. These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, braving German and Japanese submarines in their Liberty Ships as they delivered critical supplies to our servicemembers in the European and Pacific theaters,” Garamendi continued. “Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. A Congressional Gold Medal would give them the recognition they deserve, and that’s why I introduced this bill: to give these veterans and their families the honor and respect they are owed. I’m pleased that this bill has passed the House and I will work to ensure it passes the Senate and becomes law.” SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman said of the bill, “These mariners have waited over 70 years to get the recognition they earned braving the perils of the Atlantic during the Second World War. This is a long overdue honor and the SIU is proud to have been a part of making it possible. Every American owes these mariners a debt of gratitude we cannot begin to repay, and this recognition is but a fraction of what they deserve.”  The bill passed the House by a unanimous voice vote. A companion bill has also been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). That bill still needs to pass a Senate vote and be signed by the president in order to become law. Paul Hall Center Delivers On-Site Training for Crescent Crews SIU boatmen employed by Crescent Towing recently completed a one-week designated duty engineer course specifically crafted for them by the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). The back-to-back classes, which were very well-received by all concerned, took place at the company’s New Orleans office. Boatmen from New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, participated. Pictured from left in photo above are SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, Seafarers Jeff Adams, Justin O’Laughlin and Scott Doll, PHC Instructor Sterling Cox, Seafarers Danny Mayfield, Robert Trahan, Zach Tierney, Kevin Anderson and Ricky Shumock and Crescent VP Edward Pinner. Standing from left in the photo below are SIU members Rodney Schaubhut, William Wolfe, Bobby Minton and Keith Lowe, Cox and Seafarers Andrew Carson, Anthony Frisch and Bryan Hughes. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 5 �Union, School Welcome NVIC Modifications ROS Time Now Meets Sea Service Requirements for Certain Renewals The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education applaud several recent changes announced by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing. Specifically, the agency on Sept. 23 publicized changes to three Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVICs) pertaining to qualification for certain STCW endorsements. The NVICs are lengthy, but one upshot is that mariners now can get credit for ROS sea time towards their sea service requirement of 360 days sailing in the past five years, when renewing Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting, and Proficiency in Survival Craft. Following is an excerpt from NVIC 08-14, “Guidelines For Qualification For STCW Endorsements In Basic Training”: c. For demonstrating continued competence in BT, the Coast Guard will accept service in any capacity aboard a vessel that is required to hold regular fire and emergency and abandon ship drills as being relevant to the qualification of BT. Service on vessels in reduced operating status (ROS) will be accepted as these vessels are required to hold drills under 46 CFR Subchapter W. Mariners may demonstrate that service on other vessels is relevant by providing evidence that their service included duties relevant to BT Stena Impero Finally Allowed to Leave Iran The chemical tanker Stena Impero and its remaining crew members departed Bandar Abbas on Sept. 27 after the vessel had been held by the Iranian authorities since July 19. The International Transport Workers’ The Stena Impero was seized by Iranian military forces in late July. and/or that their service included ongoing participation in training and drills relevant to BT. d. For purposes of continued competence for BT, this service will be credited at day for day (one day of service equals one day of service credit). e. The Coast Guard may accept discharges, or sea service letters prepared in accordance with current standards, as proof of seagoing service. For the purposes of determining competency in BT. f. Mariners who can provide evidence of 360 days of service within the past five years may complete revalidation training to mainFederation (ITF) first reported the news, after being informed by their affiliate the Iranian Merchant Mariners’ Syndicate (IMMS). Both organizations worked extensively on behalf of the mariners. The SIU also is an ITF affiliate; SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as chair of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section. “The ITF is very happy that this matter has finally been resolved and that the vessel was allowed to leave Iran after 10 weeks,” he stated. “This is especially welcome for the remaining crew members. Although they were treated well, they were understandably keen to get home to their loved ones.” He added, “As trade unionists, our first concern is for the workers. We understand and respect that there are situations that are sometimes highly politically sensitive, but our goal will always be to ensure the fair treatment, health and wellbeing of seafarers, and to see that any situation involving seafarers is handled in a transparent and timely manner.” Stephen Cotton, ITF general secretary, also welcomed the release of the vessel, reiterated the ITF’s commitment to the world’s seafarers, and praised the actions of the IMMS. “Ninety percent of the world’s goods are transported on ships thanks to the world’s seafarers. The ITF remains committed to providing support to seafarers worldwide tain competency for BT. Mariners who cannot provide evidence of this service must complete U. S. Coast Guard approved or accepted refresher training (46 CFR 11.302(e) and 12.602(e)). Refresher training must include assessment of all BT components. The announcement and related links are available in the News section of the SIU website, in a post that’s dated Sept. 24. The NVIC numbers, respectively, are 0414, 08-4, and 09-14. As noted by the agency, for more information or to suggest changes, contact the Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Division (CG-MMC-2) at (202) 3722357 or MMCPolicy@uscg.mil. and hopes that governments put in place special measures to ensure that they are not unduly hindered in performing their duties,” Cotton said. He continued, “We also want to put on record our gratitude to our affiliate the Iranian Merchant Masters Syndicate for visiting the crew on Aug. 31 on behalf of the ITF and for continuing to provide solidarity to the crew during their time in Iran.” Mark Dickinson, general secretary of Nautilus International and second vice chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, said, “I welcome the release of the vessel and remaining crew and wish to thank all those who worked tirelessly to effect this outcome.” The Stena Impero is a runaway-flag ship that is owned by a Swedish company, flies a British flag and most recently carried a multinational crew of 23. The mariners were from India, Latvia, the Philippines and Russia. According to news reports, the Stena Impero was sailing through international waters in the Strait of Hormuz when it was detained by Iran’s Islamic Revolutiony Guard Corps. Iran claimed the ship collided with a fishing vessel and failed to respond to communications, something the Stena Impero’s owner denied. A Royal Navy frigate reportedly was deployed from the UK to assist the tanker, but it didn’t reach the scene in time. Spotlight on Mariner Health Lipid Turnover Could Be Cause Of Age-Related Weight Gain Editor’s note: The following article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Many people struggle to keep their weight at a good level as they get older. Research in Sweden now shows why: Lipid turnover in the fat tissue decreases during the aging process, and will make it easier to gain weight, even if we do not eat more. The lipid turnover happens when lipids (or fats) in the fat cells are removed and stored at a quicker rate. As we get older, this does not happen as rapidly as it used to. Studies show that if you want to lose weight, you must watch your diet and exercise more. Sometimes this is very hard to do. Gravity, along with a slowed metabolism and aging are responsible for the “middle-age spread.” Most people start to notice this as they reach age 40. Lack of dietary restraint is also a big factor for weight gain. Adults are not under control of their parents and are not told 6 Seafarers LOG what or what not to eat anymore. They make their own decisions and may not think of the consequences. They may not think of portion control or limiting their carbohydrate and fat intake. They may drink more and indulge in empty calories. They may also eat out more and order take-out from fast food chains on busy days. With more-demanding jobs, adults may not have the time to exercise as they would like. Families with children who are always on the go, may find they have a more sedentary lifestyle due to being tired at the end of the day. There are also some genetic reasons why people cannot lose weight. Every person’s body handles the storage of excessive fat in different ways. Medical issues also may cause weight gain – for example, a thyroid problem or a digestive problem could be the culprit. Do the best you can with your diet and weight as you get older. Be alert to what you are eating and how much. Exercise when you can and be diligent to keep your weight at a normal level. Healthy Recipe Greek Lamb Stew (Servings: 25) Ingredients and Seasonings 7 1/2 pounds lamb leg, fat trimmed & cubed 3 3/4 quarts low sodium beef broth 1 1/4 teaspoons cumin 1 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon 2 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 1/2 teaspoons oregano 3 bay leaves 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced fine 2 cups onions, medium dice 4 cups potatoes, medium dice 3 cups celery, medium dice 2 cups carrots, medium dice 2 1/2 cups tomato, medium dice 2 quarts water 1 1/4 teaspoons granulated garlic 2 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, freshly ground 1/3 cup parsley, chopped 1 pound flour, to thicken sauce 1 pound smart balance Preparation Brown the lamb in a stock pot or steam jacked kettle for about 5 minutes. Combine the lamb, stock, and seasonings then bring to a simmer and continue to cook over low heat for 40 minutes. Add the bay leaves and vegetables, add water and cover. Simmer slowly for 30-40 minutes, or until all ingredients are tender. Make brown roux by cooking the flour and smart balance together for about 10 minutes, stirring consistently. Check the seasoning; re-season with salt and pepper to taste. Thicken with the cooked brown roux, slowly to reach desired thickness. Garnish with the chopped parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 249 Calories; 10g Fat (32.3% calories from fat); 25g Protein; 24g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber; 57mg Cholesterol; 300mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain (Starch); 3 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. November 2019 �CONGRESSMAN RECOGNIZES UNION’S EFFORTS TO RECRUIT VETERANS – U.S. Rep. Donald Payne (D-New Jersey) (center in photo above) recently awarded a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to the SIU. The document (below, right) reads in part: “In appreciation of your participation and hiring efforts during our Annual Veterans Job Fair and your tireless work towards helping Veterans enter the workforce.” The congressman is flanked by SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos (left) and Patrolman Edwin Ruiz. The photo at to right includes (from left) SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (holding the certificate) and Patrolman Ray Henderson. Happenings Around the Port Of New York/New Jersey WITH CONGRESSMAN SIRES – U.S. Rep. Albio Sires (D-New Jersey) (right) recently hosted a breakfast for local labor officials in Hudson County, New Jersey. He is pictured with SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson. WITH CONGRESSMAN SUOZZI – The SIU recently took part in a local event for U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (DNew York) (center). Pictured with the congressman are SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson (left) and SIU Port Agent Mark von Siegel. Suozzi is a good friend of labor and the maritime industry. He chatted with the SIU representatives for a few minutes and thanked them for their attendance. A-BOOOKS ABOUND – Several Seafarers recently received their respective A-seniority books at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Pictured at the far left is Munasar Muthana (left), with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. Pictured in the center is Khaled Hussein, also with the port agent, while the remaining photo at right includes Zaza Tchitanava (right) and Patrolman Ray Henderson. REMEMBERING EL FARO CREW – Members gather at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, and observe a moment of silence on Oct. 1, the fourth anniversary of the sinking of the SIU-crewed El Faro. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 7 �ON THE RECRUITING TRAIL – SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes recently participated in a local job fair on behalf of the union. In photo at left, he stands with the event’s sponsor, City Councilman Dwight Boykins (left). Sykes poses with staff members in the snapshot above. With Seafarers in Houston WELCOME ASHORE – Two members recently picked up their respective first pension checks at the hiring hall. Recertified Bosun Eddie Hall is at left in photo at left, with SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, while the photo at right features AB Winton Rich (left) and Patrolman J.B. Niday. BACKING MAYOR TURNER – Seafarers recently gathered with fellow trade unionists and other supporters of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (third from left) for a press conference at the Plumbers Local 68 hall. Pictured from left are Wiper Luis Fernandez, AB Hermenegildo Cordova, Mayor Turner, AB Franklin Akins (rear), SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo, GUDE Pablo Rochez, GUDE Hector Guity and QMED/Electrician Mike Kifle. ABOARD LIBERTY GLORY – SIU and AMO members are pictured aboard the Liberty Maritime ship in Corpus Christi, Texas. From left in photo above are AB Anthony Obesem, AB Adams Mohammed, Bosun Bernard Baker, GUDE Kalanihooulumoku Holt, GUDE Alika Kukahiko, AB Reynaldo Bernardez, GUDE Delson Smith, AB Usman Ibrahim, C/M Patrick Showell, 2/M Nicholas Stanislaw and 3/M Ryan Cazneaux. The vessel was loading sorghum for East Africa. B-BOOKS EARNED – Displaying their respective full B-books at the hiring hall are Mate Connor Graham (left in photo above) and AB Remigio Garte (left in photo below). Both are pictured with SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes. MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE – Members observe a moment of silence at the Houston hall on Oct. 1, in memory of the final crew of the El Faro. The Seafarers-crewed ship sank on Oct. 1, 2015, near the Bahamas, claiming the lives of all 33 aboard. 8 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU B-BOOKS IN JACKSONVILLE – SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right in both photos) administers the union oath at the hiring hall. Picking up their respective B-books are AB Rick Worthington (photo at left) and AB Alfredo De Vera and GUDE Lance Gibson (photo at right). SOLIDARITY IN SUNSHINE STATE – Pictured at the Florida AFL-CIO convention are (from left) SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried, and SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins. During the gathering in early September, Hopkins was elected a VP of the state federation. AT THE HONOLULU HALL – In photo at left, OMU Rholand Daan (right) displays his first pension check. He’s pictured with SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. AB Dean Crisostomo (center photo, also pictured with the port agent) shows off his newly acquired A-seniority book. The photo second from right shows OMU Elyser Carpio receiving his full B-book. Congratulating him is Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. GOLDEN STATE SELFIE – Pictured aboard the Crowley vessel during a coastwise run on Labor Day are Chief Cook Pauline Crespo (left) and Recertified Bosun Phil McGeoghegan. AT THE PINEY POINT HALL – These photos were taken at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. In photo at left, Seafarer Bertram Solomon (left), who just finished upgrading to FOWT, is pictured with Port Agent Victor Nunez, displaying his probationary B-book and his first MDL donation receipt. Chief Cook Ramon Sarmiento (left in center photo) receives his full book as Patrolman Jesse Sunga gives the oath. In the photo at right, SA Tyrone Hall (right) picks up his full book, from the port agent. ABOARD HORIZON KODIAK – Pictured aboard the Matson vessel (above, from left) are GUDEs John Hays and Joey Lata, and (photo at right) GUDE Marshall Daguio. November 2019 Seafarers LOG 9 �AB Dan Lovely, Recertified Bosun Shawn Strand OMU Mike Burke, retired SA Leroy Jenkins, Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta Tacoma Reignites Traditional BBQ Seafarers Joey Lata, Doug Neubauer, Duane Bergeson and Mike Gramer After a slight lull, Seafarers recently enjoyed the restart of a regular gathering at the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington. Following the August membership meeting, the union hosted a barbeque for Seafarers and their families. Approximately 80 people attended, and the event was successful, said SIU Port Agent Warren Asp. “Although it’s been a couple of years since the last one, this is something that Tacoma did annually for some time,” Asp said. “We’re looking to revive the event and host it on an annual basis again.” The port agent said “many members, both active and retired” pitched in to help either on the grill or setting up and cleaning up. “The main idea was to thank the members for a busy summer,” Asp concluded. “The membership stepped up this year both to fill jobs on our military activations and paint a house (through the volunteer project Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful). Tacoma is very thankful and this is a small way to show that thanks and give back to them.” Recertified Stewards Scott Opsahl (front) and Mike Gramer Ben Anderson Jr., son of SIU Safety Director Ben Anderson, counts down the days until he can get his driver’s license – and does so on a union-made Harley. Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed’s kids enjoy the festivities. Ample indoor seating was available, but many diners opted for casual spots outside. 10 Seafarers LOG Retired Recertified Steward Lincoln Pinn entertains the gathering. November 2019 �2020 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Scholarship Program Scholarships totalling $132,000 are available to Seafarers and their dependents looking to continue their education. Allocations for each category will be as follows: Seafarers Scholarships ■ One $20,000 offering for a four-year course of study at an accredited college or university ■ Two scholarships ($6,000 each) for Seafarers interested in pursuing two-year courses of study at a community college or vocational school Dependents Scholarships ■ Five scholarships, each worth $20,000, are being offered to dependents (spouses included) to attend four-year courses of study at accredited colleges or universities. Dependents and spouses of active as well as retired Seafarers may apply. The Cathedral of Learning University of Pittsburgh To take advantage of these opportunities, clip, complete and mail the form below, or visit www.seafarers.org, go to the ABOUT tab, navigate to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan menu (Participant Letters and Notices of Material Modifications section) and select SHBP Scholarship Application (PDF). Although the booklet is dated 2016, all information is still current for the 2020 SHBP Scholarships. Please send me the SHBP Scholarship Program Booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. Name............................................................................................................................................................................. Street Address.............................................................................................................................................................. City, State, Zip Code................................................................................................................................................... Telephone Number ( This application is for: ) .......................................................................................................................................... ❏ Self ❏ Dependent Complete and mail form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. All scholarship application packages must be received by April 15, 2020. 11/19 November 2019 Seafarers LOG 11 �Michael Sacco President, SIU RAdm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) U.S. Maritime Administrator Maj. Gen. Michael Wehr U.S. Transportation Command Eric Ebeling President and CEO, ARC Jim White, Executive Director Maryland Port Administration ARC, Union Welcome New American-flag Tonnage Continued from Page 3 fense. They are part of a legacy that has supported our troops – not for years, but for centuries. And you’d better believe they are ready right now, today, to answer the call and support our troops if the balloon goes up. “Those are the men and women who’ll sail aboard the ARC Integrity, the ARC Resolve and the ARC Independence,” he continued. “And because of their unions and the fact they’re employed by a good, fair company like ARC and the vessel operator, TOTE, they’re able to support their families. That’s the American dream, and it’s symbolized here today.” Buzby, who formerly served as commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, said his current agency is working hard to spread the word about maritime. “Too few of our own countrymen understand the vital importance of maritime issues and the significance of every single ship sailing under the Stars and Stripes,” he stated. “The industry is all about economic security; it’s about national security; it’s about trade; and it’s about jobs.” He explained that the nation’s military strength “is inextricably tied to the maritime industry. That’s because American commercial vessels – like the three ARC vessels we’re going to be naming here today – are essential elements of military sealift. Virtually everything that the military requires in a deployment moves by ships…. We need a strong, properly sized U.S.-flag fleet, including U.S.-flag merchant ships in regular international trade like these three ships.” Buzby then recalled a recent visit with young military personnel who didn’t realize that volunteer, civilian mariners deliver the vast majority of U.S. materiel in times of conflict. With Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships docked elsewhere in the port, Buzby also pointed out that the mariners reporting there and elsewhere during a massive activation were all “on leave or training just a few hours ago. Now, they have been called, and they have answered. Someone said they’re patriots? You’re damn right they’re patriots. They answered the call and they are there today on those ships, ready to take them to sea.” A longtime maritime stalwart, Buzby then described the importance of laws and programs backing the industry. “Programs like the MSP are designed to ensure that we maintain (at least) an absolute bare minimum of commercial sealift capability to serve our nation’s needs in times of emergency…. We’ve got to level that playing field for our ships,” he stated. Cargo preference statutes “are key elements in the U.S.flag equation, too,” he added. Moreover, Buzby continued, “I can’t stand here this morning without mentioning the Jones Act and its vital importance to the health of the maritime industry and our national security. There have been many op-eds written lately – much of them slanted and based on long ago-debunked falsehoods. Let me be very clear: The Jones Act is the fundamental cornerstone of our nation’s maritime policy. It has been for the past 99 years. Without it, our domestic maritime industry – afloat and ashore – would fold. You need only ask folks in Australia how things are going there after they repealed their version of the Jones Act. I, for one, do not want to see our national internal maritime logistics chain and the jobs that go with it, (given) to a foreign power. Not on my watch.” Wehr, director of Strategic Plans, Policy and Logistics and TRANSCOM, declared, “Many of the people and organiza- tions who have made this possible today are true patriots.” He also backed the MSP when he stated, “There is no doubt the most cost-effective way to do business is the MSP. It’s effective, it’s efficient, and it’s a true testimony of our nation’s economic strength…. At TRANSCOM, we depend on this partnership with commercial industry. You’re all part of this nation’s ability to fight and win wars.” He further explained, “The ability to support our nation’s security at wartime is unmatched by any other country. These ships really do represent sealift that gives the United States the ability to project military power anywhere in the world…. No other nation matches this. “What makes us a superpower is the people that man these ships, that make them work and bring it together,” he concluded. “Everyone here today is part of this sacred trust we have.” White described how Baltimore is the nation’s top port for RO/RO shipments. He noted that the cargo means significant economic benefit for the state, both in terms of jobs and income. Ebeling reiterated his company’s commitment to U.S.-flag shipping and military support. He also thanked the “steadfast friends and strategic partners from organized labor. The industry-labor partnership is an amazing success.” Ebeling described Sacco as a “visionary leader” whose work is “essential.” Vessel sponsors were Georgina Fitzgerald for the ARC Resolve (wife of ARC Group Chairman Raymond Fitzgerald); Carol Henry for the ARC Integrity (wife of Transportation Institute President James Henry); and Pat Ridlon for the ARC Independence (wife of AIS Executive Vice President and General Counsel John Ridlon). Capt. Mike Murphy of the American Maritime Officers leads the audience into a toast for the three additions to the ARC American-flag fleet. Vessel sponsors (photo above, from left) Georgina Fitzgerald for the ARC Resolve; Pat Ridlon for the ARC Independence; and Carol Henry for the ARC Integrity break bottles of champagne on wooden anchors that represented the bows of their sponsored vessels. The trio pose for a group shot in the photo immediately below. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland pose with union officials following the ceremony. Included were SIU Secretary Treasurer David Heindel (far left); SIU President Michael Sacco (fifth from left); Port Agent Victor Nunez (eighth from left); SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (fourth from right); and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (second from right). Pictured at the far right is RAdm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.),U.S. Maritime Administrator. 12 Seafarers LOG November 2019 November 2019 Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK SENTOSA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 21 – Chairman Emanuel Gazzier, Secretary Charles Brooks, Educational Director Carl Montoya. Crew reviewed president’s report from union newspaper. Secretary reminded members of Culinary 2.0 training opportunity. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to headquarters. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), August 10 – Chairman Tar Ahmed, Secretary Antoinette Amato, Educational Director Joshua Johnson, Deck Delegate Anwar Alsharif, Engine Delegate Dennis Adjetey. Chairman encouraged crew to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. He advised members to attend Culinary 2.0 prior to January and to keep all Coast Guard requirements current. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Crew expects to use portion of ship’s fund for new gym equipment. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Resolution made concerning overtime allowances for steward department. Steward department unable to accomplish all weekly tasks within new time frame. Deck department was thanked for plankton tow as well as various projects for new fitness room. Entire crew commended for working well together. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. WALTER J. MCCARTHY (Armstrong Steamship), August 10 – Chairman Radi Hani, Secretary Randall Campbell, Educational 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. Director Dean Parks. Chairman discussed importance of helping new members understand their contract. Secretary encouraged crew to room share if enough room is available. Deck department felt harassed during work hours while spraying the pilot house. Educational director talked about upgrading and scheduling classes at the Piney Point school. No disputed OT reported. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), August 18 – Chairman Wilfred Maurice, Secretary Marguerite Diggs, Educational Director Darrell Goggins. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested increase in vacation days as well as less deductions on vacation checks. Members discussed health care benefits and voiced concerns with current co-pay payments. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. JEANE ANN (PASHA), September 1 – Chairman Noel Camacho, Secretary Ismael Garayua, Educational Director Joseph Letang, Deck Delegate Russel Piamonte, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Abrahem Elsawy. Chairman discussed rules for random drug tests and when they apply. He advised members to keep documents up to date and renew six months in advance. Chairman reminded crew to put Labor Day as a holiday. Captain and third mate getting off at next port. Captain provided new fans for the week due to broken a/c. Secretary directed members to inform her of any food allergies as soon as possible. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at Piney Point and seek higher education. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members who want to get Real IDs should do so, per chairman. Members were encouraged to take jobs on military support ships if available on the hiring hall board. Crew layoff expected around February for shipyard work. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and delicious BBQ. WiFi should be available for the beginning of the year. Aboard CS Decisive OREGON (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), September 7 – Chairman Rudy Harjanto, Secretary Tina Knox, Educational Director Frank Harris, Deck Delegate Michael Gore Engine Delegate Waverly Moore, Steward Delegate Wilson Peniston. Steward department commended for a job well done. Educational director reminded members to upgrade and keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew read president’s report from the LOG. Members were encouraged to work safely. Crew very hopeful to have WiFi availability in near future. MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, Limited), September 8 – Chairman William Barret, Secretary Norma West, Deck Delegate Morris Foster, Engine Delegate Charles Packer, Steward Delegate John Ward. Educational director advised members to check documents and upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members request increase in vacation pay. Crew discussed benefits and requested 100% dental coverage. Members requested increase to retirement wages and decrease in time required for retirement. Pictured from left aboard the SubCom vessel in Baltimore are Apprentice Kenneth Smith, Recertified Bosun Lovell Smith, Apprentice Quinson Blueford, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez and Apprentice Andre Barbary. MOHAWK (JM Ship, LLC), September 15 – Chairman Timothy Kauble, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Michael Knight, Deck Delegate Eric Jett, Engine Delegate Jonathan White, Steward Delegate Kendra Williams. Crew to be relieved after COI with the Coast Guard. Chairman directed members to work safely and watch for coming and going overhead loads. While in port, hard hats and safety vests are required on deck. Secretary thanked members for keeping mess hall clean. Educational director advised members to renew documents early and upgrade at Piney Point. SA Williams was praised for doing a great job and being helpful while on board. Members were commended for a job well done this tour. Next port: Sunny Point, North Carolina. 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 14 Seafarers LOG 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. November 2019 �PHC Offers Culinary 2.0 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 remem- ber that those already sailing as chief cooks and chief stewards must also take the coursework in order to exercise preference and priority beginning next year (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. November & December 2019 Membership Meetings Piney Point.........................Monday: November 4, December 2 Algonac..................................Friday: November 8, December 6 Baltimore............................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Guam.................................Thursday: November 21, December 19 Honolulu.............................Friday: November 15, December 13 Houston...............*Tuesday: November 12, Monday: December 9 Jacksonville..................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Joliet.................................Thursday: November 14, December 12 Mobile.........................Wednesday: November 13, December 11 New Orleans........................Tuesday: November 12, December 10 Jersey City..........................Tuesday: November 5, December 3 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from Sept.10-Oct. 9. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Oct. 9. Port Philadelphia.............Wednesday: November 6, December 4 Port Everglades..............Thursday: November 14, December 12 San Juan................................Thursday: November 7, December 5 St. Louis..................................Friday: November 15, December 13 Tacoma............................Friday: November 22, December 20 Wilmington........................Monday: November 18, December 16 *Houston change due to Veterans Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Another New Ship SPAD Works For You. Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD November 2019 A All Groups B C Total Shipped 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 7 6 21 10 3 5 18 16 4 1 2 0 0 4 0 0 4 4 3 8 2 0 8 2 0 5 5 3 0 26 15 6 25 14 5 10 32 13 6 3 1 0 3 0 0 1 4 1 0 9 6 2 10 3 3 3 9 9 5 5 6 0 9 3 0 0 15 5 0 44 21 7 38 16 6 18 88 43 6 31 22 11 26 19 7 18 63 43 13 27 14 8 29 9 3 16 58 27 11 5 6 1 3 5 1 1 5 3 1 12 5 5 9 2 3 2 21 8 3 23 17 12 28 9 5 10 41 31 13 21 2 7 14 3 3 5 33 7 5 5 4 5 3 1 3 1 6 3 1 7 4 2 3 4 4 0 3 4 1 9 3 2 5 6 2 6 8 8 1 26 10 5 25 7 2 8 54 19 11 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 0 3 30 15 2 32 7 2 10 57 31 6 310 162 82 293 124 52 119 527 278 93 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 1 1 2 2 2 1 2 6 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 4 1 2 2 0 0 2 3 1 8 4 3 7 5 1 4 23 9 4 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 5 0 2 3 0 2 6 5 1 11 7 1 5 5 0 3 14 6 2 17 8 3 11 9 2 9 32 15 6 12 24 0 11 16 1 9 30 35 2 16 7 1 12 8 3 4 21 14 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 5 2 1 4 1 2 4 6 1 16 18 7 13 13 2 4 25 25 9 8 5 3 7 2 0 0 11 6 4 3 2 1 1 0 0 0 3 2 1 4 6 0 0 2 0 0 4 10 0 4 1 1 7 3 0 2 3 4 1 11 10 3 13 7 2 6 22 9 3 4 2 1 2 0 2 0 3 4 0 13 9 1 6 4 1 2 30 26 7 136 121 33 104 88 19 50 245 182 47 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 3 1 1 3 0 1 1 4 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 2 0 5 6 0 6 5 0 5 15 8 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 5 1 0 3 0 0 1 13 3 0 8 1 0 6 0 0 3 18 3 0 22 6 0 14 3 0 6 41 10 3 23 8 1 17 8 2 5 39 14 5 14 2 0 7 1 0 4 24 4 1 4 0 0 1 0 1 0 3 0 0 3 1 0 4 1 0 1 4 5 0 10 10 2 8 8 2 6 20 18 3 12 2 3 12 3 1 7 25 12 4 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 4 0 2 2 0 0 5 6 0 4 4 0 1 5 0 2 4 8 0 11 0 2 9 1 0 3 22 6 2 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 21 6 0 12 5 1 8 30 20 1 157 53 9 111 46 8 53 275 124 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 0 5 12 2 8 6 6 1 6 18 1 3 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 5 0 1 3 1 0 1 2 1 1 4 0 2 2 0 1 7 8 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 6 1 0 4 1 0 2 4 0 6 1 1 4 1 0 1 12 4 7 13 7 0 9 3 1 13 25 14 3 25 26 3 17 13 2 4 47 41 2 17 11 1 15 5 3 4 27 12 0 3 2 0 2 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 24 31 0 13 25 3 0 31 48 1 13 9 0 13 5 1 3 20 16 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 3 8 0 2 8 0 1 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 3 9 7 2 8 6 2 7 17 15 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 5 16 6 3 5 6 1 11 53 33 24 145 138 13 104 91 22 49 260 226 GRAND TOTAL: 627 481 262 521 362 170 244 1,096 844 385 Norfolk..............................Thursday: November 7, December 5 Oakland.........................Thursday: November 14, December 12 Total Registered 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 students at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you choose to be a mariner? Lavontat Anderson Oiler I chose to be a mariner because I knew I could learn a trade that I could use on land. I plan to put in 15-20 years in my sailing career. Chanel Peters Oiler Because I don’t mind turning wrenches on a ship to make money and travel the world. After I received my B-book, I found out my great grandfather was a mariner. I didn’t know before then. 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 Kevin Willis Oiler I chose to be a mariner because there’s no other job like this in the world. You learn while you grow, and the pay is great. Tim Jones Oiler Nothing else better to get a change of pace, change of life. No other job pays like it. What could be better? 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 Denard Williams Oiler My brother has been a mariner for about 15 years, and I finally decided to take his advice. So far, it’s everything he said it was, and the money and travel are pretty great incentives. I like being missed back home. Plus, Popeye the Sailor Man was my idol. Marcus ‘Muscles’ Lopez Oiler My dad was in the military, and he had mariner friends in dredging. Through them, I found the SIU. I plan on doing this for 10 years, then take my money and invest it. 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 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) 549-4000 SIU pensioner Carlos Boiser recently submitted this photo of the LNG Libra on its final voyage under U.S. registry, which took place in 2000. Crew members and officers signed the oversized print after the ship sailed between Himeji, Japan, and Bontang, Indonesia. Boiser recalls being on vacation years earlier when he decided to take a job on the Libra. He ended up working aboard the ship off and on for five years. Boiser retired in 2012. 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 November 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 THOMAS BLUITT Brother Thomas Bluitt, 65, joined the union in 1970, first sailing on the Jacksonville. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Bluitt concluded his career on the Overseas Alice in 1995. He resides in Harbor Beach, Michigan. signed on with the SIU in 1972 when he shipped on the Mohawk. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cunningham’s final vessel was the Thompson Pass. He makes his home in West Covina, California. Brother Alfonso Bombita, 69, started sailing with the SIU in 1983, initially shipping aboard the Santa Maria. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Bombita last shipped on the Gem State. He resides in American Canyon, California. DANNY BROWN Brother Danny Brown, 61, began sailing with the SIU in 1980 when he shipped on the Philadelphia. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Brown most recently sailed on the Golden State and makes his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. MARK CABASAG Brother Mark Cabasag, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1989, initially shipping on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Cabasag last shipped on the Horizon Reliance. He resides in Auburn, Washington. THOMAS CUDDIHY Brother Thomas Cuddihy, 65, joined the SIU in 1979, first sailing aboard the El Paso Southern. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 2001. Brother Cuddihy’s last vessel was the USNS Algol. He lives in Long Beach, New York. ROBERT CUNNINGHAM Brother Robert Cunningham, 65, November 2019 at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the engine department. Brother Parker concluded his career on the Horizon Pacific and lives in the Philippines. CHARLIE JOHNSON WINSTON RESTAURO Brother Roland Daan, 71, embarked on his career with the union in 1989, first shipping aboard the Independence. He sailed in the engine department and concluded his career on the Horizon Spirit. Brother Daan is a resident of Honolulu. Brother Charlie Johnson, 71, became a member of the SIU in 2003 when he sailed on the Green Cove. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Johnson’s last vessel was the USNS Gilliand. He settled in Gresham, South Carolina. CHRISTOPHER DOWE PAUL KLIPPEL Brother Christopher Dowe, 65, joined the SIU in 1974, initially sailing aboard the Bienville. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Dowe also worked on shore gangs. He makes his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Brother Paul Klippel, 65, signed on with the union in 1975, sailing first on Hydromar’s Atlantic. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Klippel last sailed on the Philadelphia. He resides in Florence, Oregon. ALAN GARDNER GIL MANIPON Brother Alan Gardner, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1974 when he sailed on the Columbia. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1975. Brother Gardner concluded his career on the Golden Monarch. He resides in Felton, Delaware. Brother Gil Manipon, 55, started shipping with the SIU in 1983, initially sailing on the Constitution. The deck department member upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Manipon also worked on shore gangs. He calls Federal Way, Washington, home. ROLAND DAAN ALFONSO BOMBITA member upgraded his skills at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Holland last sailed on the USNS Capella and lives Jacksonville, Florida. ALFRED GONZALEZ Brother Alfred Gonzalez, 65, joined the union in 1977, initially sailing on the Fort Hoskins. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gonzalez last sailed on the El Yunque and makes his home in Carolina, Puerto Rico. PETE HERNANDEZ Brother Pete Hernandez, 72, donned the SIU colors in 2001, sailing first on the Rover. He primarily sailed in the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hernandez most recently sailed aboard the Cape Taylor. He resides in Galveston, Texas. JOHN HOLLAND Brother John Holland, 64, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1989, initially working aboard the USNS Altair. In 2001, the deck department ALEXANDRE MITCHELL Brother Alexandre Mitchell, 72, began his career with the SIU in 2001 when he sailed on the Manoa. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Mitchell most recently sailed on the Patriot and settled in Longview, Texas. PHILIP PARISI Brother Philip Parisi, 59, joined the SIU in 1981, briefly sailing with the Gloucester Fishermen before changing to deep sea. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Parisi last sailed on the John Boland and makes his home in Gloucester, Massachusetts. DAVID PARKER Brother David Parker, 69, signed on with the Seafarers in 1990 when he shipped on the USNS Hess. He upgraded often Brother Winston Restauro, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 2003, initially sailing on the USNS Capella. A deck department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Restauro’s final vessel was the Brenton Reef. He makes his home in Houston. WINTON RICH Brother Winton Rich, 70, started sailing with the SIU in 1990, shipping first on the USNS Bellatrix. He worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rich most recently shipped on the Pride of America and is a Houston resident. DONNA SALING Sister Donna Saling, 67, joined the union in 1993, when she shipped on the Independence. Sailing as a steward department member, she upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Sister Saling’s last vessel was the Santorini. She calls Vero Beach, Florida, home. ARNIDO SINDAC Brother Arnido Sindac, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1996. The engine department member’s first vessel was the USNS Kane. Brother Sindac upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Integrity and resides in Norfolk, Virginia. EVELYN TAYAG Sister Evelyn Tayag, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1988 when she sailed on the Baldomero Lopez. She sailed in the steward department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Sister Tayag most recently shipped on the Empire State. She makes her home in Stuart, Florida. GREAT LAKES JAMES WEBSTER Brother James Webster, 62, began sailing with the union in 1977. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Webster worked for Arnold Transit for the duration of his career. He resides in Mackinaw City, Michigan. INLAND ROBERT ARTHUR Brother Robert Arthur, 62, joined the union in 1975. A deck department member, he upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 1993. Brother Arthur worked for G&H Towing for his entire career. He calls Spring, Texas, home. JAMES BRYAN Brother James Bryan, 63, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1996 after he worked as a member of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers. He worked for Crowley for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Bryan lives in Delran, New Jersey. JEFFREY JONES Brother Jeffrey Jones, 52, began his career with the SIU in 2003 when he worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation. A deck department member, he upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jones remained with the same company for the duration of his career and resides in Pensacola, Florida. RONALD MEADOWS Brother Ronald Meadows, 62, joined the union in 2008 when he worked with Express Marine. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Meadows remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He calls Accomac, Virginia, home. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOE ATCHISON Pensioner Joe Atchison, 91, has passed away. He joined the SIU in 1951 when he worked for Waterman Steamship Corporation. An engine department member, Brother Atchison also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 1991 and made his home in Alvin, Texas. CHRISTOPHER BRADY Pensioner Christopher Brady, 74, died September 13. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, first sailing on a Seatrain Lines vessel. The deck department member’s last vessel was the Prestige New York. Brother Brady began collecting his pension in 2010 and resided in Ireland. SAL BUZALI Pensioner Sal Buzali, 91, passed away August 24. He became an SIU member in 1956 when he sailed on the Del Norte. Brother Buzali sailed in all three departments and concluded his career on the Stonewall Jackson. He became a pensioner in 1992 and lived in Sugarland, Texas. SILVANA CLARK Pensioner Silvana Clark, 70, died August 11. She joined the union in 2001 and first sailed on the Sugar Island. Sister Clark shipped in all three departments. She last sailed on the USNS Bellatrix and retired in 2015. She was a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. JAMES DEMARCO Brother James DeMarco, 33, passed away August 13. Born in Redbank, New Jersey, he signed on with the SIU in 2013. He initially sailed on the John Paul Bobo and was a member of the deck department. Brother DeMarco most recently shipped on the Freeport. He resided in Port Monmouth, New Jersey. JOSE FERREIRA Pensioner Jose Ferreira, 79, died September 5. He joined the union in 1971 and first shipped on the Hydro Atlantic. Brother Ferreira worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the Sulfur Enterprise. He retired in 2005 and made his home in Spain. CALIXTO GONZALEZ Pensioner Calixto Gonzalez, 92, passed away September 14. He became a member of the SIU in 1947. A member of the deck department, he was first employed by CSX Lines. Brother Gonzalez last shipped on the Caguas. He started collecting his pension in 1985 and settled in Puerto Rico. CURTIS JACKSON Pensioner Curtis Jackson, 73, died September 10. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, initially sailing on the Bethflor. Brother Jackson was a member of the en- gine department and concluded his career on the Sirius. He became a pensioner in 2006 and settled in Jacksonville, Florida. STANLEY KRAWCYNSKI Pensioner Stanley Krawcynski, 93, passed away September 14. He joined the SIU in 1952 when he worked for Ore Navigation Corporation. Brother Krawcynski sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Carolina. He retired in 1990 and lived in Orange City, Florida. RICHARD O’BRIEN Pensioner Richard O’Brien, 76, died September 22. He started sailing with the union in 1990 when he shipped on the Overseas Vivian. A deck department member, Brother O’Brien last sailed on the Charleston Express. He went on pension in 2007 and was a Houston resident. ALLAN ROGERS Pensioner Allan Rogers, 76, passed away September 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1965 when he sailed on the Steel Executive. Brother Rogers was a deck department member and last shipped on the USNS Mendonca. He began collecting his pension in 2008 and resided in Rhodesdale, Maryland. INLAND LESLIE GIBBS Pensioner Leslie Gibbs, 82, died August 8. Sailing with G&H Towing, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1962. Brother Gibbs shipped in the deck department and continued to work for the same company until his retirement in 1999. He lived in Santa Fe, Texas. RONALD RIGGINS Pensioner Ronald Riggins, 83, passed away September 24. He joined the SIU in 1981 when he worked for Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Riggins was an engine department member and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 1998 and lived in Huntington, Texas. RICHARD ROBINSON Pensioner Richard Robinson, 72, died March 6. He began sailing with the union in 1971, initially working with Gulf Atlantic Transport. Brother Robinson shipped in the deck department and last worked for OSG Ship Management. He became a pensioner in 2009 and settled in Chesapeake, Virginia. PERRY RUBOTTOM Pensioner Perry Rubottom, 75, passed away September 27. He signed on with the SIU in 1993 when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. The deck department member continued his employment with the same company until retiring in 2006. Brother Rubottom resided in Waring, Texas. portation. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Sadowski remained with the same company for his entire career. He went on pension in 1996 and was a resident of Paramount, California. NMU ALFREDO CARPIO Pensioner Alfredo Carpio, 85, passed away August 27. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. Brother Carpio retired in 1996 and made his home in in the Philippines. ALFRED HOWES Pensioner Alfred Howes, 84, died August 22. He was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Howes began collecting his pension in 1993 and lived in Providence, Rhode Island. 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 Barros, Jeronimo Erdt, Edmund Evans, Leon Fujii, Saloshi Marsh, Harry Phillips, Reynold Rogick, Erwin Stafford, Roosevelt Unzue, Angel Zwicker, Dennis AGE DOD 94 09/21/2019 81 08/19/2019 90 08/01/2019 93 08/30/2019 92 08/13/2019 97 09/03/2019 94 09/06/2019 98 09/06/2019 84 09/24/2019 100 06/18/2019 CHESTER SADOWSKI Pensioner Chester Sadowski, 88, died September 6. He joined the union in 1970 and was employed with Crowley Towing and Trans- Hospital Ship Continues Mission The CIVMAR-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort is pictured off the coast of Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis as it prepares for a six-day medical mission starting Oct. 3. The Comfort, featuring a crew that includes members of the SIU Government Services Division, is working with health and government partners in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean to provide care on the ship and at land-based medical sites. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Morgan K. Nall) 18 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Galley Operations November 9 December 6 Deck Department Upgrading Courses AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Office for further details. ECDIS November 16 November 22 Lifeboat November 16 November 29 December 14 December 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW November 9 December 6 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Steward Department Courses Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start November 11. Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 November 2 November 8 December 7 December 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 November 16 November 22 November 30 December 6 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training/Basic FF November 16 November 22 December 7 December 13 Basic Training Revalidation November 15 November 15 December 6 December 6 Government Vessels November 16 November 22 December 7 December 13 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG November 9 November 15 December 7 December 13 BAPO November 9 December 6 Pumpman November 9 November 15 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. November 2019 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. 11/19 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #852 – Graduated July 12 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Daniel Bost, Michael Jacob Caquias Garcia, Christian Spiros Cavathas, Marck Mathias Hilgendorf-Sanchez, Brandon Hoisington, Anthony Tubsuav Lo, Jeremy Poertner, Christopher Richardson, Lorin Stewart, Ronald Von Kaenel, Zarya Ward, Paris Wilbert and James Zaro. Welding – Graduated June 7: Bryan Moreira (above, center) and Luis Alberto Sepulveda (right). Instructor Chris Raley is at left. Welding – Graduated June 28 (above, in alphabetical order): John Groom, Vernon Humbles and Yahya Ali Mohamed. Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Graduated June 7 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Richard Abshire, Jose Manuel Boza, Harold Gerber II, Martin Hamilton, Ian McDonough and John Morrison. Instructor Mike Roberts is at the far left. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Zachary Anderson, Sharde Baker, Badr Bouziane, Jessica Clark, Michael Curtin, Antonio Manuel GonzalezEsteves, Michael Hickey, Kevin Kelly Jr., Mark Malicki, Vincent Mauro, Jackson McDaniel, Joseph Murphy III, Velislav Nikolov, Lane Plummer, Aaliyah Richardson, Samuel Schwimmer and Cyrus Silen. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. 20 Seafarers LOG November 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Ashworth, Marco Antonio Baez Millan, James Bithos Jr., Anthony Brown Jr., Kyree Carter, Michael Day Jr., Mark Dennison, Albert Granville III, Lorenz Grice, David Hain-Mendez, D’mitri Hill, Kalanihooulumoku Holt, Cale Irons, Carleton Jenkins II, Damon Johnson, Tony King Jr., Alika Kukahiko, Johnthan Lebeaux, Anthony Maltese, Andrew Robey, Stephan Robles-Matos, Delson Smith, Christopher Taylor, Neil Tupas and Scott Waterman. Each plans to work in the engine departments of union-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training. Government Vessels – Graduated June 28 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Gregory Attawora, Claude Beerrom, Elizabeth Byrd, Jehan Daza, D’angelo Dickson, Oscar Emilio Garcia, Richetta Jackson, Joshua Johnson, Jemell Jones, Ivan Marikovsky, Hussein Nasser, Yohanes Pribadi, Damonta Roberson and Stephen Roseberry. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Important Notice To All Students SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Eugenia BAPO – Graduated JuneMoore, 21 (photo at right, in Porter, order): Noah Mohamed Susumu Alghazali, Santiago-Akim alphabetical Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica Davis-Griffin, Marvin Fabrizius, Basheer Ghazali, Terrex Houston,Kendra Joesef Williams Shaibi andand Saddam Williams, Jarid Mohamed Yahia. Instructor Keith Adamson is at the far Wilson. 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. right. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated June 14 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Jehan Daza, Dexter Douglas Jr., Scottie Duncan, Joel Fahselt, Nieves Calixto Guerrero Mariano, Kevin Hale, Jason James, Leportre Jasper, Mahare Kidane, Gary Mann, Ivan Marikovsky, Darius McCastle, Edward Mills, Frederick Neese, Daniel Tennant and Christopher Thompson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) November 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Baker, Clark Castrodes, David Chance, Manuel Davis, Dominador Diaz, Nicholas Gibbs, Michael Kanga, Lon Tige Maduro, Anton Ivanov Marchev, James McLeod, Ariven Torres Olamit II, Dean Parks, John Reyes, Arthur Mojica Sison, Reynaldo Aganan Tinay and Hermino Vasquez Jr. Advanced Shiphandling – Graduated May 24: Brian Sheehan (left) and Patrick Wells. MSC Storekeeper Basic – Graduated May 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Bernard Baker, Barry Bettis, Ana Marie Chona Razon Calma, VanNessa Curd, Christopher Flood, Eric Hondel, Porcia Johnson and Christopher Waters. Galley Ops (Phase III) – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Jada Gay, Keith Guthrie, Am’quez Hagans and Kion Miller. Each plans to work in the steward departments of SIU-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. Joining the Phase III group in this photo is SUA Graduate Jalisa Williams (right). 22 Seafarers LOG Certified Chief Cook – Graduated June 28: Solymar Herrera Carreras. November 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Cook 2.0. – Graduated July 26 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Ricardo Giovanny Arauz Rochez, Adalberto Colon Rosa, Keyon Gregory, Noel Genisan Segovia and Olive Stewart-Paul. Galley Ops – Graduated June 21: Gus Papas (left) and Anthony Jackson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Domingo Mallari Barroga Jr., Nelson Tulio Bernardez, Romarico Dico Hinayon and Deitre Jackson. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Raymond Alexander, Mark Brooks, George Burgos, Michael Henry and Jayson Velez-Cruz. Certified Chief Cook (Module 1) – Graduated June 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Elijah Boson, Darryl McCray, Brittany Steward and Calvin Wilson. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 3 (above, in alphabetical order): Elizabeth Byrd, James McLeod, Rual Frades Napoles, Hans Franz Schmuck and Charles Washington. November 2019 Chief Steward – Graduated June 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Dennison Dizon, Rachel Janssen, Jesus Pacheco and Luis Jose Perez Acosta. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated June 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Gregory Broyles, Jean Favreaux, Lisa Favreaux, Robert Firth and Ali Ahmed Matari. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 11 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C 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 Seafarers Save 3 Lives Near Tampa Crew from Jones Act Tanker American Pride Rescues Fishermen The SIU-crewed tanker American Pride on Sept. 18 rescued three individuals from a foundering boat near Tampa, Florida. Recertified Bosun Ronald Webb said the American Pride was headed to anchor when an alarm sounded. “The fishermen’s boat was sinking and they had gotten into a life raft,” Webb stated. “We deployed a rescue boat and put out a ladder. We towed their raft to the ship, and they came up the ladder…. They had been out there for four days. They were bailing water like a son of a gun when we found them.” The two men and one woman were in good and grateful spirits as they boarded the Jones Act ship. “Our guys all went above and beyond and did a great job,” Webb added. “Everything went perfectly, and everybody did what they were supposed to do.” Steward/Baker Richard Jones said the galley gang happily attended to their unexpected guests. “You know the routine,” he said. “We provided food and water as soon as they came aboard, and also grabbed some blankets. You should have seen their expressions – they were very, very grateful.” Jones added, “Conditions couldn’t have been any better for the rescue, whereas today (one day later), it’s very windy. For us to spot them like that, it was something.” SIU members sailing aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning vessel during the rescue included Webb, Jones, ABs Kervin Guevara, Shaib Juma, Jahn Boman, Natividad Suazo Ortiz and Alfred Acheampong, QEP Emanuel Paul, OMU Marcus Brown, Oiler Greg Alvarez, Chief Cook Adolfo Bermudez and SA Marco Guity. The ship’s officers are members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. “The quick and selfless actions of the American Pride crew saved three lives today,” said Capt. Mat- thew Thompson, commander of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg. According to news reports, the rescue happened in the early evening, approximately 45 miles west of Egmont Key. The commercial fishing vessel Captain Bob was sinking when the American Pride approached it, but no one was visible in or near the boat. After contacting the Coast Guard, the American Pride made a second approach, and this time Chief Mate Brian Enos saw orange smoke, a parachute flare and a life raft approximately three nautical miles southwest of the Captain Bob. The Coast Guard sent a response boat to pick up the individuals who were rescued. All three were transported to the local Coast Guard station and then released in good condition. The SIU-crewed American Pride was delivered in November 2017. (Photo courtesy Philly Shipyard) Bosun Ronald Webb (center in photo directly above) is pictured with two of the fishermen aboard the American Pride. In the pair of photos at the immediate right , the American Pride’s rescue boat retrieves the fishermen and returns to the vessel. The image at the far right (released by the by the U.S. Coast Guard) shows the fishermen’s boat almost submerged. � 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 November 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SEAFARERS ANSWER THE CALL CR REAUTHORIZES EXPORT-IMPORT BANK SIU CELEBRATES 3 NEW VESSELS ARC'S NEW ADDITIONS TO FLEET MEAN MORE JOBS FOR SIU MEMBERS CIVMARS HELP TEST MINE COUNTER-MEASURES SEAFARERS ON MAERSK MONTANA HELP RESCUE IMPERILED BOATERS WWII MERCHANT MARINERS ONE STEP CLOSER TO RECEIVING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD METAL UNION, SCHOOL WELCOME NVIC MODIFICATIONS STENA IMPERO FINALLY ALLOWED TO LEAVE IRAN LIPID TURNOVER COULD BE CAUSE OF AGE-RELATED WEIGHT GAIN HAPPENINGS AROUND THE PORT OF NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY TACOMA REIGNITES TRADITIONAL BBQ SEAFARERS SAVE 3 LIVES NEAR TAMPA 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 11/1/2019 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. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/b99b66b85d72107d4ae7d2b50633b1d7.pdf 49db59a893043f001108157983c01bf3 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 11 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 Safe Operation Paul Hall Center Maintains Momentum After Reopening Thanks to extensive precautions and teamwork, the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, has enjoyed a safe and successful run since reopening in early August. Above, mask-wearing apprentices march across campus of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on Oct. 14. Other photos show some signage along with a free-standing, no-contact thermometer and hand-sanitizing station. Page 3. Support for Jones Act Page 5 SIU Election Info. Page 6 Flu-Shot Notice Page 9 �President’s Report Success in Piney Point The successful reopening of our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, is a great example of hard work, teamwork and dedication paying dividends. From a distance, it may look easy, but it took a substantial amount of planning and ongoing commitment to get the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education back up and running a few months ago. Read about it elsewhere in this edition of the LOG. Credit goes to our school officials and staff members – and especially to the students, who’ve respected the unique circumstances. You’ve made all the difference and while everyone understands there are no guarantees with this pandemic, I know that everything reasonably possible is being done to ensure that the school stays open and safe. It’s crucial that the Paul Hall Center remains available to offer upgrading opportunities and entry-level training to mariners who sail under the Stars-n-Stripes. Our industry is vital to U.S. national, economic and homeland security, which is why our members are deemed “essential workers.” Caution and circumstances basically demanded that the school close for a few months this summer, but with the right safety protocols having benn put in place, it was time to reopen. To everyone at the school, keep up the good work and remember that even though we’re all tired of the pandemic, it will end. Jones Act Support The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act, which included a key amendment emphasizing the enforcement of the Jones Act. Introduced by maritime stalwart Rep. John Garamendi (DCalifornia), the provision helps ensure protection of America’s freight cabotage law in potential new areas of work. There is an ongoing misinformation campaign attacking the Jones Act, but the facts are that this law has looked out for our country’s bests interests for a century. It helps maintain hundreds of thousands of American jobs. It contributes billions of dollars to our economy each year. It helps safeguard our ports and waterways. In short, it does exactly what it was meant to do, which is why it consistently enjoys bipartisan backing. Thanksgiving in a Different Light One of the documented (and very weird) effects of the lifestyle changes brought about because of precautions taken due to the novel coronavirus is that it sometimes causes one day or week or month to feel indistinguishable from another. However, you are not misreading the sentiment when I wish every Seafarer and SIU retiree and your families a Happy Thanksgiving. (Yes, it really is November.) Maybe the only good offshoot of the pandemic is that it sometimes has given people more chances to spend time with their families. That’s not always the case for Seafarers, who’ve kept working throughout the year, but I hope those of you who are home for the holidays get to appreciate your loved ones. For those of you at sea, thank you for your dedication. I also extend my sincerest wishes for a happy, safe and healthy holiday to our armed forces and their families. The entire SIU appreciates your service and we’re proud to stand (and sail) with you as part of America’s fourth arm of defense. Thousands of Mariners Stuck at Sea As Crew Change Crisis Continues Some 400,000 foreign mariners from across the globe are stranded on ships, continuing to work but unable to be relieved, in a deepening crew change crisis which threatens trade and maritime safety, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). SIU officials, in particular Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, continue working closely with the IMO, the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) to find an effective solution to this everexpanding crisis which has worldwide implications. (Heindel chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section.) They are doing so in partnership with the International Chamber of Shipping. “It is not acceptable that some countries have withdrawn shore leave for seafarers or began restricting the number of people allowed to enter their borders each day,” Heindel recently stated. “Those countries that rely on maritime trade, like Australia and Russia, must start pulling their weight on this issue.” During a Sept. 24 high-level event during the United Nations General Assembly (UN), Capt. Hedi Marzougui, who was in command of a vessel between Dec. 2019 and May 2020, appealed to governments to take action allowing mariners to come home. “Not knowing when or if we will be returning home brings a severe mental toll on my crew and myself,” Marzougui said. “I would encourage each and every one of you to think of how you would feel, if you had to work every day, for 12 hours, with no weekends, without seeing your loved ones, and trapped at sea. Now add that you have to do that with no idea of when you will be repatriated.” The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on travel and transit have severely impacted on seafarers. Despite multiple pleas to governments to designate them as essential key workers and to facilitate their travel, the number of foreign mariners whose contracts have been extended by several months continues to increase. Some crews have now been at sea for 17 months without a break, well beyond the 11-month limit set out in the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC). Besides the 400,000 seafarers stuck at sea, another 400,000 are unable to join ships, the IMO reported. This threatens the fundamentals of ship safety standards which the IMO has worked to develop over six decades, IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim told participants in the recent online event, which brought together leaders from major global businesses, the maritime industry, government, the UN and labor unions. “Overly fatigued and mentally exhausted seafarers are being asked to continue to operate ships,” Lim said. “On more than 60,000 cargo ships which continue to deliver vital goods, foods and medicines, ship safety is hanging in the balance, just as seafarers’ lives are being made impossible. The safety of navigation is in peril.” Lim restated his plea to governments: “Action is needed – and is needed now. We all depend on seafarers. They should not be the collateral victims in this pandemic. Seafarers deliver for us – and now we need to deliver for them.” In a statement read aloud during the event, to mark World Maritime Day 2020, UN SecretaryGeneral António Guterres reiterated his concern for stranded mariners. He renewed his appeal to governments “to address their plight by formally designating seafarers and other marine personnel as ‘key workers,’ ensuring safe crew changes and implementing the protocols developed by UN agencies, as well as the International Chamber of Shipping and the ITF, allowing stranded seafarers to be repatriated and others to join ships.” In a letter issued to the UN Secretary General, the CEOs of 30 Consumer Goods Forum companies, including Unilever and Danone, have called on governments to designate seafarers as “key workers” and raised strong human rights concerns, stating in part that “the situation has also inadvertently created a modern form of forced labor.” Unilever’s Chief Supply Chain Officer Marc Engel said COVID-safe crew changes were needed without delay. “When the ships stop, so does everything else. We are now close to an entirely avoidable breaking point which could ripple out through the economy. Even a temporary interruption could push companies and countries over the edge,” he said. Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and executive director of the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, encouraged businesses to call on governments to end labor abuses that seafarers are suffering, noting that the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact represent pillars of responsible business which “are connected to the humanitarian, economic and safety crisis unfolding on our seas.” Both Guy Platten, secretary-general of the International Chamber of Shipping and Stephen Cotton, general secretary of the ITF called on governments to intervene to end the crew change crisis, warning the numbers of seafarers impacted would only continue to increase without coordinated action by governments. ILO Director General Guy Ryder called on governments to implement urgent and pragmatic solutions that fully respect seafarers’ rights. “Seafarers are exhausted and simply cannot continue working on board indefinitely,” Ryder said. Transport and maritime ministers from Canada, France, Kenya, Panama and the Philippines also addressed the virtual event. They urged other governments to join them in designating seafarers as essential workers, implementing measures for safe crew changes and facilitating COVID-safe transit for mariners. The meeting was convened by the UN Global Compact, the International Maritime Organization and the International Labor Organization, in collaboration with the International Chamber of Shipping and the ITF. 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 82 Number 11 November 2020 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 Capital Gateway Drive; 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 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 Foreign mariners around the world have struggled to get reliefs. November 2020 �Students and instructors quickly adapted to the school’s updated safety protocols. Above, upgraders study meteorology. At bottom left, mariners examine equipment at the fire fighting campus. Below right, steward department upgraders hone their craft. Planning, Teamwork Result in Successful Reopening Paul Hall Center Safely Navigates Unprecedented Challenges Virtually no part of life in 2020 has been spared from the ongoing uncertainties stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, is no exception. Nevertheless, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) successfully reopened in early August and, as of mid-October, was operating without a single case of the novel coronavirus reported among any students or staff. The global pandemic ensures that every strategy nowadays comes with caveats, but the school is succeeding thanks to a combination of exhaustive planning, teamwork and commitment. “We had more staff meetings here from May to August than in the prior three years combined,” said Tom Orzechowski, PHC acting vice president. (The school was closed for most of the summer.) “We’re bringing in students from all over the country, and some of them are getting off ships that have been all over the world. So, we spent a lot of time refining plans to reopen as safely and pragmatically as possible.” PHC Director of Vocational Training Priscilla Labanowski said that all concerned deserve credit, but she’s particularly appreciative of how the upgraders and apprentices have adapted to the safety protocols. “The students have been very understanding and cooperative. They’ve actually been phenomenal,” she said. Orzechowski said “buy-in” has been the key ingredient for the smooth reopening. “People understand it’s serious, and the mariners have behaved as true professionals,” he stated. Students and instructors interviewed for this article all said they feel safe at the school. They were candid about the inconveniences associated with the safety protocols, but all stated that such adjustments are simply part of the 2020 landscape. The list of changes isn’t short. The PHC is operating at around 50 percent student capacity, and the upgraders and apprentices November 2020 aren’t permitted to leave campus. They’re also required to self-quarantine for two weeks prior to travelling to Piney Point. Meal times have been staggered, and there’s a three-person limit at each cafeteria table. Masks are mandatory throughout the campus and classrooms; hand-sanitizing stations and social-distance markings are prevalent. No-touch thermometers also are stationed throughout the school. Class times also are staggered. Staff members regularly and extensively clean all classrooms, common areas and equipment. “I can’t say it’s fun being restricted to the base, but it’s not like there’s anything to really go and do outside,” said AB David Brusco, who is upgrading to third mate. “I feel safe. My advice to anyone coming to the school is, bring entertainment. Bring a computer, bring movies, bring a gaming console. Also enjoy the exercise room” (which is open with capacity limits). Winding Down Reopening was a sizeable task, but Orzechowski pointed out that “winding down is also part of the story.” The school was packed with apprentices and upgraders when the pandemic struck early in 2020. Those students were given the option to leave school without any penalty, or stay and finish their respective classes. Around that same time, the PHC cancelled the remaining schedule for the year (new courses were added later). Labanowski said the school is still working with students who’d started classes before the pandemic, in order to help them complete the coursework. She also noted that PHC has instituted some online-learning components that help reduce classroom time, and commended the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center for being very timely when reviewing and approving the modified curriculum. RJ Johnson, a steward department instructor, thinks the protocols are working. “Everything’s good,” he said. “I feel safe because of all the stuff we did to get everybody here. We’ve done all the protocols, above and beyond what the health department wanted. We’ve got our guidelines and I’m happy with it.” He said the students seem to feel comfortable, and they’re consistently conscientious about “wearing a mask and social distancing when we can. We have an added sense of responsibility as instructors but we’re still teaching, and it’s a good relationship between the students and staff.” Deck instructor Peter Luhn said wearing a mask “is the only difference I feel. We’re taking precautions and I feel safe. The students aren’t allowed to leave the campus and the instructors are following our protocols. Nobody wants to be out of work, so I don’t think anyone’s taking chances to bring the coronavirus in. I think the whole staff is doing what needs to be done.” He added that many students seem to have developed camaraderie as they face the challenges together. “We’re trying to make the best of the situation and I think it’s running smoothly,” Luhn said. Bill Dodd, an engine department instructor, said there was adjustment period at first both among students and staff, but people quickly adapted. “This is my first time having to teach with a mask and/or face shield, and it was kind of disorienting,” he recalled. “But I understand the policies, and it’s still conducive to learning and being able to get the information across to the students…. I’ve always felt safe.” No Hesitation SA Keshyra Brinkley originally was supposed to take the galley operations course in July. She’s sensitive to the pandemic’s seriousness, but didn’t waver about travelling to Piney Point at the next chance. “As soon as the school opened, I immediately took the opportunity,” she said. “I need this class. I wear my mask and try to keep my distance, but at the same time try to be handson and learn. I want to give people their personal space, and I do feel safe.” Bosun Diego Barbosa (like his classmate Brusco) had been at the school in February, upgrading to third mate. He said the biggest differences upon returning to campus include “not being able to have your family come and visit and not being able to leave the campus. But I follow the rules and try to comply with whatever needs to be done. I feel very safe.” He added this advice to future upgraders: “The mail system is your best bet in getting goods delivered. That’s your lifeline.” Looking Ahead Orzechowski said the safety protocols will remain in place at least through the end of this year (likely longer). “We’re currently discussing what next year’s schedule will look like, based on membership and industry needs,” he said. “We’ll always proceed with safety and caution, and be ready to react to what may be a second wave of this virus or any other type of outbreak. Right now, we’re doing well. We’d like to keep it that way but we have protocols ready in case anything happens.” He also reiterated his appreciation for how Seafarers have adapted to the “new normal.” “The membership has responded as true professionals and in outstanding fashion,” Orzechowski said. “They understand the sanctity of the campus, what upgrading means to them and to the industry. The companies are respectful of that, also. We have a need to train mariners and a responsibility to crew ships, plus a responsibility to offer opportunities to train and increase their earning potential.” Finally, there’s the question asked by many: What about Mooney’s Pub, a Piney Point staple? Orzechowski replied, “We’ve limited time and created additional space. People can still be social but respect space and health.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Safety directors log on for a virtual meeting. SIU Safety Team Meets for Virtual Summit Every year, SIU Safety Directors and other team members from various ports gather to share knowledge and experience, as well as receive information about the latest safety trends and regulations from SIU and Paul Hall Center officials. This year, however, the safety team met virtually, through three days of video conferences with subject matter experts, members of the SIU Executive Board and other presenters. The safety team included Ben Anderson (from the port of Tacoma, Washington), Amber Akana (Honolulu), Osvaldo Ramos (Jersey City, New Jersey), Andre MacCray (Philadelphia), Kevin Marchand (Fort Lauderdale, Florida), Kevin Sykes (Houston), Gerret Jarman (Algonac, Michigan), Joseph Koncul (Jacksonville, Florida), Nick Marrone II (Oakland, California), Shane Sterry (Baltimore), Anthony Houston (Norfolk, Virginia), James Brown (New Orleans) and Gordon Godel (Wilmington, California). Topics covered included SIU election information, COVID-19 policies, and updates to the curriculum and recruiting efforts of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC). The meetings would ordinarily be conducted at the PHC, but due to current health concerns, every member of the safety team joined the video conference from their respective hiring hall offices – or their own homes. Presentations were led by SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President of Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Great Lakes and PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski, Vocational Director Wayne Johnson Jr., Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, PHC Vice President Bart Rogers, and SIU Plans Medical Director Dr. Eric Shaub. Orzechowski, who acted as this year’s virtual host, said, “Although we’re used to seeing each other face to face for these conferences, with the current national health crisis, we decided to meet virtually. I was very pleased with the digital platform, as well as the level of participation from the members of the safety team.” Orzechowski also praised the safety directors and added, “We covered everything virtually that we would have covered in person. That said, we do hope we will be able to hold next year’s meeting in person.” “I thought it went well,’ said Johnson. “In our current situation, I think we adapted and overcame the techni- cal challenges in order to have the best possible meetings. I think we delivered some useful information, and I think we got some good feedback and meaningful discussions out of it. Overall, I think it went as well as we could have hoped.” MacCray said, “It was a little different this year, obviously, but I think it was a good experience. It was nice being able to go home at the end of the day, as opposed to having to travel for the meetings. Overall, I don’t think it ended up being much different than it would have been in person. We all still came away with new and useful information, and I think the whole thing went very smoothly. I think everyone, especially Wayne (Johnson), did a great job in adapting to the new way we had to do business. Hopefully we can get back to business as usual soon.” Maersk Achieves Safety Milestone SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) recently celebrated a significant safety milestone. As of Sept. 12, 2020, the company’s entire internationally trading “blue” fleet had gone 12 months without a single lost-time incident (defined as necessitating an injured mariner to miss a day’s work for recovery). “This is a major achievement and credit goes to all concerned,” stated SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “I’m especially proud of our SIU crews, of course, and would point out that this is the result of a sustained partnership focused on creating an effective safety culture. We’ve all worked together to make it a reality.” MLL announced the milestone as part of its annual “Global Safety Day.” In a related communication to the vessels, MLL Vice President Ed Hanley noted, “We greatly appreciate and applaud the authentic safety leadership and robust safety culture you have established on board, enabling such a momentous achievement…. On behalf of your shore-side support teams, congratulations and thank you!” 4 Seafarers LOG SIU members (including those aboard the Maersk Kensington) played a big role in helping vessel operator Maersk Line, Limited maintain safe operations leading up to a Sept. 12 benchmark. MLL President and CEO Bill Woodhour stated, “Congratulations to all on reaching this milestone. It is truly impressive and rewarding as it means every- one ends the day in as good of shape as they started it. Knock on some wood, and let’s see how we can add another year to this!” November 2020 �House Passes ‘Clean Economy Jobs’ Bill Legislation Includes Jones Act Enforcement Provisions A new bill passed in late September by the U.S. House of Representatives includes a key amendment supporting America’s freight cabotage law. The amendment supporting the Jones Act was introduced by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) to the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act (H.R. 4447). The House on Sept. 24 passed the bill, 220-185. According to news reports, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairwoman Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) is backing a similar bill in that chamber and hopes to conference it with the House bill after Election Day – though almost any current legislation faces an uncertain future. There is no doubt Garamendi continues to stand up for the U.S. Merchant Marine, as seen once again in his amendment, which clarifies that the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, a 1953 law governing offshore mineral and energy development, applies to lease sales for non-fossil fuel en- ergy sources such as wind power, hydrokinetic, or ocean thermal energy conversion. The amendment will enforce Jones Act requirements for all offshore renewable energy production and strengthen our domestic maritime industry. “Offshore wind development will play a critical role in our nation’s transition to a clean energy economy,” Garamendi said. “Demand for offshore wind development in federal waters is strong, and Congress must act to ensure this burgeoning industry abides by federal laws and regulations including the Jones Act so we have the strongest possible labor and environmental protections. “My common-sense amendment simply clarifies that all existing requirements that govern offshore oil and natural gas extraction also apply to renewables,” he added. “This will enable our domestic maritime industry to support the renewable energy industry and provide a critical economic stimulus for our nation.” The congressman further noted that the Jones Act supports approximately 650,000 American jobs while contributing almost $100 billion in yearly economic impact. The 100-year-old law, considered a staple of U.S. national, economic and homeland security, requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels that are built, crewed, flagged and owned American. Garamendi also stated, “I commend Congressman Alan Lowenthal (D-California), chairman of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, for his support as the amendment’s cosponsor and Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone’s (D-New Jersey) leadership in crafting the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act.” Garamendi served as Deputy Secretary of the Interior during the Clinton Administration and was the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation from 20132018. U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) U.S. Rep Wittman Shares View: ‘America is a Maritime Nation’ Congress Expresses Strong Bipartisan Support For Creation Of U.S. Tanker Security Fleet Longtime maritime backer U.S. Rep. Rob Witt- and an aggressive maritime militia with over 100 man (R-Virginia) recently penned an op-ed urging purpose-built ships,” Wittman wrote. “The Chinese the reinvigoration of the nation’s maritime capa- Communist Party has used this naval advantage to destabilize the Indo-Pacific area, intimidating rebilities. While most of the congressman’s writing focused gional nations and militarizing the South China Sea on the U.S. Navy, he also said, “America must re- in violation of international law. “Perhaps even more alarming than the rapid member its role as the world’s preeminent maritime nation, and reinvigorate not just our Navy and Ma- modernization and expansion of the Chinese Navy rine Corps but our shipbuilding and maritime indus- are the advances of the Chinese shipbuilding industry,” he added. “The DOD report notes that ‘China tries. Our country’s future depends upon it.” The piece ran under the headline, “America is is the top ship-producing nation in the world by a maritime nation, and we need to start acting like tonnage and is increasing its shipbuilding capacity and capability for all naval classes.’ In the event of it.” Wittman, who is the ranking member on the a conflict with China, there is an increasing probability that China would be Seapower and Projection able to repair and build both Forces Subcommittee in the commercial and naval ships at House, began, “The United a pace that would far outpace States has always been a marithe United States. America is time nation. It is the foundation simply no longer positioned of our economy and security. to be the ‘arsenal of democStrategists from Thucydides to racy.’” Mahan reveal a timeless truth – The congressman believes, that a prosperous and enduring however, that American milimaritime nation depends on tary leaders “are starting to an intertwined combination of wake up to this stark new rerobust commercial access, inality. Last week, Secretary of ternational relations and naval Defense Mark Esper commitpower.” ted to significant increases in He continued, “These elespending for Navy shipbuildments of national power have ing and readiness. This is an only grown more essential in important step, but it should our globally connected, modern be just the beginning.” world. Since the end of World Earlier this year, Wittman War II, American naval power circulated an article he wrote has been the guarantor of free calling for revitalizing and global commerce, the engine U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman maintaining the U.S. Ready that drives the modern econ(R-Virginia) Reserve Force (RRF), in adomy. Unfortunately, the United dition to taking other steps to States is slowly ceding its role boost U.S.-flag sealift. as the leader for freedom of the In that article, Wittman pointed out, “Comseas and global commerce. If dramatic action is not taken, we risk surrendering the sea and the modern pounding the problem of inadequate numbers, economy to an authoritarian regime whose disdain many ships in our logistics fleet are already past for freedom and international norms could become due for replacement. The average age of the ships in the Ready Reserve Force, which constitute the the defining characteristic of the 21st century.” Wittman then pointed to a U.S. Department of majority of our nation’s surge sealift capability, is Defense (DOD) report to Congress on Chinese 45 years. That is more than double the age at which military developments. The report’s conclusions most commercial cargo ships are retired and the fleet is showing its age…. While the Department “should alarm our nation and its allies,” he said. In particular, the DOD noted that People’s Re- of Defense is investing heavily in technology to public of China boasts the world’s largest navy (ap- compete in a new era of great power competition, it proximately 350 ships and submarines). The U.S. has given short shrift to its ability to transport and Navy’s battle force was below 300 ships as of early sustain forces. Our continued lack of investment in logistics will reduce the effectiveness of our mari2020, according to the report. “In addition to the world’s largest navy, China time forces in combat but, more worrying, is the also has a Coast Guard with over 130 patrols ships debilitating effect it will have on our land forces.” The conference agreement for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) almost certainly won’t be finalized until after Election Day, but dozens of members of Congress have spoken out for the completed bill to include provisions for a new U.S. Tanker Security Program. Such an arrangement would be similar to the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), which ensures availability of American-flagged, U.S.-crewed dry cargo ships to our armed forces in times of need. U.S. military leaders in recent years have expressed a pressing need for access to Americanflagged tankers. With that in mind, 34 members of Congress in mid-September sent a bipartisan letter to Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee James Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Adam Smith (D-Washington), and House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Mac Thornberry (RTexas). “As you work to finalize a conference agreement on the NDAA, we write to convey our strong support for retaining section 3511 of H.R. 6395, the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021,” they wrote. “This provision would authorize the establishment of a tanker security program comprised of ten privately owned, militarily useful U.S.-flag product tankers crewed by licensed and unlicensed American merchant mariners. “We are deeply concerned about the decline in the number of militarily useful commercial vessels operating under the U.S. flag and, consequently, in the number of trained and qualified American merchant mariners available to crew the vessels needed by the Department of Defense to protect America’s interests and to support American troops deployed around the world,” the letter continued. “A tanker security program as passed in H.R. 6395 would begin to rectify this situation, adding additional commercial vessels to the U.S.-flag fleet and creating new jobs for American mariners. This program, modeled after the successful and cost-efficient Maritime Security Program, represents an important maritime policy initiative not only for the maritime workforce but for our nation’s commercial sealift readiness capability.” The writers pointed out that Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow (USMC), while serving last year as deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, told Congress “a 10-tanker program will be a welcome start to begin to address the gap in U.S.-flagged bulk fuel delivery.” The September letter concluded, “Establishing a tanker security fleet would begin to reduce our military’s reliance on foreignflag vessels by ensuring that a greater portion of the fuel needed by the Department of Defense is transported by American mariners on U.S.-flag vessels. It would not promote or expand the production of petroleum products but would instead begin to end America’s almost total reliance on foreign flag-of-convenience vessels to meet the energy needs of the Department of Defense at sea and around the world.” November 2020 Seafarers LOG 5 �Voting for 2020 Union Election Began Nov. 1 Voting started Nov. 1 for the election of officers for the Seafarers International Union Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters. SIU members will be able to cast secret ballots at union halls or by mail through Dec. 31, 2020. Seafarers eligible to vote in this election to determine union officials for the 20212024 term are full-book members in good standing. This eligibility criteria is spelled out in the union’s governing document, the constitution. Additionally, and as previously reported, while the constitution itself has not been modified, some of the procedures for the election have been adjusted due to the pandemic. Those changes are aimed at facilitating participation and promoting safety. They were approved first by the SIU Executive Board and subsequently by rank-and-file Seafarers during the September membership meetings. The ballot lists the names of all qualified candidates as determined by the credentials committee, a group made up of six rank-and-file Seafarers who reviewed the nominating petitions of all SIU members seeking office in this district-wide election. A sample of this ballot was published in last month’s LOG. The credentials committee report, which was prepared Aug. 17 and submitted to the membership at the September monthly meetings, indicated 27 candidates had qualified to run for 25 positions. (The committee’s report was published in the September 2020 Seafarers LOG.) Subsequently, the union determined that 27 candidates were qualified. This finding was approved by rank-andfile voting at the September membership meetings. The 25 posts for which Seafarers will cast their ballots are president, executive vice president, secretary-treasurer, six vice presidents, six assistant vice presidents and 10 port agents. 20 Polling Places The election is being conducted by mail ballot as provided by the union’s constitution. Secret ballots, accompanied by envelopes marked “Ballot” and postage-paid envelopes printed with the address of the bank depository where the ballots are kept until submitted to the tallying committee, will be available to full-book members in good standing at 20 union halls around the country. (See list of voting locations on this page.) Again because of the pandemic, significant efforts also will be made to bring ballots to SIU-crewed ships when- Union Constitution Has Provision Which Allows Eligible Members To Vote Using Absentee Ballots Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters started Nov. 1. As previously reported, the SIU Constitution provides that eligible members can vote by absentee ballot if they are on a vessel or in a hospital during the voting period. However, following recent actions by the union’s executive board as well as rank-and-file members, for this election, anyone desiring to vote by absentee ballot may do so. The constitution specifies that absenteeballot requests should be made by registered or certified mail; but, for this election, such requests may be sent by regular mail (which won’t require members to leave their homes to go to a post office). If, however, any member sends a request for an absentee ballot by regular mail, that member is asked to wait five or more days to allow the request to be delivered, and then call the office of SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel to verify the request has been received. 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct ad- 6 Seafarers LOG dress where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot. 4. The request must be received at headquarters by 12 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2020. 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. Absentee ballots will be mailed out as soon as possible after receiving requests. In no event will an absentee ballot be mailed out later than Dec. 4. 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, 2020 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2021. ever reasonably viable. Eligible Seafarers may pick up their ballots and envelopes marked “Ballot” and mailing envelopes at these halls between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, except legal holidays, from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Each member must present his or her book to the port agent or the agent’s designated representative when receiving the ballot, the envelope marked “Ballot” and the mailing envelope. When the Seafarer receives the ballot and envelopes, his or her book will be marked with the word “Voted” and the date. If a member does not present his or her book, or if there is a question in regard to his or her eligibility to vote, the Seafarer will receive a mailing envelope of a different color marked with the word “Challenged.” His or her book will be stamped with the words “Voted Challenge” and the date. The SIU Constitution provides for absentee voting procedures that normally only apply to members who are at sea or have extenuating circumstances during the election period. This year, however, all Seafarers eligible to vote in the union’s election may opt to vote by absentee ballot (see related information elsewhere on this page). Full-book members in good standing who prefer to vote by absentee ballot should direct a request for the ballot to the union’s secretary-treasurer at SIU headquarters: 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Such requests must be received at headquarters by 12 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2020. Secret Ballots Once the Seafarer has received his or her ballot and envelopes, he or she marks the ballot for the candidates of his or her choice and puts it in the envelope marked “Ballot.” This envelope is sealed by the member and then dispatched in the mail (or given to the port agent or patrolman if voting aboard ship, though members also can opt to mail it themselves). These steps ensure the integrity of the secret ballot process. The union’s constitution, in Article XIII, details the procedures for voting in union elections. All ballots will be counted by the rank-and-file committee consisting of two members elected from each of the union’s constitutional ports. These committee members will be elected in December. They will convene in early January 2021. Notice of 2020 Election For Election of 2021-2024 Officers Seafarers International Union of North America Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters Elections will be conducted by secret mail ballot. Ballots may be obtained at the following locations from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (local time), Mondays through Fridays and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, excluding holidays, during the voting period. The voting period shall commence Nov. 1, 2020 and shall continue through Dec. 31, 2020. Voting Locations ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame Street, Suite 1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 FT. LAUDERDALE 1221 South Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 GUAM Cliffline Office Ctr., Suite 103B, 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 JOLIET 10 East Clinton, Joliet, IL 60432 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36605 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 PHILADELPHIA 2604 South Fourth St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 PINEY POINT Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Piney Point, MD 20674 PUERTO RICO 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 TACOMA 3411 South Union St., Tacoma, WA 98409 WILMINGTON 510 North Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 November 2020 �Rev. David Rider (left) and artist Chad Light stand on either side of the new memorial, which contains a recovered life ring from the El Faro. TOTE Honors El Faro Crew With Ceremony Seafarers-contracted TOTE Maritime on Oct. 1, conducted a “Celebration of Life” ceremony for the families of the crew of the El Faro tragedy. This year’s ceremony took place at the park at Dame’s Point in Jacksonville, Florida, and was livestreamed to those who wished to observe the fifth anniversary of the accident. The memorial began with the sounding of a ship’s horn, followed by an introduction by Rev. David Rider from the Seamen’s Church Institute. After the presentation of the colors by members of the U.S. Coast Guard, the national anthem was sung by Chad Light, who originally sculpted the El Faro lighthouse memorial at Dame’s Point. Rider then recognized some of those who were in virtual attendance. Representing the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Gulf Coast Vice President Dean Corgey and Port Agent Ashley Nelson. Representing the AMO were President Paul Doell and Vice Presidents Dan Robichaux and Dave Weathers. Rider remarked on the uniqueness of this ceremony, saying, “Though we cannot embrace one another in a traditional way, I hope life is going well for you on this special day.” He then read the names of those lost in the accident, with a ship’s bell sounded for each lost crew member. A new addition to the memorial park was unveiled as part of the ceremony, revealing a monument created with the recovered life ring from the doomed vessel. The life ring was discovered on Cat Island in the Bahamas following the sinking, after which it was donated to family members of an El Faro crew member, Deb and Robin Roberts, who wished for it to be displayed for all to see. The monument also carries an engraved plaque, which reads, “This original life ring from the El Faro was gifted to the family and friends of the crew in memory of the 33 lives lost but who remain with us forever in our hearts.” Rider then unveiled a new painting of the lighthouse sculpture, of which copies will be delivered by TOTE to each of the families of those lost. In a statement posted to their website, the AMO (an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America) said, “Today, we remain comforted by the certainty that the El Faro officer and crew complement worked as one against terrible odds, and that they did so with focus, not fear, each faithful to the traditions of courage and character that have distinguished American merchant mariners in all economic and defense services since the Revolution. Today, we hold warm thoughts for the survivors of these El Faro mariners – parents, spouses, children and fiancés. These equally extraordinary men and women helped each other endure the nearly weeklong search for the ship while gathered at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, bracing for the daily updates from the U.S. Coast Guard – may we all live by their collective example.” November 2020 The ceremony included a reading of each crew member’s name. Seafarers LOG 7 �‘The SIU Took Me when Nobody Else Would’ Retired Port Agent Kenny Quickly Found a Home with Union Fifty years have passed since Georg Kenny joined the SIU, but he doesn’t need prompts to recall his feelings from that time. “I was down on my luck, and a few guys in the neighborhood (in Brooklyn, New York) were merchant seamen,” Kenny said. “Two were SIU members and one was NMU. They kept encouraging me to join the industry. ‘You’ll fit right in,’ they told me.” They were right. “After the arduous torment of being a C-card, I finally got out (on a ship),” Kenny remembered. “I was the galley boy on the Robin Gray and I thought I was a rich man, making all of $450 a month. From the moment I got on board (April 28, 1970), I was hooked and I never looked back.” Kenny, 74, recently retired from his post as the SIU port agent in Norfolk, Virginia. He had sailed off and on throughout the 1970s, then consistently from 1980 until coming ashore to work for the union in 2000 (he became a recertified steward in 1991). “Georg has always looked out for the interest of the Seafarer, whether at sea or ashore as an official,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “His soft touch was always effective in his representation. If that failed to convince a company, he could filibuster for hours to gain the upper hand. I wish him well in his retirement.” SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi said, “Georg is a great guy and he’s always there for the members and the union. He’s very dedicated and although this is a big loss, I wish him all the best in retirement.” SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker playfully said Kenny’s verbal stamina served the union well during negotiations, and added, “He dedicated his life to the SIU, and will be missed.” Kenny’s overarching memories of his decades with the union always include his sobriety – something he candidly discusses because he wants to help others and because of his gratitude. “It’s like the SIU took me when nobody else would,” he said. “In simplest form, the Seafarers took me as I was. There came a point where I realized my life was totally unmanageable.” While upgrading at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, Kenny had a chance meeting with someone who took him to his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. “That turned into a 12-week rehab (at the school’s addictions rehabilitation center, often called the ARC or the farm),” Kenny remembered. “If it weren’t for the farm, I don’t think I’d be alive, let alone clean and sober for the past 35 years.” Tough Transition A U.S. Air Force veteran, Kenny is equally forthcoming about his transition period from shipboard life to patrolman. After finally relenting to the longstanding and oft-repeated invitation from then-SIU Vice President Kermett Mangram, he reacted to the conclusion of his first day on the new job by exclaiming, “What was I thinking?!” Nevertheless, he adjusted and came to love the job. And he cites becoming a port agent in 2001 as “one of the proudest moments of my career.” Working as a union official often meant involvement in central labor councils, the state AFL-CIO and the local port council in addition to SIU-specific work. “At one time it felt as if I was wearing 11 different hats, but it’s because of the SIU that I found the labor movement,” Kenny noted. “Everything I have is all because of the SIU.” He also found time to assist fellow Seafarers who struggled with substance-abuse issues, and views those interactions as part of the reason he was drawn to shoreside work. “Nobody bats 1.000 but I’m glad to have had the opportunity to help a lot people,” he said. Looking Ahead Kenny and his wife (a former Seafarer who sailed for about 10 years) plan to remain in the Norfolk area, and he aims to complete his bachelor’s degree. Asked about the timing of his retirement, he answered, “When members would come to the hall and file their retirement papers, they’d often say they just woke up one morning and realized it was time. That’s where I am – no Georg Kenny (left) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi) at a Maritime Trades Department meeting in 2019. regrets, it’s just time. You might say I’m in the last chapters of my book, and I plan to make the most of it. If nothing else, it’ll give me more opportunities to get back into the recovery meetings (with greater frequency).” He clarified that his health is “excellent,” and added his thanks to the union’s executive board and personnel in the admissions, claims, academic and manpower offices “for teaching me what I needed to know in order to do the job.” His advice for anyone considering becoming a mariner? “Fill out the application for the apprentice program now,” he immediately replied. “Just do it. You’ll never regret it, and remember that the more you learn, the more you’re going to earn.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Whooping Cough Poses Dangers to All Age Groups Editor’s note: This article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that is caused by the bacteria Bordetella Pertussis. When someone coughs or sneezes, tiny germ droplets are sprayed into the air. These droplets can be breathed into the lungs of individuals who are standing near the vicinity of the person who coughed or sneezed. If successfully transferred, the disease is usually marked by the victim developing a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that some say sounds like “whoop.” When someone becomes infected with whooping cough, it usually takes about seven to 10 days for signs and symptoms to appear. These can be mild at first and mimic the symptoms of a common cold including a runny nose, nasal congestion, red watery eyes, a fever and a cough. After a week or so, the symptoms can worsen. The person may develop thick mucus inside their airways, causing uncontrollable coughing. This can provoke vomiting, extreme fatigue, and possibly end with a highpitched whoop-like sound during the infected individual’s next breath of air. Sometimes, however, people do not develop the characteristic cough. In the case of infants, for example, they may just appear to be struggling to breathe with no cough at all. 8 Seafarers LOG Prior to the age of vaccine injections, whooping cough was considered a childhood disease. In the United States, it primarily affects children who are too young to have completed their full series of vaccinations. The illness can also affect teenagers and adults who may not have completed their own series of vaccines or whose immunity has failed. Deaths due to pertussis are rare but most commonly are seen in infants. For this reason, it is vital that pregnant women and others who are in close contact with an infant be vaccinated. It should be pointed out that the whooping cough vaccines that individuals may have received as children eventually wear off. As a result, some teenagers and adults could be left susceptible to the infection during an outbreak. Infants who are younger than 12 months and who are unvaccinated, or have not received the full series of shots, are at the highest risk for developing this disease. For teenagers and adults, the complications from developing pertussis include: dehydration, bruised or cracked ribs, abdominal hernias, and broken blood vessels in the skin or the white of the eyes. Among infants, pneumonia, slowed or stopped breathing, dehydration or weight loss, and seizures may occur. To prevent this disease, everyone is encouraged to get the pertussis vaccine. The vaccine can be administered in combination with tetanus and diphtheria shots as ordered by doctors or health department officials. Healthy Recipe Herbed Balsamic Chicken Servings 24 2 cups balsamic vinegar 2 2/3 tablespoons honey ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup fresh basil, minced fine ¼ cup fresh chives, minced 4 cloves garlic clove, minced 3 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper, ground 24 whole chicken thighs without skin 2 2/3 tablespoons lemon zest Preparation Whisk together all ingredients except chicken. In a bowl, toss chicken with 1/3 cup vinegar mixture; let stand 10 minutes. Grill chicken, over medium heat until a thermometer reads 165 degrees, 6-8 minutes per side. Drizzle with remaining vinegar mixture before serving. changes: 0 grain (starch); 2 lean meat; 0 vegetable; 0 fruit; 1 ½ fat; 0 other carbohydrates. Nutrition Information Per serving (excluding unknown items): 154 calories; 9g fat (55.2% calories from fat): 14g protein; 4g carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 57mg cholesterol; 295mg sodium. Ex- Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. November 2020 �Full Books in New Orleans Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Oct. 15. Congratulations to AB Barry Briggs (left) and Chief Steward Gizelle Jones (center) on receiving their full books. They’re pictured at the New Orleans membership meeting in October. Safety Director James Brown is at right. Precautionary Measure Calls For Seafarers to Receive Flu Shots In accordance with Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) Action 480, and as a precautionary measure due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, mariners will be required to get an influenza immunization (commonly called the flu shot) before sailing or visiting the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. (This SAB, titled “Coronavirus Protocols,” took effect in March 2020.) Effective December 1, all members who plan to sail on a deep-sea vessel, as well as anyone planning to attend any upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center, will have to provide documentation that shows they have received a flu shot in the past 90 days. This decision was made jointly between the union and their contracted employers. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in that mariner being unable to sail and/or attend upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center until they receive the immunization. For more information, contact your local port agent. Note to Our Readers Without exception, anyone entering an SIU hiring hall or signing onto a vessel has passed a number of safety protocols, often including testing for COVID-19, two-week quarantines, and verifying healthrelated items on a questionnaire. For that reason, not everyone you see pictured in the LOG is wearing a mask. In addition, in many cases, people have briefly removed their masks only long enough to snap a quick photo. We cannot stress enough the importance of following all safety protocols for your protection and the protection of those around you November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point...........................Monday: November 2, December 7 Algonac..................................Friday: November 6 , December 11 Baltimore...........................Thursday: November 5, December 10 Guam................................Thursday: November 19, December 24 Honolulu..............................Friday: November 13, December 18 Houston..............................Monday: November 9, December 14 Jacksonville....................Thursday: November 5, December 10 Joliet...................................Thursday: November 12, December 17 Mobile..........*Thursday: November 12, Wednesday: December 16 Total Registered Total Shipped Port 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 19 4 6 12 3 12 5 31 38 26 1 7 22 14 1 1 8 21 0 16 247 8 3 3 14 0 3 1 16 21 12 1 1 15 4 2 2 8 7 0 13 134 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 4 0 6 7 0 2 2 5 19 9 3 1 15 5 3 0 0 9 0 11 101 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 0 0 0 6 0 4 1 4 2 3 2 5 8 1 1 4 1 5 1 3 57 Deck Department 21 5 1 2 3 5 22 5 2 1 9 4 4 3 27 13 22 22 18 12 2 0 2 3 19 12 8 1 2 1 1 0 2 3 13 7 2 0 13 9 193 108 C Trip Reliefs 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 6 3 0 0 4 5 0 1 4 2 3 1 1 37 1 0 5 5 0 3 3 7 17 6 2 4 16 2 0 1 1 8 1 6 88 3 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 15 Engine Department 8 2 1 0 1 2 5 5 0 0 2 1 3 3 8 5 15 15 8 4 2 1 1 2 12 12 5 1 2 3 1 2 1 2 6 6 0 1 7 3 88 70 7 0 2 9 1 8 4 13 18 4 0 0 18 13 2 2 3 12 4 20 140 0 1 2 5 1 2 0 6 11 1 0 2 12 6 1 1 6 2 0 9 68 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 2 0 1 9 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 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 1 12 9 1 2 4 3 2 2 9 20 16 2 0 15 8 3 0 1 13 1 12 123 11 2 0 2 1 0 2 9 35 7 4 3 26 3 0 3 2 6 0 4 120 GRAND TOTAL: 500 413 201 New Orleans.........................Tuesday: November 10, December 15 Jersey City............................Tuesday: November 3, December 8 Norfolk...............................*Friday: November 6, December 11 Oakland..........................Thursday: November 12, December 17 Philadelphia................Wednesday: November 4, December 9 Port Everglades...............Thursday: November 12, December 17 San Juan........................Thursday: November 5, December 10 St. Louis................................Friday: November 13, December 18 Tacoma................Friday: November 20, *Monday: December 28 Wilmington...........................Monday: November 16, December 21 *Mobile change due to Veterans Day observance. Effective as of September 2, Norfolk changed meeting date from Thursday after first Sunday to Friday after first Sunday. Tacoma change due to Christmas Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m November 2020 All Groups A B Registered on Beach A All Groups B C 1 1 5 16 0 4 1 19 18 13 0 1 9 4 0 5 3 10 0 7 119 20 4 7 35 6 13 10 74 63 51 2 14 29 24 5 2 10 44 0 45 458 11 4 3 23 0 6 2 34 32 17 2 3 18 4 4 3 4 12 2 22 206 0 2 0 6 0 5 1 8 8 7 3 5 10 3 0 1 1 6 1 5 74 2 0 0 1 1 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 12 2 0 1 2 0 2 3 4 6 3 0 0 5 3 1 0 1 3 0 3 39 5 1 6 11 0 5 14 22 33 17 2 5 22 12 2 1 4 15 3 28 208 1 0 4 12 0 5 6 12 31 11 1 8 28 3 0 2 4 12 4 10 154 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 1 0 2 0 5 3 0 0 0 3 0 1 22 Steward Department 6 0 0 1 0 0 5 2 0 0 1 3 2 0 4 4 9 7 7 0 0 0 0 0 13 8 6 2 1 1 1 2 2 2 9 1 0 0 10 5 76 38 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 1 0 0 3 0 2 2 3 8 1 0 0 8 5 0 1 1 2 0 4 41 7 0 3 10 1 11 8 35 32 9 0 3 22 20 3 4 3 17 4 38 230 0 0 2 8 1 1 1 12 15 1 0 3 23 9 0 4 6 2 1 12 101 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 3 0 1 16 Entry Department 0 12 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 2 6 1 15 0 5 0 1 1 1 0 11 1 5 1 1 0 3 0 0 3 9 1 0 1 9 12 82 10 0 0 1 0 0 1 6 11 1 1 0 11 3 0 5 0 4 0 3 57 4 0 2 1 0 0 0 4 7 2 0 0 5 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 29 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 6 5 4 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 6 0 2 32 13 3 3 9 3 4 5 18 27 22 2 0 24 16 2 0 1 13 2 26 193 9 4 0 6 1 2 3 15 56 15 5 5 32 6 0 8 2 17 0 9 195 113 228 928 654 307 369 298 Seafarers LOG 9 �ABOARD OCEAN GIANT – Steward/Baker Pauline Crespo submitted these snapshots from the Waterman-operated vessel, taken en route to Sudan. The crew requested a turkey dinner and was accommodated. ACU Eduardo Pascua is pictured at the far left, while the Seafaring selfie in the center includes Bosun Alfred Polk (right) and Crespo. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD USNS FISHER – Thanks to vessel master Capt. Jennifer L. Senner (SIU hawsepiper) for these snapshots from the U.S. Marine Management vessel in Pearl Harbor, where it is supporting U.S. Army operations. In photo at left above, Bosun Algernon Reed and AB Shermal Morris enjoy a meal. Chief Steward Diane Light and Chief Cook Tania Ramirez-Diego (photo above at right) pose in galley while AB Rommel Martinez-Arriola (photo at immediate left) gets lunch. AB Rolando Pangan and OS Abdellah Airayashi welcome personnel aboard. in the photo at right. FULL BOOK IN MOBILE – QE4 Robert Pendarvis (standing) is sworn in for his full B-book during a special meeting Sept. 23 at the hall in Mobile, Alabama. 10 Seafarers LOG B-BOOK IN OAKLAND – Chief Cook Janelle Harper is sworn in at the hiring hall for her full B-seniority book during the September membership meeting. She most recently sailed aboard the SSG Edward Carter (Sealift). November 2020 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD SAFMARINE NGAMI – The SIU-crewed ship (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) departs Qatar this past summer. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – AB Steven Hicks takes the oath and receives his full B-book at the hiring hall B-BOOK IN ALGONAC – GUDE Abdulwali Suwaileh displays his newly acquired full B-book at the hiring hall. FULL BOOK IN ALOHA STATE – OMU Ryan Manlapit receives his full B-book at the hiring hall in Honolulu. November 2020 PHILANTHROPY IN TACOMA – Undeterred by the pandemic, shore gang Lead Bosun Stephen Ackley kicks off this year’s Santa’s Castle toy drive at the hiring hall, benefitting American military families. Ackley typically is the first one to donate every year. A-BOOK ON LAKES – Chief Cook Holly Norick displays her newly acquired A-book aboard the Burns Harbor (American Steamship) on Sept. 29. She started sailing with the SIU in 2013. BURIAL AT SEA – These photos are from a ceremony aboard the Perla Del Caribe (TOTE) honoring the memory of AB Jonathan Rivera-Rodriguez, who passed away July 31 at age 37 (he was involved in an automobile accident). He joined the SIU in 2009. “Jonathan, aka ‘Cross-Fit,’ was an outstanding union brother, hard worker and a pleasure to be around,” said SIU Jacksonville Port Agent Ashley Nelson. “He will be greatly missed.” Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President George Tricker, Vice President Contracts This month’s question was answered by students at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Question: Why did you get into the maritime industry? David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer 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 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Eric Greenawalt Chief Cook I joined the SIU to become part of the Brotherhood of the Sea, and to be a part of something larger than myself. Being a part of the steward department on a ship, and being able to lift my shipmates’ spirits with some good food, that makes my day a little brighter. Sergio Centeno Bosun Job security, job stability and the ability to learn new skills I can pass on to the next generation. The maritime industry has been here a long time, and will be here for a long time to come. To my brothers and sisters, keep training and upgrade often. Terry Evins Bosun It seemed like an interesting job, and it let me continue to do the same things I did in the Navy. Same jobs, same type of work, and I’m still sailing the world. The SIU has always been a friend to me. Johnathan Williams Chief Cook I wanted to experience new and different things in life. The travel portion of the job was appealing to me, as well as the ability to upgrade my skills. I really appreciate that my career path is laid out for me, and if I follow it, I will better myself and my life. Christopher Hinton Oiler I became a mariner for the change in lifestyle. I was working temp jobs, but sailing has provided a better life for me and my daughter. The SIU saved my life, literally, and helps me provide for my family. The SIU has always kept their promise to me, so I keep coming back. Deon Greenidge Chief Cook I’m a fourth-generation merchant mariner. My uncle is still sailing after 37 years, so it’s in my blood. I started at entry level, and I’m going to retire a merchant mariner. I love this union; I think it’s Grade A. And when people complain, I’m quick to tell them how good they have it. 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 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 45353 St. George’s Avenue, 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 This photo first ran in the Aug. 24, 1945 LOG. The original caption: “Specimen rope board is being explained to two admiring SIU men by Warren Wymon who made it for the New York hall. On display in New York on the recreation deck, the board contains such fancy creations as a wheel, anchor, propeller, splices, sizings, whippings and the more essential knots used aboard ship. Across the top of the board is the word ‘Seafarers’ spelled out in fancy braid.” WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 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 Capital Gateway Drive, 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 November 2020 �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 MAURICIO ARRIOLA Brother Mauricio Arriola, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1997, initially sailing on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Arriola most recently sailed on the Ocean Globe. He makes his home in the Bronx, New York. RANDOLPH BOLLING Brother Randolph Bolling, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1972. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Bolling’s first vessel was the Warrior; his last, the Honor. He calls Slidell, Louisiana, home. RONALD CELIOUS Brother Ronald Celious, 66, started sailing with the union in 1974 when he shipped on the Keva Ideal. A member of the engine department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Celious last sailed on the Jack Lummus and settled in the Northern Mariana Islands. WILLIE CLEMMONS Brother Willie Clemmons, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 2001. He initially sailed on the Cape Taylor and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year of membership. Brother Clemmons worked in all three departments. He most recently sailed aboard the USNS Pollux and lives in Houston. DEBORAH GIBSON Sister Deborah Gibson, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1990 when she shipped on the William R. Button. She was a steward department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Sister Gibson’s final vessel was the Franklin J. Phillips. She makes her home in Semmes, Alabama. JONATHAN GIBSON Brother Jonathan Gibson, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1996. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numer- November 2020 ous occasions. Brother Gibson’s first vessel was the Little Hales; his last, the USNS Watkins. He settled in Semmes, Alabama. ALEXANDER GLEBOV Brother Alexander Glebov, 68, began his career with the SIU in 2005, initially sailing aboard the Green Lake. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Glebov most recently shipped on the Maersk Sentosa. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. 1978. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother McDermott’s first vessel was the El Paso Southern; his most recent, the Texas. He settled in Shartlesville, Pennsylvania. ISMAIL MONASSAR Brother Ismail Monassar, 65, joined the union in 1979. A steward department member, he first sailed aboard the Maryland. Brother Monassar most recently shipped aboard the Matsonia and makes his home in Dearborn, Michigan. CARLOS OLASCOAGA Brother Ricardo Hernandez, 66, started sailing with the Seafarers in 2001. He first sailed on the USNS Curtiss and shipped in the deck department. Brother Hernandez upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002 and last worked aboard the Horizon Pacific. He lives in Anaheim, California. Brother Carlos Olascoaga, 72, began sailing with the SIU in 1979. He shipped in the steward department, sailing first aboard the Montpelier Victory. Brother Olascoaga last sailed on the Ocean Grand. He lives in Puerto Rico. ANTONIO MARTINEZ LORENZO RIDDICK Brother Antonio Martinez, 66, joined the union in 1994 when he shipped on the Independence. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Martinez’s last vessel was the Liberty Eagle. He is a Houston resident. Brother Lorenzo Riddick, 65, signed on with the union in 1996, initially sailing with Moran Towing of Maryland. He was a deck department member and last shipped aboard the Pride of Hawaii. Brother Riddick is a Baltimore resident. RICARDO HERNANDEZ BENJAMIN MATTHEWS Brother Benjamin Matthews, 65, began shipping with the SIU in 2003, initially sailing on the USNS Dahl. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Matthews last shipped aboard the Observation Island. He makes his home in Portsmouth, Virginia. CHRISTOPHER MAYE Brother Christopher Maye, 60, signed on with the Seafarers in 1987 when he sailed on the USNS Antares. Brother Maye was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1989. He most recently sailed on the USNS John Glenn and resides in Oklahoma. MICHAEL MCDERMOTT Brother Michael McDermott, 65, donned the SIU colors in HIPOLITA ROCHES Sister Hipolita Roches, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2003, first sailing aboard the USNS Fisher. She worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Sister Roches most recently shipped on the Mississippi Enterprise. She makes her home in Miami. FRANK SENA Brother Frank Sena, 69, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2001, initially sailing aboard the Groton. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Sena last sailed on the Empire State. He resides in San Pedro, California. THOMAS SCHULTZ Brother Thomas Schultz, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1975 when he sailed aboard the Thomas Lynch. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1979. Brother Schultz last shipped on the Elizabeth. He calls Riverhead, New York, home. STANLEY SMITH Brother Stanley Smith, 66, began his career with the Seafarers International Union in 2003. He sailed in the steward department, and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2005. Brother Smith’s first vessel was the USNS Pathfinder; his last, the Liberty Pride. He lives in Charleston, South Carolina. GREAT LAKES JEFFERY JOHNSON Brother Jeffery Johnson, 62, began shipping with the union in 1977, first sailing on the J.A. Kling. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1987. Brother Johnson’s final vessel was the Sam Laud. He resides in Ossineke, Michigan. JOHN KERNOHAN Brother John Kernohan, 62, joined the SIU in 1978 when he sailed aboard the A. Guthrie. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions and was a deck department member. Brother Kernohan concluded his career with Upper Lakes Barge Lines. He settled in Lorain, Ohio. DIRK VANENKEVORT Brother Dirk VanEnkevort, 64, signed on with the Seafarers in 1979, initially shipping on the Buckeye. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1982. Brother VanEnkevort was last employed by Upper Lakes Towing. He lives in Marquette, Michigan. INLAND ROBERT JEFFREY Brother Robert Jeffrey, 71, became a member of the SIU in 2001, first working for McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He sailed in the deck department and was most recently employed by Tugz Company. Brother Jeffrey calls New Port Richey, Florida, home. RUSTY LAFRAGE Brother Rusty LaFrage, 59, started his career with the Seafarers in 1979. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1981. Brother LaFrage worked for G&H Towing during his entire career. He lives in Dickinson, Texas. HOWARD MORGENSTERN Brother Howard Morgenstern, 64, joined the union in 1983. He sailed in the engine department and was employed by New York Cross Harbor Railroad for the duration of his career. Brother Morgenstern resides in Brooklyn, New York. DANIEL MORRIS Brother Daniel Morris, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1986. A deck department member, he sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation for the majority of his career. Brother Morris makes his home in Laurel Fork, Virginia. ARSEN PERHAT Brother Arsen Perhat, 58, began shipping with the SIU in 1999 when he worked for American Marine Corporation. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and was a member of the engine department. Brother Perhat concluded his career with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He is a resident of San Pedro, California. JOSE RIVERA RODRIGUEZ Brother Jose Rivera Rodriguez, 62, signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1979. He sailed in the deck department and worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services for his entire career. Brother Rivera Rodriguez lives in Puerto Rico. Seafarers LOG 13 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOHN BULAWAN Pensioner John Bulawan, 78, died August 30. He signed on with the union in 1974 and was a steward department member. Brother Bulawan first shipped aboard the Santa Mercedes. He last sailed on the RJ Pfeiffer before going on pension in 2010. Brother Bulawan was a Las Vegas resident. JOHN DAVIS Pensioner John Davis, 71, passed away September 18. He began his career with the SIU in 2005, initially sailing aboard the Atlantic Forest. Brother Davis was a member of the deck department and concluded his career on the Green Ridge. He became a pensioner in 2016 and resided in Sun City, Arizona. JULIO DELGADO Pensioner Julio Delgado, 94, died September 23. He joined the Seafarers in 1947 and first sailed on a Sinclair Oil vessel. Brother Delgado was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Caguas and retired in 1988. Brother Delgado lived in Puerto Rico. WAYNE DRIGGERS Pensioner Wayne Driggers, 75, passed away September 8. He donned the SIU colors in 1977 when he shipped on the Charleston. Brother Driggers sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard the Alliance St. Louis. He settled in Jacksonville, Florida. MARTIN GLOVER Brother Martin Glover, 42, died July 6. He joined the union in 2019 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Glover sailed both first and last aboard the Decisive. He lived in Jacksonville, Florida, his birthplace. GLORIA JAUDON Pensioner Gloria Jaudon, 74, passed away September 1. She signed on with the Seafarers in 1994, first working for West Bank Riverboat Services. Sister Jaudon sailed in the both the steward and deck departments. She most recently sailed aboard the Delaware Trader and retired in 14 Seafarers LOG 2012. Sister Jaudon made her home in New Orleans. ROBERT LLOYD Brother Robert Lloyd, 48, died July 5. He joined the Seafarers International Union in 2010, when he sailed on the APL Agate. Brother Lloyd sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the Overseas Martinez. He resided in Chesapeake, Virginia. JOSEPH MCGAULEY Pensioner Joseph McGauley, 82, passed away August 4. He signed on with the union in 1963 when he was employed with Hedge Haven Farms, and subsequently made numerous trips on Waterman vessels. Brother McGauley worked in the engine department. He last sailed on the Cove Liberty and went on pension in 2003. Brother McGauley settled in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania. JONATHAN RIVERA-RODRIGUEZ Brother Jonathan Rivera-Rodriguez, 37, died July 31. Born in Puerto Rico, he started his career with the SIU in 2009. Brother Rivera-Rodriguez was a deck department member and first sailed aboard the Pride of America. He last shipped aboard the Isla Bella and was a resident of Orlando, Florida. EUSEBIO RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Eusebio Rodriguez, 86, passed away September 29. He became a member of the union in 1955, initially sailing aboard the Fort Hoskins. Brother Rodriguez sailed in the deck department. He last shipped aboard the Panama before becoming a pensioner in 1988. Brother Rodriguez lived in Puerto Rico. JERSON TORO Pensioner Jerson Toro, 88, died September 8. He joined the union in 1984 and first sailed aboard the Manukai. Brother Toro primarily worked in the steward department. He concluded his career aboard the Overseas Harriette and went on pension in 1997. Brother Toro made his home in Jersey City, New Jersey. KENNETH WELLS Pensioner Kenneth Wells, 58, passed away September 20. He signed on with the SIU in 1991 and first sailed aboard the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Wells was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the American Liberty. He became a pensioner in 2019 and called Jacksonville, North Carolina, home. OSCAR WILEY Pensioner Oscar Wiley, 81, died September 10. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1967 when he sailed aboard the Steel Voyager. Brother Wiley sailed in the deck department and last shipped on the USNS Chesapeake. He retired in 1998 and resided in Oakland, California. OSCAR WILLIAMS Pensioner Oscar Williams, 90, passed away August 9. He began shipping with the Seafarers International Union in 1968, initially sailing aboard a Hudson Waterways vessel. Brother Williams sailed in both the engine and deck departments and last sailed on the Overseas Alice. He went on pension in 1994 and lived in Richmond, California. INLAND KEVIN BRADY Pensioner Kevin Brady, 70, died August 21. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1973. Brother Brady first worked for Norfolk, Baltimore and Carolina Lines, Inc., and sailed in the deck department. He most recently sailed with Penn Maritime and became a pensioner in 2012. Brother Brady resided in Eagle, Idaho. CLARENCE JENNETTE Pensioner Clarence Jennette, 77, died August 29. He signed on with the SIU in 1976 when he worked for Interstate Oil. Brother Jennette shipped in both the steward and deck departments and was last employed by OSG Ship Management. He went on pension in 2004 and resided in Hernando, Florida. EMILIO MACLARA Pensioner Emilio MacLara, 96, died August 6. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1988. Brother MacLara worked in the deck department. He was employed by Crowley Puerto Rico until his retirement in 1995. Brother MacLara resided in Puerto Rico. JOHN MAXEY Pensioner John Maxey, 82, passed away June 13. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1978. A deck department member, Brother Maxey was employed by Moran Towing of Texas for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 2002 and lived in Nederland, Texas. JACK PARKINS Pensioner Jack Parkins, 74, died October 4. He became a member of the union in 2000. Brother Parkins was a steward department member and worked for Allied Transportation for his entire career. He retired in 2009 and made his home in McGuffey, Ohio. CHARLES CHAMBERLAIN MICHAEL SISTARE Pensioner Charles Chamberlain, 75, passed away April 17. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1963. Brother Chamberlain was first employed by Taylor Marine. He last worked with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia and went on pension in 2006. Brother Chamberlain lived in Haddon Heights, New Jersey. Pensioner Michael Sistare, 66, passed away September 22. He joined the SIU in 1977, initially sailing with Marine Contracting and Towing. Brother Sistare sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company until his retirement in 2015. He was a resident of Ravenel, South Carolina. WILLIAM COFIELD CHARLES TELLER Pensioner William Cofield, 75, died September 1. He joined the SIU in 1990 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Cofield was employed by G&H Towing for his entire career. He retired in 2003 and was a resident of Corpus Christi, Texas. Pensioner Charles Teller, 77, died August 22. He began sailing with the union in 1973 when he worked for G&H Towing. A deck department member, Brother Teller last shipped with Tampa Tugs. He became a pensioner in 2005 and settled in Santa Fe, Texas. BRYAN DALHEIM Brother Bryan Dalheim, 47, passed away August 9. He began sailing with the union in 2004 when he worked for Virginia Pilot Corporation. A deck department member, Brother Dalheim remained with the same company for his entire career. He lived in Poquoson, Virginia. Salvage. Brother Walker shipped in the engine department and was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 2018 and resided in Abita, Louisiana. NMU LOUIS DOMINGUEZ Pensioner Louis Dominguez, 91, passed away August 21. Born in New York City, he sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. Brother Dominguez became a pensioner 1969 and made his home in Stratford, Connecticut. HERBERT O’NEAL Pensioner Herbert O’Neal, 79, died September 2. He was an NMU member prior to the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. Brother O’Neal retired in 1998 and lived in Charleston, South Carolina. GLENROY REID Pensioner Glenroy Reid, 80, passed away July 20. He joined the union during the SIU/NMU merger in 2001. Brother Reid sailed in both the engine and deck departments. He last sailed on the Atlantic before going on pension in 2008. Brother Reid was a Houston resident. SAMUEL SMITH Pensioner Samuel Smith, 85, passed away September 4. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 NMU/ SIU merger. Brother Smith became a pensioner 1985. He made his home in Jacksonville, Florida, his birthplace. 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 Barre, Clarence Bodden, Kirby Bush, Iverson Culpepper, John Davis, William Dumas, Robert Gabriel, Adolph Garcia, Marcelino Gomes, Peter Krauklis, John Neveaux, Ernest Olivencia, Juan Russele, George Singleton, Albert Smalls, Leon AGE 91 93 96 90 87 91 95 90 92 93 84 101 75 78 76 DOD 09/12/2020 09/29/2020 08/23/2020 09/30/2020 07/16/2020 10/03/2020 07/14/2020 08/26/2020 09/20/2020 09/10/2020 09/23/2020 09/21/2020 07/14/2020 08/29/2020 08/13/2020 DAVID WALKER Pensioner David Walker, 68, passed away September 21. He signed on with the SIU in 1978 when he worked for Crescent Towing and November 2020 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MYKONOS (Overseas Shipholding Group), May 14 – Chairman Albert Mensah, Secretary Maili Wang, Educational Director Kenneth Cabrera, Engine Delegate Hector Guity, Steward Delegate Wilmer Alvarez. Crew reviewed old business including topics of Wi-Fi and safety pay owed to all crew members. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reviewed communications about COVID-19 and talked about establishing safety policies for all members on board. OVERSEAS TAMPA (Overseas Shipholding Group), August 14 – Chairman Rudy Harjanto, Educational Director Darryl Bence, Engine Delegate Ghadir Sarkis. Abundance of new ships coming in by Crowley, OSG and Maersk that will expand the business and create more jobs for SIU members. Chairman thanked all departments for a job well done and reminded crew to check their documents. More information can be found on the union and NMC websites, respectively. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests Wi-Fi, new linens and new mattresses. Crew asked for different options for desserts. Next port: Lake Charles, Louisiana. JEAN ANNE (Pasha), August 30 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Samuel Sinclair, Educational Director Stephen Roberts, Deck Delegate Mohamed Saleh, Engine Delegate Yahya Mohamed. Crew got in- 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. ternet access at sea but technical complications arose. Members seek clarification on testing for COVID-19 when ashore at their residence. Company pays for hotel and meals if necessary when testing. Crew asked for more guidance on how to get recertified and who may apply. Members requested less days of service for full retirement benefits and ask for a lesser frequency of physicals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done. Crew requested cigarettes in slop chest because they are unable to go ashore to buy more due to COVID-19 restrictions. MOHAWK (JM Ship, LLC), September 6 – Chairman Paul Brown, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Andres Nunez-Rochez, Deck Delegate Andrew Bennett, Engine Delegate Gary Longmire. Members discussed getting better workout equipment on board. Ship due to arrive at Port Hueneme, California, on Wednesday, Sept. 9. Most crew will be relieved on the day of arrival. Chairman advised crew to be safe while in port and to be cautious of overhead loads coming and going. Secretary thanked crew for keeping the mess hall clean and for other departments pitching in and assisting the steward department. Educational director reminded members to check their documents for renewal and be sure to renew documents early as possible. He encouraged crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school. Disputed OT reported Job Well Done Aboard Isla Bella SIU steward department personnel aboard the Isla Bella (TOTE) received high praise from vessel master Capt. Andrew Mayher, who submitted this photo. Pictured from left are Chief Cook Adalberto Colon Rosa, Steward/Baker Jose Norales and SA Simone Smith. in deck and engine departments due to ship restriction. Crew went over communications and numerous items related to COVID-19 from union. Members ask for better flights when joining the ship and increase in pension benefits. Wi-Fi needs to be reinstated aboard vessel. Vote of thanks given to steward department for a job well done. Crew would like company to send books and movies to ship. Members would like new refrigerators for rooms that currently don’t have them, new mattresses and a bigger selection of items in the slop chest. Parts needed for showers in rooms. Next port: Hueneme, California. 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 November 2020 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive 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 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 �Paul Hall Center Classes The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses 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. AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Once accepted, students will be advised of dates. Classes are only open to students in AB to Mate program and modules must be taken in order. Module 5 November 10 November 20 Module 6 November 23 December 18 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Galley Operations November 16 December 11 Certified Chief Cook November 16 December 18 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. 11/20 Enemy Exacts Heavy Toll on Convoy PQ-17 Continued from Page 20 tacks, and the Samuel Chase made it in only after a raging fight in which bombs snapped all the steam lines to the main engine and auxiliaries, and the fighting ship was taken in tow by a corvette, her guns still barking defiance to the Nazi bombers. Only eleven ships out of PQ-17 made it through to Russia; among them being the American ships Ironclad, Samuel Chase, Benjamin Harrison (all SIU), Silver Sword, Winston Salem, Bellingham (SIU) and Troubador. They had survived by pitting courage and determination against great odds in one of the most bitterly fought battles of World War II. Freighters At The Front Oran, Casablanca, Avola, Gela, Salerno, Anzio, Guadalcanal, Normandy, Leyte, Okinawa… Memorable places these, stepping stones on the long road to victory – the invasion points where the tide of battle finally turned and then, surging forward on the flood, engulfed the Axis in a deluge of men and materiel as the Allies marched inexorably toward Rome, Berlin and Tokyo. SIU ships made these and other beachheads along with the assault troops and the landing craft, and the names of the far-flung battle shores became as familiar to Seafarers as the names of towns back in New York, Indiana, Nebraska or Texas. One of many SIU freighters at the beachheads was the SS Jonathan Grout, a Liberty operated by the Mississippi Shipping Company, which helped carry British troops from Alexandria for the invasion of Sicily in the morning of May 10, 1943. Peaceful Sicily It was an idyllic day as the Jonathan Grout approached the hill-fringed Sicilian shore, and were it not for the firing of monitors and destroyers, for bits of wrecked gliders and dead paratroops bobbing grotesquely about in the placid tide, the war would have seemed a thousand miles away. But the summer calm was broken that afternoon, when Stuka divebombers came roaring down onto the invasion fleet with sirens screaming in their noses as they dived, a wailing cry that was intended to strike terror in the hearts of 16 Seafarers LOG the gunners below. Gunners on the Jonathan Grout and other ships weren’t impressed, however. The three-inch bow guns on the Liberties, the oerlikons and the bofors threw so much steel into the sky that the divebombers didn’t make a single hit. The enemy didn’t give up – not by a long shot, they didn’t. They launched 50 raids against the anchorage at Avola during the next five days. Armed guard and merchant crewmen slept at the guns, while the British stevedores unloaded bombs, canned gasoline, trucks, tanks, food, and the myriad other implements of war, knocking off only when the sirens moaned the approach of more raiders and the lights of the anchored ships blinked off. On the afternoon of July11, three flights of high-level bombers – 15 in all – swept over the convoy so high that it was futile to fire the 20 millimeters. The bombs left the belly of the droning raiders like tiny, shimmery pinpoints of light. A navy gunner on the nearby Liberty ship Colin Kelly wrote, “The stark of terror of the sight is indescribable.” Nick of Time Escape The first salvo shook the Jonathan Grout as though she had been rammed, but all were near misses, partly because the bridge signaled the engine room for “full ahead” and, moving from a dead stop, the ammunition-laden vessel scurried away from the falling bombs in the nick of time. Not so lucky was a Dutch ship, hit by bombs and sunk nearby. Third Mate Wonson of the Colin Kelly sang “Praise the Lord and Pass the ammunition” as hot shrapnel bounced off the deck plates and hissed in the water overside. When hot shell fragments started a fire amid gasoline tins in a forward hold of the Jonathan Grout, two ABs instantly climbed into the hold and just put it out. Just before noon on July 13, without any air raid warning, a pair of Stukas dropped over the mountains that lined the bay, and plummeted onto the anchorage with their engines cut out. Lookouts saw them too late. So sudden and so silent was the attack that not a shell was fired at them till they had blown their target to pieces and were skipping safely back to their bases. A convoy en route to Russia fights in the North Atlantic in July 1942. An enemy plane, hit by anti-aircraft fire, crashes into a U.S. merchant vessel, causing her to explode. The vessel at right is turning to avoid the conflagration. (Official U.S. Navy Photo) November 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to AS-D – Graduated September 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Dominick Bach, Andre Barbary Jr., Badr Bouziane, Susha Dore, Dakota Guthrie, Steven McKelvey, Samuel Schwimmer, Jonathan Silva, Oliver Vickers, Daniel Wood and Danielle Woodward. Electronic Navigation – Graduated September 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Diego Fernando Barbosa, David Brusco, Carlo Mateo Gentile, Jerome Luckett, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamed Eissa, Jorge A. Salas Santos and Anthony Dwight Sanchez Villarrubia. Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated September 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Ion Irimia, Maximo Lacayo Mena, Anecito Taladua Limboy, Ricky McClenton, Allan Tadle Oculam, Lance Spain, Carlos Velasquez, Michael Wees, Johnathan Williams and Ameen Abdo Yahya. November 2020 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineering Plant Management – Graduated October 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Joshua Nino Bonita, Nicolas Brailsford, Ashley Burke, Carlos Guzman, Daryl Hicks, Christopher Hinton and Wordell Prescott. Their instructor, William Dodd, is at the far left. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated October 2 (above, in alphabetical order): Gunnar Anderson, Juan Barquera, Ramesh Chawaria, Kevin Cottrell, Gregory Davis, Darryl Dewitt, Gerald Flowers, Jasmin Franklin, Eric Greenawalt, Curtis Jasa, Jevon Lowery, Sarah Superman, Brian Tait and Tinesha Travis. Basic Training Revalidation – Graduated September 18 (above, in alphabetical order): William Born, William Churney, Donita Dowdell, Terry Fowler, Sanjay Gupta, Marvin James, Michael Joel, Brett Tiedeman and John Walsh. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 18 Seafarers LOG November 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes Chief Steward – Graduated September 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohsen Ali Mohammed Al-Adani, Ryan Marquez Gallano, Bryan Nystrom, Luis Enrique Santiago Sotero and Ian Schluder. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward Special – Joshua Hinton, above, completed his requirements and graduated from this course October 2. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated September 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Virnabeth Tomo Cano, Jada Gay, Janelle Harper, Joseph Huls, Marcel Jubert, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Diane MacDonald, William Johan Otero Munoz, Latrel Ross and Kendra Williams. Chief Cook Assessment Program – Graduated September 4 (above, in alphabetical order): Naulka Persian Caines, Hussein Abdul Hussein, Tony Jenkins, Paul Newman and Glen Ward. November 2020 Seafarers LOG 19 �VOLUME 82, NO. 11 NOVEMBER 2020 El Faro Remembrance Page 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 ‘One of the Most Bitterly Fought Battles’ Editor’s note: This is the seventh installment from a 1951 booklet titled “The Seafarers in World War II.” Penned by the late SIU historian John Bunker, the publication recapped SIU members’service in the War. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives to wartime service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Earlier segments are available on the SIU website and in print beginning with the May 2020 edition of the LOG. (We are tentatively planning to post a PDF of the entire booklet on the SIU website once all of the text has been published here.) This one picks up as Bunker describes the infamous Convoy PQ-17. The first few paragraphs also appeared in the October LOG but are included here for continuity. One of the most dramatic and yet tragic episodes of the war at sea involved Convoy PQ-17, better known as among SIU seamen as the “Fourth of July” Convoy to north Russia. Seamen of the Seafarers International Union and its affiliate, the Sailors Union of the Pacific, have very personal interest in this convoy, because they manned most of the 20 American freighters in the 33-ship fleet. PQ-17 was heavily protected when it left Reykjavik on June 27, 1942. For convoy patrol and defense there was a heavy task force consisting of destroyers, sloops, corvettes, two “ack ack” ships, several armed trawlers, three rescue vessels and two British submarines that hoped for a chance to torpedo any big German men o’ war that might be lured out to attack the fleet. Heavy escorts included the cruisers HMS London, HMS Norfolk, USS Wichita, and USS Tuscaloosa. Covering the convoy’s flank about 100 miles to the east was another battle fleet, numbering the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious, British battleship Duke of York, USS Washington (battleship), several cruisers and numerous destroyers. Quick Attacks Soon after leaving Iceland, PQ-17 was spotted by a Nazi Blohm and Voss patrol plane that kept a constant vigil over the convoy’s course, directing subs and planes to the attack. In the early morning of July 4, a doughty Heinkel defied the escort, darted through a bank of mist, and torpedoed the Liberty ship Christopher Newport (Calmar) with its 9,000 tons of war supplies. That afternoon a flight of 25 torpedocarrying Heinkels attacked from astern and braved a hail of anti-aircraft fire to sink the freighters Navarino (Br.) and William Hooper (Am.) and hit the Russian tanker Azerbaidjan, which, however, did not sink and rejoined the fleet. Another “tin fish” missed the SIU-manned Bellingham by a few feet. Gordon Small, seaman on the Ironclad, recounts how the bombers plowed right up through the convoy lanes against terrific fire, losing their torpedoes and firing at the ships with their machine guns. A plane passed so close to the Ironclad they could see the face of the pilot and the gunner. Bullets from the old Browning .50s on the Ironclad seemed to bounce off the bombers like hail on a tin roof. This was dramatic and costly evidence that the Germans intended to stop Convoy PQ-17 from delivering its 188,000 tons of freight to the Russians. But, despite the warning, the convoy commodore signaled this message to his merchantmen at 8:30 on the evening of July 4: “Scatter fanwise and proceed independently to destination at utmost speed.” Three ships had already been lost despite The covering forces of the PQ-17 Convoy (British and American ships) are shown at anchor in the harbor at Hvalfjord, Iceland, May 1942. (U.S. Navy photo) the heavy naval escort. Now the merchantmen were to be left “on their own” with no more than .30- and .50-caliber machine guns and a few three-inch guns for defense! The order had come from London. Only the armed trawlers, several corvettes and the three rescue ships were left with the freighters and they hurried off independently at top speed. When the cruisers and destroyers dashed away the Bellingham was close behind the little rescue ship Rathlin. Not intending to be completely deserted if he could help it, Captain Mortenson told Chief Engineer Saltsman to “give us every bit of steam you can squeeze out of those boilers.” The watch below really produced, and the Bellingham stuck right on the tail of the annoyed Rathlin despite its repeated signals to “get away.” The Bellingham turned up 14 knots in its hour of desperate need and made it safely into Archangel after numerous adventures, still in company with the rescue ship. When the convoy scattered, the old Ironclad was alongside the Panamanian freighter Troubador, which trailed a continual column of heavy smoke from her coalburning fires, and near the Silver Sword. The little British armed trawler Ayershire steamed up and said, bravely enough, that she would “convoy” them to Nova Zembla. The only escort ship with “guts” enough to stay by the deserted merchantmen was this one-time fisherman. Under escort of the doughty Ayershire, the Silver Sword and Ironclad spent three days in heavy pack ice, which protected them from subs; arrived safely in Nova Zembla and, later, made it through to Russia. First ship to go down after the convoy scattered was the SS Carlton, torpedoed in the deep tanks. Her survivors were picked up by a German seaplane and submarine and others rowed to the coast of Norway. After being taken prisoner, they also survived the torpedoing of a German prisonerof-war transport. Next to get it was the Matson Company’s SUP-manned Honomu. She went down in 10 minutes with 19 of her crew. Heavy Ship Toll Soon after, the SIU-manned Pan Kraft was attacked by three Junkers 88s and set afire, her 5,000 tons of bombers and air- plane parts lost amid the mists of the icy Arctic. In succession went the British freighters Empire Byron, Earlston, and River Afton. A gift for Hitler they were! Unescorted and lightly armed merchantmen against powerful bombers and U-boats! The American freighter Peter Kerr gallantly fought off 7 torpedo planes with four machine guns, but the unequal contest was soon ended and this brave ship also went to the bottom. About the same time the SS Washington edged along an ice pack in company with the Bolton Castle (Br.) and the Paulus Potter (Dutch). Nine Junkers dive bombers attacked, blowing up the Bolton Castle and sinking the Washington after many near misses had caused her to leak like a sieve. Later, they got the Paulus Potter, too. The SS Olopana (another Matson, SUP ship) hove by and offered to pick up the Washington survivors, who were pulling toward Nova Zembla amid gusts of snow and big chunks of drift ice. “No,” they shouted. “You’ll only get sunk, too.” And sunk the Olopana was – only a few hours later. Pan-Atlantic Dies Survivors from these ships then pulled through freezing weather to the mountainous coasts of bleak Nova Zembla where, after “celebrating” over a feast of duck and sea gull soup, they were picked up by the SS Empire Tide and other assorted vessels that had made it there to take shelter under the cliffs. An epic fight against overwhelming odds, meanwhile was waged by the SIUmanned Pan Atlantic, a Waterman ship which had an armament of four .50 caliber machine guns. “Nineteen of the merchant crew and seven Navy gunners were killed while defending this ship,” says the official Navy report about the Pan Atlantic. They stuck by their guns even while a Junkers dropped its lethal load on them from a height of only 4,000 feet – safe beyond machine gun fire. The bombs exploded in the cargo, knocked the foremast on top of the wheelhouse, and severed the ship completely just forward of the bridge. She filled and quickly sank with a very valuable cargo of oil stills, aluminum, nickel, food, tanks and cordite. Courageous Crews Shortly after the Pan Atlantic went down, a sub torpedoed the SIU-manned Alcoa Ranger and the Hartlebury (Br.), many of whose crew froze to death trying to reach Nova Zembla. The Liberty ship Daniel Morgan shot down two dive bombers before a sub got her. It took three torpedoes to sink the Liberty Ship John Witherspoon, whose men were picked up after a daring decision by Captain John Thevik of the SS El Capitan (Pan.), to stop his ship for the rescue, even though a sub was close behind at the time. By the 7th of July, Convoy PQ-17 had lost 18 ships. Almost 100,000 tons of war cargoes had been sent to the bottom of the Arctic and the Barents Sea, to be lost forever. It was on the 7th, incidentally, that the plucky Bellingham was hit by a torpedo which did not explode, although the concussion blew out the lights and knocked the watch off their feet. The SIU-manned Ironclad of the Waterman Company, the Troubador and the Silver Sword and the trawler Ayrshire ran into thick pack ice, then hit on the happy idea of painting their hulls white and covering as much as the topsiders as possible with sheets and blankets. Trick Succeeds This camouflage helped them to evade attack in getting to Nova Zembla and, finally, to the White Sea. Several other freighters of the convoy made it safely to Nova Zembla, where they joined some escort vessels to steam the last lap without further loss, arriving in Archangel July 25. Another segment of the ill-fated fleet had made the dash from Nova Zembla toward Cape Kanin on July 7, accompanied by corvettes and armed trawlers. Included were the freighters Hoosier, Ocean Freedom (Br.), Benjamin Harrison (Calmar) and El Capitan (Pan.). They were later joined by the Liberty ship Samuel Chase (SUP). The Hoosier and El Capitan were sunk short of their destination in violent air atContinued on Page16 � 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 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond 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 November 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: THOUSANDS OF MARINERS STUCK AT SEA AS CREW CHANGE CRISIS CONTINUES PLANNING, TEAMWORK RESULT IN SUCCESSSFUL REOPENING SIU SAFETY TEAM MEETS FOR VIRTUAL SUMMIT MAERSK ACHIEVES SAFETY MILESTONE HOUSE PASSES 'CLEAN ECONOMY JOBS' BILL U.S. REP WITTMAN SHARES VIEW: 'AMERICA IS A MARITIME NATION' CONGRESS EXPRESSES STRONG BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR CREATION OF U.S. TANKER SECURITY FLEET TOTE HONORS EL FARO CREW WITH CEREMONY 'THE SIU TOOK ME WHEN NOBODY ELSE WOULD' WHOOPING COUGH POSES DANGERS TO ALL AGE GROUPS 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 11/1/2020 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. 82, No. 11 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8c3607e294ac82f94e410d5d4b520f2e.pdf 666de202891b8a61071a519fab0d0a28 PDF Text Text NOVEMBER 2021 VOLUME 83, NO. 11 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 SIU Gains Jobs As Tanker Reflags Seafarers are sailing aboard the recently reflagged tanker Pohang Pioneer (main photo). Some of the first crew members are pictured in the photo inset at immediate right. Page 3. (Ship photo by Bengt-Rune Inberg) Bosuns Complete Recertification The union’s newest group of recertified bosuns (photo at right) graduated in early October. They’re pictured with SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right) at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. From left are Brian Guiry, Lionel Rivas, Tavell Love, Richard Grubbs, Samuel Porchea, Sacco and Joseph Gierbolini. Page 7. Members Ratify More Contracts An exceptionally busy year for SIU contract negotiations continued with the recent ratifications of three new agreements – at G&H Towing, Crowley Towing and Transportation, and NCL. Pages 3, 6. Seafarers Persevere Through ‘Ida’ Page 4 Joint Maritime Labor Statement Page 2 �President’s Report More on PRO Act During the White House Labor Day observance, both President Biden and AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler emphasized the importance of passing legislation that would boost workers’ rights. Biden reiterated his full support for the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, while Shuler explained why the bill remains organized labor’s top legislative priority. The bill already passed in the House of Representatives but faces challenges in the Senate, mainly because of a likely filibuster. It has been several months since I wrote about the PRO Act. For those who missed the earlier communication or who are interested in a refresher, I’ll start by pointing out that nearly half of all nonunion workers (more than 60 million people) would join a union today if given the chance, according to non-partisan polling. Public approval of unions, at 65 percent, has reached one of its highest marks in decades. Michael Sacco Union members can bargain for higher wages and are much more likely to have health care and a pension. The union advantage is even greater for people of color, women, immigrants, and others who have confronted workplace discrimination. A union contract is a potent weapon because it establishes fair and transparent systems for hiring and firing, wages and more. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935 was a staple of the New Deal. The NLRA led to a groundswell of organizing that built the greatest middle class in history. Immediately after World War II, though, some corporations and their anti-worker political allies started conspiring to render the law toothless. They got pro-business congresses in 1947 and 1959 to weaken the law. In recent decades, employers have violated the NLRA with impunity, routinely denying workers their basic right to join with co-workers for fairness on the job. Things have gotten so bad, there is an entire union-busting industry that basically works nonstop to block workers from exercising those rights. And, according to the AFL-CIO, in nearly half of all union organizing drives, employers break the law. They lie, threaten, and routinely fire union supporters. Workers are forced to attend mandatory meetings focused on union-bashing. Any fines for this illegal behavior are often inconsequential. This explains how we have reached the point where more than 60 million people would vote to join a union, but only one in 10 workers actually has one. Not coincidentally, as the collective strength of workers to negotiate for better pay and benefits has eroded, the gap between rich and poor has reached levels unseen since the Great Depression. The fall of union density has been a direct cause of rising inequality over the past four decades. Passing the PRO Act will update the NLRA and give workers a fair opportunity to join or form a union. Once workers vote to form a union, the PRO Act will require the National Labor Relations Board to set a time limit for the employer to commence bargaining a first contract. (Too often, when workers choose to form a union, employers stall the bargaining process to avoid reaching an agreement.) The PRO act includes many other benefits for workers and their families – and their employers. Workers who have a voice on the job are the best kind. Significantly, the PRO Act will finally end so-called “right to work” (for less) laws once and for all. These laws have been promoted by a network of billionaires and special interest groups in an effort to divide working people and give more power to corporations at the expense of workers. They have had the effect of lowering wages and eroding pensions and health care coverage in states where they have been adopted. We’ve got a great opportunity to help enact the PRO Act. The SIU will continue pushing to make it reality by getting it through the Senate and onto President Biden’s desk for signature. Message from Maritime Labor Editor’s note: A signed copy of this letter is available on the SIU website. September 29, 2021 COVID-19 is here to stay. Our members aboard vessels remain in grave danger with the Delta variant on the loose. Many of our organizations have lost members to ravages of the disease; including some who have lost their lives while aboard ship. Several ships have had serious outbreaks over the last 18-plus months, even as recently as this month. Our advocacy for a consistent, reliable, and rapid testing regimen for mariners proved to be worthwhile and effective. Now, with the supply chain and military security of the country at risk, we ask that all of our members educate themselves on the vaccines and choose to get vaccinated. This is primarily for the safety of our shipmates and family members, but also to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on the industry. It is a matter of future industry stability and mariner job security. As we stated in our July 2020 letter, each shipowner/operator has established their own diverging policies and protocol, and they vary greatly from employer to employer, even from ship to ship, depending on shipboard culture. In the absence of a uniform and government-enforced protocol during vessel in-port time, critical evolutions such as cargo operations, vendor/contractor access and shipyard repairs remain essentially unregulated and haphazard. This is an unacceptable situation that is beyond the control of ship’s personnel and is a reason to be fully vaccinated at the earliest opportunity. We must continue taking every precaution against the Coronavirus as recommended by company protocols and by applicable CDC guidelines, including vaccination. Masks, social distancing, hand and respiratory hygiene, cleaning and sani- tizing have now become routine, but the best additional precaution for shipmates and families includes becoming vaccinated. Labor is working together and using every advantage to both protect your health and safeguard your rights. With infection rates spiking due to the Delta variant, we must maintain vigilance and discipline. Employers may intervene with reasonable or ineffective workplace policy; either way we will let them know that our contract rights remain in place. We understand the stress and anxiety of working in persistent and intensified danger and so we support fair and common-sense safety practices ashore and at sea. Your dedication, professionalism and perseverance are recognized, and your efforts are best honored by ensuring your own safety and the safety of others aboard ship buy getting vaccinated. Please continue to notify your Union if you have concerns regarding potential or actual COVID-19 exposure or the safety of your vessel. Wishing all health, safety, and fraternity, Michael Sacco, President, Seafarers International Union Paul Doell, President, American Maritime Officers Adam Vokac, President, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association Anthony Poplawski, President/Secretary-Treasurer, Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders and Wipers Association Don Marcus, President, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots Dave Connolly, President, Sailors Union of the Pacific COVID-19 In Numbers n There have been at least 700,000 deaths in the United States. n More than 43 million cases in all 50 states, U.S. territories and Washington, D.C., have been reported. n Globally, there have been more than 234 million cases and more than 4.8 million deaths confirmed. n More than 6.32 billion vaccine doses have been administered worldwide. Source: World Health Organization NMC Commander Visits Piney Point 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 83 Number 11 November 2021 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 Capital Gateway Drive; 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2021 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education welcomed National Maritime Center (NMC) commanding officer Capt. Bradley Clare (left) for a campus tour Sept. 24. He’s pictured at the school with SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (right) and PHC Instructor Roy Graham. Clare took the helm at the NMC this summer. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG November 2021 �The newest addition to the SIU-crewed deep-sea fleet is on a regular run between Japan and Korea. Union Welcomes New Shipboard Jobs Reflagged Vessel Joins SIU-Contracted Fleet SIU members are sailing aboard the recently reflagged tanker Pohang Pioneer – an outright addition to the Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) fleet. Built in 2018 by Dae Sun Shipbuilding & Engineering Co. in Korea, the shallowdraft vessel is 357 feet long, has a beam of 59 feet and can sail at around 18 knots. It previously sailed under the Panamanian flag before hoisting the Stars and Stripes this fall. “The ship is in good condition,” said Bosun Ahmed Mohammed Ghaleb. “Our run is between Japan and Korea. The food is great and the crew is happy.” Joining the bosun as some of the first crew members aboard the reflagged vessel (operated by U.S. Marine Management for MLL) were ABs Ahmed Kassem, Larry Rawlins and Hiten Shrimankar, QE2 Alex-Stephen Amarra, QE3 Jose Bonita, QE3 James Rodweller, Chief Stew- ard Rudy Lopez and Chief Cook Steven Johnson. “The union appreciates this opportunity for additional work and, as always, I’m totally confident that the membership will live up to their consistent level of top-notch performance and professionalism aboard the Pohang Pioneer,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. MLL was established in 1983 to support the conversion and operation of five maritime prepositioning ships on behalf of the United States Navy. Today, the company owns more than 20 U.S.-flag ships operating around the world to support the United States with military, government, and humanitarian missions. MLL participates in both the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) and the related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). Hoisting the U.S. Flag onboard the Pohang Pioneer (from center of flag, clockwise) are: Third Assistant Engineer Emily Blake, First Assistant Engineer Hunter Smith, Chief Cook Steven Johnson, Chief Engineer James Cook, Captain Chris Fox, Chief Mate Bill Harris, Third Mate Callum Foley, Bosun Ahmed Ghalib, Steward Rudy Lopez and AB Larry Rawlins. Members Ratifiy Pacts at Crowley, G&H Adding to an already packed year of contract negotiations, two more agreements were recently ratified by the membership – with Crowley Towing and Transportation and with G&H Towing, respectively. Each contract is for three years. The Crowley pact covers approximately 160 Seafarers. It took effect July 1, and was ratified by an overwhelming majority of the members. Highlights include yearly wage increases, as well as increased pension contributions, vacation benefit increases and November 2021 various area-specific gains. In addition, medical benefits were maintained at the Core Plus level. Representing the SIU on the negotiating committee were Assistant Vice President Mike Russo and rank-and-file delegates Ward Davis, Norman Skipper, Craig Perry, Peter de Maria and Ronald Boatwright. Negotiations took place via video conference calls in order to meet safety requirements. Meanwhile, members also voted in favor of the G&H con- tract by a large majority. The agreement covers roughly 340 Seafarers; it took effect Oct. 1. The new contract maintains all benefits at their existing levels, and expands parental paid leave to include adopted children. Negotiations took place in-person in Houston (with strong safety protocols in place), while voting took place on the tugs. Serving on the union negotiating committee were Russo, Port Agent Joe Zavala and Patrolman J.B. Niday, as well as delegates Jason Curtiss, Mark Kazin, Stephen Prendergast, Aaron Reed and Christopher Wootton. “Both sets of delegates did an outstanding job sticking together and fighting for everyone to get a raise,” said Russo. “They all worked hard and it shows in the final results, which are good contracts both for the members and for the companies.” Bargaining took place online (photo above) for the Crowley Towing and Transportation contract. The negotiating committees for the G&H Towing agreement (photo at left) are pictured in Houston following the conclusion of bargaining. SIU Port Agent Joe Zavala (third from left), SIU Assistant VP Mike Russo (sixth from left) and SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday (second from right) are among those pictured. Seafarers LOG 3 �New Orleans-Area Seafarers Persevere Through Hurricane, Maintain Professionalism on the Job Whether at home, on the job or upon returning after mandatory evacuation, SIU members in New Orleans endured Hurricane Ida with determination and professionalism. Many Seafarers continued working during the Category 4 storm, which made landfall in Louisiana on the sixteenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Ida struck Aug. 29 and continued inland, bringing catastrophic winds, massive rainfall and tornadoes, plus flooding storm surge along the coasts of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Even though it subsequently weakened, Ida still pummeled the northeastern U.S. with torrential rain. By late September, more than 100 deaths from the hurricane had been reported. Ida also knocked out much of Louisiana’s and Mississippi’s power grids, leaving more than one million customers without power (including all of New Orleans), some for more than two weeks. “Everybody in this area was impacted,” said SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook, who followed an evacuation order and left the region for more than a week. “This was a much more intense storm than Katrina but not a widespread flooding event like Katrina. This was more a wind event.” All things considered, Westbrook was pleasantly surprised to find that the hiring SIU-crewed Crescent Towing boats hold the SIU-crewed USNS Kennedy in place during the hurricane. SIU’s Heindel Among 2021 AOTOS Honorees The annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) awards dinner returns to an in-person format this year, and one of the three main honorees is especially well-known to Seafarers. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel has been named by the United Seamen’s Service (USS) as an AOTOS recipient, along with Maersk Line, Limited President and CEO Bill Woodhour and Chamber of Shipping of America President and CEO Kathy Metcalf. The traditional silver statuette of Christopher Columbus – the first Admiral of the Ocean Sea – will be accepted by the three honorees Dec. 3 4 Seafarers LOG hall in the New Orleans suburb of Harvey sustained fairly minor damage. The hall reopened Sept. 9, shortly after its power was restored. One of the hall’s rooftop air conditioning units blew off, and a number of trees fell nearby. “It could have been so much worse,” he said. “Once the hall had power and Wi-Fi, we made sure the members and retirees knew, so they could use it as a base of sorts. The internet connectivity alone was helpful for them to get information from FEMA and other relief agencies. We’ve also been able to assist members and retirees with some relief supplies – there’s a staging area near the hall, and we’re working with the local, state and national AFL-CIO, too.” Westbrook also credited members who stayed on the job at the height of the storm. “A lot of our tug guys went out and kept everybody safe,” he said. “These guys always step up to the plate. They understand it’s part of their job. They all have homes and families, too, but they ran right into danger. You’re out there in 120-, 140-mph winds on the Mississippi River…. They take pride in doing it.” One such member is tugboat Capt. Vic DiGiorgio, who has been a Seafarer for 37 years. “We don’t run away from hurricanes and storms,” he said. “We stay right in the heat of it, and afterwards, we help get the port straight. During storms, most of our boats are holding onto ships and moorings.” DiGiorgio was aboard Crescent Towing’s Margaret F. Cooper during Ida. That boat teamed up with the South Carolina and held the side-by-side, SIU-crewed Altair and Bellatrix in place at the dock for 24 hours. “We fared pretty well,” he said. “After that, we were pulling barges and boats that had gotten blown away. A lot of them got twisted up in anchorage.” DiGiorgio stayed on the job for three straight weeks. He returned home to find relatively minor damage to his roof. “I’m pretty lucky,” he said. “In our neighborhood, we all have tarps on our roofs, but I didn’t get it bad to where my sheetrock fell through. A tree also fell on a bunch of our vehicles at work (in the office parking lot), but I’m not complaining. During Katrina, I lost everything – all I had to my name was my sea bag.” Another of the vessels held in place by Crescent boats was the Cape Kennedy, in New York City. A special AOTOS Award will also be presented to Tony Naccarato, president and chairman of the American Maritime Officers Service, a Washington-based association comprised of some of the largest American-flag maritime companies. The aforementioned recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for acts of bravery at sea. LTG Kenneth R. Wykle, USA, (Ret.), chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee, noted, “With such deserving recipients, we are pleased to continue the rich 52-year history of this prestigious event.” He added, “Dave Heindel is an esteemed labor leader and a true friend to USS; Kathy Metcalf has brought a solid background in maritime affairs to her role at the Chamber, and Capt. Vic DiGiorgio (above) displays the flag that flew from the tug Margaret F. Cooper during the hurricane. A new flag (photo at right) took its place after the storm. where Recertified Bosun Mark Fleming worked during the storm. The Cape Knox was anchored next to it. “We had to pass out a bunch of extra lines, and that was a good idea, because we broke two,” Fleming recalled. “We just bounced around a bit, and after the storm we had broken lines to pick up. We were up all night and had to run out and tend to the tugboats a few times. The lines had lifted and got draped over [items] on deck, so we had to straighten those. By then, the storm was slacking off.” Fleming commended the Cape Kennedy’s crew for securing the vessel and added, “You’ve got to have the crew on there. If there was no one tending the ship, I’m sure it would’ve been a much different outcome…. The crew was outstanding, and everybody worked well. We’ve been through so many of these storms, I think we’re getting good at it.” The Kennedy maintained power (thanks to four massive generators) and temporarily served as a floating hotel for harbor police and other essential workers. As for his own house, Fleming’s circumstance largely mirrored that of DiGiorgio (and Westbrook). “I’ve got to get a new roof, but that’s all,” Fleming said. There are four or five bald spots. I’ve got a tarp on it and some tubs in the attic.” Pumpman Victor Martinez lives in LaPlace, Louisiana, and remained in his house when the hurricane hit, but he described an unusual circumstance and urged people not to follow his lead. Martinez was too ill to travel with his family, who fled to Houston. Otherwise, he said, he’d have joined them. “I thank God I’m alive,” Martinez said. “By the time I felt up to leaving, it was too late. I took as many precautions as I could take.” He noticed the wind increasing around 1 a.m. “and then I felt the house shaking, saw shingles flying, bent my knees and started praying. It felt like the house was going to pop off from the ground. There was so much pressure.” Martinez got a respite 90 minutes later, but only because the eye of the storm was passing over his home. Still, he emerged unharmed, and his house wasn’t ruined (though it did sustain broken windows, roof damage and a wrecked air conditioning unit). He said his daughter wasn’t as lucky – she lost everything, as did some of his acquaintances. “You don’t realize how powerful these storms are until you’re in them,” he concluded. “My advice is, it’s better to leave. Material things can be replaced. I thank God for everything.” David Heindel Bill Woodhour Kathy Metcalf Bill Woodhour now leads the important American-flag division of Maersk.” The AOTOS Award has been presented for 52 consecutive years, including 2020 when the pandemic dictated a virtual event. COVID-19 also did not stop the industry from fulfilling its collective role as part of the nation’s essential workforce, the USS pointed out when announcing this year’s awards. “Despite the pandemic, the American maritime industry – management and labor – continued moving and handling world commerce despite the personal risk and danger presented by COVID-19 globally,” said Wykle. “We are expecting the industry to turn out to honor this year’s leaders and the brave seafarers who will also be recognized at the event.” 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 overseas. November 2021 �Biden: Unions are ‘America’s Heart and Soul’ White House Hosts Labor Day Ceremony Honoring Workers “Everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity. And that’s what the labor union is all about: dignity.” President Biden credited his late father with regularly reinforcing that message, and the commander in chief shared it during his remarks at a Sept. 8 White House ceremony celebrating Labor Day. Also speaking at the event were Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh (a former union member) and AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, among others. Biden, always enthusiastic when discussing the labor movement, expressed strong confidence in Shuler, who recently was elected to lead the federation after the unexpected passing of AFLCIO President Richard Trumka. Previously, she had served as secretary-treasurer since 2009. “I know you didn’t expect to be in this role at this moment,” Biden said to Shuler during the ceremony, “but as I told you before, I believe that the future of American labor is in very good hands. I really mean it.” He continued, “In my White House, labor will always be welcome. I intend to be the most pro-union president leading the most pro-union administration in American history.” After observing a moment of silence for workers who’ve died from COVID-19 and for both Trumka and retired AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, who passed away Aug. 5 and Feb. 1, respectively, Biden stated, “One of the things I admired about Rich is that he understood what people in this economy are really facing…. He understood what had happened to workers in this country, like you do. Rich understood the past and the challenges, like so many of you who lived and led through these moments. But he also understood the future. He understood who built this country and the tools that were needed to build it back and build it back better.” Biden reminded the audience (including those watching online) that unions “fundamentally transformed how we live and how we work in this country.” He cited “the victories won by labor: the eight-hour day; the weekend; time-and-a-half for overtime; safety standards; sick days – victories for all of us. When you all do that, everybody benefits, whether they belong to a union or not. When unions win, workers across the board win. Families win, community wins, America wins. We grow. And despite this, workers have been getting cut out of the deal for too long a time.” He described a long period of shared prosperity from the late 1940s until 1979, at which time “everything began to change. Productivity in the country has grown almost four times faster than pay since 1979. That means the workers have been giving much more to their employers’ bottom lines than they’ve gotten back in their paychecks, breaking the basic bargain of this country. The bargain was: If you work hard and you contribute to the welfare of the outfit you work with, you got to share in the benefits. Well, that stopped for a long time. That’s what got taken away for a lot of people. Instead, some people started seeing the stock market and corporate profits and ex- President Biden reiterates his support for the labor movement. ecutive pay as the only measure for economic growth. “By the way, the stock market has gone up exponentially since I’ve been president,” he continued. “You haven’t heard me say a word about it…. My measure of economic success is how families, like mine growing up – working families busting their neck – how they’re doing; whether they have a little breathing room; whether they have a job that delivers some dignity, a paycheck they can support a family on. Simply put, worker power is essential to building our economy back better than before.” He described key executive orders he has signed to boost workers’ rights and reiterated his total backing of labor’s top legislative priority, the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. “When Congress passed the 1935 Labor Relations Act, it didn’t just say you can have unions – (that) it should be allowed,” Biden stated. “It said that we, the government, should encourage unions and collective bargaining, making it easier. And I believe every worker should have a free and fair choice to join a union. The law guarantees that choice. That belongs to workers, not to their employers or to special interests.” He said there are numerous reasons for workers to choose union representation. “We know the economic reasons: Union members get higher wages, better benefits, like health insurance and paid leave, protections against discrimination and harassment, and a safer and healthier workplace,” Biden explained. “But there’s another reason – a basic American reason. Workers who join unions gain power – power over the decisions and the decision-makers that affect their lives. Workers’ voices are heard and heeded. In a simple word, a union means there is democracy. Democracy. Organizing, joining a union – that’s democracy in action. And it’s about dignity on the job, but it’s also about creating good jobs.” Shuler thanked the president and Vice President Kamala Harris for “leading the most proworker administration in U.S. history.” She said the labor movement “is the single most powerful force for progress in the United States. In the past two centuries, industry by industry – in factories, mines, and mills – we challenged inhumane conditions. We created safety standards. We transformed grim, dangerous work into good, sustainable union jobs. This administration gets it. That’s how unions built the American middle class.” She credited the union members who’ve helped keep the economy afloat during the pandemic before turning to the future of organized labor. “We’re building a modern, inclusive labor movement,” Shuler said. “A movement in every sector and every community, with women and people of color moving from the margins, to the center. Unions are the best way to guarantee equal pay, close wage gaps and fight discrimination at work. We create pathways to the middle class for veterans, for those who’ve been sidelined – for everyone. The power of a good, sustainable union job is life-changing. That’s why 68 percent of Americans and 77 percent of young people support labor unions. That’s the highest approval ratings in over half a century.” She added, “Everything is lined up. We’ve got the public on our side, workers standing up and taking risks, and the most pro-union administration in history. This is our moment! And shame on us if we don’t take advantage of it. But with labor laws written in 1935, and the corporate attacks that have chipped them away over time, today it’s actually easier to stop a union than it is to form one.” Walsh spoke at the event and also issued a proclamation that read in part, “This is a Labor Day like no other. The pandemic has changed how our country thinks about work – and working people. It has showed us how much we depend on essential workers, including many vulnerable and low-paid workers. And it proved that we can transform our working conditions. So, as we celebrate adding more than 4.5 million new jobs to the economy since January, I invite workers and employers all across our country to imagine a better, more just and more sustainable partnership. “To establish this new reality, the Department of Labor will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with workers morning, noon and night,” he continued. “From investing in a care economy that allows workers to thrive in their jobs while caring for their families, to building a more inclusive workforce and ensuring that the loss of a job doesn’t mean the loss of financial wellbeing, we stand with America’s workers – and the unions that support them. The Biden-Harris administration’s ambitious agenda will address the persistent injustices and inequities that organized labor has been fighting for more than a century, and my colleagues and I are proud to help carry out this critical effort.” AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler thanks the president and Vice President Kamala Harris for “leading the most pro-worker administration in U.S. history.” DOL Secretary Marty Walsh explains his firsthand knowledge of the numerous benefits of union membership. Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (left) is pictured with President Biden shortly after the president’s speech. November 2021 Seafarers LOG 5 �Seafarers Unanimously Ratify NCL Contract New Agreement Features Numerous Improvements Seafarers recently left no doubt about their view of a new contract between the union and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Members unanimously ratified a nineyear agreement described by several as “groundbreaking” for cruise ships, due to how closely its wages and many other economic elements come to mirroring the SIU standard freightship agreement. Voting took place Sept. 24 in Portland, Oregon, aboard the SIU-crewed Pride of America – the only U.S.-flag deep-sea cruise ship. “This is an outstanding contract, as reflected by the overwhelming support of the membership,” said SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez. “It’s a fair and beneficial agreement for both sides. I extend my sincere compliments to everyone involved in the negotiations.” Bosun Maximo Aguiran stated, “The SIU-NCL agreement of enhanced economic terms has exceeded our expectations – better benefits, good wages, and more money in our pockets. Thank you, SIU.” Engine Storekeeper Bryan Wells said, “The wage increase gives newer members the opportunity to not have to worry so much about trying to earn a living wage, especially while trying to get their time in for seniority. I hope this will help remove any stigma about this vessel and instead show the opportunity it can be for those members who are trying to get a start in our industry. It’s definitely a nice starting point that we can hopefully continue to im- prove upon in the future.” Assistant Engine Storekeeper Tanya Awong also is pleased with the contract. “Thank you to SIU and its officials for the wage increase and enhanced economic terms,” she said. “I’m very thankful for what we got. It has been a long road with NCL, especially as I started with SEATU (an SIU-affiliated union), then crossed over into SIU. I’ve seen many contract changes over the years. I believe by far this is the greatest, and I look forward to my continued employment with NCL.” Negotiations for enhancements to the contract began in late 2019, and were put on hold for several months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the SIU and NCL agreed to a contract extension earlier this year and bargaining resumed, with the union and company negotiating committees meeting numerous times (multiple times per week in some cases). “Both committees worked tirelessly, and that included nights, weekends and holidays,” SIU Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell said. “The aim was to achieve an agreement that was more in line with the industry standard agreements, and I believe we achieved that with most of the major economic elements. Frankly, the package far exceeds what has been in effect historically in this market. I’m happy all the hard work paid off and we were able to deliver such a robust package for the membership!” SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski stated, “The contract reflects continued stability and continued partnership. I think everyone’s focus now is to get this market back into play, relative to the challenges of the pandemic.” The contract includes a completely new wage schedule with increased rates effective Oct. 1, 2021, providing average boosts between two and four percent to base wage rates (depending on rating) and an adjusted overtime rate schedule equivalent to a 30 percent increase. The agreement also includes across-the-board increases of three percent for all wages effective April 1, 2022 and each anniversary thereafter. The Seafarers Vacation Plan benefit will increase by one day each year until 2027 from the current level of nine days of additional base pay for each 30 days worked. As of April 1, 2027, the benefit will be 15 for 30. Additionally, the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan benefit will increase from the current three percent of base wages on the following schedule: April 1, 2022, four percent of all base wages; April 1, 2024, five percent of all base wages. The pact also maintains medical and pension benefits at the respective highest levels. Other features of the new agreement include increases to safety shoes reimbursement; boosts to the level of maintenance and cure payments; and enhanced payments for loss of personal property. Principle negotiators for the union and Members ratify the contract, which features wage increases and other gains. Pictured aboard the vessel from left are SIU Port Agent Warren Asp, Engine Storekeeper Bryan Wells and Bosun Maximo Aguiran. company bargaining teams, respectively, were Powell and NCL Senior Vice President of Shipboard Talent Management Christian R. Weindorf. Lynn White, executive vice president and chief talent officer at NCL, provided the following statement: “Norwegian Cruise Line continually reviews our compensation and benefits structure, allowing us a competitive edge in attracting and retaining the best talent in each area of our operation. An extension of this commitment is our partnership with the SIU. By working together over many months of bargaining, we’ve agreed on an outstanding compensation package, including an increased pay structure and ongoing benefit enhancements over the life of the agreement. We are very pleased that the SIU membership ratified it unanimously, as we believe it will greatly benefit our existing shipboard SIU members and strengthen our recruitment efforts in the future. We thank the SIU for its continued commitment and partnership with NCL, and our existing shipboard SIU members for their support, hard work and dedication, especially during these challenging times.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Understanding Symptoms One Could Expect With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The September edition of the LOG (PDF available at seafarerslog.org) includes a piece about type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes (adult onset) is the most common form of diabetes. It means that your body does not use insulin correctly. There is an impairment in the way the body regulates and uses sugar (glucose) as a fuel. There are long­ term (chronic) conditions that can result if too much sugar continues to circulate in the bloodstream for a prolonged period. High blood glucose will do damage to the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems. In type 2 diabetes, there are two problems at work. Your pancreas may not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into the cell); and the body’s cells respond poorly to the insulin and take in less sugar (a metabolic issue). Some people are able to control their blood sugar levels by taking 6 Seafarers LOG their prescribed medications, eating healthy and exercising regularly. An important part of managing type 2 diabetes is to maintain a well-balanced diet. This includes eating nutritious, healthful foods. Fitness is another key to managing type 2. Just get moving. Find an activity that you like. Take a partner with you on your daily exercise routine. Remember the symptoms for type 2 diabetes are: increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, unintended weight loss, feeling very tired, blurred vision, frequent infections that may not heal, and numbness or tingling of the hands or feet. There is no cure for type 2 diabetes. Losing weight, eating well, and exercising can help to manage the disease. There are many different types of medications on the market that will also help to keep blood glucose down. Keep your doctor’s appointments and check your blood glucose levels as instructed to live a long and healthier life. Healthy Recipe Roasted Chili Rubbed Chicken Legs Servings: 25 Ingredients 12 pounds chickenleg Rub Recipe 1/2 cup chili powder 3 1/4 tablespoons paprika 3/4 tablespoon granulated garlic 2 tablespoons kosher salt 1/2 tablespoon cumin 2 tablespoons brown sugar 312 Calories; 20g Fat (58.1% calories from fat); 29g Protein; 3g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 132mg Cholesterol; 602mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 11/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. (Provided by Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Preparation Mix all of the rub ingredients together. Season the chicken legs with the rub all over. Place the seasoned chicken on sheet pans. Roast the chicken in a 325’f oven for 25-30 minutes until an internal temperature of 165’f is reached. Garnish the cooked chicken with chopped parsley. Nutritional Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): November 2021 �Six Bosuns Reach Highest Level of Deck Department After completing an intensive and allencompassing curriculum, six bosuns are the latest to complete recertification. Seafarers Joseph Gierbolini, Richard Grubbs, Brian Guiry, Tavell Love, Samuel Porchea and Lionel Rivas graduated from the course Oct. 4, when they were introduced at the membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. Their two-week curriculum, offered at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC), concluded as they were presented with their respective certificates of completion. During their training, the members received hands-on instruction and high-level refresher courses, as well as attending face-to-face meetings with union and plans officials along with various representatives from different departments within the SIU and the school. In keeping with tradition, each bosun gave a brief graduation speech to the assembled union officials, fellow mariners, trainees and guests in attendance at the membership meeting. They expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the union, and specifically thanked their instructors, port agents and other officials. Profiles of the bosuns and excerpts from their speeches follow. Joseph Gierbolini Gierbolini sails out of Jacksonville, Florida, but he joined the union in Puerto Rico in 1999. He opened his remarks with a quote from author Patrick O’Brian: “Injustice is a rule of the service, as you know very well; and since you have to have a good deal of undeserved abuse, you might just as well have it from your friends.” He then followed up by saying, “This is not an easy life that we choose. But it builds a brotherhood, a friendship that very few people will ever understand who do not serve in it. “It has been a long stretch of ocean, but I am proud to call myself a sailor, and proud to call myself a bosun,” he added. Gierbolini described his time in Piney Point as “excellent. I have been waiting a long time for the opportunity to get into this class,” he said. He also thanked those who helped him join the union in the first place: “I would not have been able to do any of this without (former SIU Port Agent and current Recertified Bosun) Victor Nunez, who first got me into the union. I would also like to thank my uncle Tony, and my mentor Mike Burns. Together, I owe my position and my career to you.” He concluded by addressing his fellow bosuns, saying, “You are all my friends. We have made this journey together. Master or bosun, mate or ordinary seamen, we have made this trek together. We are brothers, we are friends, we are seamen.” Recertified Bosun Richard Grubbs Recertified Bosun Samuel Porchea Recertified Bosun Joseph Gierbolini Everything that I have – my home, my family – I have gotten that through the union.” A frequent upgrader, he remarked on the improvements to the facilities at Piney Point: “I have been very impressed with the upgrades to the school. I believe it will put the SIU ahead of the other training facilities.” He then thanked the instructors and staff of the school for their hard work, and complimented the quality of the recertified bosun course. Grubbs said he particularly benefited from the leadership training, which he is confident will bolster his performance when he returns to sea. Addressing the apprentices, he stated, “I call upon you to look beyond the SIU as a job, and look at the union as a brotherhood and as a way of life…. We have a strong union that has allowed me to reach my goals in life, and for that I especially want to thank [SIU President] Mike Sacco. This union will allow you to get to the goals you set.” strongest framework I could ever imagine to continue to build from.” Reflecting on his time as a patrolman, Guiry recalled, “Being a part of the network of support that the union offers deepened my pride and appreciation for what we as the rank and file have in this organization. I learned the real importance of programs like SPAD. I saw firsthand how hard our officials and staff work to maintain our union. I am forever grateful for the experience, and I carry it with me every day aboard the ship when I am out there. I cannot thank you all enough for what you have done for myself, and for the rest of the membership.” He concluded, “I extend a very special thank you to my wife, Ashley, my rock. I could not do what I do at sea without her support. To my parents, who gave me the most valuable gift in life – a strong work ethic. To (SIU Gulf Coast Vice President) Dean Corgey, for giving me the opportunity to work in Jacksonville, alongside the man who became my mentor, (retired Assistant Vice President) Archie Ware, and my partner at the counter, Port Agent Ashley Nelson. And to the current crew at the Jacksonville hall, (Patrolman) Adam Bucalo, (Patrolman) Eddie Pittman and (Safety Director) Joseph Koncul, who I am proud to call my union brothers.” actually got me my first job as a bosun.” He then thanked the officials in Jacksonville before also expressing gratitude for his wife and kids. “This experience has taught me a lot, as far as what goes on behind the scenes and all the hard work the executive board does to ensure the stability of not only the SIU, but the industry as a whole,” he concluded. “I now see why it’s so important to donate to SPAD. It gives our small population (as mariners) a chance to step in the door and be heard by lawmakers. To the trainees, just remember to be smart with your money, and take advantage of the [pension] plans. Enjoy life!” Richard Grubbs After his Navy career, Grubbs joined the union in San Francisco in 1996. He opened by crediting the union for his success, saying, “I speak to you today as a member of the SIU. As a member, I have reached my goals. Brian Guiry Guiry took an unusual path to becoming a recertified bosun, taking a detour and becoming an SIU patrolman in Jacksonville from 2009 until 2014. He joined the union in 1999 in Jacksonville, and graduated from the school in PHC Apprentice Class 593. “My first ship in phase two sailed around the world,” he said. “In that one trip, I learned that life didn’t always require a clear direction. It requires a framework to build off of. The SIU has given my life that framework.” Eyeing the future, Guiry stated, “I recently completed the PHC AB to Mate program. From the education I received here at the Paul Hall Center, I passed the test and got the third mate’s license. It wasn’t easy, but thanks to the SIU, it was achievable. With the license, and now as a recertified bosun, I have so many more opportunities open to me. Once again, I don’t have a clear direction. But I have the Recertified Bosun Tavell Love Recertified Bosun Lionel Rivas November 2021 Tavell Love Love, who joined the union in Jacksonville in 2003, first related to the trainees in attendance by saying, “I’ve sat in these chairs, too, in Class 632. I joined the union not even knowing what a merchant seaman was.” He continued, “I came to enjoy the job and the lifestyle that comes with it. Where else can you go to school and get free training, travel the world and get paid for it, and work when you want to work?” Love credited those who have helped him in his career: “I want to thank the instructors for helping me and for giving me the tools and knowledge I needed to succeed in the industry. My classmate, Brian Guiry, who Recertified Bosun Brian Guiry Samuel Porchea Porchea got the audience’s attention when he pointed out he has sailed for 49 years as of Oct. 3. That tenure includes sailing as a bosun since 1976, and joining the SIU in 1997 (he sails from the port of Jacksonville). He continued, “The union has been important in my life, as I have been able to provide a high quality of life for my family. I would like to thank the union leadership, as well as the staff of the school for providing us with the proper training and skills here at Piney Point. To my instructors, all that I can say is, ‘job well done.’ I have learned so much from each of you, and I surely will pass this knowledge along to the younger seamen.” Porchea then said to the apprentices, “Please don’t forget our meeting (the bosuns met with them during class). The SIU is there for you, as it has been there for me. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do today.” He then thanked the union officials in Jacksonville and Houston. Lionel Rivas Rivas opened by proclaiming, “This is the greatest day of my life!” He joined the SIU in 2001, and now sails out of the port of Houston. He remarked on the uniqueness of his job, saying, “After 60 days on the job, you get a vacation check. How much more could we want? Work when you want to, take off when you want to, and when you come back, you still have your job! How great is that?” Regarding the recertification course and the school, he stated, “These past two weeks have been some of the most interesting weeks of training in my career. I have learned a lot more than I thought I would, and I will share all I have learned with my shipmates. I’ll also be able to better answer any questions they might have.” He concluded, “I think the school is the best training facility in the U.S. I will always come back to the school to upgrade, because this is my home. Everything has been great: the instructors, the staff, and last but not least my bosun brothers. I know us deck people are a little crazy, but without us, the job doesn’t get done.” Seafarers LOG 7 �Lucinda Lessley Acting Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby Former Maritime Administrator Kevin Tokarski MARAD Associate Administrator For Strategic Sealift Chris Edyvean Past AMMV President (And former SIU member) Convention Salutes Service of WWII Mariners, Emphasizes Ongoing Need for Strong Fleet The American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) conducted a rousing, in-person convention Sept. 22-23 in Linthicum Heights, Maryland. The event featured remarks from several dignitaries, video plaudits from members of Congress, a stirring tribute to the late Capt. Hugh Mulzac, and a private unveiling of the design of the Congressional Gold Medal honoring U.S. Merchant Mariners of World War II. (The design will be publicly released later this year or early next year.) Guest speakers at the convention included Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN) (Ret.); Acting Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley; MARAD Associate Administrator for Strategic Sealift Kevin Tokarski; author William Geroux; Dr. Sal Mercogliano, maritime historian and industry advocate; past AMMV President (and former SIU member) Chris Edyvean; World War II mariner Dave Yoho; television news anchor and author Rita Cosby; and members of Mulzac’s family. (Mulzac was America’s first Black merchant ship captain.) Video messages were submitted by U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California); U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska); U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California); U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland); and U.S. Rep. Al Green (D-Texas). Whether in-person or recorded, the messages uniformly honored the critical service of war-era mariners, and several speakers also underscored the ongoing need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. Meanwhile, add the gold-medal design process to the seemingly unending list of projects that were delayed due to the pandemic. President Trump on March 13, 2020 signed into law the Merchant Mariners Congressional Gold Medal Act – right around when much of the United States was going into a partial shutdown because of COVID-19. Nevertheless, the design ultimately was set. The law provides for the award of a Congressional gold medal collectively, to the United States Merchant Mariners of World War II, in recognition of their dedicated and vital service. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress. The medal will be displayed in the American Merchant Marine Museum at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York. Duplicates then will be struck and made available to the public. The SIU and the Transportation Institute, alongside a number of other backers, took lead roles in obtaining co-sponsors for both the House and Senate bills. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives in wartime service during World War II. “Throughout the Second World War, our armed forces relied on the U.S. Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they paid a heavy price in service to their country,” said Garamendi. “The U.S. Merchant Marine suffered the highest per-capita casualty rate in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded, to make sure our service members could keep fighting. Yet, these mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.” There are approximately 4,000 World War II U.S. Merchant Mariners alive today, according to Murkowski’s office. Convention attendee Ken Delancey sailed with the NMU (mostly as an AB, also as a bosun) from the late 1960s until he retired in 1998. Delegates and guests gather for the main event Sept. 23 in Maryland. A Visitor for Christmas Dinner 1945 Editor’s note: This article was written by Mark S. Gleeson, a World War II mariner and longtime vice chairman of the Merchant Mariners Fairness Committee, part of the American Merchant Marine Veterans. The committee helped spearhead a successful effort to extend the cutoff date for recognizing World War II merchant mariners as veterans so it matched the date used by the armed services. When veterans get together, there is always a point when someone asks if he had experienced anything different. I had such a story but have never had the opportunity to tell it. I was a member of the crew of the SS William Dean Howells, just another lumbering Liberty ship. We left Boston on September 13, 1945, bound for New Orleans where we loaded three holds with rice, put 90,000 cases of Carlings 8 Seafarers LOG Red Cap Ale in another, loaded a hold full of PX supplies, and filled the decks with six-by-six Army trucks all bound for Manilla. We left New Orleans on October 17, 1945, went through the Canal on October 19 and 30 days later arrived in Manilla. Manilla is an enormous harbor and was full of all types of ships. We were finally given dock space to unload, only one shift a day as our engineers operated the booms. Then down to Batangas for no apparent reason, and we came back to Manilla empty. We then received orders to proceed to the island of Morotai in the Dutch East Indies to bring back surplus material left over from the invasion. Morotai is a lovely island in a group of islands and was important during the war as an air base. It played an important role as an air support base in the invasion of the Philippines. The Morotai invasion began on September 15, 1944, and the Allies expected a strong defense, but there were only about 500 Japanese on the island. Regardless, the island was not finally secured until September 7, 1945, although the air strips were used immediately. Morotai is about 1,600 miles south of Manilla, sitting near the equator. We arrived the first week of December 1945, and had to dock the ship ourselves, as there were no tugs or support vessels. We were the only ship at the docking area, which consisted of large log pilings and a wood plank dock. Despite the skill of the crew, we hit the pilings a little too hard and almost ruined the dock. This caused many angry words thrown at us from the men waiting for us as we crushed the dock. We did nothing for a few days as Army engineers repaired the dock area. There was a large outdoor hospital Continued on next page November 2021 �Seafarers Engage in Philanthropic Outreach Oakland-Area Mariners Help Local Covenant House California Facility SIU members took pandemic-related safeguards while enthusiastically engaging in a months-long community outreach effort in Oakland, California. Seafarers pitched in to help a local Covenant House California (CHC) facility. They donated various items for the non-profit youth homeless shelter and delivered them once per month, from June through August. The union also made a monetary contribution. CHC Bay Area Development Officer Vera SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) presents a check from the union to local Covenant House representative Vera Hannush. Hannush said the SIU’s support made a difference. “The youth loved seeing them come through,” she stated. “We’re just starting to open back up to in-person volunteering, and it was clear that the SIU is a team and a band of brothers doing it all together.” The timing was important, Hannush said, because the pandemic has led to increased homelessness. “We’re serving more and more people, and we’re the only shelter system for Alameda County,” she said. “The donations from the SIU were phenomenal. They brought water, non-perishable foods, hygiene items and more. We’re so deeply appreciative.” Seafarers said they were happy to pitch in. Chief Cook Keith Hall noted, “It went very well. The people at the shelter were very grateful to receive the donations we provided through the SIU. My involvement was basically helping distribute and also generating donations.” Hall added, “This is our community, and anyone can fall on hard times, especially with the pandemic. It can be difficult to provide for your family. We’re more fortunate, and sometimes it’s best to give back. I think it’s reciprocated in the long run.” GUDE Emmanuel Nuez said that when he learned of the opportunity to volunteer, “I said yeah, no problem, I’m more than happy to help out. It went well. The people were very friendly and very thankful.” Recertified Bosun Artis Williams said that in addition to finding the experience worthwhile, it also proved an eye-opener. “I was surprised because I’m from this area, A-Books in Wilmington The Covenant House facility in Oakland, California, is located a little more than a mile from the hiring hall. and I didn’t even know Covenant House existed,” he stated. “To see us involved and helping others in our own community is a big deal. It means a lot to me – what we do as people and as a union. I was very, very happy to be involved with it.” Hannush also was struck by the proximity of the Oakland hiring hall and the CHC building. “I walk by the hall all the time,” she said. “We have more than 30 sites nationally and internationally, but Seafarers are our neighbors.” CHC is self-described as “a non-profit youth Decades Old Christmas Dinner Rekindles Memories For Mariner Continued from Page 8 Congrats to ABM Arsenio Malunes and to Chief Cook Keyon Gregory for recently receiving their respective A-books at the hall in Wilmington, California. (Arsenio also brought lunch for the hall.) Malunes is at right in photo at immediate right, with SIU Safety Director Gordon Godel. Gregory is at right in the photo above, with SIU Patrolman Jesse Sunga Jr. Log-A-Rhythm El Faro (Never Forgotten) It’s kind of hard to believe it’s been six years Since our brothers and sisters just disappeared All seafaring souls can recall Being far out to sea with no land at all November 2021 homeless shelter that provides sanctuary and support for homeless and trafficked youth, ages 18-24. We believe that no young person deserves to be homeless; that every young person in California deserves shelter, food, clothing, education … and most importantly, to be loved. Now serving over 4,700 youth a year, CHC provides a full continuum of services to meet the physical, emotional, educational, vocational, and spiritual well-being of young people, in order to provide them with the best chance for success in independence.” unit on the island, and I was sent there to have them look at a rash I had developed on my left ankle. With no air conditioning and all the heat and humidity, it seemed everyone had some type of heat rash. I was given an ointment that helped. Several of the crew were with me to have their aches and pains cared for. After our hospital visit, we toured the local runway that was littered with every type of plane, even old fabric-covered planes. It was paradise for a plane lover. Our mission was to bring thousands of cases of fruit juices and other canned food items back to Manilla for their military forces and civilian use. I never saw any other juices than pineapple and grapefruit. Lots of vitamin C. The manpower to load all this material turned out to be Japanese prisoners guarded by Australian soldiers. Our crew operated the booms, but all the hard work loading and in the holds was done by the prisoners. It was not the neatest job in the world, it was terribly hot, but we filled up two holds with food products and then #1 hold with aviation fuel in drums. The crew socialized with the local Australian troops at an outdoor movie theatre at night and we all enjoyed the wonderful Australian beer, available in quart bottles. Their beer was twice as strong as what our troops were served and there were giant piles of empty bottles as they saved them for some reason. We departed Morotai December 24, 1945, with Christmas planned at sea. The official ship’s log shows that at 1630 ship’s time, December 24, a dismasted outrigger canoe was sighted off the starboard quarter. In the canoe was Naftali Katoehoe of the Netherlands East Indies waving frantically for help (Ship’s Log Lat. 02.57 N Long. 127.34 E). The motor lifeboat was lowered, and the fisherman was pulled in, his outrigger canoe in tow. The rescued man and his canoe were quickly brought on board. The fisherman was not in bad condition, just very dehydrated, hungry, and extremely grateful. Fortunately, he could speak a little English. We did not know how long he was adrift. The captain did not want to divert from our planned course to Manilla and the closest land was more than 50 miles away. A decision was made to continue on course and turn the man over to Dutch authorities once we reached Manilla. We never were told how he got so far away from land. Since there was only one Armed Guard on board to maintain the two guns, there was room for our new passenger. We arrived back in Manilla on December 31, 1945, and again anchored out in the big harbor. At midnight I witnessed the most beautiful display of fireworks and flares as we welcomed the new year. Probably every merchant ship at anchor was firing parachute red signal lifeboat flares. The harbor was full of ships loading troops for home. Several aircraft carriers were in the harbor as they could carry more troops. Our guest fisherman was turned over to the Counsel General of the Netherlands in Manilla on January 2, 1946. We junked the canoe. If someone asked me what I did for Christmas 1945, I would tell him that I was part of an effort that saved a simple fisherman from the perils of the sea, had him stay for Christmas dinner, and planned to get him home. There is something biblical in what we did, sharing our Christmas dinner with a stranger we saved, and seeing him on his way. The wind screaming, the bow diving Each wave larger than the last Watching the horizon, fighting back tears Stuck in our eyes The whole crew praying not to hear The ship’s abandon whistle blast The secrets of the sea can never be told Until we answer the final bell’s toll Every wave she hits, you can feel her roll We all are praying the man on the wheel Can keep her under control Some stories we will tell Sometimes just silence with no reply James R. Blitch B-2121 Recertified Bosun Written Oct. 1, 2020 Seafarers LOG 9 �TOTE Shipping President Jeff Dixon (center) and VP Eduardo Pagan (left) visit in late August. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo is at right. (All photos on this page were submitted by SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo.) SA Gustavo Romero (right) returns from his first SIU job, aboard the Overseas Los Angeles. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo is at left. Snapshots from San Juan Bosun John Telles and Admin. Asst. Maria Gomez break out the office Christmas tree – in mid-September. No one can say the holiday spirit didn’t arrive early at the hall. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo and pensioners Carlos Marcial Jr. and Carlos Marcial 10 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Luis Bonafont, who sailed with the union for nearly 30 years, still keeps his book handy. Pensioner Julio Mattos Chief Steward Juan Guanil (right) receives his A-seniority book from SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo. Pensioner Miguel Robles (left) and his son, Seafarer Miguel Robels Oiler Pedro Rivera stops by to register after completing a four-month tour aboard the tanker Oregon. November 2021 �Investigations Start, Officers Suspended In Cadet Alleged Sexual Assault Case In late September 2021, an anonymous member of the class of 2022 at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at King’s Point, New York, submitted an account detailing her alleged sexual assault during her Sea Year. According to her writing, she was raped by the first engineer aboard her vessel (who was her supervisor as a member of the engine department). The anonymous victim’s report is posted online on the website of the organization Maritime Legal Aid and Advocacy. She describes sexual harassment as a common occurrence among the female students at King’s Point. In a joint letter addressed to the “Kings Point Community” and dated Oct. 2, U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary Polly Trottenberg and Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley said, “We write today to express our unwavering support for the individual who has shared her story of a sexual assault that took place during Sea Year. Providing resources for students after these events happen is not enough. We must prevent them from occurring in the first place. We have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual assault and sexual harassment at USMMA and in the maritime industry. As we determine the appropriate steps required to increase and ensure the safety of our midshipmen, we pledge to listen to and work closely with the entire Kings Point community.” AP Moller-Maersk (APMM) is investigating the case, which was alleged to have occurred aboard a vessel operated by its U.S.-flag subsidiary, Maersk Line, Limited (MLL). The company has launched a comprehensive inquiry, and suspended five officers in relation to the case pending the outcome of their investigation. “There are enough details for us to be able to identify which ship and which employees are involved. That is why we have something that forms the basis for initiating an investigation, and that is why we have suspended the five involved officers who [were] on the ship,” APMM Techni- cal Manager Palle Laursen stated. “We are deeply shaken by this. The way in which the incident is described is not only contrary to ordinary decency, but also in particular to our values and what we stand for in Maersk.” MLL President and CEO Bill Woodhour said, “We are shocked and deeply saddened about what we have read. We take this situation seriously and are disturbed by the allegations made in this anonymous posting, which has only recently been brought to our attention. We do everything we can to ensure that all of our workplace environments, including vessels, are a safe and welcoming workplace, and we’ve launched a top to bottom investigation.” The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA) released an anti-harassment statement, which reads in part: “Sexual harassment and assault have no place in our Union or on our vessels. The Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association is committed to providing workplaces that are free of sexual harassment, assault, or other unwanted behavior. Simply put, M.E.B.A. will not tolerate sexual harassment or assault by any of its members or applicants.” The statement, which is available on their website, also provided contact methods for reporting any sexual harassment or sexual assault on board a vessel. The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, also weighed in, noting that the union and school take these types of allegations very seriously and believe that no one should be harassed or assaulted on the job (or anywhere else). That is why preventive lessons regarding sexual assault/sexual harassment regularly are taught at the school. Meanwhile, this is not the first instance of alleged sexual harassment and sexual assault issues stemming from the USMMA and Sea Year. After a series of reports in 2016, the U.S. Department of Transportation temporarily halted USMMA’s Sea Year program for a review of its sexual assault/sexual harassment prevention protocols. Progress Made with CHS Clinic Services Tugboats and ferries (photo at left) take part in the boatlift ceremony to commemorate the 9/11 responders. (Photo courtesy of AMP) In photo at right, SIU Capt. Rick Thornton (center) is presented with a ceremonial key to the township of Morris Plains by Mayor Jason Karr (right). Thornton is joined by his wife, Grace (left). Boat Procession Commemorates Anniversary of September 11, 2001 Seafarers took part in commemorations of the twentieth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001 – events that honored the victims while also saluting an immediate response that constituted the largest water evacuation in history. Some of the boats that mobilized after the terrorist attacks in New York 20 years ago were part of a large, waterborne procession in New York Harbor on Sept. 10, 2021. They included SIU-crewed NY Waterway passenger ferries. Attending a directly related ceremony on the waterfront were U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York) and Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, Adm. Karl L. Schultz, among others. The event was hosted by the American Maritime Partnership (AMP), New York Council of the Navy League, Transportation Institute, Towboat and Harbor Carriers Association, Passenger Vessel Association, Port Authority of New York/New Jersey, Sandy Hook Pilots, and Seamen’s Church Institute. According to AMP, to which the SIU is affiliated, “A shining light on an otherwise dark and tragic day 20 years ago … was the heroic response by American maritime operators in New York Harbor who answered the call of the United States Coast Guard to spontaneously organize the evacuation of more November 2021 than 500,000 Americans at the southern tip of Manhattan – an effort that took only nine hours and became the largest water evacuation in U.S. history. Within minutes of the call for help, American maritime vessels of all shapes and sizes responded selflessly and ensured that the events on that fateful day were not even worse. The American Maritime Partnership remembers and mourns all Americans lost that day, and expresses its deepest gratitude to the men and women of American Maritime for their selfless response and service.” As part of the ceremony, approximately 100 vessels took part in a procession. In a separate event also on Sept. 10, Capt. Rick Thornton – who has sailed aboard SIU-contracted NY Waterway tugboats for 31 years – was awarded a ceremonial key to the township of Morris Plains, New Jersey. Thornton served as the keynote speaker at the gathering, attended by Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, first responders and an audience that included schoolchildren. “Morris Plains was really affected by 9/11,” Thornton said. “They had a lot of commuters who were in Manhattan that day, and the community lost some lives in the towers. I had no idea what they were planning, and it was a total shock and honor when they gave me the key to the city.” Thornton has been part of many rescues during his career, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the Miracle on the Hudson in 2009, but nothing compares in scale to the evacuation of Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks. “With any large harbor, you have to share the waterfront with the private and recreational boaters,” he said. “On 9/11, you saw everyone working together in the best way possible. You couldn’t have gotten an ambulance down in Manhattan, so we had to do a lot of triage and medical transport, in addition to evacuating civilians.” He continued, “After the boatlift and the debriefing, they have a much better plan in place today in Manhattan, should we be called to action like that again. The ferries are definitely a big part of the evacuation plan now, should any sort of emergency hit Manhattan – whether it’s a blackout, or a dirty bomb, or even a hostage situation on a ferry – we’re all very prepared to handle it today.” He concluded, “On 9/11, we saw the worst in humanity, but we also saw the best in humanity. And it’s important to focus on the good things we saw that day. It’s what keeps me on the same routes – sometimes on the same boat – to this day.” During the Oct. 4 membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Administrator Maggie Bowen reported significant progress with efforts to facilitate the physicalexam steps used by SIU members. “During the past few months, I’m sure that more than a few of you have experienced problems with CHS and the medical exam process,” Bowen said. “ We ’ v e taken steps to rectify the difficulties and are making progress.” She continued, “Since April 2021, we have received weekly reports of changes in the backlog with the review process. At that time, there were 581 exams waiting for review by the doctor. As of Sept. 14, that number is 114 exams, which is a decline of approx- SHBP Administrator Maggie Bowen imately 80%. This decline is a direct result of our demand that more resources were required to fulfill our agreement with CHS, including adding additional doctors.” Bowen added that efforts are ongoing to continue reducing, if not ultimately eliminating, any backlogs. “We’re monitoring the process every day, and problems are brought to the attention of management as soon as they are noted,” she explained. “You can help us in this area by completing any surveys that CHS sends to you. Being honest about the service you receive at the clinics or with CHS directly will go a long way to helping us hold them accountable for providing the service you deserve. I would add that although venting on social media may make you feel better, it does not resolve the problem. If you need assistance with this process, please contact the SHBP Medical department at shbpmedical@seafarers.org.” Seafarers LOG 11 �ABOARD MAERSK MICHIGAN – Thanks to vessel master Capt. T. Pham for these photos from the Maersk Line, Limited vessel at Yeosu Ocean Shipyard in Korea. Pictured in the group photo at right are Chief Cook Xavier Burgos, Chief Steward Gerard Cox, AB Carlos Zapata, AB Tomas Calderon Robinson, AB D. Garcia, AB Peter Stoker, Recertified Bosun Gregoria Cudal and GVA Gene Ajost. The Michigan is second from right in the overhead photo above. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD ARC ENDURANCE – The crew of the TOTE vessel had a BBQ, games and a cake for Bosun Kyle STUDENTS VISIT – The Tacoma hall on Aug. 2 welcomed local high school students (and faculty) who were participating Silva’s birthday on Sept. 19 while en route to Darwin, in a two-week program centered on maritime career opportunities. SIU Port Agent Warren Asp is at far right. Directly in front Australia. That’s Silva at left. Capt. Morgan Dailey is at of him is OMU Erl Jan Encina, who volunteered to help answer any questions. right. READY FOR WORK – The newest UA to ASD graduates are pictured in Piney Point, Maryland, holding their respective probationary B-books. SIU Port Agent Mario Torrey is behind the lens. He reportedly induced all of those smiles by urging the students to yell, “It’s time to go back out to work!” 12 Seafarers LOG WITH GLOBAL SENTINEL CREW – Hats off to SIU-contracted SubCom for a donation of survival suits to the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. Recertified Bosun Lee Hardman submitted this photo of crew members who helped gather and transport the suits in Charleston, South Carolina. November 2021 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU WITH RESOLVE CREW – Pictured next to the TOTE vessel in Houston are SIU reps and SIU crew members. From left: Safety Director Kevin Sykes, Patrolman Kelly Krick, Bosun Vasily Semes, AB Luis Mena and Patrolman J.B. Niday IV. ABOARD CAPE INTREPID – Crew members from the Ocean Duchess vessel extend best wishes to vessel master Capt. Gary Vargas, an SIU hawsepiper who completed the apprentice program in 1989. Vargas sailed with the SIU for eight years before becoming an officer. He’s holding the life ring in both photos. Pictured from left in the group photo above are GUDE Israel Serrano, Third Mate Benjamin Rush, Electrician Phillip Greenwell, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa, Vargas, Third Engineer Logan Becker, and Relief Chief Engineer Chris Davis (also an SIU hawsepiper and trainee grad). The photo at right includes (from left) Recertified Steward Joia De Leon, Greenwell, Vargas and Davis. ABOARD CAPE VINCENT – MSC and MARAD representatives commended the work of the SIU steward department aboard the Patriot ship during a recent turbo activation. Additionally, fellow mariners said they appreciated the imaginative menus and quality meals throughout the activation. Pictured from left aboard the vessel are Chief Steward Sam Sinclair, SA Adriana Chavero, SA Fredy Bernardez and Chief Cook Cole Briggs. ABOARD MAERSK DURBAN – Chief Steward Donna Hickman (left) and Electrician Sammy Montana are pictured somewhere in the Mediterranean. A-BOOK IN HOUSTON – Congratulations to AB Andrew Bennet (right) on receiving his A-seniority book. He’s pictured at the hall with SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick. ABOARD MAERSK PEARY – SIU and AMO members teamed up aboard the U.S. Marine Management vessel to assist in this year’s Pacer Goose operation (the Air Force’s annual resupply mission to Thule Air Base, Greenland). Pictured in the engine room are (photo at left, bottom left) Third Assistant Engineer Trevor Richards, (top left) Chief Engineer Garrett Long, First A.E. Paul Styx, Pumpman Rickey Yancey, QMED Rene Hallasgo, Second A.E. Bryan Soucey and Wiper Alex RuizFernandez. The ship photo at right shows the vessel departing Thule. Thanks to retired AMO Capt. Rob Lee for the photos. November 2021 Seafarers LOG 13 �Car Rental Discounts for Union Families Savings from loyalty programs With Union Plus car rental discounts, your next trip just got a lot cheaper. Union members can save up to 25% with exclusive deals at six nationwide car rental companies. Learn more at unionplus.org/carrental 11/21 SIU-CR-6-2-21 14 Seafarers LOG November 2021 �REC NY Reopens In New Location Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following notice on Sept. 21. It’s available on the SIU website in addition to the NMC site. Regional Exam Center (REC) New York has reopened for examination services in the Federal Building at 201 Varick Street in Lower Manhattan. Specific information regarding the REC’s physical address, hours of operation, and entry requirements can be found on the REC New York webpage (https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/recs/new-york/). The new mailing address for REC New York is 201 Varick St., 9th Floor, Suite 904, New York, NY 10014, and mariner applications may still be e-mailed to RECNY@uscg.mil. Mariner examination services will continue to be provided by appointment only. No walk-in appointments are available. Examination appointment request may be e-mailed to RECNY@uscg.mil and should include the applicant’s name, mariner reference number, requested testing date(s), phone number, and a copy of their Approved to Test letter(s). The NMC Customer Service Center remains open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. Mariners may reach our call center at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662) and IASKNMC@uscg.mil. Note to Our Readers Without exception, anyone entering an SIU hiring hall or signing onto a vessel has passed a number of safety protocols, often including testing for COVID-19, two-week quarantines, vaccination and verifying health-related items on a questionnaire. For that reason, not everyone you see pictured in the LOG is wearing a mask. In addition, in many cases, people have briefly removed their masks only long enough to snap a quick photo. We cannot stress enough the importance of following all safety protocols for your protection and the protection of those around you. November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point......................Monday: November 8, December 6 Algonac..........................Friday: November 12, December 10 Baltimore......*Friday: November 12, Thursday: December 9 Guam...........*Friday: November 26, Thursday: December 23 Honolulu.........................Friday: November 19, December 17 Houston..........................Monday:November 15, December 13 Jacksonville....*Friday: November 12, Thursday: December 9 Joliet............................Thursday: November18, December 16 Mobile......................Wednesday: November 17, December 15 New Orleans.................Tuesday: November 16, December 14 Jersey City.......................Tuesday: November 9, December 7 Norfolk...........................Friday: November 12, December 10 Oakland......................Thursday: November 18, December 16 Philadelphia..............Wednesday: November 10, December 8 Port Everglades..........Thursday: November 18, December 16 San Juan........*Friday: November 12, Thursday: December 9 St. Louis.........................Friday: November 19, December 17 Tacoma..........Friday: November 26, *Monday: December 27 Wilmington.....................Monday: November 22, December 20 * Baltimore, Jacksonville and San Juan changes in November due to Veterans Day observance. * Guam change in November due to Thanksgiving Day observance * Tacoma change in December due to Christmas Observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD SPAD Works For You. November 2021 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from Sept. 13 - Oct. 14. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Oct.14. Port Total Registered A Total Shipped All Groups B C A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 2 6 1 1 1 3 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 22 3 1 4 11 0 4 0 22 14 7 2 3 12 4 1 0 3 4 0 10 105 Registered on Beach All Groups B C 22 4 2 42 8 17 12 66 57 49 5 17 35 22 5 2 7 38 2 44 456 10 3 5 15 1 8 7 36 45 16 5 5 21 6 1 6 7 13 2 16 228 3 1 0 10 0 2 0 13 11 8 4 4 6 0 1 0 1 4 0 5 73 A 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 11 1 2 20 5 10 4 51 35 25 6 9 20 13 4 1 2 22 0 18 259 6 3 4 7 2 7 4 21 32 12 2 4 18 5 0 3 3 10 0 4 147 1 1 1 5 0 2 0 6 6 7 2 2 4 0 1 0 2 0 0 4 44 Deck Department 7 5 1 3 4 3 10 7 0 0 8 3 2 1 30 14 22 13 21 2 1 1 9 2 17 12 8 4 1 2 0 1 6 2 16 2 1 0 17 4 181 81 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 3 0 2 6 1 1 7 8 10 10 2 3 7 9 4 0 6 15 0 6 100 1 2 2 6 0 0 4 12 22 7 1 1 13 4 0 2 5 0 0 5 87 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 2 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 4 0 2 20 Engine Department 2 1 0 1 3 1 5 2 0 0 0 0 2 1 15 3 11 7 6 3 0 0 1 2 5 7 2 1 2 0 1 0 2 3 7 4 1 1 9 8 74 45 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 15 2 1 1 4 0 0 1 2 6 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 3 1 0 7 31 5 0 2 12 1 3 11 18 23 20 3 4 16 13 3 0 9 22 1 23 189 0 1 2 13 0 1 6 17 26 7 1 6 21 8 2 3 7 9 1 15 146 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 1 3 0 1 8 1 1 0 0 4 0 3 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 4 0 1 6 2 4 2 13 23 11 1 5 15 14 1 1 1 3 1 21 129 1 1 0 5 0 0 2 4 13 3 0 5 17 7 0 3 3 2 0 10 76 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 1 3 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 16 Steward Department 1 0 0 1 2 1 8 6 2 1 3 0 6 2 8 4 14 12 4 2 0 0 1 0 8 11 11 3 1 0 3 1 1 2 6 2 1 0 14 5 94 53 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 1 4 0 1 6 4 4 3 0 0 3 4 0 0 1 1 0 11 44 7 0 1 13 1 7 5 24 30 17 1 5 24 22 1 3 2 14 3 33 213 2 1 0 7 2 0 1 11 18 3 0 11 14 13 0 4 8 3 0 21 119 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 3 0 1 21 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 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 6 0 2 14 10 0 1 3 2 2 1 16 20 16 0 0 22 13 0 1 0 8 1 15 131 9 2 2 1 1 1 3 10 52 5 2 0 19 4 2 14 4 8 0 7 146 Entry Department 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 7 0 11 0 6 0 1 0 0 0 12 1 5 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 7 0 0 1 10 9 69 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 7 21 2 0 2 12 2 1 9 1 6 0 1 69 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 0 2 0 3 18 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 4 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 10 0 5 31 19 1 1 7 2 3 2 20 36 25 1 0 24 23 0 1 0 18 1 30 214 13 4 1 4 2 0 7 17 91 13 2 2 29 9 1 10 6 13 0 9 233 GRAND TOTAL: 502 441 226 112 198 889 707 356 358 248 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President George Tricker, Vice President Contracts This month’s question was asked of apprentices and students enrolled in the chief cook assessment program at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Question: Why did you choose to join the Seafarers? David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Hamzah Qatabi Apprentice There’s a lot of opportunities as a Seafarer, and there’s always a way to move up and improve your skills. I know a few people who have sailed, but I learned all about this lifestyle and made the decision on my own. Christopher Smith Apprentice I grew up in Ketchikan, Alaska, and pretty much half the economy there comes from the maritime industry. My brother and I used the William Lund Scholarship to come to the school and learn to become mariners. Shoutout to (SeaLink CEO) Ralph Mirsky! 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 Anthony Hunter Apprentice My sister, QMED Deidra Hunter, is already in the union, and she has told me all about her career. When I got out of the Marine Corps, I signed up right away. Tyus White Apprentice I was in the Navy, and while I was in, I talked to guys working on the MSC side. They told me all about what it was like as a Seafarer. My dad was also an AB, and so he also told me stories about sailing as a merchant mariner. I finally decided to give it a try after the Navy. 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 Laura Katschman Apprentice I found out about the maritime industry through a program in Hawaii called Maritime Career Exploration. I figured it would be a good opportunity for me to learn a new trade, and see the world while making good money. Krystal Mosley Chief Cook I thought it was an excellent opportunity to travel the world and meet new people. I came from an architecture background, and now I’m learning a new trade and making good money doing it. JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, 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 Jeremy Hebda Chief Cook I had been working on cruise ships for the past 10 years, and I wanted to upgrade my life with better pay and benefits. The fact that the CCAP program even exists is an amazing opportunity for people like me to get into a new career easily and quickly. Kanieyziah Conway Chief Cook It gives me a chance to enhance my culinary skills while travelling the world. I came straight from a technical trade school, and now I’m starting my career as a Seafarer. Pic From The Past SIU tugboat Capt. Norman Pokrywka stands aboard Curtis Bay Towing’s newest addition, the Cape Romain, in Baltimore in October 1979. According to coverage from the LOG, “The 105-foot-long tug is powered by two 12-cylinder General Motors engines capable of putting out 1650 horsepower each. The pilot house boasts a large array of modern electronic gear including radar, gyro compass, auto pilot, fathometer, two VHP radios and a single side band radio for long distance communication.” Pokrywka sailed with the SIU from 1957-87, when he went on pension. He passed away in 2012 at age 82. 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) 549-4001/4002 16 Seafarers LOG 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org November 2021 �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 ALFRED ACHEAMPONG Brother Alfred Acheampong, 72, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1992, initially sailing aboard the Sealift Mediterranean. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and shipped in the deck department. Brother Acheampong’s final vessel was the American Pride. He is a Houston resident. JOE ALGIERE Brother Joe Algiere, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 1991. An engine department member, he first sailed aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen. Brother Algiere last sailed on the Horizon Reliance and lives in Houston. MICHAEL BROWN Brother Michael Brown, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1980, first sailing aboard the OMI Willamette. He shipped in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Brown most recently sailed on the Liberty Island and resides in Norfolk, Virginia. JOHN DEAN Brother John Dean, 66, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1993. He worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Dean’s first and last vessel (with 21 years in between) was the Endurance. He resides in Henderson, Nevada. STEVEN DIEKEN Brother Steven Dieken, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1997, initially sailing on the USNS Altair. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Dieken last shipped on the USNS Soderman and makes his home in Las Vegas. November 2021 JOSEPH DISARNO Brother Joseph Disarno, 65, signed on with the union in 1975. He first sailed aboard the Achilles and worked in the engine department. Brother Disarno upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last shipped on the Overseas Juneau and is a resident of Clarkston, Washington. JOEL FAHSELT Brother Joel Fahselt, 61, joined the SIU in 1980 when he sailed on the Thomas Nelson. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Fahselt most recently shipped on the Integrity and makes his home in East Tawas, Michigan. JOSE GARCIA Brother Jose Garcia, 65, signed on with the union in 1993, initially shipping on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Garcia last shipped aboard the Maersk Pittsburgh. He lives in The Bronx, New York. PEDRO GARCIA-SANTOS Brother Pedro Garcia-Santos, 68, donned the SIU colors in 2005. He first sailed aboard the Pride of Aloha and worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Garcia-Santos upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He most recently sailed on the Perla Del Caribe and is a resident of Puerto Rico. DONALD HAMRICK Brother Donald Hamrick, 66, started sailing with the union in 1988, initially shipping on the USNS Indomitable. A deck department member, Brother Hamrick upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2001. He concluded his career aboard the Charleston Express and calls Kensett, Arkansas, home. JACK HART Brother Jack Hart, 59, joined the union in 1981 and first sailed aboard the Producer. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded often at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Hart last shipped on the Overseas Chinook. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. WELDON HEBLICH Brother Weldon Heblich, 70, began his career with the SIU in 2001. A deck department member, he initially sailed aboard the Denali. Brother Heblich upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He most recently shipped aboard the SBX and resides in Wellton, Arizona. Constellation. He makes his home in Philadelphia. MICHAEL MURDOCK Brother Michael Murdock, 65, signed on with the union in 1977. He initially sailed aboard the Overseas Ohio and worked in the deck department. Brother Murdock upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the Newark Bay and is a resident of Middletown, New York. JOSE PEREA MICHAEL HOOPER Brother Michael Hooper, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1989 when he sailed with G&H Towing. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Hooper concluded his career on the Reliance and settled in Franklin, Texas. DOUGLAS HUNDSHAMER Brother Douglas Hundshamer, 61, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1989, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Hundshamer’s final vessel was the Gulf Express. He resides in Parish, New York. DONNELL LEWIS Brother Donnell Lewis, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2001. He initially shipped aboard the Overseas Chicago and was a steward department member. Brother Lewis upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He most recently sailed on the President Cleveland and resides in Highland, California. MICHAEL MCKNIGHT Brother Michael McKnight, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1979 and first sailed aboard a Cove Shipping vessel. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother McKnight’s final vessel was the Brother Jose Perea, 65, joined the SIU in 2001 and first sailed on the Maersk Maryland. He upgraded at the Piney Point school within his first year of membership and shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Perea most recently sailed on the Maersk Columbus and makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. ers in 1979. He initially sailed on the American Mariner and was a deck department member. Brother Bochek upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He last shipped aboard the Sam Laud and resides in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. THEOPHIL IGIELSKI Brother Theophil Igielski, 69, joined the union in 2005 when he sailed on the Paul H. Townsend. He worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Igielski was last employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation. He settled in Alpena, Michigan. NATHANIEL RANA Brother Nathaniel Rana, 65, signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 2005. He first shipped on the Pride of America and sailed in all three departments. Brother Rana upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard the Ocean Glory and calls East Elmhurst, New York, home. RIGOBERTO RUIZ Brother Rigoberto Ruiz, 53, joined the SIU in 2000, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions and shipped in the deck department. Brother Ruiz most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Atlanta. He resides in The Bronx, New York. PERFECTO SAMBULA Brother Perfecto Sambula, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2003. A deck department member, he first shipped on the Keystone Texas. Brother Sambula upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the USNS Stockham and lives in Vancouver, Washington. GREAT LAKES RONALD BOCHEK Brother Ronald Bochek, 66, embarked on his career with the Seafar- INLAND JOSEPH BUCHANAN Brother Joseph Buchanan, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1977. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year of membership. Brother Buchanan was employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation for the duration of his career. He is a resident of Tampa, Florida. RONALD JOHNSON Brother Ronald Johnson, 64, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1987 when he worked for G&H Towing. He was a member of the engine department and continued to work for the same company for his entire career. Brother Johnson makes his home in Kerrville, Texas. GENE RICKS Brother Gene Ricks, 65, joined the union in 2003 when he sailed with Moran Towing of Texas. He was a member of the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Ricks lives in Orange, Texas. PAUL RUSSELL Brother Paul Russell, 66, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1977. An engine department member, he upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Russell last shipped aboard the Sugar Island and resides in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSE BAGAT Pensioner Jose Bagat, 85, died August 27. He became a member of the SIU in 1970, initially sailing aboard the Steel Rover. Brother Bagat was an engine department member. He last shipped on the Challenger before retiring in 2000. Brother Bagat made his home in the Philippines. PATRICIO CAPITO He became a pensioner in 2001 and made his home in Pembroke Pines, Florida. TERRY MOUTON Pensioner Terry Mouton, 77, passed away September 15. He joined the union in 1969 and worked in the engine department. Brother Mouton’s first vessel was the Columbia Trader. He last shipped aboard the Cyprine before going on pension in 2010. Brother Mouton was a resident of Houston. Pensioner Patricio Capito, 91, passed away September 23. He began sailing with the Seafarers International Union in 1974 when he worked with Interocean American Shipping. Brother Capito sailed in both the deck and engine departments and concluded his career aboard the Defender. He went on pension in 1995 and resided in Lathrop, California. Pensioner Aisea Mua, 78, died August 2. He donned the SIU colors in 2002, initially sailing aboard the Cape Borda. Brother Mua shipped in all three departments, most recently on the Keystone State. He retired in 2014 and lived in Santa Cruz, California. PAUL CHARLY ALI MUTANIA Pensioner Paul Charly, 81, died August 18. He joined the union in 1966 and first shipped on the Del Mar. Brother Charly sailed in all three departments and concluded his career aboard the John Paul Bobo. He became a pensioner in 2007 and settled in Mobile, Alabama. Pensioner Ali Mutania, 79, passed away May 28. He began his career with the SIU in 1979 when he sailed aboard the Westward Venture. Brother Mutania sailed in all three departments and last shipped aboard the Midnight Sun. He became a pensioner in 2007 and resided in Chicago Ridge, Illinois. GARY EARL SCOTT CURTIS NICHOLSON Pensioner Gary Earl Scott, 85, passed away August 30. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1989. Brother Scott, a deck department member, first sailed aboard the USNS Invincible. His last ship was the USNS Bold, and he went on pension in 2001. Brother Scott lived in Dickinson, Texas. Pensioner Curtis Nicholson, 69, died August 21. He started shipping with the SIU in 1994 and first sailed aboard the USNS Altair. A deck department member, Brother Nicholson concluded his career aboard the USNS Watson. He retired in 2017 and lived in Chesapeake, Virginia. AISEA MUA SANT PERSAUD JOSE LOPEZ Pensioner Jose Lopez, 76, died September 27. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1970 when he worked for Intercontinental Bulk Corporation. Brother Lopez was a deck department member and also worked on shore gangs. 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Sant Persaud, 92, passed away September 22. He signed on with the union in 1991, initially shipping on the Cape Charles. A member of the deck department, Brother Persaud last shipped on the Commitment. He started collecting his pension in 2005 and resided in Canada. RAMEND PRASAD Pensioner Ramend Prasad, 73, died August 25. He joined the Seafarers in 1990 and first shipped on the Independence. Brother Prasad sailed in all three departments before concluding his career on the Patriot. He went on pension in 2019 and resided in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. JIMMIE REDDICK Pensioner Jimmie Reddick, 69, passed away September 10. He began shipping with the union in 1992, initially sailing aboard the USNS Capella. A steward department member, Brother Reddick concluded his career on the Observation Island. He retired in 2017 and lived in Jacksonville, Florida. MANUEL SANCHEZ Pensioner Manuel Sanchez, 98, died August 31. He joined the SIU in 1942 and was a deck department member. Brother Sanchez first sailed aboard the Steel Apprentice. He last shipped on the Borinquen and went on pension in 1984. Brother Sanchez lived in Puerto Rico. THOMAS STINNETTE Pensioner Thomas Stinnette, 92, passed away August 25. He joined the union in 1948 and sailed in the engine department. Brother Stinnette’s first vessel was the Steel Architect; his last, the Hydro Atlantic. He began collecting his pension in 1992 and resided in Red Lion, Pennsylvania. EDGARDO VAZQUEZ Pensioner Edgardo Vazquez, 91, died September 22. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers International Union in 1963 when he worked with Waterman Steamship. A steward department member, Brother Vazquez also worked on shore gangs. He became a pensioner in 2002 and made his home in Brooklyn, New York. DWIGHT WUERTH Pensioner Dwight Wuerth, 69, passed away September 14. A steward department member, he donned the SIU colors in 1978. Brother Wuerth’s first vessel was the Santa Mercedes. He last sailed aboard the Overseas New Orleans and retired in 2006. Brother Wuerth was a resident of Port Charlotte, Florida. GREAT LAKES ANTHONY WILLOUGHBY Pensioner Anthony Willoughby, 75, passed away September 5. He signed on with the union in 1968 when he shipped with Zenith Dredge Company. Brother Willoughby was a deck department member and was last employed by Great Lakes Towing. He went on pension in 2008 and lived in Superior, Wisconsin. INLAND JOHN ASHLEY Pensioner John Ashley, 67, died September 1. He donned the SIU colors in 2003, initially sailing aboard the Green Mountain State. Brother Ashley was a member of the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Vision. He became a pensioner in 2016 and settled in Adna, Washington. DANNIE CARD Pensioner Dannie Card, 75, passed away August 13. He signed on with the SIU in 1972 and first worked for Interstate Oil. A deck department member, Brother Card was last employed by Moran Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 2010 and resided in Millsboro, Delaware. DANIEL EUBANKS Pensioner Daniel Eubanks, 77, died August 24. He joined the union in 1973 when he was employed by Dravo Basic Materials. Brother Eubanks was a deck department member and continued working for the same company throughout his entire career. He went on pension in 2006 and called Lucedale, Mississippi, home. THOMAS MACEY Pensioner Thomas Macey, 74, passed away July 28. He began his career with the union in 1973, and first sailed on the Santa Magdelena. Brother Macey was a member of the deck department and last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He retired in 2009 and lived in Cypress, California. JESSE MOORE Pensioner Jesse Moore, 96, died July 29. He joined the union in 1963 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Moore worked for Hvide Marine for his entire career. He became a pensioner in 1987 and settled in Kirbyville, Texas. JEROLD REGISTER Brother Jerold Register, 60, passed away August 13. He signed on with the SIU in 2003 when he shipped with Express Marine. Brother Register was a deck department member and continued his employment with the same company throughout his career. He was a resident of Interlachen, Florida. PACIFIC MARINE CHARLES GARDENHIRE Pensioner Charles Gardenhire, 87, passed away July 26. Born in Topeka, Kansas, he became an SIU member in 1976. Brother Gardenhire was a member of the steward department and first sailed aboard the Delta Peru. He last shipped on the President Truman before becoming a pensioner in 1996. Brother Gardenhire made his home in Renton, Washington. NMU GEORGIANA YOUNG VINCENT LORMAND Pensioner Vincent Lormand, 64, died August 21. He signed on with the SIU in 2004. An engine department member, Lormand worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2020 and lived in Cecilia, Louisiana. Pensioner Georgiana Young, 76, died August 18. She joined the union during the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. Sister Young first sailed aboard the Chilbar and worked in the steward department. She last shipped on the Westward Venture before retiring in 2007. Sister Young lived in Mobile, Alabama, her birthplace. November 2021 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MOHAWK (Pacific Gulf Marine), May 17 – Chairman Kerry Castillo, Secretary Allan Bartley, Educational Director Andres Nunez-Rochez, Deck Delegate Ibrahim Fisek. Chairman went over ship’s upcoming schedule. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep the mess hall clean and apologized for item shortages that were outside of his control. Educational director told everyone to check their documents for renewal and to renew them early. He reminded members to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew went over current communications as well as items relating to COVID-19 pandemic. Members asked for clarification of AB working duties while on anchor watch and asked for better flight options when joining ship. Steward department expressed frustration with taking care of Officer rooms. Officer rooms have never been assigned in the past according to Chief Steward. Chairman spoke with Captain regarding room inspections. Inspections will be performed for departing crew. Members requested new mattresses and more item availability in the slop chest. Crew was reminded of no smoking policy for rooms. If caught smoking in rooms, a member can be terminated. Crew asked for company to provide coveralls. Wi-Fi is being worked on. Next Port: Bremerton, Washington. MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), June 15 – Chairman George Phil- 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. lips, Secretary Christina Mateer. Crew was thanked for helping to keep the ship clean and their assistance with all the trash. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. As of May 31, 2021, Maersk is no longer providing pay for ship restriction. For all vessels still overseas, MOU will stay in effect until they return to their first U.S. port. Chairman advised crew to visit the SIU website. Members asked for a new medical provider after citing ongoing issues and delays with current provider. Crew requested increases to pension and vacation benefits as well as increases to medical coverage. Chairman discussed missingman wages and left the floor open for any additional issues that need to be addressed. AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management), June 30 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Nathaniel Simmons, Educational Director Robert Noble, Deck Delegate Luis Garcia. Ship restrictions lifted for members that have received the COVID-19 vaccine. If not vaccinated, members are to remain on ship. Educational director advised crew to upgrade as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested twenty vacation days for 30 days of employment. Crew hasn’t received 8 hours in lieu of day off. COLORADO EXPRESS (Marine Personnel & Provisioning), July 25 – Chairman Jonathan Cooper, Secretary Ronaldo Tarantino. Members discussed frustrations during transition from Charleston Express to Colorado Express. Allowances and payoffs were troublesome. Bosun handled beefs at Charleston payoff. Company payroll funds were not sent to banks in a timely fashion. Not enough garbage containers aboard ship. Educational director reminded crew to check all documents and to stay ahead of expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewing up the ship was done successfully, despite disorganization and little to no company guidance. Members requested refrigerators, TVs, and DVD players for every room. Crew asked for increases to vacation and pension benefits. Members need company payroll department to send funds on time. Next Port: Charleston, South Carolina. SEABULK CHALLENGE (Seabulk Tanker), August 8 – Chairman Gregory Jenkins, Secretary Jermaine Robinson, Educational Director Randolph Scott, Deck Delegate Petronio Paragas, Engine Delegate Roberto Sabio, Steward Delegate Lea Ramos. Chairman reiterated the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine in order to fill jobs. Everything going great aboard ship as reported by secretary. Educational director urged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested higher wages for Seabulk carriers since they carry dangerous cargo. Vote of thanks given to crew for a job well done and special thanks to steward department for outstanding meals. Next Port: Houston. LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Maritime), August 15 – Chairman German Nunez. Chairman expressed gratitude for members working safely and looking after one another. Secretary gave thanks to unlicensed crew. Galley was pleased to serve such an outstanding group of sailors. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of the free upgrading opportunities afforded to them at the Paul Hall Center. Members requested new mattresses, refrigerators and fans for each room. Crew asked for clarification on Wi-Fi prices and SA job duties. Members discussed consequences for departing ship without proper relief. Crew went over concerns with the prices and availability of personal female hygiene products, particularly in the event of low supply during ship restriction. CAPE DECISIVE (Subcom), August 29– Chairman Victor Nunez, Secretary Gregory Johnson, Deck Delegate Santos Contreras, Engine Delegate Xyla Jillain, Steward Delegate Walter Schoppe. Members went over eligibility requirements for all benefit plans as well as requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations. Crew gave suggestions for new contract negotiations and addressed the passing of AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka. Additional topics were discussed including SAB actions for extended tours and 401k contributions. Secretary encouraged members to continue maintaining all unlicensed areas. Educational director urged crew to keep upgrading at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MOHAWK (Pacific Gulf Marine), August 27 – Chairman Frank Hedge, Secretary Alan Bartley, Educational Director Andres Nunez-Rochez, Deck Delegate Douglas Simonson, Steward Delegate Sheryl Johnson. New mattresses arrived on ship. Wi-Fi still not available beyond the computer room. Contractually, steward department is not required to clean or service officer rooms. Chairman thanked crew for a safe and productive voyage. He reminded members to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew. Chairman advised members to keep documents up to date and to take advantage of what the union has to offer. Secretary thanked crew for helping to keep the mess hall clean and apologized for any shortage of items throughout the voyage. Educational director reminded members to renew documents early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members motioned to increase monthly retirement payout by 50%. Permanent crew was directed to find a new ship since current vessel was sold and being turned over. Next Port: Sunny Point. 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 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 November 2021 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive 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 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. 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 MSC Ship Clip October 18 October 29 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck November 15 Lifeboat/Water Survival November 22 December 3 December 3 RFPNW November 15 December 3 Celestial Navigation November 15 December 10 Leadership and Management Skills December 13 December 17 Engine Department Upgrading Courses FOWT October 25 November 19 Welding October 25 November 12 Engineroom Resource Management December 6 December 10 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Certified Chief Cook December 6 January 7 Advanced Galley Operations November 15 December 10 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training Revalidation November 15 November 15 December 3 December 3 December 10 December 10 Government Vessels November 15 November 19 November 29 December 3 December 13 December 17 Tank Ship Familiarization LG December 13 December 17 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. 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, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 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. 11/21 November 2021 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class # 873 – Graduated Sept. 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Bjorn Anthony, Destini Dunlap, Xander Farris, Randy Madrid, Justin McClellan, Daniel Moran, Travis Morris and Daniel Sutter. Medical Care Provider – Graduated Sept. 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Austin Anderson, Michael Banks, Theodore Gonzales, Stephen Jenkins, Melody Mitchell and Isaac Stoutamire. Junior Engineer (Plant Management) – Graduated Oct. 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Marco Antonio Baez Millan, Micah Champion, Robert Clark, Christopher Corpuz, Gregory Crowder, Elhassene Elkori, Samuel Fanjoy, Keilah Freeman, Hussain Mohamed Hafid, Ferdinand Gabonada Hullana and Jessica Valentin. RFPNW (Phase 3) – Graduated Sept. 10 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Ramona Cabrera Appleby, Paul Calcaterra, Dylan Green, Martin Roi Briones Morales, Munassar Fadel Nagi Saleh, Ethan Stacy and Anoalo Tuimanua Stanley. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels. November 2021 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes RFPEW (Phase 3) – Graduated Sept. 17: Christopher Emanuel (above, left) and Daniel Vanegas. They plan to work in the engine departments of union-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training. Government Vessels – Graduated Sept. 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Eugene Josafat Ajoste, Kenneth Bogner, Leone Buggage, Kevin Campbell, Kanieyziah Conway, Reno Ibanez Duque, Jean Favreaux, Ali Boobaker M. Ghalib, James Gregory, Jeremy Hebda, Ethan Mims, Krystal Mosley, Hassan-Saleem Rashad, Emanuel Lorenzo Spain, Benjamin Verrett and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. MSC Storekeeper Basic – Graduated Oct. 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Kevin Brown, Stclair Browne Jr., Randy Corey, Daniel Fields, Peggy Gregory and Timothy Jones. RFPNW (Upgraders) – Graduated Sept. 10: Jameeka Booker (above, left) and John Joseph Caraan Alcos. RFPEW (Upgraders) – Graduated Sept. 17: Emmanuel Nuez (above, left) and Jason Bullen. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated Sept. 24 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Kendrick Adams II, Glenn Valera Agustin, Jason Bullen, Antonio Agapito De Luna, Theodore Gonzales, Vernon Van Humbles, James Jones, Andrew Manning, Nestor Milagrosa, Arron Millar, Kenneth Townsend Jr., and Andrew Van Bourg. Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated Oct. 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohamed Alghazali, Jermia Anderson, Robert Bell Jr., Jason Bullen, Julius Jumangit Dagoldol, Reno Ibanez Duque, Daniel Flanagan, Theodore Gonzales, Ashley Hudson, Vernon Van Humbles, Anton Ivanov Marchev, Nestor Milagrosa, Derick Yanier Morales-Berly, Gamal Kassem Muflahi and Kenneth Townsend Jr. 22 Seafarers LOG November 2021 �Paul Hall Center Classes Magnetic & Gyro Compasses – Graduated Sept. 10 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Jose Argueta, Carlton Banks, Travis Golightly, Byron Graham, Michael Hodges, Matthew Jenness, Glen McCullough and Joseph Nathanael Nicodemus. Chief Cook Assessment Program – Graduated Sept. 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Kanieyziah Conway, Jeremy Aden Hebda, Krystal Mosley and Benjamin Verrett. Chief Steward – Graduated Sept. 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Rocel Caballero Alvarez, Joseph Benitez Arigo, Marlin Carey Jr., Jasmine Garrett and Phuoc Chau-Hue Nguyen. Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated Sept. 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Carlos Arjune, Sarah Hesham Awad, D’angelo Dickson, Maurice Henry Jr., Adrian Joseph, Patrick Cruz Lara, Jamal Matthews, McKinley Thorne, Juan Andres Vallejo and Ludi Zamudio, Important Notice To All Students November 2021 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. Seafarers LOG 23 �NOVEMBER 2021 VOLUME 83, NO. 11 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C 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 Chief Mate Gary Bigham (left) and Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez CS Decisive Crew Participates In JUPITER Cable System Project Crewmembers aboard the CS Decisive (photo above) prepare to bury cable using a device called a Plough. In addition to burying the cable two meters under the ocean floor, the mechanism also lays the cable. In the photo at immediate right, a vessel hauls shore end cable to the beach where ultimately it will be connected to a shore side station. Thanks to Recertified Bosun Victor Nunez for providing these photos. GVA Eric Mose The crew aboard the SIU-contracted and SubCom-operated CS Decisive in early September took part in the construction of the JUPITER Cable System off the coast of Oregon. A new transpacific submarine cable route, the system is approximately 14,600 km in length and consists of 5 fiber pairs with a design capacity of more than 60 terabytes per second. It connects Maruyama, Japan; Shima, Japan; Los Angeles, California; and Daet, Camarines Norte, Philippines. The Decisive crew successfully burried some seven kilometers of cable over a two week period. AB Arsenio Brecio (left) and GVA Ron Burris As a new transpacific submarine cable route, the cable system will provide greater diversity of connections and enhanced reliability for customers, as well as optimal connectivity to data centers on the West Coast of the United States. Companies included in the JUPITER Cable Consortium include Amazon, Facebook, NTT, PCCW Global, PLDT and SoftBank. Crew members aboard the Decisive during the construction project were: Bosuns Victor Nunez; Boatswain’s Mate Santos Contreras; ABBs Jay Aki, Tyler Brenton and Chief Electrician Casey Frederick Ist Asst. Engineer Greg Thomas Harge Semilla; ABG Paul Nelson; ABs Arsenio Brecio and Emilio Abreu; MDR Michael Fregolle; Chief Electrician Casey Frederick; OMUs Kasim Ahmed and Henry Crespo and GVAs Khaleel Boatner, Ronald Burris, Calvin Johnson, Kassem Saleh, Albino Lotukoi, Cody Carroll, Dalerick Durden and Eric Mose. Remaining crew members were: Chief Steward Gregory Johnson; Chief Cook Walter Schoppe; 3rd Cook Virgilio Brosoto; SAs Virgilio Brosoto and Paul Erickson; and UAs Alexander Boothby and Joseph Bates. UA Alexander Boothsby OMU Kasim Ahmed GVA Dalerick Durden AB/Third Mate Tyler Brenton (left), AB/SJ Arsenio Brecio (center) and AB Paul Nelson apply floats to the umbilical cord of the Plough prior to launching it to begin the cable burial. GVA Cody Carroll UA Joseph Bates (left) and 3rd Cook Virgilio Brosoto � 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 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond 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 November 2021 Description An account of the resource SIU GAINS JOBS AS TANKER REFLAGS MESSAGE FROM MARITIME LABOR UNION WELCOMES NEW SHIPBOARD JOBS MEMBERS RATIFY PACTS AT CROWLEY, G&H NEW ORLEANS-AREA SEAFARERS PERSERVERE THROUGH HURRICANE, MAINTAIN PROFESSIONALISM ON THE JOB SIU'S HEINDEL AMONG 2021 AOTOS HONOREES BIDEN: UNIONS ARE 'AMERICA'S HEART AND SOUL' SEAFARERS UNANIMOUSLY RATIFY NCL CONTRACT SIX BOSUNS REACH HIGHEST LEVEL OF DECK DEPARTMENT CONVENTION SALUTES SERVICE OF WWII MARINERS, EMPHASIZES ONGOING NEED FOR STRONG FLEET A VISITOR FOR CHRISTMAS DINNER 1945 SEAFARERS ENGAGE IN PHILANTHROPIC OUTREACH INVESTIGATIONS START, OFFICERS SUSPENDED IN CADET ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE PROGRESS MADE WITH CHS CLINIC SERVICES BOAT PROCESSION COMMEMORATES ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 CS DECISIVE CREW PARTICIPATES IN JUPITER CABLE SYSTEM PROJECT 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 11/01/2021 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. 83, NO. 11 2021 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/ab3119f07803247e5a2ccc0bdf82774e.pdf 7a51b87bf769370c74924ff3fcc8286c PDF Text Text NOVEMBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 11 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 SIU Crews Up Seabulk Pride The double-hulled tanker Seabulk Pride once again carries an SIU crew, following the vessel’s Sept. 23 delivery to Seafarers-contracted Seabulk (a SEACOR subsidiary) in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The vessel is expected to operate coastwise between Houston and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It had been operated by Chevron under a bareboat charter. SIU Port Agent Jimmy White (left in photo directly above) met with the crew shortly after they signed on. The initial crew included Bosun Brian Gauntt, ABs Jerald Welcome, Joshua Welcome, Victor Nunez, David Chance and Richard Oliver, QEP Derrick Sullivan, Wiper Austin Smith, GUDE Jaden Radcliff, OMU John Cacella, Steward/Baker Jasmine Garrett, Chief Cook Robert Hunter and GVA Saleh Almurisi. Built in 1998 in Newport News, Virginia, the Seabulk Pride previously carried an SIU crew for many years before the aforementioned charter. Union Answers Call For Hurricane Relief The SIU wasted no time springing into action to help victims of Hurricane Fiona and Hurricane Ian, which caused extensive damage in Puerto Rico and Florida, respectively, in September. The wideranging relief efforts included gathering supplies in San Juan, Puerto Rico (among several other locations), and then distributing them to some of the hardest-hit areas. A few of the SIU volunteers are pictured at right, at the San Juan hiring hall, with SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (left). Donations also were taken at the halls in Houston; Jacksonville, Florida; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Philadelphia; and Tacoma, Washington. Numerous labor organizations, including the AFL-CIO, plus Seafarerscontracted vessel operators have helped with the outreach. Page 3. Bosuns Credit Union, School For Life-Changing Opportunities Members of the union’s newest class of recertified bosuns shared riveting individual stories when they graduated Oct. 3. They credited the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education with offering excellent career and upgrading opportunities. Following the monthly membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, they gathered with SIU officials for this photo. Pictured from left (front row) are VP Contracts George Tricker, VP Tom Orzechowski, Recertified Bosuns Neftali Erausquin and Ronald Poole Sr., Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Recertified Bosuns James Hall, Nasser Hafid and Larry Dizon. Pictured from left in the back row are Patrolman Josh Rawls, Port Agents James Bast and Ray Henderson, Recertified Bosuns Carlos Gibbons and Richard Molina Blackman, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift and Port Agent Mario Torrey. Page 5. Unions, Coalition Back Jones Act Page 2 73687_SEAFARERSLOG_X.indd 1 El Faro Memorial Dedication Page 7 10/24/22 8:51 AM �President’s Report ‘See the Whole Wide World’ Around the world, the maritime industry battled a manpower shortage even before the COVID-19 pandemic. That challenge has only become more pronounced in the last couple of years, and it certainly extends into many other occupations across the globe. Nevertheless, our union, along with our affiliated school and many of our contracted vessel operators have invested substantial resources to attract people either specifically to the SIU or at least to the broader U.S. Merchant Marine. I’m confident that, once they’re here, newcomers will find lots of reasons to either stick around with us or move on to licensed positions elsewhere in the industry. American maritime – and the SIU in particular – has much to offer. As one of our newest recertified bosuns recently put it, “While my friends back home were discovMichael Sacco ering the world wide web, I got to see the whole wide world: all seven continents, both while employed aboard ships and during my vacation time. I’ve earned good wages and benefits for me and my family, while funding my retirement plan.” I’d call that a powerful endorsement from someone with firsthand experience. And, there are so many additional stories and viewpoints just like that one. There’s a reason why we’ve been around since 1938. If you know any prospective Seafarers, by all means send them our way. Encourage them to visit a hiring hall and/or check out our website. This is still a profession in which you can go as far as you want to go, and our union offers excellent contracts with top-of-the-line benefits, not to mention flexibility and opportunities to see the world. Importance of Political Action While we’ve probably exhausted the topic of the Jones Act in this space in recent years, the most recent attacks against our country’s freight cabotage law once again underscore why the SIU remains politically active. By having well-informed backers both in Congress and in the administration, we are able to help turn back these misguided attempts to weaken or eliminate a policy that has served the United States and its citizens for more than a century. Sitting around and hoping someone else will deliver our message on Capitol Hill (and at every level of government, for that matter) never has been our approach and never will be. There’s turnover in literally every election cycle, and that means we’re constantly making introductions and explaining our value to legislators and to others who regulate American maritime. These types of actions are vital to protecting your jobs, and that’s why we don’t take shortcuts. It’s also why we support candidates who support maritime along with workers’ rights, regardless of political party. Heck, it’s why we relocated headquarters from New York to suburban D.C. 40 years ago. Our industry’s fate is mainly decided in Washington, and we’ll continue wearing a path between Camp Springs and the nation’s capital for as long as that’s the case. Thank You I’ll close this month’s message with heartfelt thanks to everyone who has stepped up for hurricane relief efforts in the aftermath of Fiona and Ian. It’s difficult to even watch news footage of the destruction to people’s homes, not to mention thinking about the loss of life. But I’m proud of our union, our members and our labor movement for immediately pulling together and helping however we can, wherever we can. This is also nothing new for the SIU, and while it’s a classic case of hoping we’ll never need to do it again, we know better. There will be other storms. And the SIU will be there for our brothers and sisters, like always. 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 84 Number 11 November 2022 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 Capital Gateway Drive; 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright © 2022 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Maritime Labor Blasts Unnecessary Waiver Industry Calls Out Absurd Criticism of Jones Act The winds from Hurricane Fiona had barely moved past Puerto Rico before misguided critics of America’s freight cabotage law began asking for unnecessary waivers. At one point a Category 4 storm, Fiona made landfall in Puerto Rico Sept. 18, knocking out electrical power across the entire territory. Parts of the island were hit with nearly three feet of rain. Nevertheless, U.S.-flag vessels continued delivering supplies to Puerto Rico almost uninterrupted. As was the case five years ago, in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, distribution on the island itself was challenging (due to infrastructure damage), but those issues had nothing to do with the Jones Act. Reality didn’t stop several members of Congress from seeking a blanket, year-long waiver, nor did it prevent a single foreign-flag ship from showing up unannounced and securing a single waiver after initially being denied. Responding to the waiver, the SIU, AMO, MEBA and MM&P sent a joint statement to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that read in part, “Our unions represent American Merchant Mariners who sail aboard Jones Act vessels, including those that serve Puerto Rico. Every day, our mariners go to work to ensure that Puerto Rico and the rest of the United States have safe and dependable domestic shipping, helping to move all the goods they need to live, work, and raise their families…. “The Jones Act is critical to our continued ability to maintain a domestic U.S.-flag merchant marine. As such, we take protecting it seriously. That’s why we are shocked and outraged at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s decision to issue an illegal, unjustified and unnecessary Jones Act waiver for a British Petroleum tanker that took active steps to ignore and then circumvent fundamental American law.” The statement continued, “This waiver is a betrayal of the principles of federal maritime law dating back centuries, made worse by the facts of the case. A foreign ship with a foreign crew loaded fuel in an American port and diverted to Puerto Rico to take advantage of increased fuel prices after the island was hit by Hurricane Fiona. There was no national security crisis. There were American ships available – indeed, the ship was at sea four days before a waiver was even applied for. This cargo was not humanitarian aid. It was a blatant cash grab and a bald-faced political stunt. The companies behind this vessel gambled that they could pressure the U.S. government into ignoring our laws and policy because of the hurricane and they were correct. “Let us repeat – this waiver was unnecessary,” the unions added. “U.S.-flagged vessels and foreign flagged vessels carrying legal cargoes of fuel, either from American ports or from foreign ports, had safely discharged their cargoes in Puerto Rico after the storm. American ships were available. Ameri- can crews were available. But none of that mattered, because the political optics of a ship waiting to bring fuel to the island apparently matters more than a century of bedrock American law.” The statement concluded, “This waiver is an undeserved slap in the face to American mariners and U.S.-flag vessel operators. It potentially opens the door for future incursions by foreign-flag interests by giving them a roadmap of what they need to do in order to bully our government into giving them what they want – just show up on our doorstep and call the press. It sets a dangerous precedent, and it threatens the domestic industry at a time when we – like many other sectors of the economy – are challenged with worker shortages. In the strongest possible terms, we condemn the issuance of this waiver, and we urge the Department of Homeland Security to never approve a waiver like this again.” The coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP), to which the SIU is affiliated, also objected to the waiver. In a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, AMP President Ku’uhaku Park stated, “The waiver is unlawful…. DHS has rewarded a foreign operator who has been widely criticized, both in Washington, D.C. and in Puerto Rico, for its behavior.” Similarly, Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón noted, ““At each and every meeting, I have been assured by federal agencies, including the Department of Energy, FEMA, and the Corps of Engineers that there is an adequate supply of fuel on the island that is available to consumers and that subsequent delivery is planned of more fuel in the short, medium and long term…. The vast majority of the fuel that Puerto Rico consumes comes from outside the United States, which is why it is transported on foreign-flagged ships from foreign ports. Therefore, the Jones Act does not apply and a waiver would not change the way fuel is transported at all.” The Jones Act has protected U.S. national, economic and homeland security for more than a century. It requires that goods transported from one domestic port to another be carried aboard vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned U.S. Upwards of 90 countries across the globe maintain some form of cabotage law. Earlier this year, a new study by Ernst & Young examined the Jones Act’s effects on Puerto Rico and concluded, “Across multiple metrics, shippers overwhelmingly associated better carrier performance with Jones Act carriers than non-Jones Act ones. In addition to providing stability and security in the region, the Jones Act shipping industry continues to provide substantial economic benefits to Puerto Rico.” The study also found that the law has created and helps maintain more than 2,000 jobs in the territory; contributes $96 million in wages; and is responsible for $221 million in economic output. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) on Oct. 13 published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) aimed at helping employers and workers determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In announcing the proposed rule, the DOL noted it “would provide guidance on classifying workers and seeks to combat employee misclassification. Misclassification is a serious issue that denies workers’ rights and protections under federal labor standards, promotes wage theft, allows certain employers to gain an unfair advantage over law-abiding businesses, and hurts the economy at-large.” The department further pointed out, “The NPRM proposes a framework more consistent with longstanding judicial precedent on which employers have relied to classify workers as employees or independent contractors under the FLSA. The department believes the new rule would preserve essential worker rights and provide consistency for regulated entities.” AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler applauded the announcement. “The Biden administration once again delivered Proposed Labor Rule ‘Victory for Workers’ Continued on Page 7 Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 2 November 2022 10/21/22 11:54 AM �SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (standing) is pictured outside the Houston hall. On Sept. 30, the union teamed up with personnel from the Port of Houston, National Shipping of America, LLC and the office of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner for a donation drive gathering relief supplies for those affected by Hurricane Ian in Florida. A container of relief supplies is hauled from the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, hall on Oct. 1 to Fort Myers, Florida. Seafarers Assist Hurricane Victims Union Helps With Donations, Distribution after Fiona, Ian The SIU is teaming up with national and local labor organizations, Seafarers-contracted vessel operators and other supporters to collect and deliver storm-relief supplies following Hurricanes Fiona and Ian – primarily to Puerto Rico and Florida, but also to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Alaska. Collection points include the hiring halls in Houston; Philadelphia; Jacksonville, Florida; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Tacoma, Washington; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. While donations are welcome at those locations, Seafarers are encouraged to check with their local halls and also keep an eye on the SIU website for related updates. Fiona, at one point a Category 4 storm, hit southwestern Puerto Rico with 85 mph winds on Sept. 18. Parts of the island were flooded, and all of Puerto Rico’s estimated 1.47 million power customers initially were left without electricity. Perhaps of greater immediate concern, around a quarter-million water customers initially had no service. By early October, power and water services had been restored to the vast majority of residents. Ten days after Fiona struck Puerto Rico, Ian devasted Florida on Sept. 28 and then made landfall again two days later in South Carolina. Official estimates are ongoing, but at press time in mid-October, Ian reportedly had caused more than 130 deaths in Florida along with billions of dollars in damages. The labor movement stepped up in support within hours of Fiona striking Puerto Rico and again after Ian. Among the organizations pitching in are the SIU, Maritime Trades Department (MTD), IBEW, AMO, MEBA, MM&P, Longshoremen, Teachers, Machinists, AFGE, AFSCME, Carpenters, AFL-CIO and others. According to the American Maritime Partnership in a Sept. 23 letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, 2,000 containers were positioned in the port of San Juan prior to the storm to provide supplies. When all the island’s ports reopened following the hurricane, U.S.-flag vessels resumed operations on their dedicated U.S.-Puerto Rico terminals, with six Jones Act ships either already offloaded or preparing to dock by the end of that day. Meanwhile, a large-scale relief effort led by the SIU took place Oct. 8 in Puerto Rico. Seafarers and others from the labor movement had prepared supplies for a few days earlier. They then delivered more than 1,000 individual grocery bags, bottled water and other supplies to residents in Hormigueros and Penuelas. During preparations at the hiring hall on Oct. 6, Chief Steward Ingrid Ortiz noted, “We’re going to the south of the island, where everybody was very affected by the hurricane, and we’re planning to help with food and anything else they might need.” Recertified Steward Bam Bam Aguilera added, “We’re working to help everybody who needs it.” “We’re putting everything together for our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico,” said Michael Jacob, who sails in the steward department. SIU Assistant Vice President Amancio Crespo, based in San Juan, stated, “While it’s nothing new for SIU members to step up and help their fellow citizens, I’m grateful for their generous response to Hurricane Fiona. They’ve put in a lot of work and have always done so with a great attitude and a can-do spirit. It’s what the SIU is all about.” President Biden visited Ponce, Puerto Rico, on Oct. 3. He touched on the financial support the federal government is providing to residents, and saluted them for their “resilience and determination. Quite frankly, it’s pretty extraordinary, when you look at it from afar. And you deserve every bit of help your country can give you. That’s what I’m determined to do, and that’s what I promise you…. We’re going to make sure you get every single dollar promised. And I’m determined to help Puerto Rico build faster than in the past and stronger and (be) better prepared for the future.” Two days later, the president spoke in Fort Myers, Florida. He said, “I’ve instructed my administration to bring every element of the federal government together to help with the immediate needs and long-term rebuilding. You have my commitment and America’s commitment that we’re not going to leave. We’re going to see you through this entire process.” Chief Cook Wilson Peniston and QEP Yuri Oliveros help load pallets of water outside the hiring hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. SIU members and other volunteers sort and stack supplies at the hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico (photo at right), then briefly pause for a snapshot while holding some of the assembled bags that were delivered in the following days (above). November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 3 Seafarers LOG 3 10/21/22 11:54 AM �Recertified Bosun Thomas MacGregor (far left) and other crew members are pictured with local fire department personnel. All Hands Safe Following Midnight Sun Fire No injuries and no damage were reported following a small fire aboard the Seafarerscrewed Midnight Sun (TOTE Services). SIU members including Recertified Bosun Thomas MacGregor quickly extinguished the fire on the front deck of the ship, which was docked in Tacoma, Washington. Local fire department personnel arrived on scene, but the fire already had been put out. According to the vessel operator, no cargo was aboard the vessel. A published report in- dicated the incident “was likely caused by an electrical fire in a piece of (a vendor’s) maintenance equipment on the upper deck, the Tacoma Fire Department told the local News Tribune.” MacGregor had just arrived to the ship, on Sept. 23. “I was still in my leathers from riding my bike,” he said. “But I was part of the quick response team, me and the chief mate. It took three minutes, if that, for our two teams to get suited up, and about 20 U.S. Rep. Garamendi Introduces New Pro-Maritime Legislation A longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine isn’t letting up in his efforts to promote the industry. On Oct. 3, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (DCalifornia) introduced the bipartisan “Rebuilding the United States-Flag International Fleet Act” (H.R.9102), along with cosponsors U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) and U.S. Rep. Alan S. Lowenthal (D-California). Among other advancements, the legislation would strengthen federal cargo preference laws to increase the number of U.S.-flagged commercial vessels delivering cargo to foreign ports. The bill is backed by the SIU, as well as the Maritime Trades Department, Transportation Trades Department, Liberty Maritime, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA), International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), and the Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development (MIRAID), among other organizations. Garamendi, who chairs the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and serves as a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said, “For too long, Congress and both Democratic and Republican presidents have allowed the commercial fleet of U.S.-flagged, ocean-going vessels to dwindle. The global supply chain crunch during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion and blockade of Ukraine, and the People’s Republic of China’s island building in the South China Sea and saber-rattling in the Taiwan Strait have shown that the United States cannot remain reliant on foreign vessels flying flags of convenience. “My comprehensive, bipartisan legislation would help to recapitalize the U.S.-flag fleet of ocean-going, commercial vessels by guaranteeing government cargo during peacetime so that U.S.-flag vessels are available during wartime or emergencies,” he continued. “The United States has the world’s most capable Navy, and we need an equally impressive fleet of commercial cargo vessels crewed by Ameri- 4 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 4 minutes to knock down the fire.” The bosun added that prior safety training definitely paid off, prominently including the related courses that are staples at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. “This (effective response) is all because of the basic training that we get at Piney Point and the drills we do on board,” MacGregor stated. “It went smoothly and everybody did what they were supposed to do.” can mariners,” concluded Garamendi. According to Garamendi’s office, the bill would: n Restore the requirement in place from 1985 to 2012 that at least 75% of gross tonnage of seaborne cargo for international food aid programs be carried on U.S.-flagged vessels. Current law only requires 50% minimum gross tonnage, following a sneaky cut to the program. n Restore the requirement in place from 1985 to 2012 that the U.S. Department of Transportation reimburse international food aid programs for any cost premium under the U.S.-flagged vessel cargo preference, to protect the overall budget for food aid exports from increased shipping costs. n Reaffirm the Maritime Administration (MARAD) as the only federal agency able to waive the U.S.-flag requirement for government cargo, in the rare instances when such commercial vessels are unavailable at fair and reasonable rates. n Strengthen transparency and oversight by requiring public notice online of all waivers of the U.S.-flag requirement and timely notification to Congress. Current law holds similar requirements for waiving the Jones Act. n Allow vessels seeking federal cargo contracts to be re-flagged into the United States registry for less than three years, provided they satisfy similar requirements as vessels enrolled in the existing Maritime Security Program. n Clarify that the current U.S.-flag vessel requirement for international food aid applies to all agricultural products, not just commodity crops. n Implement the reforms to cargo preference laws recommended by the Government Accountability Office’s report on “Actions Needed to Enhance Cargo Preference Oversight,” published on Sept. 12, 2022. The full text of the “Rebuilding the United States-Flag International Fleet Act” is available online. Other SIU members aboard the ship include ABG Gamal Muflahi, ABB Artemio Galaura, ABM Saleh Alsinai, ABG Samed Kassem, ABM Raymond Green, ABM Scott Ryan, AB Daniel Mensah, QEE Gajatri Normatova, OMU Rohmy Butler, OMU Mohamed Alghazali, OMU Majed Alsharif, GUDE Mohamed Kassem, Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta, Chief Cook Robert Haggerty and SA Khaled Yahia . MARAD Announces Two New Initiatives Backing Cargo Preference Compliance A key agency recently announced it is taking steps aimed at enforcing regulations that benefit the country as a whole, including the maritime industry. On Sept. 16, during testimony before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips (Rear Admiral, USN, Ret.) announced two efforts intended to support federal compliance with cargo preference requirements. “Cargoes paid for by American taxpayers belong on American ships,” she said. “Cargo preference requirements are not just ‘Buy America’ requirements, they are requirements that also help to strengthen America.” The hearing was titled, “Cargo Preference: Compliance with and Enforcement of Maritime’s Buy American Laws.” Phillips announced that the Maritime Administration (MARAD) will issue a formal “Request for Information” to solicit input from all stakeholders on cargo preference requirements. Under the nation’s federal cargo preference laws, the Department of Defense must move 100 percent of its cargoes on U.S.crewed, U.S.-flagged vessels. Outside of the Department of Defense, at least 50 percent of other governmentimpelled cargoes must ship on U.S.flagged vessels. Additionally, Phillips announced that MARAD will resume publishing comprehensive federal cargo preference data. Ensuring that such information is publicly accessible is intended to increase interagency efficiency and to provide transparency regarding the movement of government-impelled cargo on both U.S.-flagged and foreign-flagged vessels. Beyond these announcements, Ann Phillips U.S. Maritime Administrator MARAD is also working with the White House’s “Made in America Office” to help agencies understand cargo preference requirements, the administrator explained. In conjunction, MARAD is in the process of communicating with all related federal departments and agencies to remind them of their obligations and to request that they each identify a single point of contact, with whom MARAD can work to implement and ensure cargo preference requirements are being met. As defined by MARAD, “Cargo Preference is the general term used to describe the U.S. laws, regulations and policies that require the use of U.S.-flag vessels in the movement of cargo that is owned, procured, furnished, or financed by the U.S. Government. It also includes cargo that is being shipped under an agreement of the U.S. Government, or as part of a Government program.” November 2022 10/21/22 11:54 AM �‘SIU Gave My Family a Better Life’ Bosuns Reflect on Successful Careers, Opportunities The seven Seafarers who recently completed bosun recertification training at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, had no shortage of interesting insights when they delivered graduation speeches Oct. 3. Completing the Paul Hall Center’s (PHC) top curriculum for deck department mariners were Neftali Erausquin, Richard Molina Blackman, Ronald Poole Sr., Carlos Gibbons, Larry Dizon, James Hall and Nasser Hafid. The two-week course covered numerous topics including leadership, teamwork, social responsibilities and safe workplaces, contracts, benefits plans, politics as it pertains to the maritime industry, simulator training, vessel operations and more. Most of it took place on the PHC’s southern Maryland campus, though the class also included a day at the union’s headquarters building, located in Camp Springs, Maryland. Following are some highlights of the respective graduation remarks, given during the monthly membership meeting at the PHC. Neftali Erausquin A Seafarer since 2003, Erausquin said his overall experience during the class was “amazing. All of the content was useful, and my eyes were opened to things I’d never known about. The school itself also looks great. I’m proud to be an SIU member.” He thanked SIU officials, PHC personnel, and everyone who works at the Jersey City, New Jersey, hall for their guidance and efforts, and also credited his family for being supportive. After encouraging fellow Seafarers to support the union’s voluntary political action fund (SPAD), Erausquin urged the apprentices to “upgrade and stay focused. The sky is the limit for you.” Richard Molina Blackman Previously a member of the National Maritime Union (NMU), Blackman became a Seafarer when the NMU merged into the SIU in 2001. “It has been a great experience,” he said. “I came to the school in 2004 to upgrade for my AB ticket, and have sailed as a bosun since 2012. Finally, after 21 years as an SIU member, through hard work and dedication I am a recertified bosun. It means a lot to me.” He thanked all of the personnel at the Houston hiring hall along with the staff and instructors at the PHC. Blackman continued, “I thank all the union officials for your good leadership and hard work, fighting every day for all of us. Without you, we wouldn’t be here.” He said the SIU remains “a fundamental part of my life. It has given me many opportunities to provide a great living for me and my family.” Addressing the apprentices, he concluded, “You are the future of this great union. Learn and listen to your instructors; work hard and upgrade.” Ronald Poole Sr. Poole joined the SIU in Mobile, Alabama, in 1999. He said his most recent experience at Carlos Gibbons Recertified Bosun November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 5 Neftali Erausquin Recertified Bosun Richard Molina Blackman Recertified Bosun the PHC was “outstanding,” and that he particularly appreciated learning about the various components of the Seafarers Plans. He described becoming a recertified bosun as the culmination of a career-long dream. “With hard work and dedication, each and every one of you out there (in the auditorium) can be on this stage, too,” he said to his fellow members and apprentices. “The sky is the limit for you – all you have to do is want it.” Poole, who still sails from Mobile, wrapped up his speech by saying, “Life in the union has been good for me and my family. I have two daughters in college and one more to go.” audience, Dizon said the recertification class helped him “gain more knowledge about leadership and the operations and benefits the SIU offers us.” He said that when he joined the union in 2005 in Norfolk, Virginia, “it changed my life. Opportunities came my way. I developed and enhanced my skills and was able to travel to many places. I experienced different cultures and met people from all walks of life.” He continued, “The SIU gave my family a better life…. I’m so grateful to be part of the Brotherhood of the Sea.” He thanked the instructors, encouraged support of SPAD, and said the school made him feel at home. Carlos Gibbons Like has classmates, Gibbons, an SIU member since 2001, said that completing recertification carried great significance. “I feel overwhelmed with pride, and I am very thankful and blessed for this wonderful achievement,” he said. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support from the officials in New Jersey, and I thank them.” He said that the combination of union membership and clear chances for career advancement have served him well “in many aspects of my life – too many to mention in this short speech. But the most important one is the opportunities to continually upgrade. I’m grateful for that. It has helped me improve my skills and also helped me financially, there’s no doubt about it.” After thanking the union’s officials for their work in protecting members’ job security, Gibbons told the apprentices, “When you are at sea, listen to your superiors. Follow orders and always do your best. Always show up with a positive attitude, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.” Larry Dizon With his wife and two daughters in the Larry Dizon Recertified Bosun Ronald Poole Sr. Recertified Bosun placent. This is your best shot at a bright future.” James Hall Shortly after finishing his enlistment in the Navy in 2000, Hall “realized how much I missed going to sea,” he said. Before the year ended, he’d enrolled in the apprentice program. Since then, he stated, “While my friends back home were discovering the world wide web, I got to see the whole wide world: all seven continents, both while employed aboard ships and during my vacation time. I’ve earned good wages and benefits for me and my family, while funding my retirement plan.” Hall thanked his family, PHC personnel, and SIU officials and staff at headquarters, in New Orleans and in Houston for their efforts and supportiveness. He said of the union’s top officials: “They are uniquely well-versed in the intricacies of all facets governing our livelihood. Their combined experience, knowledge and established relationships are not easily replicated. It is incumbent on us to donate to SPAD so that they can continue this vital work on our behalf.” Lastly, he said to the apprentices, “When you get to sea, make yourselves part of the team. Ask questions and don’t become com- Nasser Hafid A frequent upgrader and a Seafarer since 1994, Hafid said he would “go a different route” with his graduation speech – and he delivered with a captivating, firsthand account that illustrated why he holds the union in high regard. “Only a few people know what happened,” said Hafid (who is readily amenable to the details being published). “There’s always a day in your life that you never forget, and that day is Feb. 23, 2013 for me. I was overseas, visiting my family (in Yemen) after a long trip. I was driving along, and had my mother and cousin (in the vehicle). A bullet came through the car door, into the side of my chest, went all the way through and lodged into my right bicep…. It hurt, but I did not cry. I’m a bosun.” All indications are that he hadn’t been specifically targeted, but survival wasn’t certain. Nevertheless, he recovered enough to return to the U.S., where he visited the hiring hall in Tacoma, Washington. “I got to the counter and started telling the patrolman what had happened,” Hafid said. “He stopped me and we went to talk in the back. He got the port agent, the other patrolman and the secretary…. I was requesting to see a doctor. When I was telling them what happened to me, you could see the empathy in their eyes. They dropped everything they were doing and focused on me. They treated me like their family member, and not just a member of a union.” He then noted that when “headquarters found out, you know what they said? ‘Get that man whatever he needs.’ Like a bosun would say to his deck department, just get it done. The SIU was there when I needed them the most.” James Hall Recertified Bosun Nasser Hafid Recertified Bosun Seafarers LOG 5 10/21/22 12:31 PM �Prior to negotiations, members aboard the President Cleveland fill out contract suggestion forms. Pictured from left are Chief Cook Reynaldo Ricarte, SIU Patrolman Dylan Rivera, Steward/Baker James Watson and ACU Ali Suwaileh. Pictured aboard the President Kennedy in Oakland, California, are (from left) ACU Moosa Mohamed, SIU Patrolman Dylan Rivera, Steward/Baker Aurelio Esperanza, Chief Cook Jonathan Yates and SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday. The members had just reviewed and voted on a new contract. Seafarers Ratify Additional Work Accords Seafarers recently ratified two more contracts featuring assorted gains and appeared well on their way to approving a third pact as well. Those agreements cover members sailing with Pasha Hawaii, APL Marine Services, and Subcom, respectively. According to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, “These agreements essentially wrap up what has been a very busy and successful year for the contracts department and the membership. The new contracts raise wages, either maintain or increase benefits, and include other gains. This wouldn’t have been possible without the excellent work of rank-and-file Seafarers and the outstanding efforts of our negotiating committees.” The agreement with Pasha Hawaii, which largely mirrors the standard freightship contract, was negotiated by Tricker and SIU West Coast Vice President Nick Marrone, while Pasha was represented by Ed Washburn. It was ratified by an overwhelming majority. The five- year pact includes annual wage increases and maintains benefits. Meanwhile, the new two-year agreement with Subcom includes wage increases above and beyond the standard contract, while maintaining the current Core-Plus level of benefits. The contract was negotiated by Tricker, with Scott Winfield representing Subcom. Voting continued at press time, but the initial feedback was very positive. Finally, the new two-year agreement with APL includes wage increases in both years, and adds the Juneteenth holiday. It also includes a clothing reimbursement, an increase to pension benefits, and maintains the current benefits plan at the Core-Plus level. This contract was negotiated by Marrone and SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday, and was ratified by the membership upon the successful completion of bargaining. “This new contract is an outright win for the members and certainly a good agreement for the company as well,” said Marrone. Recertified Steward Sergio Castellanos (photo above) checks contract suggestions aboard the President Roosevelt in southern California. Pictured aboard the President Wilson in the photo at right are SIU Port Agent Gerret Jarman, ACU Kevin Robinson, Chief Cook Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez and Recertified Steward Frank Malahi. The members reviewed the proposed new contract and voted to ratify it. Members, Guests Must Make Arrangements Prior to Showing Up For Stay at Paul Hall Center Hotel Seafarers are welcome to stay at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, even if they’re not enrolled in a class there – if space is available and a reservation has been made. Members are encouraged to work with their respective port agents or email Jay Wiegman at jaywiegman@seafarers.org regarding reservations for themselves and any family members who want to stay with them at the school. The cost for room and board for members is $40 per night (plus tax), and $10 apiece for each guest. Again, this applies to individuals who are not enrolled in a course. Anyone showing up to the base unannounced will not be allowed on campus. In addition to verifying arrival and departure dates, members will be required to submit proof of vaccination (or exemption from the requirement) from COVID-19 both for themselves and any guests. 6 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 6 November 2022 10/21/22 12:34 PM �Worker Categories Based on Legal Precedent Continued from Page 2 on its promise to put working people first,” Shuler stated. “By restoring commonsense rules to determine who is an employee, and making it harder for employers to intentionally misclassify their employees as independent contractors, the DOL’s announcement will increase protections and expand benefits to so many working people who have been subjected to corporate work-arounds. Too many companies put profits over people, intentionally misclassifying their workers as contractors to avoid providing the pay, overtime, workplace rights and benefits that employees are due under labor and employment laws. This proposed rule will ensure DOL has the tools to protect employees against the current and escalating problem of misclassification.” Shuler added, “While today’s announcement is a major step forward, we know there is still so much more to do to make our economy more fair and equitable. The AFL-CIO and its allies will continue to push for legislation and regulations to give workers the rights they deserve.” Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh said, “While independent contractors have an important role in our economy, we have seen in many cases that employers misclassify their employees as independent contractors, particularly among our nation’s most vulnerable workers. Misclassification deprives workers of their federal labor protections, including their right to be paid their full, legally earned wages. The Department of Labor remains committed to addressing the issue of misclassification.” Specifically, the proposed rule would do the following, the DOL reported: n Align the department’s approach with courts’ FLSA interpretation and the economic reality test. n Restore the multifactor, totality-ofthe-circumstances analysis to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor under the FLSA. n Ensure that all factors are analyzed without assigning a predetermined weight to a particular factor or set of factors. n Revert to the longstanding interpretation of the economic reality factors. These factors include the investment, control and opportunity for profit or loss factors. The integral factor, which considers whether the work is integral to the employer’s business, is also included. n Assist with the proper classification of employees and independent contractors under the FLSA. n Rescind the 2021 Independent Contractor Rule. When announcing the NPRM, the DOL further noted that it is “responsible (Photo courtesy AFL-CIO) (Photo courtesy AFL-CIO) Marty Walsh Secretary of Labor Liz Shuler President, AFL-CIO for ensuring that employers do not misclassify FLSA-covered workers as independent contractors and deprive them of their legal wage and hour protections. Misclassification denies basic worker protections such as minimum wage and overtime pay and affects a wide range of workers in the home care, janitorial services, trucking, delivery, construction, personal services, and hospitality and restaurant industries, among others. Before publication of today’s proposed rulemaking, the department’s Wage and Hour Division considered feedback shared by stakeholders in forums during the summer of 2022 and will now solicit comments on the proposed rule from interested parties. The division encourages all stakeholders to participate in the regulatory process. Comments, which must be submitted from Oct. 13 to Nov. 28, 2022, should be submitted online or in writing to the Division of Regulations, Legislation and Interpretation, Wage and Hour Division, U.S. Department of Labor, Room S-3502, 200 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20210.” Upwards of 600 people attended the ceremony; a few of them are pictured above, while the statue is shown in the image below. (Photos by Jack Routhier) El Faro Memorial Dedicated in Maine A newly dedicated statue in Rockland, Maine, will help preserve the memories of the El Faro’s final crew. The creative work – formally dubbed “El Faro Salute!” – was unveiled Sept. 24 before hundreds of attendees. SIU Port Agents Ray Henderson and James Bast represented the union at the gathering; the SIU also co-sponsored the event. “Both the ceremony itself and the sculpture were really well done,” said Henderson, who regularly sailed aboard the El Faro before coming ashore to work for the union. “It was an honor to be there.” All 33 individuals aboard the El Faro perished when the vessel sank in a hurricane near the Bahamas on Oct. 1, 2015. The crew included 17 SIU members. Two of the ship’s officers hailed from Maine, as does Jay Sawyer, who designed the new memorial and graduated from Maine Maritime Academy. The ceremony, which lasted approximately one hour, featured remarks by November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 7 Sawyer, Rockland Mayor Ed Glaser, officials from two local museums, and others. As described in the ceremony’s printed program, “This memorial features two maritime officer uniforms in salute position to signify the honor that the maritime family in this region, and around the world, desire to express to the El Faro crew, and the respect and compassion offered to the families and loved ones of the crew that continue to endure this tragedy.” The names of all 33 individuals from the ship are etched on the front of the statue, which is made of steel. “I was brought to tears. Pictures don’t do it justice,” said Rochelle Hamm, widow of SIU member Frank Hamm, who was part of the last crew. “We are handing this over to the local community to be the host,” said Sawyer. “You’ve been selected. This community, because there are two crew members on this ship that lived in this community. Be- cause this is Rockland, the art capital of Maine…. It’s because of the lighthouse that’s out there at the end of the Breakwa- ter, and El Faro is Spanish for lighthouse. It’s for the sunrise; it’s one of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever seen.” Seafarers LOG 7 10/21/22 11:54 AM �Seafarer by Day, Tattoo Artist by Night Continued from Page 20 dreds of dollars, but can reach well into the thousands. “When you go back to, say, the 1950s, someone who had tattoos was kind of a rebel,” Musick says. “It seemed like in the 1990s, it became a little more socially accepted. A lot of the skateboard kids were getting into tattoos, and TV shows like Ink Masters brought it into everyday life. People saw that tattoos could be something beautiful, and weren’t just for military members and motorcycle riders.” Nevertheless, learning the trade wasn’t straightforward or quick for Musick. “When I got into it, there weren’t a lot of shops around,” he recalls. “Back in the day, you really had to prove your worth. The old-timers weren’t giving up any tricks of the trade, so you had to hope one of them would take you under their wing. Working as a mechanic was sort of the same thing. Eventually, if the old-timers felt you were really interested, they’d show you.” As his interest in tattooing grew, Musick “said to myself, this can’t be that hard. There was one company you could buy equipment from. I bought it and basically taught myself” during a span of several years. Decades later, after applying more tattoos than he can count, Musick still appreciates the ongoing experience as an avocation. He’s a part-timer in a regional chain (Body Graphics) where he has worked for the last 22 years. Previously, he’d run a business from his home. “My union job obviously comes first, and accounts for my benefits and (eventual) pension,” Musick says. “My tattoo job is fun money and just enjoying the art.” ‘Team Player’ Those familiar with Musick’s work – as a Seafarer and as an artist – say plenty of good things about both areas. Musick graduated from high school in 1985 and immediately followed in the footsteps of his father, Jim, also a longtime SIU member (who passed away in 2018). SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, then working as the union’s port agent in Philadelphia, met Scott when he signed on at Crowley’s terminal in Pennsauken, New Jersey. “Scott has always been a team player and a hard worker,” Heindel notes. “I eventually became familiar with Scott’s artwork through his Facebook postings. His art is nothing short of extraordinary and unique. I’ve used his talents several times to create T-shirts for [motorcycle] charity runs, and he’s never disappointed.” Musick also created the art for shirts that were highlighted at an El Faro memorial dedication in 2016 at the hiring hall in Jacksonville, Florida. “Knowing how good Scott’s work is, I wanted to use his talents to create something for that ceremony,” Heindel recalls. “His ability to capture the essence of the moment and use it to remember our brother and sister Seafarers in a memorial T-shirt for those attending, was nothing short of brilliant.” Retired Seafarer Mike Fay worked with both Jim and Scott Musick for many years. “Scott and I shared the same passion for motorcycles and did a lot of rides together,” Fay says. “As far as being a co-worker, I wish we had more like him. He’s very skilled, and always rolled up his sleeves and tackled assignments while staying clear of the nonsense. “I remember when he decided to learn tattooing and would practice on raw turkeys,” Fay continues. “Scott’s tattoos speak for themselves. I have quite a few from him myself.” Musick reports for work at the power shop in Pennsauken, New Jersey. Early Start Tattoos grabbed Musick’s attention from early childhood. His father had several tattoos; Musick regularly drew copies and other images. Musick got his first ink at age 14, at a now-defunct shop in Camden, New Jersey. “My dad took me and lied about my age,” Musick recalls. “I just got a name on my arm, but from that day on, it was pretty much off to the races. I stopped counting my own tattoos when I got to 30 of them.” Nowadays, Musick is pleased by the industry’s growth, though he is puzzled by some of the seemingly random images that people select. “A tattoo is supposed to be something personal that tells a story about your life,” he says. “The ones that I really get the most joy from (applying) is when someone comes in for a memorial tattoo for someone who’s passed away. When I get done and they look in the mirror and tears of joy come to their eyes, I know I’ve done my job.” Fortunately, those are usually the only types of tears he sees as an artist. Asked in general how much it hurts to receive a tattoo, Musick replies, “I won’t say it’s painless, but nine times out of 10, people say it’s not bad at all. If someone doesn’t know what to expect, I’ll dip my needle into some water (for a trial run). The outline seems to be a little more painful, only because of the configuration of the needles” (more than a half-dozen different ones typically are used on a tattoo). Musick can finish a basic tattoo (such as a name) in a few minutes, whereas, for complex designs such as full sleeves, “I’ll work until they tap out. Most people last four or five hours.” He plans to stick with both of his professions for the foreseeable future, and says he remains grateful for his circumstances: “I’m very blessed to be a member of the SIU and to have a job with Crowley.” International Solidarity SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (at podium and also visible on monitor) on Sept. 29 was a featured speaker at the Norwegian Seafarers Union Congress (convention), which took place in Tromsø. He updated attendees on various work done by the SIU and the International Transport Workers’ Federation, for whom he serves as Seafarers’ Section chair. He also congratulated Johnny Hansen, who’s retiring, on his years of service as president of the host organization. 8 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 8 November 2022 10/21/22 11:54 AM �Notice: Credentials Lost Due to Hurricanes Fiona and Ian E d i t o r ’s n o t e : T h e U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following news item on Oct. 6. It’s available on the SIU website. In accordance with Federal regulations, duplicate Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMCs) may be issued free of charge to mariners whose credentials were lost or destroyed as a result of Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and Hurricane Ian in Florida. Affected mariners should follow the steps below to obtain an expedited replacement credential: Provide a statement of loss to the National Maritime Center (NMC) via fax at (304) 433-3412 or via e-mail at IASKNMC@ uscg.mil. The statement should contain the following: n Mariner’s full name n Mariner’s date of birth n Mariner’s reference number (MRN) (if you don’t know the MRN, include the mariner’s Social Security number) n The mailing address that the replacement credential should be sent to n Current phone number and/or e-mail address that the NMC can use to contact the mariner with questions, if necessary n Description of the circumstances surrounding the loss/destruction of the credential. Unless otherwise requested, any duplicate MMCs issued per the request process above will include a corresponding Medical Certificate, if previously issued. We will make every effort to have duplicate credentials mailed out the next business day. Alternatively, mariners may submit form CG719B, Application for Merchant Mariner Credential, to one of the Regional Exam Centers with the information above. If your credential is unserviceable due to damage or your lost credential is subsequently found, that credential should be mailed to the NMC. If you have questions or feedback regarding duplicate credentials, please contact the NMC via our Online Chat or Ticketing System, by emailing IASKNMC@ uscg.mil, or by calling (888) IASKNMC (4275662). Sincerely, Bradley W. Clare Captain U.S. Coast Guard Commanding Officer November & December Membership Meetings Piney Point..........................Monday: November 7, December 5 Algonac.............*Monday: November 14, Friday: December 9 Baltimore....................Thursday:November10, December 9 Guam...............*Friday: November 25, Thursday: December 22 Honolulu.............................Friday: November 18, December16 Houston...........................Monday: November 14, December12 Jacksonville.......................Thursday: November 10, December 8 Joliet..............................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Mobile.........................Wednesday: November 16, December 14 New Orleans...................Tuesday: November 15, December 13 Jersey City............................Tuesday: November 8, December 6 Norfolk..................*Monday: November 14, Friday: December 9 Oakland.........................Thursday: November 17, December 15 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: November 9, December 7 Port Everglades.............Thursday: November 17, December 15 San Juan........................Thursday: November 10, December 8 St. Louis.............................Friday: November 18, December 16 Tacoma.............................Friday: November 25, December 23 Wilmington..................Monday: November 21, December 19 * Algonac and Norfolk changes in November due to Veteran’s Day observance * Guam change in November due to Thanksgiving Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG_X.indd 9 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from September 16 - October 16. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of October 16. Port Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups All Groups B C A 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 20 0 1 12 2 8 5 16 19 16 0 4 12 7 1 4 4 18 1 18 168 6 1 1 10 0 3 3 7 25 7 1 4 8 3 1 4 4 6 0 4 98 1 0 0 3 0 3 0 3 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 21 Deck Department 12 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 12 7 2 3 0 0 9 4 2 5 2 0 22 16 1 20 17 3 11 4 1 0 2 1 3 3 0 9 4 3 4 2 0 2 3 0 2 3 1 4 0 0 13 4 0 0 0 0 14 9 0 146 82 14 3 1 0 8 0 1 1 18 15 8 0 0 3 0 2 3 3 7 0 5 78 27 2 2 24 1 14 9 43 40 41 2 11 24 14 3 7 4 32 4 47 351 8 3 2 15 1 6 4 22 34 16 1 6 13 5 1 4 6 6 0 9 162 2 0 0 4 0 5 0 6 4 3 0 2 3 1 1 0 1 4 0 1 37 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 2 2 0 8 1 0 5 7 13 8 1 1 9 2 6 0 2 13 3 14 97 0 0 3 3 1 0 9 5 11 3 2 3 6 2 0 2 0 5 1 6 62 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 2 19 Engine Department 4 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 11 2 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 0 1 5 2 1 11 6 1 6 3 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 5 2 0 3 1 0 2 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 7 10 3 2 0 0 4 3 1 72 38 10 2 0 2 5 0 0 2 6 4 1 1 1 2 0 0 2 1 11 1 2 43 6 2 1 12 1 3 11 15 23 14 0 1 13 7 7 0 4 16 3 26 165 1 0 2 5 2 4 9 6 25 8 2 7 12 4 0 4 1 4 1 12 109 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 3 1 0 1 4 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 23 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 4 0 1 5 1 2 3 10 16 5 0 1 9 6 1 2 3 5 0 14 88 2 0 0 7 2 1 0 2 12 2 1 4 9 4 1 4 4 0 0 10 65 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 1 0 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 0 3 19 Steward Department 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 6 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 10 1 0 19 8 1 5 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 12 4 1 6 3 2 1 0 0 0 5 1 0 3 0 5 2 1 0 0 0 10 5 0 82 37 7 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 2 11 2 1 1 3 2 0 1 0 2 0 7 37 4 0 2 12 0 7 8 21 24 9 1 3 11 16 0 8 7 12 1 28 174 2 0 0 11 1 3 3 7 21 4 0 6 17 6 1 3 3 0 0 17 105 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 2 0 0 5 2 0 1 2 0 0 3 22 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 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 1 12 9 2 0 2 0 1 3 6 14 5 0 0 10 5 1 2 0 8 0 12 80 8 1 3 3 0 3 2 12 49 10 2 0 12 3 4 8 1 3 0 2 126 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 6 Entry Department 6 6 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 4 7 5 17 36 5 9 1 2 0 0 2 12 6 3 0 1 10 5 0 1 5 1 0 1 6 3 70 91 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 10 3 1 0 1 0 0 6 1 0 0 3 31 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 3 3 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 4 0 3 22 13 3 0 4 0 3 3 15 27 14 1 0 13 11 2 2 0 17 0 25 153 10 2 1 5 1 4 5 21 85 20 2 2 31 5 4 7 0 12 0 9 226 305 185 306 189 712 529 308 227 C 122 Reliefs All Groups A GRAND TOTAL: 365 B Registered on Beach Trip A B C Seafarers LOG 9 10/24/22 8:52 AM �UNIONS ON PARADE – Maritime labor had a strong turnout for the 43rd Annual Los Angeles/Long Beach Harbor Labor Coalition Labor Day Parade, as evidenced by this photo. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING MARITIME CAREERS – The union and its affiliated school in Maryland shared a booth at the St. Mary’s County Fair in late September. Pictured from left are Paul Hall Center (PHC) Apprentice Tyrell Mitchell, Kalycia Banks from the PHC Student Services office, SIU Port Agent Mario Torrey and PHC Apprentice Stephanie Vidrio. A-BOOK IN JERSEY – QEE Derek Chestnut (left) receives his A-seniority book at the hiring hall. SIU Port Agent Ray Henderson is at right. WITH SEAFARERS IN HOUSTON – Bosun Hernando Bansuelo (left in photo at left), who started sailing with the union in 1990, picks up his first pension check, while GUDE Wuelner Arzu (left in photo at right) receives his full B-book before heading to Piney Point to upgrade. They’re both pictured with SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick. 10 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 10 November 2022 10/21/22 11:54 AM �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BOOKS GALORE IN ALGONAC – OS Jamal Saleh (left in photo at left, with SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak) displays his newly acquired B-book, while ABs Taha Al Amri (center) and Ahmed Al-Arashi (photo at right) hold their respective A-books at the hiring hall FULL BOOK IN SAN JUAN – OMU Julian Misla (right) receives his full B-book. He’s pictured at the hiring hall with SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo. FULL BOOK IN MOBILE – AB Michael Robinson (left) picks up his full B-book at the hiring hall in Mobile, Alabama. SIU Port Agent Jimmy White is at right. SUPPORT FROM LABOR – Several Houston-area Seafarers volunteered for block walking earlier this year in support of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who’s up for re-election. Pictured from left are Steward/Baker Rene Gil, AB Washington Williams, AB Reynaldo Bernardez and SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes. ABOARD CHABRIA SEA – SIU member Nathaniel Fair Jr. (left) and SIU Jersey City Patrolman Jose Argueta are pictured aboard the Centerline Logistics vessel in Bayonne, New Jersey. ABOARD USNS ALGOL – This Seafaring Selfie is courtesy of Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman (right), pictured with GUDEs Ruel Decrepito and Rodolfo Ludovice while working aboard the Ocean Duchess-operated vessel on the West Coast. AT WILMINGTON HALL – GVA Shayef Shayef (left in photo at immediate right, with SIU Port Agent Gerret Jarman) picks up his A-seniority book in southern California, while AB Patrick Wheat (left in photo in center, also with Jarman) receives his full B-book. The remaining photo at the far right includes SA Benny Feria (left) and SIU Patrolman Jesse Sunga. Feria is displaying his newly acquired full B-book. November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 10/21/22 11:55 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 This month’s question was answered by apprentices at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Traiming and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are you most excited for on your first ship? Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Christian Marty Apprentice Seeing the world. I’m pretty excited to go to many European countries, but in general I’m excited to travel to foreign lands and experience new cultures. Raheem Harris Apprentice The money, to be honest. But I’m also looking forward to gaining job experience, and experience new foods. The food is a big one for me. Jevon David Apprentice I’m excited to start a new career, and see where my path leads. I’m looking forward to a job where I’m not stationary, and this career is certainly not your typical 9 to 5. Justin Manley Apprentice I’ve always been into engines, and I figure it can’t be too different to work on a ship’s engine. Bigger turbos, bigger injectors, it’s just a big diesel engine. The money doesn’t hurt, either. Masaddiq Walton Apprentice Travelling the world, and experiencing different cultures. I’ve never been outside the country. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the sense of community aboard a ship. Deshon Hagans Apprentice I’m really just looking forward to a career I can get comfortable in. I’m in it for the long haul, so the job stability offered in the SIU is really key for me. I’m ready for a long career as a mariner. ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 111 Mill Creek Parkway, Suite 100, Chesapeake, VA 23323 (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 45353 St. George’s Avenue, 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 Pic From The Past The SIU launched its headquarters operations in Camp Springs, Maryland, 40 years ago – officially on Oct. 18, 1982, following a relocation from New York. This snapshot from the union’s archives shows the building as it neared the final stages of construction. 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) 549-4001/4002 12 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 12 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 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org November 2022 10/21/22 11:55 AM �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 MOHAMED AHMED Brother Mohamed Ahmed, 53, signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Independence. He worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Midnight Sun. Brother Ahmed settled in Melvindale, Michigan. HERNANDO BANSUELO Brother Hernando Bansuelo, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1990 when he shipped on the Sealift Caribbean. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Bansuelo’s final vessel was the National Glory. He calls Spring, Texas, home. GEORGE BIESELIN Brother George Bieselin, 72, started his career with the SIU in 2001. He first sailed aboard the Liberator and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year of membership. Brother Bieselin worked in the engine department. He last shipped on the Maersk Kensington and is a resident of Boynton Beach, Florida. SUSANO CORTEZ Brother Susano Cortez, 67, joined the union in 1987. A steward department member, he initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Cortez upgraded often at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school. He most recently sailed on the Horizon Pacific and makes his home in Wahiawa, Hawaii. JOSE DE SOUZA Brother Jose de Souza, 67, began sailing with the union in 2001, initially on the USNS Mount Washington. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother de Souza concluded his career on the SBX. He lives in Miami Beach, Florida. November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 13 BRENDA GRAYS WALTER OTT Sister Brenda Grays, 72, joined the Seafarers in 1988. She was a member of the steward department and first sailed aboard the USNS Harkness. Sister Grays upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. She last sailed aboard the President Jackson and resides in Houston. Brother Walter Ott, 69, began sailing with the union in 1976 when he shipped on the Maryland. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Ott last sailed on the Maersk Seletar. He lives in Colonial Heights, Virginia. LEONEL GUTIERREZ JIMMIE ROBLES Brother Leonel Gutierrez, 65, embarked on his career with the union in 2002, first sailing on the Gemini. A deck department member, he concluded his career aboard the Prentiss Brown. Brother Gutierrez makes his home in Riverview, Michigan. Brother Jimmie Robles, 65, joined the SIU in 1992 when he sailed on the Flickertail State. He worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Robles concluded his career on the Maersk California and makes his home in Golden Valley, Arizona. MICHAEL KOZAK PHYLLIS JUSTINE SORESI Brother Michael Kozak, 52, signed on with the SIU in 1992 when he sailed aboard the Franklin J. Phillips. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Kozak last shipped on the Alaskan Explorer. He resides in Cape Coral, Florida. Sister Phyllis Justine Soresi, 56, signed on with the union in 1990, initially sailing aboard the Independence. She shipped in both the steward and deck departments and also worked on shore gangs. Sister Soresi was last employed with American Service Technology and resides in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania. KRISTIN KRAUSE Sister Kristin Krause, 56, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1991. A steward department member, she first shipped on the American Eagle. Sister Krause upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. She concluded her career on the Overseas New York and settled in Atlantic Beach, Florida. THOMAS MOORE Brother Thomas Moore, 55, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1989, initially sailing aboard the USNS Harkness. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Moore most recently shipped on the USNS Denebola and lives in Queen Anne, Maryland. GREAT LAKES HAROLD GOETZ Brother Harold Goetz, 63, started sailing with the union in 1977. He first worked with Peter Kiewit Sons and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1996. Brother Goetz concluded his career with Great Lakes Towing. He makes his home in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. MICHAEL KRUSE Brother Michael Kruse, 65, signed on with the union in 1988. He initially sailed aboard the Steel T. Crapo, and worked in all three departments. Brother Kruse upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. He most recently shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy and is a resident of Alpena, Michigan. INLAND JOHN COX Brother John Cox, 61, joined the SIU in 1979 when he sailed aboard the Champion. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions and also came ashore to serve as a port official before returning to sea. Brother Cox last worked with G&H Towing. He lives in Kingwood, Texas. MITCHELL FOWLER Brother Mitchell Fowler, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1983. He was a deck department member and first worked for Allied Transportation. Brother Fowler upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2020. He was last employed by Penn Maritime and is a resident of Wilmington, North Carolina. MICHAEL HARVEY Brother Michael Harvey, 55, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1999 when he shipped with Penn Maritime. He was a member of the deck department and continued working for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Harvey makes his home in Concord, North Carolina. ISOLINE MAJOR Sister Isoline Major, 66, signed on with the union in 1998. She sailed in the steward department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Sister Major’s first vessel was the Sumner; her last, the Legend. She is a resident of Lauderhill, Florida. ROBERT MORGAN Brother Robert Morgan, 73, started sailing with the SIU in 1994 when he worked for McAllister Towing of Virginia. He was an engine department member and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Morgan resides in Port Haywood, Virginia. RONALD POOLE Brother Ronald Poole, 62, signed on with the union in 2005, initially sailing on the MahiMahi. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and shipped in the steward department. Brother Poole’s final ves- sel was the Delta Mariner. He is a resident of Pensacola, Florida. BRUCE ROBRECHT Brother Bruce Robrecht, 62, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1979 when he sailed with Higman Barge Lines. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Robrecht last worked for OSG Ship Management. He resides in Great Mills, Maryland. ROBERT STEARNS Brother Robert Stearns, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978. A deck department member, he upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Stearns worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for theduration of his career. He makes his home in Neptune Beach, Florida. DENIS SWANSON Brother Denis Swanson, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1994. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and sailed in the deck department. Brother Swanson worked for Penn Maritime for the duration of his career. He settled in Mt. Dora, Florida. TIMOTHY TRAYNOR Brother Timothy Traynor, 62, started his career with the union in 1979 when he worked with Crowley. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Traynor last worked with Ameristar Casino. He is a resident of Munster, Indiana. JOSEPH VIOLANTE Brother Joseph Violante, 63, joined the SIU in 1976, initially shipping with G&H Towing. He sailed in both the deck and steward departments and also worked on shore gangs. Brother Violante upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He was last employed with American Service Technology and resides in Bacliff, Texas. Seafarers LOG 13 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA YAHYA ALHAJ Pensioner Yahya Alhaj, 85, died August 17. He joined the SIU in 1972 and first sailed aboard the Saginaw Bay. Brother Alhaj worked in both the deck and engine departments and concluded his career aboard the El Faro in 2001. He began collecting his pension in 2003 and called Dearborn, Michigan, home. RAMON ALI Pensioner Ramon Ali, 74, passed away August 31. He embarked on his career with the union in 1967 when he sailed on the Steel Design. An engine department member, Brother Ali last shipped on the Virgo. He retired in 2016 and lived in Scarsdale, New York. ANGEL CAMACHO Pensioner Angel Camacho, 72, died September 16. He began his career with the SIU in 1968 when he shipped with Interocean American Shipping Corporation. Brother Camacho primarily sailed in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Discovery before becoming a pensioner in 2005. Brother Camacho resided in Carolina, Puerto Rico. SIGRID CONNARD Sister Sigrid Connard, 92, died September 8. Born in Germany, she began sailing with the SIU in 1978. Sister Connard was a steward department member and first shipped on the Santa Magdelena. She last sailed on the President Jackson and made her home in Medford, Oregon. ROBERT DIAZ Pensioner Robert Diaz, 77, passed away September 22. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1969, initially sailing aboard the Sagamore Hill. Brother Diaz was an engine department member and last shipped aboard the Eugene A. Obregon in 1988. He went on pension in 2010 and settled in Brandon, Florida. JAMES OTANI Pensioner James Otani, 83, has passed away. After signing on with the union in 1982, he first sailed on the Constitution. Brother Otani was a steward department member and last shipped on the Independence in 1993. He went on pension in 2009 and called Hilo, Hawaii, home. ANDRE SMITH Pensioner Andre Smith, 71, died September 8. He joined the union in 1975 and first sailed on the G Walton. Brother Smith primarily sailed in the engine department. He concluded his career aboard the Sea Fox in 1998. Brother Smith became a pensioner in 2016 and was a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM LEHTO Pensioner William Lehto, 80, passed away September 28. He joined the SIU in 1966 and was an engine department member. Brother Lehto was first employed by Buckeye Steamship Company. He last sailed aboard the Kinsman Independent before retiring in 1995. Brother Lehto lived in Ironwood, Michigan. WILLIAM MULCAHY Pensioner William Mulcahy, 62, died October 1. He donned the SIU colors in 1977 when he shipped aboard the Adam E. Cornelius. He worked in the deck department and most recently sailed on the Walter J. McCarthy. Brother Mulcahy began collecting his pension in 2019 and lived in Orange Park, Florida. GERALD RIFENBARK Pensioner Gerald Rifenbark, 80, passed away September 13. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1988 when he shipped on the Paul H. Townsend. Brother Rifenbark sailed in the steward department. He last shipped on the Susan Hannah in 2007 before retiring the same year. Brother Rifenbark resided in Interlochen, Michigan. INLAND RICHARD GORDON Pensioner Richard Gordon, 90, died September 26. He joined the SIU in 1963, initially sailing with American Steamship Company. An engine department member, Brother Gordon was last employed by Bob-Lo Island. He became a pensioner in 2003 and lived in Northville, Michigan. NMU 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 Johnson, Leonard 85 Kenoyer, Frederick 96 Linch, Eugene 98 McCoy, Nelson 91 Olivo, Ignacio 98 Powers, Auriel 78 Powery, Barricks 90 Scott, Elbert 89 Simpson, Robert 76 Stigler, Joseph 80 DOD 09/03/2022 09/14/2021 10/10/2022 09/29/2022 09/06/2022 09/28/2022 10/07/2022 08/20/2022 09/19/2022 09/27/2022 Norfolk Renovations Continue As previously reported, extensive renovations are taking place at the hiring hall in Norfolk, Virginia. Some of the early stages of the months-long project are shown in these photos from the commonwealth. 14 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 14 November 2022 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK DETROIT (Maersk Line, Limited) July 31 – Chairman John O’Shaughnessy, Secretary Joshua Heath, Educational Director Mark Campbell. Good trip reported by chairman. He stressed the importance of safety and urged members to keep documents up to date. Crew requested increases to dental, vacation, and retirement benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), August 13 – Chairman Gerald Alford, Secretary Thomas Johnson, Educational Director David Watkins, Steward Delegate Kacey Hare. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members reviewed latest communications, including a letter from the SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. Crew requested to increase vacation accrual to 25 for 30. Next port: New York. AMERICAN FREEDOM (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), August 16 – Chairman Joshua Mensah, Secretary Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds, Engine Delegate Oscar Lacayo Ruiz. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew still waiting for Wi-Fi and refrigerators in rooms. Members voiced concerns about laundry room and need more coffee and coffee cups. WASHINGTON (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), Sep- 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. tember 1 – Chairman Modesto Rabena, Secretary Samuel Harris, Educational Director Lonny Scott, Engine Delegate Tyesha Boyd. Chairman reviewed details of new contract. Secretary read the President’s Report from the latest edition of the Seafarers LOG. Educational director discussed latest union meeting at Piney Point, new jobs and ways to help recruit new members. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members asked for clarity regarding overtime issues and more information about ship fund. Crew requested refrigerators in rooms and asked about cashing in vacation. JEAN ANNE (Pasha), September 3 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Samuel Sinclair. Chairman gave suggestions for modifying the job hiring process, including online registration and job bidding. Members weighed in on latest contract negotiations. Treasurer discussed plans for unused money from ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like retirement age to be lowered, additional supplements to insurance benefits, and physicals to be required annually for those with no health issues. Vote of thanks given to the steward department for helping with new hire and for the nutritious and varied menus. Crew especially enjoyed the outdoor barbecues. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), September 4 – Chairman Hussein Mohamed, Secretary Daniel Culhane, Educational Director Florentino Arriola. Crew still waiting on TVs, linens and for repairs to washing machine. Members discussed details of new contract. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested better internet and an extra day off every 30 days. Honoring WWII Mariners LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime), September 10 – Chairman Val Custis, Secretary Cole Briggs. Crew still in need of refrigerators. New grill purchased via ship’s fund. Members are owed unpaid wages for performing trash handling and separation tasks, per engine delegate report. Crew proposed using union time towards pension, rather than sea time. Two mattresses have been received and more are on the way. HUDSON EXPRESS (Marine Personnel & Provisioning), September 11 – Chairman James Gregory, Secretary Frank Starling, Educational Director Francois Doucet, Deck Delegate Jonathan Eitz, Engine Delegate Damien Law. Educational director advised crew to read the Seafarers LOG for updates and encouraged everyone to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Treasurer noted the value of ship fund and slop chest purchases. Both help improve the quality of life aboard ship. Deck delegate recommended getting new and improved equipment to fight any fires that may occur. Engine delegate discussed penalty pay and clothing allowance. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ice machine in need of repair. Members requested better Wi-Fi and TVs in rooms. On Sept. 24, WWII Merchant Mariner Dave Yoho (left) presents the crew of the SS John W. Brown with a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal first awarded to the merchant mariners of WWII earlier this year. Accepting the award on behalf of the crew, past and present, are Project Liberty Ship member Brian Hope (middle) and Hugh Cadzow, chairman of Project Liberty Ship. 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 November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 15 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive 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 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck November 28 December 16 Lifeboat/Water Survival November 21 December 2 Engine Department Upgrading Courses RFPEW November 14 December 9 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Certified Chief Cook December 5 January 5 Chief Steward November 14 December 9 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training Revalidation November 14 November 14 December 2 December 2 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation December 12 December 16 Government Vessels December 5 December 9 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 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. 16 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 16 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, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 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. 11/22 November 2022 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #886 – Graduated September 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Emile Alphonse, Cedrick Burton Jr., Abdiel Cintron Crespo, Jack Collier IV, Manuel Delgado, Ayman Nashid Elahi Jr., Tahj Horton, Mari Enid Huggins, Micheal King, Adam Mason, Tyrell Mitchell, Dominick Nesbitt, Jovanny Otero Negron, Felicia Roberts and Zachary Wilkinson. UA to AS (D) – Graduated September 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Dylan Green, John Paul Mauras Garcia, Jessie Yusalina Merced Jr., Michael Reardon, Orlando Javier Rosa Aguirre and Ethan P.B. Stacy. Important Notice to All Students November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 17 FOWT – Graduated September 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Zakarya Ahmed AlMalhani, Adrian Bartholomew, Sean Carter and Joseph Smith. Instructor John Wiegman III is at center. 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 Seafarers LOG 17 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Medical Care Provider – Graduated September 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Jarion Andrews, Louise Digman, Jessina A.K. Fernandez, Dominique Glover, Jason Hintz, Gilbert Johnson, Steven Miller, Mario Standberry, Tyree Watkins Jr., and Jonathan White. Welding – Graduated September 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Alberto Luis Alvarez-Gonzalez, Devon David, Damon Johnson, Anson Johny, Ryan Kaleolani Manlapit and Nicholas Simoneaux. Class instructor Chris Raley is at the far right. Water Survival (Upgrader) – OS Amos Porter (above) recently completed his requirements in this course. The Jacksonville, Florida upgrader graduated September 9. 18 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 18 UA to FOWT – Graduated September 23 (above, in alphabetical order): William Aebi, Jade Napualeilokelani Ezera and Julian Rubbo. Government Vessels – Graduated September 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Tony Bassali, Charlene Briggs, Joshua Irvine, Jan Mamadou Jalloh, Preeyapha Kaisaard, Terrell Knott, Melody Mitchell, Abdelhak Moutmir, Robert Neff, Angel L. Pagan Sanchez and Kyle Williamson. November 2022 10/21/22 11:55 AM �Government Vessels – Graduated September 23 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Edward Mills, Setphen Nowell, Yuriy Prytchak, Victor Janell Valentin-Delgado and Yahia Obadi Yahia. 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 Advanced Meteorology – Graduated September 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Joseph Baird, David Fitzgibbons, Matthew O’Donnell, Scott Salo and Andrew Torti. Small Arms – Graduated August 18 (above, in alphabetical order): Natalio Rey Malinao Almosa, Joseph Hendricks and Craig Joseph. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated September 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Ashley Fabor, William Fortner, Ashley Grahm, Kevin Hubble Jr., Randy Madrid, Jamaal McKenzie, Rolando Antipuesto Odon, Reinaldo Rivera, Jason Simmons and Rafael Tavera-Gonzalez. (Note: Not all are pictured.) November 2022 73687_SEAFARERSLOG.indd 19 Seafarers LOG 19 10/21/22 11:55 AM �NOVEMBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 11 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 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 17-19 The photo at left, those above and the two at bottom left and center show some of Scott Musick’s handiwork – all original designs. Seafarer’s Passion for Ink Runs More than Skin-Deep Self-Taught Tattoo Artist Musick ‘Very Blessed’ Longtime Seafarer Scott Musick may have inadvertently discovered an ultimate test of friendship. While becoming a self-taught tattoo artist 30 years ago, he practiced on various inanimate objects – and also gave free tattoos to several friends. “I’m happy to say they’re all still my friends today,” says Musick, who works as a refrigeration mechanic for Crowley at Penn Terminal in Chester, Pennsylvania. Though hardly an old-timer at age 56, Musick has a tattooing background that is becoming far less common as the industry burgeons into a billion-dollar, mainstream enterprise. Today, it’s easy to locate licensed body-art schools, and official apprenticeships are available. Published reports indicate that more than 145 million Americans have tattoos, including more than half of all U.S. citizens younger than 40. Costs of tattoos widely vary; they’re typically somewhere in the low hunContinued on Page 8 Musick (above, right) works on a tattoo for fellow SIU member Dave Mendez. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel asked Musick to design artwork for a T-shirt commemorating the El Faro’s final crew. This is the finished product. Scott Musick (left) is pictured with his father, Jim, at Petty’s Island. 20 Seafarers LOG 73687_SEAFARERSLOG_X.indd 20 November 2022 10/24/22 8:57 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 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond 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 November 2022 Description An account of the resource SIU CREWS UP SEABULK PRIDE UNIONS ANSWER CALL FOR HURRICANE RELIEF BOSUNS CREDIT UNION, SCHOOL FOR LIFE-CHANGING OPPORTUNITIES MARITIME LABOR BLASTS UNNECESSARY WAIVER ALL HANDS SAFE FOLLOWING MIDNIGHT SUN FIRE U.S. REP. GARAMENDI INTRODUCES PRO-MARITIME BILL MARITIME ANNOUNCES INITIATIVES BACKING CARGO PREFERENCE SEAFARERS RATIFY ADDITIONAL CONTRACTS EL FARO MEMORIAL DEDICATED IN MAINE SEAFARER SCOTT MUSICK'S PASSION FOR INK RUNS MORE THAN SKIN-DEEP 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 11/21/2022 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. 84, No. 11 2022 Periodicals Seafarers Log